Let's talk about getting naked in Croatia. Because sometimes the best vacation is one where you can leave everything behind: including your swimsuit.
Just a quick 15-minute boat ride from the stunning town of Hvar lies Jerolim Island, a tiny slice of Adriatic heaven that's been a naturist paradise since the 1950s. And while it's not exclusively a gay beach (more on that in a sec), it's become a favorite among LGBTQ+ travelers looking for body-positive, judgment-free vibes in one of Europe's most beautiful settings.
What Actually Is Jerolim Island?
Here's the deal: Jerolim is a naturist island. That means clothing-optional is the default setting, not the exception. The entire island has been dedicated to naturism for over 70 years, making it one of the longest-running nude beaches in Europe. It's not specifically marketed as a gay destination, but it's earned a solid reputation in the queer community for its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.
The island is small: you can walk around the whole thing in under an hour: but that's part of its charm. Rocky and pebble beaches surround the coastline, crystal-clear Adriatic waters invite you in, and pine trees provide just enough shade when the Mediterranean sun gets intense. There are a couple of restaurants and bars, showers, and basic facilities, but nothing too fancy. This isn't a resort; it's an experience.
Why LGBTQ+ Travelers Love It
So why does Jerolim appeal to queer travelers specifically? A few reasons:
Body Positivity Central: There's something incredibly liberating about a space where bodies of all shapes, sizes, and ages are just… normal. No Instagram filters, no body-shaming, no pressure to look like a fitness model. Just humans being humans. For LGBTQ+ folks who've spent years navigating body image issues and societal expectations, this kind of environment can feel genuinely healing.
Freedom and Authenticity: The naturist philosophy aligns beautifully with queer values of authenticity and living your truth. When everyone's stripped down to their birthday suit, the usual social barriers and hierarchies dissolve. You're not your job title, your designer label, or your carefully curated social media persona. You're just… you.
Judgment-Free Zone: While Jerolim attracts all kinds of visitors: singles, couples, families with kids: the naturist community tends to be pretty progressive and accepting. The atmosphere is respectful and relaxed, which creates a safe space for LGBTQ+ visitors to just exist without worrying about homophobia or awkward stares.
Stunning Location: Let's be real: Croatia is gorgeous. Hvar is one of the most beautiful islands in the Adriatic, and Jerolim offers that same stunning scenery without the crowds and clothes. For gay couples looking for a romantic escape or queer travelers seeking adventure, it ticks all the boxes.
Getting There (It's Easier Than You Think)
From Hvar town, you'll catch a taxi boat to Jerolim. These little boats run regularly during the summer season (roughly May through September), and the journey takes about 15-20 minutes. A return ticket costs around 10 euros, which is pretty reasonable considering you're getting private boat transport to your own island paradise.
The boats usually run every hour or so, but schedules can vary depending on the season and weather. Most locals and hotel staff in Hvar can point you in the right direction: just ask for "Jerolim" and they'll know exactly what you're talking about.
Pro tip: Go early if you want to snag a good spot. The island gets busy during peak summer months (July and August), especially on weekends. Mornings tend to be quieter and the light is absolutely magical for that golden-hour swim.
What to Expect When You Strip Down
First-time naturist? Don't stress. Here's the lowdown:
Clothes are optional, but most people go nude: While there are some areas where people keep their swimsuits on (particularly near the restaurants), the general vibe is clothing-free. That said, nobody's going to force you to strip if you're not comfortable. Ease into it at your own pace.
Bring supplies: There aren't any shops on the island, so pack everything you need: sunscreen (and reapply often!), water, snacks, a towel or beach mat, and maybe a book or some music. Also, bring cash for the restaurants and boat ride, as card payments can be iffy.
The terrain is rocky: Unlike some sandy beaches, Jerolim's coastline is mostly rocks and pebbles. Water shoes or sturdy sandals are a good idea if you have tender feet. But once you're in that crystal-clear water, you won't care about the rocks.
Respect the space: Naturism is about respect and consent. No staring, no photography (seriously, put the phone away), and definitely no inappropriate behavior. It's a chill, family-friendly environment: not a place for hookups or cruising.
The Vibe: What Makes Jerolim Special
What sets Jerolim apart from other nude beaches isn't just the stunning setting: it's the atmosphere. There's a genuine sense of community here. People chat, share stories, and look out for each other. It's not cliquey or exclusive; everyone's just there to enjoy the sun, sea, and freedom.
For LGBTQ+ visitors, there's something particularly special about finding acceptance in such an unguarded setting. Whether you're a gay couple wanting to relax without second-guessing every public display of affection, or a queer solo traveler looking to connect with like-minded souls, Jerolim offers that rare combination of freedom and safety.
The island has also earned recognition as one of the world's best nudist beaches: ranked among the top 15 globally: which means you're sharing the experience with seasoned naturists who know how to create a respectful, welcoming environment.
Beyond the Beach: Exploring Hvar
While you could happily spend days on Jerolim, don't miss the chance to explore Hvar itself. The town is absolutely stunning, with medieval architecture, amazing restaurants, and a surprisingly vibrant LGBTQ+ scene for a small island.
Hvar has become increasingly gay-friendly over the years, with several bars and clubs welcoming queer visitors. The island also hosts occasional LGBTQ+ events during the summer season. It's not Mykonos or Sitges: you won't find rainbow flags everywhere: but there's a growing acceptance and visibility that makes it comfortable for same-sex couples to be themselves.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Timing matters: The best months to visit are June and September. The weather's still gorgeous, but the crowds are smaller than the peak July-August madness. Plus, prices tend to be a bit lower.
Stay in Hvar town: You'll find plenty of accommodation options in Hvar, from budget hostels to boutique hotels. Staying close to the harbor makes catching the boat to Jerolim super convenient.
Connect with other travelers: The naturist community is surprisingly social. Don't be shy about striking up conversations: you might make some amazing friends. Many LGBTQ+ travelers share tips and meetup info on social media before visiting.
Embrace the experience: If you're new to naturism, it might feel awkward at first. That's totally normal. Give it 15 minutes, and you'll wonder why you ever wore clothes to the beach in the first place.
The Bottom Line
Jerolim Island isn't exclusively a gay beach, but it's become a beloved spot in the LGBTQ+ travel community for good reason. It offers body positivity, acceptance, stunning natural beauty, and the kind of authentic experience that's increasingly hard to find in our filtered, curated world.
Whether you're a seasoned naturist or curious first-timer, whether you're traveling solo, with your partner, or with friends, Jerolim welcomes you exactly as you are: which is pretty much the perfect metaphor for what we at Read with Pride believe in.
Sometimes paradise means leaving everything behind and finding freedom in simplicity. Jerolim Island offers exactly that.
Ready to explore more LGBTQ+ travel destinations and stories? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter for more authentic queer content, travel tips, and MM romance book recommendations.
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