Discovering Marina: A hidden gem in Dalmatia

Imagine a place where tranquility meets the pulse of summer in Croatia, a little-known haven yet at the heartbeat of Dalmatian life. Welcome to Marina, a quaint coastal gem just a whisper away from the UNESCO-heralded town of Trogir. Marina, with its sparkling waters, architectural wonders, and mouth-watering Dalmatian fare, offers an unparalleled mix of serene getaway and cultural exploration. Let's dive into the essence of Marina, your secret slice of Croatian paradise.

Journey to Marina

Perched discreetly 10 kilometers west of Trogir and 40 kilometers from the vibrant city of Split, Marina is a sanctuary that’s both accessible and hidden away, offering an intimate embrace with the Adriatic. Landing at Split Airport, you're a short journey from stepping into Marina's embrace, with various travel options like car rentals, buses, or private transfers easing your way. The coastal drive to Marina is a visual treat, showcasing the Adriatic Sea's azure canvas and the dotted islands that pepper its vastness. In mere minutes from Trogir or Split, you transition from bustling city life to Marina's peaceful embrace, making it a journey of delightful contrasts.

Marina through time

The tapestry of Marina's history is woven with the threads of ancient Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, and the Croats of the 7th century, marking it as a cradle of civilization. Mentioned as early as 1070 and once known as Drid (and the village as Baselen), Marina's narrative took a dramatic turn in the 15th century with the looming Ottoman threat. To shield its people, Frano Marcello erected a castle near St. Marina's church in 1495, birthing a unique defense system that cocooned the nascent settlement of Marina, named in honor of the Holy Martyr Marina.

A walk through history

While you are in Marina, we suggest you visit The Church of St. John the Baptist, Marina Tower, and the Citadel.

• The Church of St. John the Baptist: This 9th-century relic invites you into Marina’s storied past. Its ancient walls, adorned with frescoes, narrate tales from centuries gone by.
• Marina Tower (Kula Marina): A 15th-century bastion against invasions, this tower stands tall as a testament to Marina’s resilient spirit. Ascend its heights for a view that stitches together past and present.
• The Citadel: Though its fame might not match its companions, the Citadel's ruins are a profound echo of Marina's strategic past, inviting you to wander through its storied stones.

Beach bliss

Tunjara Beach, with its pebbly embrace and clear waters, is Marina’s pride. Located in front of the Marinus Beach Hotel, it is a sanctuary for those seeking sun, sea, and serenity, enveloped by nature's own artwork.

Outdoor adventures

Marina is not just about historical sites and beaches. The surrounding area offers numerous trails for hiking and biking, leading to hidden coves and hilltop viewpoints. Kayaking and sailing are popular activities, allowing you to explore the nearby islands and secluded beaches. From Marina, you can also book boat trips, visiting Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, Hvar, Split, and many other popular sites.

A culinary odyssey

At the heart of Marina’s charm is its cuisine, a celebration of the sea’s bounty and Dalmatian culinary traditions. From the rustic konobas serving fresh seafood delights to the refined dishes of Restaurant Oblica at the Marinus Beach Hotel, every meal is a journey through flavor and tradition.

The beauty of Marina

Marina, draped in olive groves and vineyards against the Adriatic's blue, offers moments of contemplation and awe. Whether it's watching the sunset paint the sky from the marina or gazing over Marina from the chapel of St. George, the beauty of Marina is a balm to the soul.

Discovering Marina is to uncover a world where time slows, beauty unfolds in every corner, and culinary delights await at every turn. It's a journey for those who seek the authentic Dalmatian experience — serene, beautiful, and endlessly enchanting. Marina, with its unique blend of history, nature, and gastronomy, is not just a destination but a discovery of a lifetime.

This narrative aims to bring Marina's charm closer to you, painting a vivid picture of a hidden gem in Dalmatia that promises not just a visit, but an unforgettable experience.