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17 Best Things to Do in Mljet Croatia in 2023
Searching for the best things to do in Mljet? You’ve just found the most up-to-date guide on Mljet Island Croatia. Here you’ll find out all the top attractions, local tips and hidden gems to make your trip truly unforgettable.
As someone that has been traversing Croatia for 25 years, and living in the country for 10 of those years, it wasn’t until 2023 that I finally set foot on Mljet Island. I guess, sometimes, the best things are worth waiting for.
Mljet isn’t just another island—it’s a real slice of paradise.
Sure, the term “paradise” might seem cliché, but in Mljet’s case, it’s genuinely fitting. Picture an island where dense forests cover a staggering 84% of its surface and where a sprawling National Park claims half its territory, making it one of Croatia’s most verdant retreats.
Imagine breathing in the fresh pine-scented air, with cicadas setting the perfect island soundtrack from dawn till dusk. And as evening comes, prepare for the most brilliant starry night sky you’ve ever laid your eyes on.
Mljet (or Otok Mljet in Croatian) is where time slows down. It’s got that old-world charm, with vintage signs inviting you to cozy restaurants and homely stays, and where cars seem to cruise lazily along the island’s single main road. Stepping onto Mljet island is like stepping back in time to the Mediterranean as it once was.
If you’re hunting for a place to refresh, recharge, and really feel alive, Mljet has got to be on your list. I spent my visit uncovering the best things to do in Mljet Croatia so that you can get straight to the good stuff. From beach hopping to snorkeling and island exploration, I’ve rounded up the top activities so you can make the most of your trip to this spectacular Croatian island.
Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Mljet!
17 Best Things to Do in Mljet Croatia in 2023
1. Visit Mljet National Park
When visiting Mljet Island, you need to spend at least one entire day exploring Mljet National Park and its saltwater lakes (unlike Plitvice Lakes where the water is fresh and nearly clean enough to drink!). The National Park encompasses the entire northeastern region of Mljet, spanning roughly 5,300 hectares and accounting for a significant one-third of the island’s land.
Tickets to the park cost 25 EUR per person and are valid for your entire stay in the park, meaning you only pay once but can come back again (say, the next day) to go swimming in the lakes.
Included in the price of your national park ticket is access to the solar powered boats that run in a triangle route from Pristanište ferry port (a short walk from the national park’s entrance and ticket stand) to St. Mary’s Island, to Mali Most, and back to Pristanište. I recommend heading to St. Mary’s Island to visit the monastery (entrance is free) and enjoy coffee or cold drink at Melita Restaurant overlooking the Larger Lake.
You can also jump in for a swim in the crystal clear waters right off the island’s shores. After snapping a few photos beside the roman ruins or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, hop back on the boat to go to Mali Most, the point where the Larger and Smaller Lakes connect via a shallow canal.
You can also ride the hop and hop off the train that runs from the National Park Vrbovica Parking Lot to several locations along the lakes, including Mali Most and Soline.
There is so much to do in National Park Mljet, I was honestly surprised at the amount of activities you can do in one day. From swimming in the gorgeous saltwater lakes, to hiking among the pine trees, or trying to spot the local mongoose that were brought to the island many years ago to get rid of snakes, it’s heaven for nature lovers!
2. Cliff jump at Odysseus Cave
Out of everything I did on Mljet, Odysseus Cave was the highlight of the trip! The cave is steeped in legends dating back to the tales of ancient Greece. The Greek god Odysseus was said to have faced a shipwreck and was washed ashore near this very cave on Mljet. At the time, the island was ruled by the nymph, Calypso, who held Odysseus captive with her love, ensuring he remained on the island for 7 years.
Today, while you may not meet Calypso, diving into the cave’s neon blue waters is an experience that feels otherworldly. When you visit, the play of light on the water, especially during sunny days, creates a spectacle that is so magical that it will be hard to resist the temptation to dive in!
There are several “levels” of cliffs to jump from, so depending on your level of confidence, you can jump from 1 meter, 2 meters, and even 15 meters. If you do go cliff jumping, please remember to use common sense and make sure you have travel insurance just in case.
Once in the water, you can swim into the grotto, and even sit inside of it! As you make your way around, watch out for the impressive purple-colored rocks where the water meets the shore inside the cave. This unique hue is due to the corals and algae living on the rocks, and it creates a fantastic atmosphere that you won’t see anywhere else in Croatia.
How to get to Odysseus Cave
Park your car across the street from Tommy in Babino Polje. There, you’ll see a sign for Odysseus Cave, which you’ll then follow down hill through the olive trees. It’s about a 30 minute walk, depending on your pace. The first and last sections of the walk down are very rocky and uneven, so I highly suggest wearing tennis shoes. Make sure you also bring plenty of water with you (and save some for the walk back up – trust me, you’ll need it).
3. Have a drink at MARS
Just above Odysseus Cave is one of the coolest bars I’ve ever been to, MARS. Built into the steep cliffside, this seaside hangout is laid back with boho vibes. The drink menu is small, offering a selection of soft drinks, beers, and a few hard liquors, but they are icy cold and really hit the spot after a long hike down. Hats off to the owner of this place who carries ice down to the bar every single day!
In addition to serving refreshing beverages, MARS also hosts a number of free summer events including movie nights, concerts, creative workshops, and even a kids cinema. Whether you come to watch a short film or just enjoy a drink with a view, I can’t recommend this place enough!
4. Soak up the sun at Saplunara Beach
Is this the Maldives of Croatia? It might be! Located near the village of Saplunara, Saplunara Beach is a beautiful sandy strand fringed with pine trees and dotted with umbrellas. It’s a gorgeous spot to spend the day soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the bay.
You can rent a sun lounger, sip on a drink at one of the beach bars, and even play a game of beach volleyball. Because of the shallow waters and soft sand, this beach is particularly well suited for small children (or for anyone who needs a break from Croatia’s rocky beaches). While in Saplunara, don’t miss the chance to check out the nearby Plaža Limuni as well.
5. Rent a bike
One of the most popular ways to get around the National Park and the two lakes is to rent a bike! Bikes are available to rent in the surrounding towns, like Pomena. You can rent them for several hours or an entire day. I’d recommend renting one for at least 24 hours so that you have plenty of time to explore and take breaks for swimming and sightseeing in between riding.
Some hosts offer bikes, for example our Airbnb host had regular bicycles available for 10 EUR per day. You can also rent an e-bike for around 35 EUR per day, depending the company and location. However, prices are generally similar across the board.
6. Snorkel or Scuba Dive
With its stunning coral reefs, enchanting caves, and picturesque bays, Mljet is a dream come true when it comes to snorkeling! The lakes’ crystal-clear waters give you unmatched visibility beneath the surface, allowing you to witness shimmering schools of fish and other marine life in this beautiful corner of Croatia.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking the plunge with a scuba diving excursion. At Diving Centre Aquatica in Pomena, you can explore the depths of the Adriatic Sea equipped with top notch diving gear, including wetsuits. Their team of professional and friendly staff ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience, making these trips perfect even for beginners.
7. Kayak
If you’re up for an adventure, consider renting a kayak to explore the Bigger and Smaller Lakes (Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero). Kayaking is one of the most popular ways to get a different perspective of the picturesque Mljet National Park. With the lush greenery surrounding the lakes, fresh air and peacefulness, it’s an ideal way to immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty.
You can rent a kayak right by Mali Most (the small bridge that crosses over the tiny canal connecting the two lakes). As you paddle, you’ll discover hidden swimming spots and maybe even spot wildlife in their natural habitat!
8. Rent a SUP
One of my favorite summer activities is renting a SUP (short for Stand Up Paddleboard)! If I lived closer to the water where I could use it more often, I would totally buy one for myself. For now though, I occasionally rent one for a few hours when I’m at the beach in Croatia. They’re a fun way to explore the coast and uncover hidden coves that cannot be easily reached on foot.
As much as I love lounging on the beach with a good book, there comes a point when I get restless and crave some movement. That’s where the SUP comes in! So if you’re like me and can only sit on the beach for so long, a SUP is a great way to keep active and explore the saltwater lakes on Mljet or the rugged coast of the island.
Visiting Croatia’s islands? Download the Croatia Island Hopping Guidebook!
9. Discover the Blatina Lakes
Beyond the famous National Park lakes, Mljet hides another secret: the Blatina Lakes. Their name translates to “mud-lakes”, or wetlands, that have formed by water filling the recesses in carbonate rocks whose bottom is below sea level. The lakes are a blend of rainwater and salt water, with their levels shifting based on recent rainfall.
Surrounded by lush foliage, sediment, and dramatic karst hills, these lakes offer a unique and picturesque sight. You can find these lakes near Sobra and between Blato and Kozarica. Both lakes make for a really lovely hike with lots of photo opportunities.
10. Prožurska Luka
Prožurska Luka is a large bay to the east of Sobra. It is a charming little place with some beautiful views over the water and tiny islands at the mouth of the bay. The bay itself is full of small fishing boats, and many sailors drop their anchors here on the way to Dubrovnik. Prožurska Luka also has its own pebbled beach, which is popular among locals and visitors alike. Here, you’ll also find one of the best Mljet restaurants, Marijina Konoba (Marija’s Tavern), that serves some of the most delicious local seafood in a beautiful setting.
11. Okuklje
Not far from Prožurska Luka lies Okuklje, a quaint village that was named after the sharp rocks that fill the bay. Here, you can jump into the pristine water for a refreshing swim, surrounded by the lush hills that encompass the area. There are a few wonderful swimming spots where you can spend an afternoon lounging in the sun and taking in all of the beauty that nature has to offer. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike up one of the nearby hills for some breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea!
12. Get off the beaten path at Sutmiholjska
One of the best things to do on Mljet is to get off the beaten path, and what better way to do that than hunt for undiscovered beaches? Sutmiholjska is still relatively unknown to tourists visiting island Mljet, but its stunning white pebble beach and crystal clear waters are worth seeking out.
Situated between the villages of Ropa and Babino Polje, Sutmiholjska is about a 3-kilometer hike down from the island’s only main road. To get there, you’ll walk through a pine tree forest, so be sure to come prepared with some good walking shoes (do you see a trend here?).
Once you reach the turquoise bay, you’ll want nothing more than to jump into the azure sea for a refreshing swim! It’s such a lovely spot to spend the day, and not crowded at all – giving you that private beach vibe. Bring along a picnic, some sunblock, and perhaps a good book, and you’re set for a day of pure relaxation.
13. Enjoy pizza with a view at Komarac
If you’re in the mood for some seriously good Croatian pizza, then you’ll definitely want to head to Komarac for dinner. Komarac translates to “mosquito” in Croatian, which makes for a pretty unique name, but fitting one nonetheless as there are a TON of mosquitos on Mljet. Anyway, back to the pizza.
Komarac serves Neapolitan-style pizzas starting at 4:00 PM, and let me tell you, it’s some of the best I’ve had. Their pizza menu isn’t huge, but they are reasonably priced and baked in a wood fired oven until the crust is puffed up and charred to perfection. Grab a seat under the vines on their outdoor terrace and enjoy your pie with a backdrop of Mljet’s spectacular landscape.
14. Stroll along the waterfront promenade in Pomena
Pomena is a lovely little seaside village on the western side of the island, making it the best spot to go to for sunset. The town is reminiscent of an old fishing village, full of charm and decades-old seaside restaurants welcoming in sailors after long sunny days at sea.
Pomena is home to the island’s only official hotel, Hotel Odisej Mljet. It’s also the place where you can rent e-bikes, regular bikes, book snorkeling tours, and boat excursions to Odysseus Cave.
I recommend enjoying a sunset drink at Vista Mare Beach Bar. The service is a bit slow, but they have a nice choice of cocktails and sparkling wines. Plus if you’re wanting to go for a sunset swim, there are sun beds available to rent, and a small swimming pool for children. The views of the sunset from here are truly some of the best.
15. Visit the island’s first settlement, Goveđari
Established in 1793, Goveđari is the first settlement within National Park Mljet. This tiny village consists of stone houses is perched on a hilltop, overlooking the verdant green forest leading down to the Larger Lake.
I recommend walking around the village and exploring. As you wander, you’ll encounter a captivating blend of abandoned houses, luxury apartments, and elegantly restored villas with infinity pools. Along the way, befriend the village cats and admire the abundant lemon trees and pomegranate fruits. The village is very peaceful, and provides a fascinating glimpse into how people once lived. There is also a beautiful path through a fragrant pine forest that leads to Babine Kuce village, where you can find many gorgeous (and private) swimming spots.
The village is residential-only, meaning that there are no stores, cafes or restaurants. The closest town is about a 5-minute drive away. If you stay at one of the private apartments in Goveđari, you’ll get to experience the local morning routine which is truly one-of-a-kind.
Every morning between 8:00 and 8:15 AM, a little bakery truck comes around selling fresh bread and pastries. When the driver rolls into the village, he beeps and the locals come out to buy their freshly baked goods for the day. It might sound pretty basic, but I was so excited the first morning, I felt like a kid waiting for the ice cream truck!
It was a fun way to start the morning, and I do have to say – they’re croissants filled with apricot jam are absolutely delectable!
16. Climb up to Vrh Montokuc Mljet
Hidden within the heart of Mljet National Park, lies one of the most gorgeous lookout points on the Adriatic coast, Vrh Montokuc. Sitting atop a majestic 258-meter high hill, going on a hike to reach its summit reveals mind blowing panoramic views. From Montokuc, you’ll see uninterrupted vistas of Malo and Veliko Jezero, and if the weather permits, you can even catch a glimpse of Lastovo Island and the Pelješac Peninsula.
The journey to the top is about 40 minutes, so you’ll want to make sure you time your visit just right so that you reach its peak before sunset. You’ll also want to ensure you account for enough time left to make your descent before it gets pitch dark.
17. Uncover the Roman Palace in Polace
Nestled in a quiet bay, the tiny village of Polače is home to an ancient Roman Palace. Dating back to the 5th century, these Roman ruins are so large that they actually extend across the town’s main road. If you hire a car, you can drive straight through the palace when visiting Polače. This happened to me accidentally as I didn’t realize the palace was open to traffic!
How to Get to Mljet
Mljet is the largest southernmost island in Croatia. It is quite close to Dubrovnik, making it easy to visit on a day trip from the popular medieval town. There are ferries to Mljet that regularly depart from Dubrovnik all year round. It is also easy to reach Mljet from Korčula or Split.
G&V Line provides catamaran service from Dubrovnik to Sobra and Polače all year, with the ride taking about 1 hour. The company, Kapetan Luka, also runs catamarans between Sobra and Dubrovnik, as well as Korčula and Split. This route is only available during the summer season, so be sure to check the up-to-date ferry schedule before planning your trip.
If you plan to spend more than one day on Mljet, I recommend taking the car ferry from Prapratno on the Pelješac Peninsula. The ferry ride lasts less than 45 minutes and takes you straight to Sobra. From there, it is about a 30 minute drive to both the eastern and western sides of the island.
Having a car on the island will allow you to thoroughly explore all that it has to offer. Bear in mind that it takes at least 1 hour of driving (sometimes more) to get from one end of Mljet to the other. A car will give you the freedom to explore the island’s beaches, caves, national park and other attractions at your own pace. With a car you can also take advantage of local restaurants, bars and shops in various towns and villages around the island.
If you do decide to rent a car, I always recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international companies to ensure you get the best rate.
Where to Stay in Mljet
When deciding on accommodation in Mljet, you’ll want to consider the activities you plan to do while on the island as they will dictate the best location for you to stay in. If you’re planning to spend long days on sandy beaches, then staying on the southeastern side of the island would be best. Alternatively, if you’re looking for more adventurous activities like cycling, hiking, and scuba diving, staying closer to Pomena would be a better option.
Budget: Boutique Accommodation Mljet is one of the most charming Airnbnbs I’ve ever stayed in. Located in the island’s oldest settlement (Goveđari) with no restaurants, cafes or stores around, the studio apartment is ideal for anyone that’s after some serious R&R. It’s just short walk away from the entrance to Mljet National Park and Veliko Jezero, and a 5-minute drive from the villages of Pomena and Polače.
Mid-Range: Hotel Odisej is the only official hotel on the island located right on the shores of Pomena, a charming village on the northwestern side of the island. The hotel features a swimming pool, beach bar, and diving center. In town, there are plenty of restaurants serving seafood and traditional Croatian cuisine, a small grocery store, as well as locations to rent e-bikes and regular bicycles.
Luxury: Pine Tree Boutique Apartments is a super luxe accommodation situated in Saplunara Bay. This peaceful oasis boasts fabulous facilities, impeccably clean rooms, delicious food, and terrace with an infinity pool. The best part? It’s only 50 meters away from the most beautiful sandy beach on the island. If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation where you have everything you need at your fingertips paired with a gorgeous backdrop, this is the place for you.
What to Pack for Mljet
Mosquito repellent:
A good bug spray will be your best friend when visiting Mljet. Because the majority of the island (84% to be exact) is covered in forest, mosquitoes and other small insects thrive in this green paradise. It’s all part of the package of being in such a raw and untouched environment. This DEET-free repellent will help keep mosquitos at bay, plus it’s environmentally friendly and completely safe for children.
Sneakers:
A good pair of sneakers or walking shoes are absolutely essential when traveling to Mljet. The island is full of hiking opportunities and outdoor activities galore, so you’ll want to have a comfortable pair of shoes. Don’t make the same mistake I did and hike down to Odysseus Cave in your flip flops!
Sunscreen:
Thanks to the dense pine forest that carpets the island, Mljet offers plenty of spots to seek respite from the sun. However, don’t forget to pack your sunscreen! Sunburns can sneak up on you even when you’re taking a refreshing swim in the saltwater lakes or breezing through the national park on a bike.
Reusable water bottle:
When exploring NP Mljet in the scorching summer, remember to stay hydrated as it can get extremely hot. Instead of purchasing single-use plastic bottles, I personally prefer to carry a reusable water bottle with me. One of my favorites is this insulated bottle from S’well because it keeps my drinks icy cold.
In addition to these items, be sure to cross check your packing list with my Croatia packing essentials guide to make sure you have everything you need for a smooth trip.
FAQs About Mljet Croatia
Is Mljet worth going to?
Absolutely! Mljet is known for its lush greenery and stunning natural beauty. It’s quickly become one of my favorite islands in Croatia, and a fantastic choice if you want to get a taste of authentic Croatia and escape the crowds.
How do you spend a day in Mljet?
Start with a visit to Mljet National Park, swim in the saltwater lakes, explore Odysseus Cave, and enjoy a seafood dinner in one of the island’s charming villages. However, Mljet has so much to offer that I would highly recommend spending a minimum of 3-4 days on the island.
What is Mljet known for?
Mljet is mostly known for its National Park, saltwater lakes, dense forests, and the legend of Odysseus being held captive on the island.
How long to spend on Mljet?
While you can get a feel of the island in a day, ideally, spending 3-4 days will allow you to explore and enjoy Mljet’s offerings more leisurely. Keep in mind that the island is big, and it takes at least a 1 hour drive to get from one end to the other.
Can you walk around Mljet?
Mljet is quite large, so walking around the entire island isn’t feasible. However, there are beautiful walking and hiking trails, especially within the National Park. It would be better to rent a bike.
Is Korcula or Mljet better?
Both islands have their charm. Mljet is more tranquil and nature-centric, while Korcula boasts towns with rich history and architecture, cultural activities, and is overall busier. Your choice depends on what kind of experience you’re seeking!
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Mljet
That wraps up the best things to do on Mljet Island Croatia! I hope this post has inspired you to get off the beaten tourist trail and uncover some of Croatia’s less popular hidden gems. Whether you’re a beach bum, nature lover, or are just looking for some serious rest and relaxation, Mljet ticks all these boxes and more.
Don’t take my word for it though – pack your bags and explore this magical place for yourself!
Need more help planning? Get personalized advice in a 1:1 call with me!
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💸 What is the currency in Croatia?
As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia).
🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia?
Croatian is the official language of Croatia. Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app!
🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance?
10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it. You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day.
📱 Will my phone work in Croatia?
Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo. Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia!
🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations?
For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights?
I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.
🚗 Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia?
Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here)
💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia?
Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink, so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up!
🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia?
Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.
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