Ručica Beach in Pag Island (Metajna), Croatia
#721 European Rank
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Ručica Beach

Pag Island (Metajna), Croatia•Adriatic Sea• Best Season: June, July, August, September
Photo: Ivo Biočina (Editorial / Verified Tourism License) · Wikimedia Commons source
EDITORIAL SCORE
3.90/ 5.0
SEA TEMPERATURE
24.8°C
August 30-year average
DAILY BUDGET
€45/day
SAND & SHORELINE
Pebbles / Shingle
Gradual Drop

Sea Temperature by Month

30-year monthly averages for Pag Island (Metajna) · NOAA satellite data
Swipe 12 months ⇄
Ideal Swimming
Jan
12.4°C
Air 16°C
Feb
12.1°C
Air 17°C
Mar
13.0°C
Air 19°C
Apr
15.2°C
Air 22°C
May
18.8°C
Air 25°C
Jun
22.4°C
Air 28°C
Jul
24.6°C
Air 30°C
Peak
Aug
24.8°C
Air 30°C
Sep
22.9°C
Air 28°C
Oct
19.8°C
Air 25°C
Nov
16.4°C
Air 21°C
Dec
13.8°C
Air 18°C
Swimmability Window · NOAA Climatology
Swimmable 3 Jun – 3 Oct (>21°C) · 122 days
30-year NOAA satellite climatological mean (1991–2020).Explore all Croatia Sea Temperatures

Score Breakdown

Scenery & Setting4.2 / 5
Water Clarity & Cleanliness4.5 / 5
Sand & Shoreline Quality4.3 / 5
Atmosphere & Safety4.7 / 5
Accessibility & Entry Ease4.2 / 5
Affordability & Fair Pricing4.4 / 5

About Ručica Beach

Ručica Beach is a world-famous lunar-landscape cove situated on the eastern tip of Pag Island near Metajna. Surrounded by bare karst stone without trees, the contrasting electric turquoise sea and reddish-white pebble slope make it one of the most visually extraordinary beaches in the Adriatic.

Key Beach Facts

Official Records
•Access: Paved road from Novalja/Metajna (12 km), large gravel parking area right above the beach.
•Protected Status / Environment: Pag Island Natura 2000 karst geomorphological reserve shaped by fierce winter Bura winds.
•Notable Feature: Otherworldly Martian rock formations framing transparent turquoise water on the 'Life on Mars' trail route.
Official Tourism Authorities:croatia.hrvisit-pag.com

Amenities & Facilities

Bathrooms
Yes
Showers
No
Free Parking
No
Food / Tavernas
Yes
Good for Kids
Yes
Dog Friendly
Yes
Lifeguard on Duty
No
Sunbed & Umbrella Rentals
Yes
Natural Cliff/Pine Shade
No
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Snorkeling & Watersports
No
Nudist / FKK Friendly
No

Getting There & Local Notes

Getting there:

Follow road 106 across Pag Island to Novalja, take the local road to Metajna village (12 km), and drive 1 km east to the designated beach gravel car park.

•Bring robust beach umbrellas and SPF 50+ sunscreen as there is no natural shade on this rocky karst cove.
•Combine your swim with hiking a section of the marked 'Life on Mars' trail towards Beritnica Beach.
•Visit the beachside bistro for fresh Pag cheese (Paški sir) and chilled local white wine.

Nearest Airport & Transit Gateway

ZAD · 45m drive

Fast 45-min highway drive from Zadar Airport (ZAD) or 60 min from Split Airport (SPU).

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Frequently Asked Questions about Ručica Beach

What is the water temperature at Ručica Beach?

The peak summer sea surface temperature at Ručica Beach averages 24.2°C (76°F), based on 30-year NOAA satellite climatology.

What type of coast or sand is Ručica Beach?

Ručica Beach is classified as a pebbles / shingle shoreline located in Pag Island (Metajna), Croatia.

Is Ručica Beach good for families with kids?

Yes, Ručica Beach is suitable for families and children with manageable water entry.

Are there parking and facilities at Ručica Beach?

Parking arrangements vary locally. Restroom facilities are present.

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