Stara Novalja: Bay, Sandy Beaches and Coastal Paths

Stara Novalja lies on a long bay in the northwest of Pag, sheltered from southerly and northerly winds. Small sandy beaches stretch along the bay as far as Trinćel. The town also offers opportunities for water activities, paths on land and a long fishing tradition. If you are looking for a hotel for your trip to Pag, these different aspects of the town can help you choose the focus of your holiday.

Sandy beaches along the bay

Planjka–Trinćel in Stara Novalja is a large sandy beach. It has a beach volleyball court and a small-sided football pitch, a waterslide in the sea for children, and pedal boat and small boat rentals. Jet skis and boats are also available to rent. Other amenities include food and drink options and a large parking lot. At the same beach, you can find both sports courts and a range of watercraft rental options.

Jadra Beach is also located near Stara Novalja. It is divided into family, dog-friendly and naturist areas. Its facilities include access ramps with handrails, changing rooms, showers and benches. A lit promenade leads towards Drljanda Bay. The different beach areas and available facilities offer additional points of reference as you explore the coast around Stara Novalja.

Cycling, diving and walks

Stara Novalja also has designated cycling routes. Diving options include dive centres with diving schools; several diving clubs are also based in the town. Cycling and diving offer different focuses, complementing the beaches with activities on land and in the water.

The Svetojanj trail passes through Stara Novalja. Mediterranean flora and rocky terrain are among the route’s features. On Pag, Svetojašnica is one of the few surviving ponds. Together with the long bay and sandy beaches, these natural features reveal different sides of the island, without reducing the coast and landscape to a single experience.

A promenade in Stara Novalja is ideal for longer walks. Alongside the cycling routes and the Svetojanj trail, walking paths therefore offer a distinct option. If you enjoy spending your days being active, you can choose among these options according to the activity you prefer; this does not imply a specific connection between the individual paths.

Fishing history and cuisine

Stara Novalja has a long fishing tradition. In 1907, the second-oldest fishing cooperative was founded here. The founding year provides a specific historical reference point for the town’s fishing history, adding a cultural aspect to the impressions of beaches and activities.

The cuisine at local restaurants includes Pag cheese and lamb, as well as fish specialities and seafood prepared in the traditional Mediterranean style. This offers a variety of culinary options: cheese and lamb alongside fish and seafood. Together with the fishing history, the cuisine offers another way to get to know Stara Novalja beyond its beaches and paths.

Discover more destinations: Kustići, Novalja, Lun, Caska, Potocnica.

Back to the main travel overview: Municipality of Novalja.