If you’re visiting Dubrovnik, one thing I can’t recommend enough is doing the 3 Islands Tour. It’s such a great way to spend the day exploring the Elaphiti Islands, a group of beautiful islands in the Adriatic Sea just off the coast of the Dubrovnik area.

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There are a few ways to do this island-hopping boat trip. You can join a group tour, which usually leaves from either Lapadska Obala or the harbor near Old Town, or you can book a private boat for a more flexible day. Either way, you’ll get to visit scenic islands with quiet bays, swim in crystal-clear waters, and stop at small villages that feel like the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment.

The Elaphiti Islands boat tour is such a fun and relaxing way to see the region’s natural beauty, and honestly, it’s the perfect place to escape the busy city for a day!

Looking for quick Hotel suggestions? Here are the top picks:

Affordable Stay: SUNce Palace with free parking
Ideal for Location: Dominus Rooms
Best Luxury Hotel: Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik
Top View: Hotel Excelsior
Great for Families: Rixos Premium Belek

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Unique Experiences in Dubrovnik

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

What Exactly is the 3 Islands Tour?

The Three Island Tour is one of the most popular day trips from Dubrovnik and the perfect way to explore the stunning Elafiti Islands – Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan. Each island has its own unique charm:

Island of Koločep – a lush, green island with hidden coves and quiet bays.
Island of Lopud – famous for beautiful beaches and a laid-back vibe. This was my favorite!
Island of Šipan – the largest island. It’s full of history, old summer homes, and historic landmarks.

There are different options to choose from. You can do a half-day or a full day excursion. But whichever you choose, you’ll be relaxing on a boat, swimming in the crystal-clear sea, and visiting these beautiful islands with plenty of free time to explore.

We’ll dive into each island in more detail below, but trust me – it’s an unforgettable experience and the perfect escape from the city for a day.

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What 3 Islands Tour to Book?

There are a few ways to experience the 3 Islands Tour from Dubrovnik: group tours and private tours. Each has its own perks, so it really depends on how you like to travel.

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Group Tours

If you’re looking for a more social option or are traveling on a budget, group tours are a good choice.

The meeting point is either Lapadska Obala or the harbor near Old Town. Many boats also depart from Lapadska Obala, which is about a 10‑minute car ride. Ubers are inexpensive, or you can take the bus. If you’re staying in Old Town, the harbor location is very convenient

Most tours will include lunch options (grilled fish, chicken, or a vegetarian meal) and unlimited drinks with an open bar like wine, soft drinks, and water on board. With small groups, you’ll still have plenty of free time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and explore at each stop.

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Private Tours

If you want the flexibility to plan the day exactly how you want, private tours are the way to go. They also typically include a free mini-van transfer from your accommodation, which we had, and it made the morning so easy for us.

This is what we went with, and honestly, I loved how relaxed and flexible it was. We could spend more time at the places we enjoyed most without feeling rushed. There was no set schedule, so we got to swim in quiet bays, stop at a few historical sites, and just relax on the boat. We even go to visit the famous blue cave.

The whole tour felt really personal, and we were able to visit more secluded spots around the Dalmatian coast that group tours don’t always get to. This is such a great option for couples, families, or anyone wanting a more private and customizable experience.

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What to Pack & Tips for the Day?

Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, cover-up, and change of clothes – You’ll be in and out of the water all day, so these are must-haves. A change of clothes is nice to have for the ride back.

Water shoes – Most beaches are pebbly, and some islands have rocky paths, so water shoes are really useful.

Cash for small purchases – Many shops and cafés on the islands don’t accept cards, so it’s good to have some euros for snacks, drinks, or souvenirs. It’s also handy if you’d like to tip your boat crew.

Waterproof bag or phone case – Perfect for protecting your valuables during swims or boat rides. If you love taking photos, especially in the water, a waterproof phone or camera case is a lifesaver

Arrive early – Especially for group tours leaving from the Old Town harbor, as boarding can get busy in the mornings.

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Epic 3 Islands Tour Stops near Dubrovnik

1. Island of Koločep (Kalamota)

The first stop on the 3 Islands Tour is the island of Koločep. It’s a small, lush island covered in pine and cypress trees, and it felt so peaceful and untouched. You can swim in the quiet bays or wander a bit along the island’s trails.

Aside from swimming, there are also some interesting spots to check out, like the ruins of early medieval churches and remnants of old stone houses. It’s a great spot for nature lovers because of the lush landscapes and slower pace.

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2. Island of Lopud

The next stop was Island Lopud, such a picturesque island! It ended up being my favorite. It’s home to some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the Elafiti Islands, including the famous Šunj Beach.

We got here in the early afternoon and spent time in Lopud village, which is super charming. There are a few cute cafés along the water and a beautifully restored 15th century Franciscan monastery. I loved walking through the narrow streets surrounded by gardens, pretty flowers, and trees – it really felt like stepping back in time.

If you’re up for a bit of exercise, hike up to the higher points of the island for the best views, but be ready for a long walk!

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3. Island of Šipan

The final stop on your 3 islands tour is the Island Šipan. It is the largest island of the three, and it has a completely different vibe. It has a long history, and you can really feel it as you explore. There are old churches from the 16th century, vineyards, and quiet little villages like Donje Celo.

Make sure to save a little bit of time to stroll through the village, enjoy the laid-back vibe, and see the lush landscapes. You’ll also notice historic landmarks and the remains of old architecture scattered around, including former summer homes of wealthy Dubrovnik families. It was such a peaceful way to wrap up the day before heading back to Dubrovnik in the late afternoon.

Island Šipan also has an incredible private nook, which is called BOWA Restaurant. It’s a quiet little bay that you can only reach by boat. It feels like your own private escape, with an exclusive beach club and restaurant tucked right by the water.

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The only way to arrive is by boat—either if you have a rental for the day, or the restaurant can arrange a pickup from Dubrovnik. Reservations are a must, and when you pull up, a concierge is waiting at the dock to check you in (total White Lotus moment). The Beach at BOWA has the clearest water!

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Why the 3 Islands Tour is Worth It

The 3 Islands Tour is the perfect way to experience the beautiful islands around Dubrovnik and escape the busy city for a day. On the islands Elaphite cruise, you’ll visit charming villages, swim in the crystal-clear water, and enjoy the peaceful vibe of the Adriatic Sea.

You’ll get the chance to explore the nearby islands, enjoy their natural beauty, and spend the day completely away from the Dubrovnik crowds. No matter which option you choose – a group trip or a private boat, it’s such a relaxing way to spend a day. Honestly, it ended up being one of my favorite experiences in Dubrovnik.

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Travels with MR

Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.

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