Punta Rata (Zlatni rat)

Punta Rata is the beach you have already seen on a thousand postcards. Pine trees reach down to the waterline, pebble grades into sand near the shore, and the whole scene frames Kamen Brela — the pine-topped rock just offshore that has become the symbol of Brela and a fair chunk of the Makarska Riviera’s tourism material. Forbes ranked this beach sixth in the world in 2004, first in Europe. The water has not changed since.

It is not a secret cove. Expect company in peak season, especially around the rock. Snorkelling close to Kamen Brela is worth doing — the water is clear and the rock drops off in interesting ways. In our experience the best window is before 9am: parking is easier, the water is at its calmest, and the morning light on the rock is worth having.