Best Zagreb Beaches & Lakeside Apartments (2026 Guide)

Your 2026 Guide to Zagreb's Beaches & Lakeside Stays

When travelers think of Croatian beaches, they picture the sparkling Adriatic coast. So, the question 'Where are the best beaches in Zagreb?' often leads to a surprising answer. As Croatia's capital, Zagreb is a vibrant inland city, located approximately 150 kilometers from the nearest coastline.

But don't let geography fool you. Zagreb has its own unique and beloved 'beaches' that offer locals and visitors a perfect escape from the summer heat. These are not sea beaches but beautifully developed lakeside and riverside destinations that provide all the amenities for a perfect day of sun and swimming. This guide details Zagreb's best freshwater beaches and the top 'beachfront' apartments located just steps away.

Are There Real Beaches in Zagreb?

To be clear: Zagreb has no natural saltwater beaches. The city's 'beaches' are located on the shores of two large, man-made lakes: Jarun and Bundek. These recreational centers are often called the 'Zagreb Sea' by locals and feature clean, tested water, pebble shorelines, and extensive facilities. They are the heart of the city's summer life.

For those craving the Adriatic, the nearest coastal towns like Crikvenica and Rijeka are a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away, making for a popular day trip.

Best Lake Beaches in Zagreb

Zagreb's two main lakes offer distinct experiences. Jarun is the energetic hub for sports and nightlife, while Bundek is a tranquil oasis perfect for families.

Jarun Lake: The 'Zagreb Sea'

Jarun Lake is Zagreb's premier recreational hub. This vast complex of interconnected lakes, islands, and pebble beaches has earned a Blue Flag certification for its exceptional water quality and safety standards. It's the city's go-to spot for swimming, sunbathing, sports, and entertainment.

• Location: Novi Zagreb - zapad district, approximately 7 km southwest of the city center.
• How to Get There: Easily accessible via Trams 5 and 17 from the city center. The tram stop is 'Jarun'.
• Entry Fee: Free for pedestrians and cyclists. Cars are charged a small fee, typically around €2-€3 per day.
• Opening Hours: The park is open 24/7, but lifeguard services are active from 10:00 to 20:00 during the summer season (June 1st to September 15th).
• Water Temperature (Summer): Averages a pleasant 23-25°C.

What to Do at Jarun Lake

• Swimming & Sunbathing: Jarun has over 2,500 meters of pebble beaches, including Veliko Jezero (Big Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). The water is regularly tested and very clean.
• Water Sports: It's a paradise for sports enthusiasts. You can find a world-class rowing course, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding (SUP) rentals.
• Cycling & Skating: A 6 km paved path circles the lake, perfect for cycling, rollerblading, and jogging.
• Cafes & Nightlife: The lake is lined with numerous cafes and bars, such as Caffe Bar R&B Food. By night, clubs like Aquarius and Gallery come alive, making it a major nightlife destination.

> Insider Tip: For a more peaceful beach experience, head to the Otok Univerzijade (University Island) or Otok Trešnjevka (Trešnjevka Island). These spots are generally less crowded than the main beaches near the entrance.

Bundek Lake: The Family-Friendly Oasis

Located east of Jarun, Bundek City Park was revitalized in 2005 and transformed into a stunning urban park centered around two lakes. It's smaller and more family-oriented than Jarun, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.

• Location: Novi Zagreb - istok district, about 5 km south of the city center, just south of the Sava River.
• How to Get There: Accessible by various bus lines from the main train station (Glavni kolodvor).
• Entry Fee: Completely free for all visitors.
• Opening Hours: The park is open 24/7. Lifeguards are on duty at the main beach during summer months, typically 10:00 to 19:00.

What to Do at Bundek Lake

• Family Swimming: The larger of the two lakes, Veliko Jezero, has a large, supervised pebble beach with a gentle slope into the water, making it ideal for children. Water quality is excellent and monitored throughout the season.
• Playgrounds & Barbecues: Bundek is famous for its extensive playgrounds and designated public barbecue areas (first-come, first-served).
• Nature & Events: The smaller lake, Malo Jezero, is a protected habitat for birds and aquatic life, with educational paths around it. The park hosts numerous events, including the renowned Floraart international garden show.

> Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday morning to secure one of the public barbecue pits. Bring your own charcoal and supplies for a fantastic and affordable family lunch.

River Beaches and Day Trips from Zagreb

For a more rustic swimming experience, locals often head to the rivers surrounding Zagreb.

Mrežnica River

About an 80 km (1-hour drive) south of Zagreb, the Mrežnica River is a karst beauty famous for its crystal-clear emerald water and dozens of travertine waterfalls. It's a popular spot for day trips, offering swimming, kayaking, and rafting.

• Popular Spots: The area around Duga Resa offers many small, informal river beaches and campsites. Several tour operators in Zagreb offer guided kayaking trips to Mrežnica.

How to Get to a Real Sea Beach from Zagreb

If you absolutely must have saltwater, a day trip to the Adriatic coast is very manageable.

• Destination: Crikvenica or Rijeka are the closest and most accessible coastal cities.
• By Car: The A1 and A6 motorways will get you to Rijeka in about 1.5 hours (165 km). Crikvenica is slightly further.
• By Bus: Numerous daily buses run from Zagreb's main bus terminal (Autobusni kolodvor). The journey takes 2 to 2.5 hours, with tickets costing between €15 and €25 one-way.

Top Lakeside Apartments in Zagreb

'Beachfront' in Zagreb means lakeside. Staying near Jarun or Bundek allows you to combine a city break with a relaxing, nature-filled holiday. These apartments offer modern amenities and are just a short walk from the water.

1. Jarun Lakeview Retreat

• Price: Approx. €140/night
• Rating: 4.9★
• Best for: Couples and small families.

This top-floor apartment offers stunning panoramic views of Jarun Lake from its spacious balcony. It features a modern design, a fully equipped kitchen, and air conditioning. It is located just 200 meters from the main entrance to the lake, providing immediate access to cafes, beaches, and sports facilities. A dedicated parking spot is included.

2. Modern Bundek Park Studio

• Price: Approx. €115/night
• Rating: 4.8★
• Best for: Solo travelers or couples.

Located in a new building just a 5-minute walk (400m) from Bundek Park, this sleek studio is perfect for a relaxing getaway. It includes a comfortable queen-sized bed, a compact kitchenette, and a small balcony overlooking a quiet street. Its proximity to the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Avenue Mall is a major plus.

3. The Zagreb Oasis Apartment

• Price: Approx. €180/night
• Rating: 4.9★
• Best for: Groups or families seeking luxury.

This spacious two-bedroom apartment is an oasis of comfort, situated just 150 meters from Jarun's southern shore. It boasts a large living area, two bathrooms, and a terrace with outdoor seating. The interior is professionally designed, and the building includes access to a small private gym. It's an ideal choice for those who want premium comfort next to Zagreb's 'sea'.