If you’re looking for a memorable adventure in Croatia, this glowing stand-up paddleboard (SUP) night tour in Novalja offers a fantastic mix of sightseeing, history, and a touch of magic. While we haven’t personally taken the tour, feedback from travelers highlights the fun, the scenery, and the knowledgeable guides who make the experience special.
What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of paddling at night, illuminated seabeds, and views of Pag’s iconic beaches. Plus, the chance to paddle above a sunken Roman city adds an extra layer of intrigue. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not suitable for non-swimmers, so if you’re not comfortable in the water, this might not be for you.
Ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities, sunset and night scenery, and a touch of history, this tour suits adventurous travelers, families with older kids, or anyone craving a different perspective of Pag Island.
- Unique Night Experience: Paddle at sunset and enjoy the sea illuminated by LED lights beneath your boards.
- Historical Highlights: Paddle over a sunken Roman settlement and see the old tuna tower, Tunera.
- Beautiful Locations: Start at Caska Beach, pass by Zrce Beach, and explore Pag Island’s scenic coast.
- Guided And Informative: Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the area’s history and landscape.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for those confident in swimming; not recommended for non-swimmers.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Starting Point: Caska Beach
The adventure begins at Caska Beach, a shallow, sandy bay on the northwest side of Pag. Known for its calm waters and popularity among party-goers, it’s an ideal launch site for beginner-friendly SUP paddling. The tour kicks off with a thorough equipment briefing—your guide will hand out boards, paddles, waterproof bags, and LED lamps—and ensure everyone is comfortable before setting out.
Since the beach is famous for its shallow waters, it’s perfect for a controlled start, especially if you’re new to SUP or paddling in low light. Reviewers like Carolin mentioned how the illuminated boards made the experience “a lot of fun and a special moment,” which is exactly what you’re paying for—an evening of unusual scenery and tranquility.
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Zrce Beach: The Party Scene from a New Angle
The first major stop is Zrce Beach, often called Croatia’s version of Ibiza due to its lively atmosphere. The tour passes by this “party beach,” but instead of loud music and crowds, you’ll enjoy a peaceful, panoramic view from the sea.
According to reviews, paddling past Zrce offers a different perspective—more relaxed, almost surreal, as the lights of the beach twinkle in the distance. The approximately 25-minute pass-by provides a nice breather and an opportunity for some photos, especially as the sunset paints the sky.
The Magic of Tunera and Underwater Illumination
One of the highlights is Tunera, a historical tuna lookout tower on the opposite side of the bay. The paddle here isn’t just about the views; it’s about experiencing the shimmering sandy seabed beneath you once the LED lights are activated.
You might even paddle over a sunken Roman settlement, which adds a mysterious element to the trip. As one reviewer noted, “you’ll enjoy the shimmering sandy seabed and might even feel a sense of history as you paddle above a sunken Roman settlement.” After a brief rest at Tunera, the tour continues with more illuminated paddling, creating a mesmerizing glow beneath your board.
The Return and Night Swimming
As the tour winds back toward Caska, the atmosphere becomes quieter. Night swimming at Caska is an option, and many guests find it a perfect way to wrap up the experience. It’s a chance to soak in the tranquility of Pag Bay under a starry sky, with the gentle glow of LED lights still illuminating the water around you.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Practical Details
The entire excursion lasts about 2.5 hours, with the start times varying depending on the day and season. It’s recommended to bring a change of clothes, especially if you plan to take a swim at the stops. The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, emphasizing the importance of water confidence.
The tour operates with live guides in English and Croatian. From the reviews, guides like the one mentioned by Stephan were praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip both educational and fun.
What’s Included and Cost
For the price, you get all necessary equipment, including paddles, waterproof bags, and LED lamps—making this a hassle-free activity. The flexibility of reserving with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.
The Value of the Experience
Considering the cost, this SUP night tour delivers excellent value for travelers who want more than just a typical beach day in Croatia. The rarity of paddling at night with illuminated seabeds, combined with the historical and scenic stops, makes this a memorable outing. For those who love outdoor activities, it’s a chance to combine physical activity with awe-inspiring views.
While some minor technical issues like LED failures were mentioned (which can happen with outdoor lighting), the overall experience remains highly praised, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 7 reviews. Guests appreciated guides’ knowledge and the unique ambiance, with reviews emphasizing how much they enjoyed the illuminated boards and the peaceful paddling.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor water activities. It’s especially suited for those interested in history or wanting a different perspective on Pag’s scenery. If you’re comfortable swimming and eager to experience something truly different after sunset, this is a great choice.
Families with confident swimmers, couples, or small groups seeking a memorable experience will find this tour a beautiful mix of fun, history, and scenic magic. However, if you’re not comfortable in the water or prefer daytime activities, you might want to consider other options.
The Sum Up
The Novalja Glowing Standup Paddleboard Night Tour offers a singular way to see Pag Island from the water after dark. Its blend of illuminated seabeds, historic sites, and scenic views creates an enchanting atmosphere that’s hard to match. The tour’s guides are well-regarded for their friendliness and knowledge, adding value beyond just paddling.
While the activity relies on good weather for the best experience, those who love outdoor adventures, history, and stunning vistas are sure to find this trip worthwhile. It’s ideal for travelers looking for something active yet relaxing—an experience that’s both engaging and visually captivating.
Overall, it’s a fantastic option for those wanting to see Pag from a new angle, especially at sunset and after dark when the island’s natural beauty really comes alive in a different way.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, it’s not recommended for non-swimmers. You need to be comfortable in the water as part of the experience involves swimming and paddling.
What should I bring with me?
It’s best to bring a change of clothes, especially if you plan to swim during the stops. The tour provides all necessary equipment, including waterproof bags.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 2.5 hours, with different starting times available depending on the day.
Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, guides operate in both English and Croatian, ensuring clear communication and a friendly atmosphere.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to adapt to your travel plans.
What kind of equipment is included?
All equipment needed—boards, paddles, waterproof bags, and LED lamps—is included, so you don’t need to bring anything but your enthusiasm.
Is this activity suitable for families?
Yes, especially if your family members are confident swimmers. It’s a fun, safe activity for those comfortable in the water.
What is the best time of year to do this?
While specific seasons aren’t mentioned, the experience is likely best during warmer months when water and air temperatures are comfortable for swimming and paddling.
This glowing SUP tour in Novalja promises a magical look at Pag Island from a different perspective—by night, illuminated, and full of history. If you’re after a mix of adventure, scenery, and a touch of history, it’s well worth considering for your trip to Croatia.
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