Zubovići – Nestled in the northern reaches of the picturesque Island of Pag, the charming village of Zubovići offers a peaceful, scenic retreat away from Croatia’s more crowded tourist hubs. Located administratively within the town of Novalja in Lika-Senj County, Zubovići boasts a small population of just around 180 residents (2021 census) and a serene coastal setting that makes it ideal for families, couples and anyone seeking authentic Dalmatian island life. Wikipedia+2Wanderlog+2
In this comprehensive guide you will discover everything to know about Zubovići: its beach, its history, its location, how to get there, what to do, and of course the best accommodation choices—including upscale villas and apartments nearby (and within easy reach) like the elite Villa The Secret Diamond in Sv. Marko, plus the boutique villas in Proboj mentioned as prime alternatives. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic escape or a luxury retreat, this article is designed to help you make the most of Zubovići.
Zubovići
Contact & Reservation for Pag apartments, Villas:
Blaž 
+386 31 609 241 | elfabiiani@gmail.com
Jožica +386 41 745 859 | jozica.fabjan@gmail.com
Martin +386 41 745 733 | martinkambic@gmail.com
Boutique Villa Nirvana | Boutique Villa Nirvana 2 | Villa The Secret Diamond
1. Location & Setting
Zubovići is situated in the north-eastern part of the Island of Pag. The village lies on a small hill overlooking the Bay of Pag, with views stretching over the sparkling Adriatic Sea, the Kvarner Channel and the distant islands of the Kvarner archipelago and the Velebit mountain range.
It forms part of the grouping of settlements known as Barbati (which includes Vidalići, Kustići and Metajna). The local road from Novalja and from the ferry port of Žigljen is scenic, winding through the island’s characteristic karst landscape, dry stone walls and sparse Mediterranean vegetation.
For travellers seeking tranquility yet also convenience to the very lively resort scenes or brilliant beaches, Zubovići offers an ideal balance: peaceful village life with access to nearby hubs.
Zubovići – beach Dražica
2. Why Zubovići? Unique characteristics & atmosphere
2.1 A peaceful oasis
Unlike the more crowded beaches of the island, Zubovići is appreciated for its calm, friendly atmosphere. According to livecam and tourism sources, it is described as a favourite destination especially for families with children or for visitors who prefer quiet and relaxing holidays.
2.2 Unspoiled beach landscape
The village boasts its own lovely pebble-beach, called Veli Žal, right in the village centre. There is also the more secluded Dražica beach nearby, reachable by foot from Zubovići, offering an idyllic natural setting away from the crowds.
2.3 Authentic village feel
In the village you’ll find the parish church of the Immaculate Conception (built in 1854) as a local landmark, a bakery, a small shop, a handful of cafés and restaurants. The local community is oriented toward tourism and hospitality—but still retains a genuine and relaxed pace of life.
2.4 Nature & walking trails
A highlight for active visitors: The Kozje Berdo educational-recreational hiking trail starts from Zubovići and leads to the former bauxite mine and the beautiful bays of Vela and Mala Luka (Upper Sea). Along the way the views over Pag Bay and the Velebit mountains are superb.
2.5 Proximity to more vibrant scenes
If you still want to access the livelier parts of Pag (nightlife, large-scale beaches, events), Zubovići is not far: for instance, the well-known Zrće Beach (Novalja) is reachable within a short drive. This allows you to combine both tranquillity and entertainment.
3. Getting There & Getting Around
By Ferry / Car
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The Island of Pag is connected to the mainland via the Pag Bridge (southern part) and via the Prizna-Žigljen ferry (northern part).
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From the ferry port of Žigljen it is a short drive to Novalja and then onwards to Zubovići via the road that winds along the bay.
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If driving via Pag Bridge and staying on the northern side, you’ll still reach Zubovići in manageable time given the island’s road network.
Local Access
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The local road into Zubovići offers scenic views but, as typical for island roads, may require careful driving.
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Once in the village, you’ll find a bakery, shop, cafés and restaurants within walking distance of most holiday accommodation.
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For exploring other parts of the island (beaches, hiking trails, other villages) renting a car is highly recommended.
Best time to visit
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Summer (June-September) is the peak season: warm sea, full services, events.
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Shoulder seasons (May, early October) often offer more relaxed rates and fewer crowds while still good weather.
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Even outside peak season, Zubovići retains its charm of nature and calm.
4. Accommodation – From Apartments to Luxury Villas
Zubovići and its surroundings offer a wide range of accommodation – from family-friendly apartments to high-end luxury villas. Below we explore options and highlight premium properties you should consider.
4.1 Apartments & family holiday homes
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There are many apartments and holiday houses listed in Zubovići which cater to families: e.g., a semi-detached holiday home for 4 guests with panoramic sea views and barbecue terrace.
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One example: Rooms Atlantis Pag Novalja – located right by the beach Veli Žal (20 m to the sea) offering rooms with breakfast, sea-view terraces, free parking and WiFi.
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For many travellers the combination of sea-view, proximity to beach, good amenities and reasonable pricing makes such apartments ideal.
4.2 Luxury villas & boutique stays
If you are seeking the “luxury bracket”, here are standout properties near Zubovići which are perfect for premium stays:
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Villa The Secret Diamond (Sv. Marko, Island of Pag) – described by boutique villa circles as the best and most exclusive villa on the island of Pag. A premium luxurious property with a private pool, sea view, and exceptional atmosphere.
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Boutique Villa Nirvana (Proboj, Island of Pag) – a high-end boutique villa close by, ideal for stylish, relaxed stays.
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Boutique Villa Nirvana 2 (Proboj, Island of Pag) – the second iteration of the boutique offering, perfect for groups or dual-family stays wishing for sophisticated accommodation near the sea.
These villas combine location, luxury amenities, sea-view settings and exclusive atmosphere. If you value top-tier accommodation, they are worth investigating.
4.3 How to choose your accommodation
When selecting a stay in or near Zubovići, consider:
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Beach proximity: Do you want first-row sea-view, or are you comfortable a short walk?
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Size/Group: Family with kids may prefer 2-bedroom apartment; couples or luxury retreat may prefer villa.
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Amenities: Pool, sea-view terrace, WiFi, parking, air-conditioning are important.
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Style & ambiance: For tranquillity choose Zubovići village proper; for nightlife or larger event options choose closer to Novalja or Zrće.
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Budget: Apartments = more affordable; luxury villas = premium pricing but unmatched experience.
5. What to Do & See in Zubovići and Surroundings
5.1 Relax on the beach
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Veli Žal Beach: The main pebble-beach in Zubovići, situated conveniently near the village centre. Great for families, swimming, sun-relax.
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Dražica beach: A more remote, natural beach reachable by foot from Zubovići. Offers peace and scenic nature views.
5.2 Walk the Kozje Berdo trail
This educational and recreational hiking path starts in Zubovići and leads into forested bays and former mines, with exceptional views over the Pag Bay and Velebit. Great for nature-lovers and active travellers.
5.3 Visit Novalja and Zrće Beach
Just a short drive away is Novalja where you can explore local dining, shopping, nightlife or head to Zrće Beach, known for its party-beach atmosphere. Zubovići allows you the escape and still the option to pop into livelier settings.
5.4 Explore the landscape & viewpoints
The Island of Pag is famous for its karst terrain, sparse vegetation, dry-stone walls, and dramatic sea views. The road into Zubovići offers scenic stops and photo-ops.
5.5 Try local cuisine & village life
In Zubovići you’ll find family-run restaurants and taverns, fresh local fish, grilled meats, island lamb, Pag cheese (the island’s speciality) and a warm friendly atmosphere. At the accommodation “Atlantis” for example, you’ll find breakfast buffets, daily menus with Adriatic fish, grilled meat and fresh local vegetables.
6. Practical Tips & Local Insights
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Bring a car or rent one: While Zubovići is small and walkable, exploring the island requires transport.
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Best beaches early: For the quieter spots like Dražica, arrive early to get prime positions.
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Sun & wind: The island is known for clear skies but also occasional wind (bura). Choose accommodation with shaded terraces.
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Family friendly: Zubovići is especially good for families—safe village atmosphere, beach close by, small‐scale tourism.
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Book ahead for luxury stays: If you want Villa The Secret Diamond or Boutique Villa Nirvana, book early, especially in high season.
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Local produce: Try Pag cheese, olive oil, lamb dishes – local specialties.
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Quiet vs lively: If you prefer calm, stay in Zubovići. If you want nightlife as well, base near Novalja or allow day trips.
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Beach shoes: Some beaches are pebble; having foot protection helps for comfort.
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Photography tip: Sunset over Pag Bay from Zubovići hill is extraordinary—bring a wide-angle lens.
7. Accommodation Highlights Near Zubovići (Luxury Focus)
Here are the standout luxury stays mentioned earlier, with a bit more detail:
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Villa The Secret Diamond (Sv. Marko, Island of Pag): Premium, high-luxury villa, panoramic sea view, top-tier furnishings and services. Marketed as one of the best and most exclusive villas on the island of Pag.
Villa The Secret Diamond – Villa near Zubovići
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Boutique Villa Nirvana (Proboj, Island of Pag): A stylish boutique villa near Zubovići/Novalja area, offering comfort, elegance and sea-view access.
Boutique Villa Nirvana in Pag – (Villa near Zubovići)
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Boutique Villa Nirvana 2 (Proboj, Island of Pag): The second boutique property of the same brand or group, ideal for larger groups or for those who want two adjacent villas for friends/family.
Choosing one of these luxury stays elevates your holiday from simply “nice” to “extraordinary”. They pair perfectly with the surrounding serene environment of Zubovići.
8. Who Is Zubovići For?
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Families looking for safe, calm, affordable beach holidays without wild party scenes.
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Couples seeking a romantic, tranquil retreat with sea views and relaxed island ambience.
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Luxury travellers who want to stay in high-end villas yet be close to nature and the sea.
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Active holiday-makers who appreciate hiking, scenic drives, and exploring island culture.
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Escape from crowds: if you’ve been to busy resorts and want something more authentic and peaceful.
9. Keywords & Internal/External Link Suggestions
Internal links suggestions (for your website structure):
External trustworthy links:
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Travel review sites like Tripadvisor for Zubovići Tripadvisor
10. Conclusion
Zubovići on the Island of Pag is a hidden gem: offering scenic seaside tranquillity, a genuine village atmosphere, great beaches, nature trails and quality accommodation options—from friendly apartments to high-end luxury villas. Whether you’re planning a family stay, a romantic couple’s escape or a lavish villa holiday, this village gives you the best of island Croatia with less crowd, more authenticity, and beautiful surroundings.
Ready to turn your dream into reality? Choose your perfect accommodation in Zubovići or nearby luxury villa (such as Villa The Secret Diamond or Boutique Villa Nirvana), secure your booking early, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable Adriatic escape. Your next holiday island-style starts here.
Contact & Reservation for Pag apartments, Villas:
Blaž +386 31 609 241 | elfabiiani@gmail.com
Jožica +386 41 745 859 | jozica.fabjan@gmail.com
Martin +386 41 745 733 | martinkambic@gmail.com
Boutique Villa Nirvana | Boutique Villa Nirvana 2 | Villa The Secret Diamond
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