Zaton: Bay, heritage and coastline

Zaton lies on a bay about two kilometres long. Along its coast are Veliki Zaton, Mali Zaton, Štikovica and Vrbica. The bay therefore encompasses four named settlements. The two-kilometre length describes the bay as a whole, while the four names refer to individual coastal settlements.

Bay, swimming and kayaking

Along Zaton’s coast, you can swim from pebble shores or from rocks. Pebbles and rocks make up two different types of shoreline to consider when planning a day by the water. The municipal Sea Management Plan for 2024–2028 lists a kayak rental with eight kayaks at Plaža Zaton Mali. Before your visit, check whether rentals are currently available.

Springs and cultural heritage

At the end of the bay are the Vrelo freshwater springs. Their water once powered mills. The springs thus combine a natural feature with a former use of the water. This use in milling also offers a historical point of reference for travellers who would like to learn more about how natural resources were used in the past, as well as enjoying the coast.

Zaton is home to Renaissance summer residences associated with former Dubrovnik noble families. The Church of St Stephen and its cemetery are registered as protected cultural heritage. Ljetnikovac Natali - Pozza - Sorgo - Katić is registered as well. The connection to these families describes the historical context of the summer residences; the church and the ljetnikovac are each registered as protected cultural heritage. The term “summer residence” refers to a home used during the summer; “Renaissance” places the residences in a particular historical period.

The ruins of a fortress add a building history involving two parties to these historical themes: the French began construction, and the Austrians completed it. Alongside the summer residences, they represent different historical connections.

Restaurants in Veliki and Mali Zaton

Restaurant & Konoba Dandy is located in Mali Zaton Bay, traces its tradition back to 1993, and serves the day’s catch from local fishermen. Restoran Ankora is in Veliki Zaton and has a large terrace right by the sea. It serves fish, shellfish, crabs, risotto and grilled meat, prepared in a traditional, simple style. There is a specific difference to consider when choosing where to eat: Dandy highlights the day’s catch, while Ankora also offers risotto and grilled meat. Dubrovnik and Dalmatian specialities are also on the menus of Zaton’s coastal restaurants. This regional context adds a culinary setting to the specific menu details. When choosing where to eat, you can consider these two aspects separately: the regional style describes the cuisine, while the specific dishes listed at Dandy and Ankora make the restaurant information more concrete.

Discover more destinations: Brsečine, Orasac, Lozica, Lopud, Suđurađ, Sipanska Luka, Dubrovnik, Mokosica.

Back to the main travel overview: Općina Dubrovnik.