Is Omis primarily a beach holiday destination?
Yes, Omis is very popular for beach holidays. It's situated on a Riviera with numerous beaches ranging from the large sandy beach in town (Velika Plaza) to many smaller pebble coves along the coast. While it also offers adventure activities related to the Cetina River and canyon, its beaches are a major draw for visitors, especially families.
Is Omis good for families with young children looking for beaches?
Omis is considered excellent for families with young children. The main beach, Velika Plaza, is sandy with very shallow water extending far out, making it safe and fun for toddlers and kids. Many other pebble beaches on the Riviera also have calm waters suitable for families.
Are the beaches in Omis sandy? I heard Croatia mostly has pebble beaches.
Omis is quite unique in Croatia because its main town beach, Velika Plaza (Big Beach), is sandy. This is relatively rare along the Dalmatian coast, which mostly features pebble beaches. While Omis town boasts this large sandy beach, the Omis Riviera stretching southwards offers numerous beautiful pebble beaches.
What is the main beach in Omis town like? (Velika Plaza)
Velika Plaza is a long (almost 1km) sandy beach right in Omis town. It's known for its very shallow waters, making it ideal for children. It offers plenty of amenities like cafes, bars, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and rentals for sunbeds and umbrellas. It can get busy in peak season due to its convenience and sandy nature.
Are there good accommodation options right near the beaches in Omis?
Yes, there are many accommodation options, including apartments, guesthouses, and some hotels, located very close to Velika Plaza in Omis town. Along the Omis Riviera (e.g., Nemira, Stanici, Mimice), numerous apartments and villas offer direct beach access or are just a short walk from the pebble beaches.
Is the sea water warm enough for swimming in Omis? Does the river make it cold?
Generally, the sea water in Omis during summer (June-September) is warm and pleasant for swimming, typically ranging from 22-26°C (72-79°F). However, right near the mouth of the Cetina River, especially on Velika Plaza, the water can feel refreshingly cooler due to the river's inflow, particularly after heavy rain. Further away from the river mouth and on other Riviera beaches, the temperature is typical for the Adriatic.
Are Omis beaches usually very crowded?
The main sandy beach, Velika Plaza, can get quite crowded, especially during July and August, due to its popularity and easy access from the town. However, the Omis Riviera has many smaller pebble beaches and coves. While popular spots can be busy, you can often find less crowded options if you explore a bit further from the main town, particularly if you have a car or boat.
How can I find quieter, less crowded beaches near Omis?
To find quieter beaches, explore the Omis Riviera south of the main town towards Mimice, Medici, and Marusici. Many small pebble coves are accessible via paths from the coastal road (Jadranska Magistrala), though some require a bit of walking or descending stairs. Renting a small boat can also give you access to more secluded spots.
Do I need a car to explore the best beaches on the Omis Riviera?
While you can enjoy the main town beach (Velika Plaza) without a car, having one is highly recommended for exploring the numerous pebble beaches and coves along the Omis Riviera. Public transport exists but can be infrequent to smaller spots. A car offers the flexibility to discover hidden gems and less crowded areas along the coast.
Is parking difficult near popular Omis beaches like Velika Plaza?
Parking near Velika Plaza and other popular spots in Omis town can be challenging and often requires payment, especially during peak summer months (July/August). There are designated parking lots, but they fill up quickly. Arriving early or using accommodation within walking distance is advisable. Parking near smaller beaches along the Riviera often involves finding spots along the main coastal road, which can also be limited.
What facilities can I expect on Omis beaches (showers, toilets, cafes)?
The main town beach, Velika Plaza, is well-equipped with public toilets, freshwater showers, changing cabins, cafes, bars, restaurants, and playgrounds. Many larger beaches along the Riviera (like Nemira, Stanici, Mimice) also offer basic facilities such as cafes/bars and sometimes showers. Smaller, more secluded coves may have limited or no facilities.
Is Omis a good place for windsurfing or other water sports?
Yes, Omis, particularly the western part of Velika Plaza near the river mouth, is known as a good spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. This area often experiences reliable afternoon winds (Maestral). You can find rental equipment and schools offering lessons. Other water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking (especially up the Cetina River), and jet skiing are also available.
Which beaches are better for kids - the sandy one in town or the pebble ones nearby?
Both types have advantages. The sandy Velika Plaza in town is often preferred for very young children due to the soft sand and extremely shallow water. However, the pebble beaches along the Riviera often have clearer water (less stirred up than sand) and can be less crowded, which some families prefer. Many pebble beaches also have gradual entry suitable for children.
How do Omis beaches compare to those in Makarska?
Both Omis and Makarska Rivieras offer beautiful beaches. Omis is unique for its large sandy beach (Velika Plaza) and the dramatic Cetina river canyon backdrop. Its Riviera has many smaller pebble coves. Makarska is famous for its long stretches of fine pebble beaches backed by pine trees and the Biokovo mountain range, often considered more lively or glamorous. Omis is generally seen as perhaps more family-oriented, while Makarska has a wider reputation for bustling beaches and nightlife.
Can you rent sun loungers and umbrellas easily on the main beaches?
Yes, on the main town beach (Velika Plaza) and many of the larger, more popular beaches along the Omis Riviera (like those in Nemira, Stanici, Duce), you can easily rent sun loungers (ležaljke) and umbrellas (suncobrani) during the summer season. Prices vary but expect to pay per item per day. Smaller coves usually don't offer rentals.
