Čiovo island: Trogir's best-kept secret

What Is Čiovo, Exactly?

Čiovo (pronounced “Chee-oh-voh” — practice it three times before ordering at a local restaurant, trust us) is a 28 km2 island sitting right next to the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir. It’s connected by a drawbridge that opens occasionally to let sailboats through, giving you the perfect excuse to stand around and watch boats while pretending you’re not on vacation.

From our villa in Vinišće, it’s only about a 25-minute drive. That’s roughly the time it takes to decide what sunscreen to use.

The Beaches: Where Turquoise Water Is Not a Filter

Let’s get to what matters most: the beaches. Čiovo has some absolute stunners, and the best part is that many of them are still relatively quiet — especially if you avoid the peak of August (when half of Europe collectively decides to visit Croatia).

Okrug Beach (aka “Copacabana”)

Yes, the locals actually call it the “Trogir Copacabana.” Is it Rio? No. Is it a gorgeous 2-kilometer stretch of pebble beach with crystal-clear water, beach bars, and enough charm to make you forget your email password? Absolutely. Perfect for families, couples, and anyone who appreciates a good sunset cocktail.

Kava Beach (Slatine)

If you prefer your beaches with a side of tranquility (and actual sand — a rarity in Croatia!), head to Kava Beach near Slatine village. It faces Split‘s Marjan Hill across the channel, which means you get views AND bragging rights. Pine trees provide natural shade, so you can finally give your beach umbrella a day off.

Tri Sestrice (Three Sisters)

A local favorite near Arbanija village. Fine pebble beach, calm waters, and a name that sounds like a Croatian fairy tale. The “three sisters” are actually three small coves side by side. Pack a picnic, find your favorite sister, and don’t move until sunset.

Where to Eat: Because Swimming Makes You Hungry

You cannot visit Čiovo without eating fresh seafood. It’s practically illegal. (Okay, it’s not, but it should be.)

Mali Porat (Slatine)

Right by the beach in Slatine, Mali Porat serves the kind of grilled fish that makes you close your eyes and nod slowly. The setting is casual, the fish is fresh (like, “it was swimming this morning” fresh), and the prices are honest. Pair your meal with a local white wine and try not to book a return table before you’ve even finished dessert.

Konoba Pizzeria Dida

For those evenings when half your group wants pizza and the other half wants traditional Dalmatian food, Dida has your back. It’s the diplomatic solution to every family dinner debate. The konoba-style atmosphere is warm and welcoming — think stone walls, vine-covered terraces, and a waiter who remembers your name by the second visit.

What to Do (Besides Eating and Swimming)

Let’s be honest: eating and swimming could fill your entire visit. But if you feel the need to justify your vacation with “cultural activities” (we don’t judge), Čiovo has a few tricks up its sleeve.

Dominican Monastery & Church of the Holy Cross

Near Arbanija, this 15th-century monastery is a peaceful escape. The cloister is photogenic enough to make your Instagram followers think you’ve become cultured. There’s a beautiful refectory and centuries of history within these walls. Take a moment, breathe, and appreciate that some things were built to last longer than a TikTok trend.

Water Sports

Jet skis, banana boats, paddleboarding, kayaking — Čiovo’s coastline is your aquatic playground. Several beaches offer rentals, and if you’ve ever wanted to try parasailing with a view of Trogir’s medieval skyline, this is your chance. Just remember: screaming is optional but encouraged.

Olive Groves & Vineyard Walks

The island’s interior is dotted with olive groves and small vineyards. An early morning walk through the countryside, with the scent of wild herbs and the sound of cicadas, is the kind of experience that no all-inclusive resort can replicate. Bonus: you might stumble upon a local selling homemade olive oil. Buy two bottles. You’ll thank us later.

Getting There from Orange Tree Villa

From our villa in Vinišće, reaching Čiovo is delightfully simple:

• By car: 25 minutes via the coastal road through Marina and Trogir. Cross the bridge and you’re there. Parking is available at Okrug Beach and near Slatine.
• By boat: If you’ve rented a boat (which we highly recommend — check our article on boat rentals in Vinišće!), you can reach Čiovo’s southern coves in about 30-40 minutes. This is the glamorous option.
• By bus: Local buses run from Trogir to various points on the island. It’s cheap, it’s cheerful, and it’s a great way to practice your Croatian small talk.

Our Verdict

Čiovo is one of those rare places that feels both accessible and unspoiled. It’s close enough for a half-day trip, beautiful enough for a full day, and relaxing enough that you’ll start planning your next visit before you’ve left. Whether you’re after beaches, food, history, or just a really good excuse to do absolutely nothing in a stunning setting — Čiovo delivers.

And the best part? After a perfect day on the island, you get to drive back to your private pool at Orange Tree Villa. Life’s tough, isn’t it?

Čiovo Island is approximately 25 minutes by car from Orange Tree Villa. We recommend visiting between May and October for the best weather and beach conditions.