- Rich Historical Heritage: Marina boasts a fascinating past with landmarks like the 15th-century Marina Tower and the Gothic-Renaissance Church of St. John, offering visitors a deep connection to Dalmatia’s cultural legacy.
- Authentic and Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike crowded tourist hubs, Marina provides a tranquil seaside experience with family-friendly beaches, local cuisine, and traditional charm—ideal for a relaxed Mediterranean getaway.
- Perfect Base for Exploration: Strategically located near Trogir, Split, and Šibenik, Marina allows easy access to UNESCO sites and natural attractions, making it a great starting point for discovering Central Dalmatia.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Hidden Gem on the Dalmatian Coast
Marina is a charming coastal town located in the Split-Dalmatia County of Croatia, nestled in a picturesque bay on the Adriatic Sea. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and authentic Mediterranean atmosphere, Marina offers visitors a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
History
Originally known as Bosiljina, Marina was first mentioned in historical records in 1070. The town gets its current name from the Church of St. Marina, a highly revered saint in the region. The area’s history was significantly shaped during the 15th century when the Venetian government gave consent to Frano Marcello (Francesco Marcello), the Bishop of Trogir, to build a fortress in the bay of Bosiljina near the church of St. Marina.
The construction of this fortress, which began around 1495, was motivated by the need to protect local residents from Ottoman invasions. The fortress complex included the iconic Marina Tower (Marinska Kula), built on cliffs in the sea itself and once accessed by a drawbridge. This tower, which still stands today, has become the symbol of the town and represents an important part of Marina’s cultural heritage.
During the Cretan War in 1657, the tower was severely damaged but was partially restored after the Turkish threat ended in the early 18th century. The town’s history also includes the heroic story of Kate Despotova, who became a symbol of Marina’s courage and libertarian spirit after being captured during battles with Turkish invaders in 1657.
Attractions and Points of Interest
Historical Sites
- Marina Tower (Marinska Kula) – The central landmark of the town, this 15th-century Venetian tower was built by Bishop Frano Marcello. On its east façade, visitors can still see the stone relief of the Venetian lion and the bishop’s coat of arms. Today, the tower has been adapted into a catering and tourist facility.
- The Citadel (Citadela) – Surrounding the tower, these fortified walls were built to protect villagers from Ottoman incursions. Above the main door of the citadel is the stone coat of arms of Bishop Marcello.
- Church of St. John the Baptist (Sv. Ivan Krstitelj) – Built in the Gothic-Renaissance style during the same period as the citadel, this church features a stone baptistery, Renaissance windows, and historical inscriptions. Masses are held here on June 24, the holiday of St. John.
- Other Religious Sites – Marina is home to numerous churches including St. Luka church (a Gothic church in the field near the village), a cave with St. Josip chapel (3km away), Church of Our Lady of Snow (located on the hill Drid above Marina), Church of Our Lady of Angels, St. Jakov church, and St. Marin church.
Natural Attractions
- Petrovača Wells (Roman Wells) – According to local legend, these wells have existed since Roman times. The complex includes three wells (deeper Veli and Mali well and shallower Studenac) that were restored in the 19th century and used to irrigate nearby fertile areas.
- Beaches – The entire coastline of Marina Municipality is rich in bays and beaches with magical pebble and sandy shores. The beaches are suitable for family vacations, with numerous pine and olive trees providing pleasant shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Drid Hill – This hill dominates the area above Marina and was once the seat of Drid County. Ruins can still be seen on the hill, and it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Accommodations and Services
Marina offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, from private apartments to vacation homes. The town has transformed from a fishing and agricultural village into an attractive tourist destination that successfully promotes the advantages of its location and cultural heritage.
Dining
Food enthusiasts can savor authentic Dalmatian delicacies at several local restaurants:
- Bijeli Galeb – Offering traditional Croatian cuisine
- Biluja – Serving fresh seafood and local specialties
- Sesula – A konoba (traditional restaurant) with homemade dishes
- Sampjer – Known for its Mediterranean cuisine
Activities
Those seeking an active vacation can enjoy various sports and recreational activities:
- Sailing
- Diving
- Fishing
- Soccer
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Chartering a yacht
Nearby Destinations
While staying in Marina, visitors can easily explore other notable destinations in the region:
- Trogir (12 km) – A UNESCO World Heritage site with a well-preserved medieval old town, Kamerlengo fortress, and the Cathedral of St. Lawrence with its famous Portal of Radovan.
- Split (36 km) – Croatia’s second-largest city, home to Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural life.
- Šibenik (36 km) – The oldest native Croatian city on the Adriatic, known for the Cathedral of St. James (another UNESCO site) and four impressive fortresses.
- Primošten – A picturesque peninsula town with narrow streets, stone houses, and beautiful beaches.
- Rogoznica – A small port town with valuable cultural monuments including the medieval church of St. Nikola. Read more on yacht charter Rogoznica guide.
In conclusion, Marina, Croatia is a hidden treasure on the Dalmatian Coast that blends historical depth, natural beauty, and warm Mediterranean charm. Whether you’re drawn by the echo of its Venetian fortresses, the serenity of its pine-fringed beaches, or the inviting flavors of its Dalmatian cuisine, Marina offers an unforgettable escape from the bustle of larger tourist hubs. Its strategic location near Split and Trogir (explore Seget Donji) makes it the perfect base for exploring Central Dalmatia, while its peaceful atmosphere ensures a genuinely relaxing holiday. For travelers seeking both cultural discovery and coastal relaxation, Marina is a destination that delivers on every level.
FAQ
The peak tourist season is from June to September when the weather is warmest and perfect for beach activities. May and October offer pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds and lower prices.
Marina is easily accessible by car, located about 12 km from Trogir and 36 km from Split. The nearest international airport is Split Airport, approximately 15 km away.
Yes, Marina’s beaches are generally family-friendly with shallow entry points and calm waters. Many beaches have shade from pine trees, making them comfortable for families with children.
Marina offers traditional Dalmatian cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, grilled fish, olive oil, locally grown vegetables, and Mediterranean herbs. Don’t miss trying local specialties at restaurants like Bijeli Galeb, Biluja, Sesula, and Sampjer.
Marina provides a more relaxed and authentic Croatian experience compared to larger tourist destinations. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful vacation while still having access to restaurants, beaches, and historical sites.
Absolutely! Marina’s location makes it perfect for day trips to UNESCO sites like Trogir and Split, as well as natural attractions like Krka National Park.
The Marina Tower (Marinska Kula) is the town’s symbol and a must-visit. Also worth seeing are the Church of St. John the Baptist, the Citadel, and the various churches scattered throughout the area.
The feast day of St. John (June 24) is celebrated with a special mass at the Church of St. John the Baptist. During summer, various cultural events and traditional festivities take place in Marina and surrounding villages.