Location
Croatia
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Pebble
Best season
June to September
About Nugal Beach
Nugal is a wild cove on the Osejava peninsula between Makarska and Tučepi on the Makarska Riviera, under steep cliffs covered in pine and macchia. It is the area's best-known nude beach and has featured in international travel press. The beach is pebbly, with very clear water, and a small stream and waterfall come down the cliff at its back. It was traditionally a nudist beach; in recent years clothed visitors also come, and a 2022 news report described the naturists marking their part with parasols labelled FKK rather than with official signs. The same report said the beach had gained official nudist status a few years earlier, though we could not confirm who designated it. There are no bars, sunbeds or toilets, and shade is limited. The beach gets busy in July and August, and litter and misuse of the stream area have been problems.
Getting there
Nugal is reached only on foot or by sea. From Makarska, walk through the Osejava forest park along a marked path; it takes roughly 30-40 minutes from the town centre, and a similar time from Tučepi. The final descent to the beach is steep and rocky, so wear proper shoes. Cars and motorbikes cannot get there, and parking along the main coast road is not allowed, so park in Makarska or Tučepi. Kayaks and boat taxis from both towns are an alternative. Not wheelchair accessible.
What visitors say
Visitors praise the setting, the clear water and the forest walk, and many regard it as one of Croatia's most beautiful nude beaches. It is crowded in peak season, and the nude and clothed areas are informally divided; naturists complain less about clothed visitors than about partying, barbecues and graffiti by young tourists. Litter and human waste near the stream have been reported. Bring shade and water, and go early or in June or September.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Legal context
Croatia's public order law penalises nudity outside designated places. A 2022 tportal report states Nugal became an official nudist beach about four years earlier, but there was no official FKK sign at the time, and we found no municipal or tourist-board source confirming the designation (checked 2026).
Naturism at Nugal Beach sits under Croatia's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: Croatia public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 43.2793, 17.0338
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Croatia
Frequently asked questions
Is Nugal a nudist beach?
Yes, it is the best-known nude beach on the Makarska Riviera, though clothed visitors also use it. The naturist area is marked informally.
How long is the walk?
About 30-40 minutes through the Osejava forest from Makarska or Tučepi, with a steep final descent.
Can I drive there?
No. Park in Makarska or Tučepi and walk, or take a boat or kayak.
Are there facilities?
No bars, sunbeds or toilets. Bring water, food and an umbrella.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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