About 30km north of Pag Town on Pag Island, Novalja is a small town and port that has now become one of the top summer party spots in Europe. The small town is short on sightseeing but only a couple of kilometres away is the legendary Zrce beach.

A view of Zrce Beach, Novalja, Pag Island

Music Festivals

The wide, shingle beach curving around a shallow bay creates a stunning backdrop to a series of music festivals throughout the summer. The best known is the Hideout Festival in late June which features the best of underground dance music. Full lineup, transport and ticket sales for the Hideout Festival.

A close runner-up would be the Sonus Festival in late August, a massively popular dance party with renowned DJs. Full lineup, transport and ticket sales.

And don't forget Spring Break Europe in early June, Hard Island in early July, Area 4 in mid-July, followed by Loveweek.

Most of the action centers around Aquarius, Kalypso, Papaya Club or Noa Beach Club, one of Croatia's best beach clubs with a pool, five bars, a dance floor and a workout area.

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For more sedate pleasures, try the Novalja Feast of St Anthony on June 13 which kicks off several days of concerts including klapa singing, folk songs, classical music and more.

[Find out about accommodation on Pag Island]

Getting to Novalja

Novalja is a straightforward drive across Pag island from the causeway connecting it to the mainland near Zadar. Also, Jadrolinija runs a daily 3pm passenger boat from Rijeka stopping at Rab town.

You can also get a taxi transfer direct from Split airport to Novalja at a surprisingly affordable price from Solo Transfers.

Or, take a day trip to Zrce beach from Split in a luxury minibus.