Lastovo - the magical island of Pirates

Ever wondered what it’d be like to stumble upon a secret island where pirate legends whisper through the trees and the stars shine brighter than anywhere else? Meet Lastovo, Croatia’s most enchanting hidden gem, tucked away in the southern Adriatic. Far from the tourist-packed shores of Dubrovnik or Split, this remote island—known as the “Island of Pirates”—offers a mix of wild nature, quirky history, and a peaceful vibe that feels like a step back in time. In this post, we’ll uncover why Lastovo is a must-visit, how to get there in 2025, and what makes it a magical escape for travelers of all kinds. Ready to set sail?

Why Lastovo Feels Like a Pirate’s Paradise

Lastovo isn’t your average Croatian island—it’s a world apart. With just under 800 residents and a history of seclusion (it was off-limits as a military zone until 1988), it’s stayed delightfully under-the-radar. Pirates once prowled its 46 bays and coves, using the rugged coastline as their hideout, and today those same spots are yours to explore. Designated a Nature Park in 2006, Lastovo boasts untouched forests, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of mystery that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s the kind of place where you can imagine a treasure chest buried just out of sight—perfect for sparking your wanderlust!

Getting to Lastovo — Your Journey to the Edge of the Adriatic

Getting to Lastovo takes a little effort, but that’s part of its charm. As of April 2025, here’s how to make it happen:

• From Split: The daily catamaran departs at 2:00 PM (summer schedule) via Hvar and Korčula, arriving in Ubli, Lastovo’s port, by 5:00 PM. Tickets are around 10 EUR one way. A car ferry also runs daily—check Jadrolinija (Split-Ubli) for the latest times and prices (roughly 65 EUR for a car and driver).
• From Zadar: While there’s no direct ferry to Lastovo, you can connect through Split. Take a bus or drive (2.5 hours, ~20 EUR by bus) to Split, then hop on the catamaran or ferry. It’s a scenic route worth the extra leg—perfect if you’re staying near Zadar!
• From Dubrovnik: TP Line’s catamaran operates 3-4 times a week, stopping at Mljet and Korčula, with a 4-hour trip costing about 15 EUR.
• Best Time to Visit: June to September brings warm weather (25-30°C) and calm seas—ideal for swimming and exploring. Winter (December-February) is quieter and cheaper, but ferry schedules thin out, so it’s best for stargazing over beach days.

Tip: Book ferries early in peak season (July-August), and bring a light jacket—sea breezes can get chilly even in summer!

Lastovo Village — A Quaint Hideaway with Pirate-Proof Charm

Step into Lastovo Village, the island’s heart, and you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a storybook. Built inland to dodge pirate raids, this hillside settlement is a maze of stone houses and 46 tiny churches (that number again!). The standout feature? Lastovo chimneys—ornate, whimsical stacks that locals once used to flaunt their wealth. It’s compact and walkable, making it a breeze for elders or anyone who loves a slow-paced wander. Kids will have a blast spotting the chimneys—turn it into a scavenger hunt! The vibe here is pure, unspoiled Croatia, with a dash of Renaissance flair.

Nature’s Masterpiece — Bays, Forests, and Starry Nights

Lastovo is a playground for nature lovers. Covered in dense pine forests (70% of the island!), it’s a hiker’s dream—trails lead to Hum, the 417-meter peak with views stretching to Italy on clear days. The coastline is rocky rather than sandy, but the water’s so clear you won’t mind. Top spots like Skrivena Luka and Jurjeva Luka offer calm, shallow bays—safe for little ones and perfect for snorkeling or kayaking.

Come nightfall, Lastovo earns its nickname, the “Island of Bright Stars.” With minimal light pollution, it’s one of Europe’s best stargazing spots—bring a blanket and lose yourself in the Milky Way. Eco-travelers will love its Nature Park status, which keeps development low and sustainability high. It’s a guilt-free getaway!

Poklad Carnival — Party Like a Pirate

If you’re visiting in February, catch the Poklad Carnival, a wild tradition where locals celebrate a historic pirate defeat. Dressed in colorful costumes, they parade a puppet (the “Poklad”) through town, then send it sliding down a rope before burning it—a spectacle for all ages! It’s off-season, so ferries are less frequent, but the authenticity is worth the planning. How many places let you party with pirate vibes in 2025?

Local Flavors — Fresh, Simple, and Delicious

Lastovo’s food is all about the sea. Grilled fish, octopus salad, or lobster straight from the water, paired with local olive oil and wines from nearby Korčula. Head to Konoba Triton in Zaklopatica for spiza—a hearty fish stew that’s around 15-20 EUR and big enough to share. It’s casual, affordable, and a true taste of the island—great for families or couples alike.

Is Lastovo Right for You?

Lastovo’s slow pace suits travelers craving tranquility over nightlife. Elders will love the gentle walks and fresh air, while kids can explore safely in the bays or village. It’s not stroller-friendly due to the rocky terrain, but older children will thrive on the adventure. Summer’s best for water fun; spring or fall for hiking and fewer crowds. What do you think—could Lastovo be your next escape?

Conclusion

Lastovo is more than an island—it’s a feeling. From its pirate past to its starry skies, it’s a place that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left. Whether you’re chasing nature, history, or just a break from the everyday, this magical spot delivers. Ready to discover it for yourself? Let Crowonder team help you plan your Croatian adventure—your pirate paradise awaits!

Stay Nearby with Crowonder:

• Crowonder Blue Premium Apartment with Seaview – Located in Zadar, this chic apartment offers stunning sea views and a modern vibe, just a short drive or bus ride to the Split ferry port for your Lastovo adventure.
• Crowonder Villa Intrada with Heated Swimming Pool – Nestled in Sukošan near Zadar, this modern villa with a heated pool is perfect for relaxing before or after your ferry trip to Lastovo via Split. Author: Francesco Sofia