7 Best Hotels in Southern Dalmatia, Croatia

Located in a quiet neighborhood a short walk up the hill from the center of Cavtat, family-run Castelletto, with its bougainvillea-strewn terraces, cheerful rooms, and laid-back vibe, is a perfect place to unwind and soak up a bit of local life. Breakfast is served poolside on the terrace, and there is a small bar on-site for nightcaps. Ask about airport transfers at the time of booking. The public bus to Dubrovnik stops just across the road; if you're coming from Dubrovnik, ask the driver to let you off one stop before Cavtat center to avoid the walk back uphill.

This solid lodging option rises from a perfect pebble beach up a hillside overlooking the stunning bay of Lopud. Everything faces the sea, from the terraces of each room to the infinity pool to La Baja Restaurant (one of eight bars and restaurants on-site), where you can have a breezy lunch on the terrace. Elsewhere around the large but manageable property, the on-site Waterhill Wellness Spa is a sanctuary with its Turkish hammam and saunas, infinity Jacuzzi, and outdoor whirlpools. There are hiking trails that start right outside the hotel, and there's no better way to finish an afternoon than with a leisurely stroll along the promenade to the pastry shop to grab a gelato and watch the bright red sunset. Private transfers can be arranged directly from Dubrovnik Airport (€120 for up to four people).

This wonderful property just steps from sandy Saplunara Beach is relaxation at its best, thanks to its light, airy, and spacious rooms, infinity pool, and superb restaurant. Each room is uniquely designed with floral accents and soft furnishings, some with kitchenettes, private balconies, and sea views. The warm and attentive owners will help plan your activities on the island.

Set on 54 acres of sprawling gardens in Orašac—a tiny settlement 11 km (7 miles) up the coast from Dubrovnik—Sun Gardens is the best value resort in the region and a rare property that manages to never feel overwhelming despite its large size. It comes with killer views from every room, renowned spa facilities, a long private beach, and three seafront pools. It's ideal for families, with two children's pools, a terrific kids' club, and a pebble beach perfect for tiny feet, but it's equally attractive for adults looking for a relaxing vacation, with 16 restaurants and bars to choose from, excellent spa and sports facilities, an adults-only pool, and nightly entertainment. Club-level rooms and suites come with welcome bottles of wine and canapés, luxury Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries, and access to a private lounge with an open bar and afternoon tea. It's worth the upgrade to Club level for the breakfast alone, which is served on an exclusive rooftop terrace where the chef whips up stunning à la carte dishes made with premium ingredients like oysters and foie gras. Public buses travel hourly to Dubrovnik, or the hotel can organize a shuttle bus or, better yet, a shuttle boat to Dubrovnik.

Set on a pebbly beach a 10-minute walk from the center of Orebić, this resort is a perfect base for the whole family. The kids can run wild at the pool and on the beach while the adults enjoy pleasant facilities such as a generous buffet, lounge bar, all-inclusive options, and evening entertainment. The rooms are simple but smartly decorated and spacious; most have sea views.

Located in four restored 16th-century stone buildings near the Cathedral in the heart of the Old Town, these tastefully furnished apartments, with heavy antiques and traditional decor, are an excellent value. Each apartment consists of a single room, bathroom, and cooking facilities, while some have small balconies. There is a restaurant of the same name nearby that serves reliable traditional food and where breakfast is served to guests.

This spot offers a pleasant and comfortable stay right in the center of town. Rooms are tastefully decorated, and there is a wonderful rooftop infinity pool with views of Tiha Bay. Breakfast is served at the restaurant below, located right on the promenade just steps away from the beach.