What to Bring to Hvar
Pack smart for your Hvar adventure. From boat trip essentials to evening wear, here is everything you will need.
Key Packing Points
✓ Do Bring
- • High SPF reef-safe sunscreen
- • Water shoes for pebbly beaches
- • Light, breathable clothing
- • EU power adapter
- • Euros (€) in cash
✗ Skip These
- • Dark-soled shoes (mark boat decks)
- • Heavy luggage (island roads are steep)
- • Valuable jewelry (sea + salt = damage)
- • Full snorkel sets (most boats carry them)
- • Formal business attire
What Boats Usually Carry
Most private boats in Hvar carry these - check with your skipper when you book:
Towels
Snorkeling Gear
Drinks & Water
Ice Chest
Complete Packing List
Items marked with ★ are essential
Boat Trip Essentials
- ★Swimsuit (2-3)
Quick-dry material ideal
- ★Cover-up / beach dress
For restaurant stops
- ★Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
Regular sunscreen harms coral
- ★Sunglasses with strap
Polarized for water glare
- ★Hat / cap
Wide brim for sun protection
- ★Water shoes / reef sandals
For pebbly beaches
- Dry bag
For phone, wallet, camera
- Light jacket / windbreaker
Can get breezy on water
- Waterproof phone case
For underwater photos
Beach & Swimming
- Beach towel
Often provided on boat tours, but handy for town beaches
- Snorkeling gear
Usually included on private boat tours
- Goggles (for contact lens wearers)
Salt water can irritate
- ★Waterproof sunscreen
Re-apply after swimming
- After-sun / aloe vera
For inevitable sun exposure
- Insulated water bottle
Stay hydrated
Evening & Dining
- ★Light sundress / linen pants
For evening dining
- ★Comfortable sandals
Cobblestones require good footwear
- Light cardigan / shawl
Evenings can be cool
- One smart outfit
For upscale restaurants
- Small crossbody bag
Hands-free for wandering
Electronics & Documents
- ★Passport / ID
Croatia is in the EU and Schengen area
- ★EU plug adapter
Croatia uses Type C/F plugs
- ★Power bank
For long days out
- Camera (waterproof if possible)
Or good phone camera
- ★Travel insurance documents
Print or save offline
- ★Booking confirmations
Save offline copies
Money & Payments
- ★Euros (€)
Croatia uses Euro since 2023
- ★Credit/debit card
Widely accepted
- ★Some cash
Small restaurants may be cash-only
- ★Notify bank of travel
Avoid blocked cards
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear on a boat in Hvar?
Wear swimwear with a cover-up, non-marking shoes (boat shoes or flip-flops with light soles), and bring layers for the wind. Skip high heels and dark-soled shoes that can mark the deck. Most private boats carry towels and snorkeling gear - check with your skipper.
Do I need water shoes in Hvar?
Yes, water shoes or reef sandals are highly recommended. Most beaches in Hvar are pebbly, not sandy, and rocks can be sharp. Water shoes make getting in and out of the water much more comfortable.
What is the dress code for restaurants in Hvar?
Hvar restaurants range from casual beach bars to upscale dining. For most restaurants, smart casual is fine - nice shorts or a sundress. The fancier spots in town (Gariful, Divino) appreciate slightly dressier attire in the evening.
Should I bring snorkeling gear to Hvar?
You can, but it is often not necessary. Most private boat tours in Hvar include snorkeling equipment (mask and snorkel, often fins) - check with your skipper when you book. If you have a prescription mask or prefer your own gear, feel free to bring it.