Things to Do in Kornati National Park

Kornati National Park stretches across 89 islands, islets, and reefs in the northern Dalmatian archipelago, creating what many consider Croatia's most dramatic marine landscape. The park encompasses roughly 220 square kilometers, with about three-quarters of that being sea, which gives you a sense of just how water-centric this place really is. What strikes most people first is the stark, almost lunar beauty of these limestone islands - they're largely barren, sculpted by centuries of wind and salt into something that feels both ancient and otherworldly. The Kornati islands were actually formed through a combination of geological processes and human activity, as centuries of grazing and deforestation stripped away much of the original vegetation, leaving behind these haunting, bone-white landscapes that rise dramatically from impossibly blue waters.

Dining options within Kornati National Park are quite limited, which is part of its wild appeal but something to plan for. There are only a handful of restaurants scattered across the islands, most of them family-run places that specialize in fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes. Konoba Opat on Kornat island is probably the most well-known, serving grilled fish and lamb under the stars, but you'll need to arrange this as part of a tour since it's not easily accessible independently. Most visitors either bring packed lunches or join boat tours that include meals. If you're staying in Murter, Zadar, or other gateway towns, you'll find much better restaurant selections featuring the same excellent seafood and local wines, just with more variety and reliability.

The prime season for Kornati runs from late April through October, when boat services operate regularly and the weather is suitable for swimming and diving. July and August bring the warmest waters and longest days, but also the biggest crowds and highest prices - plus the lack of shade on these barren islands can make midday quite intense. May, June, and September tend to offer the best balance of good weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices. Spring visits might surprise you with brief wildflower blooms on some islands, while autumn often provides the calmest seas and clearest underwater visibility for diving. Winter visits are possible but very limited, as most tour operators shut down and weather can be unpredictable.