Croatia

Island-Hopping SUP Adventure

6 nights from £1699 • €1945 • $2265

Activities

6 days guided adventures

Accommodation

Family-owned apartments

Level

All levels - Beginner friendly

Food

Homemade and healthy

Difficulty

Group Size

Moderate

Transfers

12 new friends

Dates

Fly into Zadar, Croatia

June to September

  • Paddleboarding

    Island-hopping by paddleboard in an undiscovered paradise

  • Kayaking

    Learn to kayak and head to further away islands

  • Cycling

    Cycle across a sleepy Croatian island where fishing boats outnumber cars

  • Hiking

    Hike up to incredible view points for epic panoramas across the whole archipelago

Embark on an island-hopping paddleboarding adventure with Gutsy Girl this summer. Our multi-activity SUP and kayaking holiday takes you away from the tourist hotspots to discover island life in the Zadar Archipelago.

Whether you're new to SUP or a seasoned paddleboarder, our expert coaching will cater to your skill level while you explore remote and tiny islands, hidden beaches and secluded bays. To reach the further away spots we’ll jump in sea kayaks as we investigate other island and maybe a submarine tunnel or two!

On land we'll hike to incredible viewpoints and cycle across islands, meandering through rural villages.

This truly authentic adventure allows you to make a positive impact on the communities we visit through responsible tourism practices.

Location

The Zadar Archipelago is made up of 300 small islands in the Adriatic, with only 89 inhabited, and only 50m of sea separating some of them from each other!

Unlike the overcrowded Dalmatian hotspots, the archipelago provides a unique off-the-beaten-track adventure.

You’ll find low cost flights to Zadar from many UK airports, including London, Birmingham, Leeds and Bournemouth.

We will be staying on Molat, a charming island with a permanent population of only 240. The harbour front village boasts more fishing boats than cars, creating a traffic-free environment. Everything is within walking distance, helping you lean in to the unhurried pace of island living.

Activities

  • Paddleboarding

    This SUP holiday is perfect for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders. Paddleboarding is about adventure, exploration, and the pure joy of being on the water. This trip isn’t about hitting certain distances—it’s about experiencing Croatia’s stunning coastline in the best way possible. Having run this trip for seven years, we’ve found that the most rewarding experience comes when we let go of expectations and just embrace the journey. Whether you’re new to paddle boarding or have spent plenty of time on a board, this trip is designed for everyone. We’ll all be on the water together, exploring hidden coves, gliding through turquoise bays, and soaking up the incredible scenery.

    Each day brings a new route, paddling along rugged shorelines, between islands, and into secluded spots only accessible from the sea. Along the way, we’ll stop for swims, take in breathtaking views, and enjoy the freedom of spending whole days out on the water. Our expert guides will be with us throughout, helping refine technique, build confidence, and ensure everyone gets the most out of their time on a board. This is about learning, exploring, and making the most of the incredible location—together.

  • Hiking

    Kayaking

    For a change of pace, we’ll be swapping paddleboards for kayaks on two days of the trip, giving us the chance to cover more distance and explore even further. Gliding across the Adriatic in a sea kayak is the perfect way to soak up the incredible coastline, paddle between islands, and reach hidden spots that are harder to access on a board. We’ll get plenty of guidance along the way—learning how to paddle efficiently, handle different conditions, and feel confident on the water. Expect scenic crossings, rugged cliffs, quiet coves, and plenty of chances to pause, swim, and take it all in.

    With two full days on the water, we’ll experience the best of island-hopping in Croatia—paddling further, seeing more, and making the most of this stunning seascape.

  • Snowshoeing

    Cycling

    We will cycle across the island of Molat on an quiet road with very few cars. It’s around 9km - an hour cycle across island, with a few hilly sections, we’ll meander through small villages and enjoy great views of the islands around.

    At the end of our cycle we’ll jump on our paddleboards for an adventure across to another island, before returning back to Molat and cycling 9km - an hour home again!

    This activity is optional!

  • Hiking

    There’s nothing quite like a hike to get to the top of the islands to take in the incredible views. Our hikes have steady climbs that can be challenging but it’s well worth it for the views from the top!

    Max distance 6km.

Paddleboarding

Whether you’re new to paddle boarding or have spent plenty of time on a board, this trip SUP holiday is for you! You'll discover secluded beaches, paddle between islands, and soak up the incredible scenery as you explore Croatia's stunning coastline in the best way possible - from the water.

With so many islands to choose from, each day brings a new route. Along the way, we’ll stop for swims, take in breathtaking views, and enjoy the freedom that comes with whole days out on the water. Our expert guides will be with us throughout, helping beginners get to grips with paddleboarding and build confidence, whilst offering the more experienced paddlers a chance to refine technique. This trip isn't about hitting long distances fast, it's about taking the time to appreciate paddling in such an incredible location and taking in the remarkable landscape. It doesn't mean your arms won't hurt at the end of the day though!

  • This trip strikes the perfect balance of adventure and skill, making it a brilliant trip for both those starting out and those who basically live on their board.

    For those new to paddle boarding: You’ll get expert coaching to pick up skills quickly, from finding your balance to mastering an efficient stroke. By the end of the week, you’ll feel comfortable, confident, and fully at home on your board.

    For those who have spent time on a board: This is a chance to refine technique, try out new skills, and push yourself in a relaxed environment. You’ll have time to experiment with step-back turns, improve stroke efficiency, and learn to read the water like a pro.

    No one gets left behind, and no one feels held back. This trip is all about time on the water and appreciating the experience.

Kayaking

For a change of pace, on two days of the trip we’ll be swapping paddleboards for kayaks, giving us the chance to cover more distance and explore even further. Gliding across the Adriatic in a sea kayak is the perfect way to soak up the incredible coastline, see even more islands and reach hidden spots that are harder to access on a board. We’ll get plenty of guidance along the way, learning how to paddle efficiently, handle different conditions, and feel confident on the water.

Cycling

We kick off our “Triathlon” with a 9km cycle across the whole length of Molat island. The road is quiet with barely any cars, a few hilly sections and rest stops with views for days.

At the end of our cycle we’ll jump on our paddleboards for an adventure across to another island, before returning back to Molat and cycling 9km back again!

Hiking

There’s nothing quite like a hike to get to the top of the islands to take in the incredible views. Our hikes have steady climbs that can be challenging but it’s well worth it for the views from the top!

Max distance 6km.

Fitness and Experience Level

  • This active adventure offers the opportunity to explore beautiful islands while learning new skills.

    You don’t need to be an elite athlete to join us, however, you’ll need a good fitness level to enjoy all the activities of the week. We rate this trip as moderate.

  • Activity duration: Daily active time of 5-6 hours - You’ll be on the water for the majority of the day!

    Hiking: 6km hike with around 200 metres of ascent on uneven terrain. You’ll be hiking in the sun and heat, following a cycle and paddle.

    Cycling: 9km cycling route each way, featuring climbs and descents - optional activity.

    Multi-sport day: Embrace a full day of cycling, paddling, and hiking!

    Consecutive activity: Prepare for five days of back-to-back activities. The week is action-packed which can be quite demanding.

    Sun exposure: Expect to encounter warm summer weather with substantial sun exposure, particularly in July and August.

    Other Considerations:

    Accommodation: The apartments on this trip are simple but comfortable.

    Air conditioning: Available in shared living spaces, but not in bedrooms. Fans are provided in bedrooms; expect warm summer nights during July and August.

  • This trip is perfect for anyone keen to explore the Adriatic by paddleboard. It doesn't matter if it's your first time on a paddleboard or your hundredth, as long as you're fit, active and want to learn something new then this is the adventure for you!  

    With expert guidance you'll learn and refine technique; from understanding how to paddle efficiently, turn smoothly and handle different water conditions with confidence to mastering moves like cross-bow and step-back turns.

    This adventure is all about being active on the water, making progress, and experiencing the best of Croatia from a whole new perspective.

  • You’ll be staying in comfortable, clean and simple apartments across the village.

    Each is unique as the apartments are owned by local families. This in turn helps support our commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism.

    Choose from a private apartment, private or twin rooms in shared apartments - there are a lot of options!

  • During the trip we'll have the unique opportunity to be hosted and cooked for by a local family, filling ourselves with delicious traditional dinners, from fresh fish and meat to incredible salads and vegetable. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all taken care of, with local wine also on the table at dinner.

    As we're hosted by a family during this trip, breakfast and dinner are eaten in the same dining room space each day. We eat lunch on whatever island or secluded beach we find ourselves!

    We can cater for all dietary requirements on this adventure.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Morning 
    Make your own way to Zadar old town - there’s a bus directly from the airport or plenty of taxis. The trip starts soon.

    Afternoon 
    Catamaran from Zadar to Molat, then straight onto the water for our first SUP session. Shake off the travel stiffness while instructors cover essential paddling skills as the sun drops below the horizon.

    Evening 
    Dinner in a family-run dining room where we’ll have breakfast and dinner each day. The location stays put all week, but the menu changes daily with local, traditional dishes.

  • Day 2

    Morning
    Leisurely breakfast, then we're paddling through Brgulje Bay with swimming and snorkeling stops.

    Afternoon
    Picnic lunch on a secluded islet. More snorkeling, then over to Brgulje harbour for ice cream before paddling back to Molat.

    Evening
    Free time, then dinner.

  • Day 3

    Morning
    “Triathlon” day! Cycle across Molat to Zapuntel, then swap wheels for boards to paddle over to Ist. A short hike up to Snow Lady Chapel gives you views across the entire archipelago.

    Afternoon
    Picnic and swim at the bay, then reserve the morning. Get back on boards to Zapuntel, cycle back to Molat.

    Evening
    Traditional 'peka' dinner - food cooked under the bell, a Balkan staple.

  • Day 4

    Morning
    A more chilled out paddle to Paržine beach to work on your SUP skills.

    Afternoon
    Swim in the Adriatic then instructors lead coaching sessions. Try new techniques, learn some tricks, practice everything you’ve gained so far 

    Evening
    Hike up Straža Peak for local nature and history, then back down to toast the sunset with local wine.

  • Day 5

    Morning
    Swap SUPs for sea kayaks. Launch from Jazi harbour and paddle Molat's southern coast, passing Glavica Point with the Velebit Mountains as your backdrop.

    Afternoon
    Stop at Sabuša Beach for snorkeling, picigin (local water-ball game), and picnic lunch.

    Evening
    Paddle back to Molat, free time, then dinner.

  • Day 6

    Morning
    Kayak to Brščak islet, then along Dugi Otok's coastline to explore Cold War submarine tunnels. Continue to the sleepy island of Zverinac known for olive groves and crystal-clear waters.

    Afternoon
    Picnic in the harbour, swim and snorkel, then catch the car ferry back to Molat.

    Evening
    Final night dinner celebration for your incredible week.

  • Day 7

    Morning 
    Early start for the catamaran back to Zadar. Packed breakfast and final Adriatic views before heading back to the mainland.

    • Sat 27 June - Fri 3 July

    • Sat  4 July - Fri 10 July

    • Sat 18 July - Fri 24 July

    • Sat 25 July - Fri 31 July

    • Sat 8 August - Fri 14  August

    • Sat 15 August - Fri 21 August

    • Sat 29 August - Fri 4 September

    • Sat 5 September - Fri 11 September

    • Sat 19 September - Fri 25 September

    • Sat 26 September - Fri 2 October

Dates

Price

Twin Room

£1699 (approx. €1945 / $2265)

Private Room

£1799 - £1979 (approx. €2060 / $2265)

Private Apartment

£1859 - £1949 (approx. €2125 / $2480)

  • Gutsy Girls is a UK-based adventure company welcoming women worldwide. Prices are in pounds (£) with estimates in euros (€) and US dollars ($). The final amount dependant on your card provider’s conversion rate at time of payment and may fluctuate.

  • Secure your spot with a 30% deposit; the balance is due 45 days before the trip.

Included

  • 6 days of guided activities

  • 3.5 days of paddleboarding and 2 days of kayaking

  • Professional instruction and guiding for paddleboarding and kayaking

  • Guided hikes and cycling excursions

  • Full equipment hire for paddleboarding, kayaking, and cycling

  • 6 nights of accommodation

  • 6 breakfasts, 5 packed lunches, and 6 dinners, including wine or non-alcoholic drinks

Book Now

    • Flights - Low cost options to Zadar from UK airports

    • Return catamaran tickets - approx 16€

    • Personal travel insurance

  • Cancellations are effective from the date we receive your written notice via email. The following fees apply:

    • 100% of the trip cost if cancelled 44 days or less before the trip.

    • 30% of the trip cost if cancelled 45 days or more before the trip.

    Full terms and conditions are available for review before you book and make payment

Travel

    • We will meet you at Molat harbour when the 14:05 catamaran from Zadar arrives at 14:50. Your host will be in touch to organise a meeting point a week before the trip starts.

    • Catamaran schedule: Runs once a day – you must be in Zadar by 13:30 to catch it.

    • Arrival planning: You may need to arrive a day early to ensure you're on time.

    • Tickets: Buy online in advance.

    • More details: See our FAQs

    • Departure: You will take the 06:50 catamaran, arriving in Zadar at 07:50.

    • Flight connections: The airport is 20 minutes away, making it convenient for flights departing after 10:00.

  • The closest airport is Zadar Airport, but you can also fly to Split or Zagreb and take a bus to Zadar.

    Zadar Airport (Recommended)

    • 20 minutes by taxi to Zadar Old Town (€30).

    • Direct flights with Ryanair from:

      • London, Bournemouth, Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, and Newcastle.

    • Direct flights with EasyJet from London Gatwick

    • Flights may not operate daily, so check schedules and ensure they align with our trip dates.

    Split Airport

    • 2–4 hour bus to Zadar

    • Several bus companies operate this route (see "Getting from Split Airport to Zadar")

    • Flights available from the UK with:

      • British Airways, Wizz Air, EasyJet, and Jet2.

    Zagreb Airport

    • 3.5-hour bus to Zadar.

    For full travel details, see our FAQs.

Full FAQS

Packing List

    • 20l dry bags

    • SUP boards, leash, carbon fibre paddles & safety gear

    • Bike helmets

    • Snorkelling equipment

  • Activities

    • Small backpack (for carrying belongings on hikes)

    • Swimwear (a couple of sets)

    • UV protection t-shirt / rash vest

    • Neoprene aqua shoes with a good sole (shoes you can get wet and protect feet on sharp rocks and sea urchins).

      • NO wetsuit booties - difficult to take on and off

      • NO flip flops - not secure enough

    • Quick-drying leggings / or shorts

    • Long sleeve top(s) - to protect you from the sun and spiky vegetation on hikes

    • Quick dry t-shirts

    • Cap / sun hat

    • Sunglasses - with floating strap

    • Trainers / shoes for hiking 

    • Casual clothes / sports wear for hiking and cycling

    • Water bottle(s) or water bladder - at least 2 litres capacity (insulated bottles keep water cooler if hot weather forecast)

    • Snacks - NB local shopping options are limited

    • Towel - a lightweight one is fine, just for taking to the beach

    • Waterproof case for phone

    • Raincoat (weather dependent but good to pack in case)

    • Rehydration tablets / electrolytes (if hot weather forecast)

    Evenings

    • Casual evening clothes - 2 sets is adequate!

    • Warmer clothes for the evenings (weather dependent)

    • Light fleece or jacket for the evenings (weather dependent)

    • Sandals and / or trainers for evenings (weather dependent)

    Personal

    • Toiletries

    • Personal medication

    • Insect repellent 

    • Bite cream

    • Sun block (often not available to buy on Molat)

    • Cash (we recommend €50-100 - NB no ATM on the island)

    • Travel adapter (standard European 2-pin plug)

    Optional items

    • Shorty wetsuit/long john wetsuit - optional but may be useful for early or late summer trips

    • Carabiner(s) - for attaching items to your board

    • Gloves for paddling

    • Compeed / plasters

    • Small dry bags (for organisation within provided dry bags)

    • SPF chapstick

    • Tea bags / coffee for your apartment!

Questions?

If you have any questions, check our FAQs or drop us a message below!