Ferry to Šipan Island, Kayak to Lopud Island

In the morning twilight we sat and cradled our coffees as we waited for the early departure of the ferry to Šipan Island. Šipan is one of the Elafiti Islands, a chain of islands which run between Dubrovnik and the Pelješac Peninsula. These islands once were the summer playgrounds of the Dubrovnik nobles – their large holiday houses amongst their vineyards are still evident today. It’s possible to visit three islands in a day by kayak – they are so close together.

After another coffee in Šipan’s small harbor, we crossed the channel to Lopud Island. Lopud is a tiny island where cars are banned. Ferries from Dubrovnik provide access to the island several times a day and then guests must either walk or use the local golf-carts for transport. The main town is small with several hotels and many apartments, a large Franciscan monastery and the obligatory fort. On the far side of the island is its main attraction – one of the largest sandy beaches in Southern Dalmatia – from which, on a clear day, you can see Dubrovnik. The siren-call of pina coladas under the tiki-hut drew us towards the beach. We cruised passed the old town and around to the other side of island to enjoy the sun, water and cocktails.

Dinner was grilled squid in one of the restaurants a 15-minute walk away back in the old town.

More pictures from the day’s activities can be found here.

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