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Sandy beaches accessible by train/boat from Venice

Hi, does anyone have strong sandy beach recommendations for a Croatia week in early July - doable by boat/train from Venice? It seems from research and reviews that Rab is one option in Northern Croatia but it doesn't look quick to reach. I've always loved the look and feel of Hvar too, but again, doesn't look simple from Venice, which we will already have done a long train journey to from London.

It would be our first time in Croatia. Have loved Italian lake towns Malcesine, Cannobio, Menaggio and Ascona but sandy beaches aren't common there. Also love v dramatic scenery and not sure what fits the bill best here for all of the above!

Looking for personal experience of train/boat journeys and favourite quiet-ish mostly sandy beaches with the picturesque scenery to match those Italian towns.

I know not everything is possible in one trip, but these forums are a great starting point and were incredibly useful for identifying previous choices like Malcesine, which i would never have otherwise thought of.

The idea is to revisit beloved Venice for a few days then find a gorgeous sandy beach location within say 4 hours of train/boat travel from Venice . Happy to hear Northern Italy suggestions too, but obviously that's for another forum.

50s couple who enjoy gentle walks, lots of picturesque eating spots, boat trips and stunning scenery.

Thanks for ideas! (Prefer not to fly, so train/boat only.)

Posted by
6380 posts

I would abandon the idea of sand, and then your foray into Croatia would be easy to plan. I’ve seen one sandy beach in four trips to Croatia, and it was the least impressive beach I saw in the country (and too far south for your trip anyway). I can understand wanting to avoid the shingle (hard rock) beaches, but the pebble beaches are lovely and the clear seas make up for any inconvenience of the pebble. You often need a car in this area, but not always.
In the north, I would focus on Premantura area south of Pula. I have not been there but have read up on the area as I want to visit Istria next. I have not been to Rab but found pebble beaches on Cres and Losinj.
If you want to stick to Italy, you can find sand at the lido near Venice, then as you head south there are sandy areas, then the pebble beaches near Ancona are lovely and reminiscent of Croatia’s beaches. I’ve been to the latter and can give more info if that is an option for you. Good luck!

Posted by
2534 posts

Not in Croatia, but you might take a look at Grado, Italy. I just googled and AI says "Grado has extensive, beautiful, fine sandy beaches, stretching for about 10 kilometers, known for their gentle slopes, mild climate, and awarded Blue Flag status for cleanliness, making them ideal for families and relaxation with amenities like beach clubs and spa treatments."

I haven't been there, but it's been on my radar for a while.