Brač

I went last September. I was staying in Split and took the ferry over to Brac. Then took a bus, which took upwards of 45+ minutes to reach the most famous part of the island, Bol, with the Zlatni Rat beach. This beach has lots of activities available for the family and single travelers. You should definitely consider this as a full day trip. What time of the year do you plan on going?

This would be in mid-June.

When I went in 2011, I picked Brac over Hvar partly because I wanted something less touristed and more laid back (less exclusive, for lack of better words). I really enjoyed it! Took a ferry from Split and stayed there for 3 full days. While I was there, I took bus trips around the island - you can rent a scooter or car as well, but I chose bus just to make my life and budget a break. Bol beach was gorgeous, although packed with people due to unique shape and soft sand. I almost did a long hike over the beach to the highest point but the trail marking was so poor, I ended up turning back and just hanging out at the beach. I went in September and the place met my expectations (meaning lots of people in Bol but very laid back atmosphere everywhere else). Very easy to get around and very relaxing.

I also wanted to see some out-of-the-way islands but the ferry schedule just never worked out since I wasn't staying in the Split area long enough...so I settled for Brac because it just made the most sense. I don't regret it. Every island will be a bit different.