Pag: A Landscape from Another World

Driving onto the island of Pag (connected by a bridge to the mainland) feels like landing on the moon. The eastern side of the island is barren, rocky, and white—stripped of vegetation by the fierce Bura wind that blows from the Velebit mountains. Yet, hidden in this stark landscape are lush olive groves, ancient salt pans, and some of the best beaches in the Adriatic.

In 2026, Pag retains its title as Croatia’s party capital due to Zrce Beach, but it is increasingly recognized for its gastronomy (Pag Cheese and Lamb) and its outdoor adventure potential (cycling and hiking on the “moon”).

Why Visit Pag in 2026?

Pag offers extreme contrasts. You can party at a world-class festival at Noa Beach Club (built on stilts over the sea) until sunrise, and then spend the afternoon touring a quiet cheese factory that has won World Cheese Awards. It is an island for the young and the hungry.

Best Time to Visit

July & August: Peak festival season. Zrce is pumping. Novalja (the main town) is packed.
June & September: The best time for “normal” tourists. The weather is warm, but the island is calmer.
May & October: Ideal for cycling the lunar landscapes.

How to Get There

Bridge: The southern tip is connected to the mainland by the Pag Bridge (Paški most). Easy access from Zadar (45 mins drive).
Ferry: A car ferry runs from Prizna on the mainland to Žigljen in the north of the island.
Air: Zadar Airport (ZAD) is the nearest hub, serving low-cost flights from all over Europe.

Iconic Experiences & Sights

1. Zrce Beach

The “Ibiza of Croatia.” A pebble beach lined with massive open-air clubs like Papaya, Aquarius, and Kalypso. In 2026, the festivals (like Hideout and Sonus) continue to draw top-tier DJs.

2. The Lunar Landscape (Life on Mars Trail)

Near Metajna, the “Life on Mars” hiking trail takes you through the most barren, dramatic rock formations on the island. The contrast of the white stone against the deep blue sea is stunning.

3. Pag Town

In contrast to the party hub of Novalja, Pag Town is historic and quiet. Built in the 15th century to a design by Renaissance architect Juraj Dalmatinac, it is famous for its lace-making museum and salt pans.

4. Olive Gardens of Lun

At the northern tip lies Lun, home to ancient wild olive trees. Some are over 1,600 years old. Walking through these gnarled, sculptural trees is a peaceful experience.

5. Paški Sir (Pag Cheese) Tour

You cannot leave Pag without tasting its cheese. Made from the milk of the small sheep that graze on the salty, sage-covered rocks. Visit Gligora Cheese Factory for a tasting tour.

Where to Stay

Novalja: The base for party-goers. Full of apartments and hostels. Shuttle buses run to Zrce.
Pag Town: Better for families and couples seeking history and calm.
Simuni: Famous for its massive, high-quality camping resort (Camping Village Simuni) with great beaches.

Gastronomy: Salt and Sage

The flavor of Pag is defined by the Bura wind, which sprays sea salt onto the herbs (sage, thyme) that the sheep eat.

Paški Sir: Hard, salty, and distinct. Served with olive oil and prosciutto.
Pag Lamb: Considered the best in Croatia. Small and delicate.
Baškotin: A hard toasted bread roll produced by the Benedictine nuns in Pag Town.

Sustainability & Lace

Pag Lace: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. It is needle lace, traditionally made by women in Pag Town. Buying authentic lace supports this dying art.
Wind Energy: You will see wind turbines on the ridges—Pag harnesses the wind that shaped it.

Safety and Tips

The Bura: If the Bura wind blows hard, the bridge might close to certain vehicles. It can be intense.
Sun: The white rocks reflect the sun. There is very little shade on the beaches. Bring an umbrella.
Festivals: If you are NOT interested in partying, check the festival calendar and avoid Novalja during major events to avoid noise and crowds.

Digital Nomad Life

Pag is an interesting choice for digital nomads. Novalja has excellent infrastructure, including modern co-working spaces that cater to the summer festival crowd who need to check emails between parties. However, Pag Town offers a more year-round, authentic experience. Internet speeds are generally excellent across the island. The shoulder season (May/June and September/October) offers cheap accommodation rentals, making it a budget-friendly base for exploring the rest of Croatia.

Family Travel

While famous for nightlife, Pag has a soft side for families. The camping resorts like Camping Village Simuni are world-class, offering kids’ clubs, animation teams, and safe, shallow beaches. The town of Pag itself is very stroller-friendly with its flat, wide promenade. The “Pag Triangle” (a mysterious UFO-like imprint in the rock near Novalja) is a fun, easy hike that captures the imagination of older children.

Pag is stark, salty, and surprising. It is a place where nature’s harshness has created incredible beauty and flavor. Whether you come to dance or to dine, Pag leaves a lasting taste.