Mljet

Written by Keith Roberts, Marika Maslanka
09/09/2025
Aerial view of St. Mary Island in Mljet National Park, Croatia
dronepicr, Wikimedia Commons

Mljet, often referred to as Croatia's greenest island, provides a tranquil escape, primarily recognized for its expansive National Park featuring lush forests and unique saltwater lakes. Guests can immerse themselves in its natural beauty, balancing relaxation with various active pursuits.

Mljet offers a predominantly calm atmosphere, distinct from lively social centers. While smaller villages such as Pomena and Polače provide local dining options and basic facilities, the island's charm stems from its peaceful natural environment, ideal for quiet enjoyment rather than bustling tourist social gatherings.

Top 4 Things to do in Mljet

Activities on Mljet primarily involve exploring its pristine National Park, discovering hidden caves, and enjoying its unique sandy beaches.

1. Explore Mljet National Park (Cycling, Hiking, Swimming)

The Mljet National Park, covering the island's northwestern part, features two interconnected saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero (Great Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). Visitors can cycle or walk along shaded paths that encircle these lakes, offering views of the lush pine forests and diverse flora. The calm, clear, and warm waters of the lakes are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, providing a refreshing experience.

Cost: Entrance to Mljet National Park: 15.00 EUR when purchased at the park entrance, or 13.50 EUR if bought online for adults (prices for 2025 high season). Bicycle rental within the park ranges from approximately 6 EUR for 1 hour, to 15 EUR for 3-6 hours, 20 EUR for 6-12 hours, and 24 EUR for 24 hours. E-bike rental can start from around 50 EUR and may include park admission.

Transport: Access to the National Park is primarily through the villages of Pomena or Polače. A shuttle service from these towns into the park is often included with the entrance ticket. An electric train also provides transport within the park. Many accommodations are within walking or short cycling distance of the park entrances.

2. Visit St. Mary's Islet and Benedictine Monastery

Nestled within the Great Lake of Mljet National Park is St. Mary's Islet, home to a picturesque 12th-century Benedictine monastery. This small island offers a tranquil setting for historical exploration, allowing visitors to wander through its grounds and enjoy views across the lake. A restaurant is also available on the islet for refreshments.

Cost: A return boat trip to St. Mary's Islet is included with the Mljet National Park entrance fee. An additional return boat ticket can be purchased for approximately 5 EUR.

Transport: Small boats operate regularly from Mali Most, Pristaniste, or Soline, taking visitors to St. Mary's Islet. The boat fare is included in the National Park entrance ticket. For a more active approach, one can rent a kayak to paddle to the islet, which takes about 40 minutes.

3. Explore Odysseus Cave

On Mljet's southern coast, near Babino Polje, lies Odysseus Cave, a natural sea cave linked to the mythical tale of Odysseus and Calypso. Accessing the cave involves a scenic hike, followed by swimming into its egg-shaped chamber through a low entrance. The incredibly clear waters inside the cave make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with opportunities for cliff jumping for those seeking more adventure.

Cost: Visiting Odysseus Cave is free of charge, apart from any transport costs to reach the trailhead.

Transport: The hike to Odysseus Cave begins from the village of Babino Polje. The trail is approximately a 30-minute to 1-hour walk from the main road to the cliff's edge. Public transport on Mljet is limited, but a local bus service connects some villages, such as Sobra to Babino Polje for around 1-3 EUR. Taxis are also available to Babino Polje.

4. Relax on Saplunara and Blace Beaches

Mljet is unique in Croatia for its beautiful sandy beaches, most notably Saplunara, which includes Velika Saplunara and Mala Saplunara. These beaches, surrounded by aromatic pine trees, offer soft white sand and shallow, calm, crystal-clear waters, making them ideal for families and relaxed swimming. Nearby, Blace (Limuni) Beach provides an even more secluded and untouched sandy cove, perfect for peaceful sunbathing and swimming.

Cost: Access to these beaches is free.

Transport: Saplunara is situated on the island's southeastern tip, reachable via the village of Saplunara. Blace Beach is a short 15-minute walk from Saplunara. As these beaches are outside the National Park area, taxi services or renting a car are the most practical ways to reach them.

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