Zadar isn’t just about stunning sunsets and Roman ruins; it also offers a fantastic variety of lunch experiences on the water and in scenic locations that make the most of Dalmatia’s natural beauty. Whether you’re craving a relaxed day on a boat, a dip in crystal waters, or authentic local cuisine, Zadar delivers. Among the many options, we particularly like the full-day boat trips that include meals, like the Kornati & Telašćica boat tour with lunch and drinks, which combines sightseeing, swimming, and hearty Dalmatian food all in one day. If you prefer to relax on a sandy beach, the Sakarun Beach and Dugi Island boat tour offers swimming in clear waters and a delicious local lunch. For those interested in a more private, laid-back experience, the Boat Tour to Kornati Secluded Bay lets you escape the crowds with local food and wine.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of full-day boat trips, half-day excursions, and specialized tours that highlight the region’s best lunch options. From the impressive Kornati archipelago to quiet bays and villages, each tour offers unique ways to combine sightseeing with delicious food. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking a more luxurious experience, these tours provide authentic flavors and memorable scenery. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Zadar: Kornati & Telašćica boat tour with Lunch & Drinks
At number one, this 9.5-hour full-day trip stands out for its balanced blend of sightseeing, swimming, and hearty meals. The tour starts with a breakfast in a traditional fisherman’s house, setting a rustic tone for the day. As you cruise through the Kornati archipelago, you’ll marvel at cliffs of Dugi Otok and stop at Katina island for swimming in salt lakes—a unique experience in Telašćica Nature Park. The highlight is enjoying lunch at an authentic fisherman’s restaurant, where fresh seafood or local Dalmatian dishes are served, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it feel like visiting friends. The final leg includes swimming in Telašćica’s salt lake and catching the sunset on the way back, offering spectacular photo ops.
This tour is rated 4.7/5 by 132 reviews and is great for travelers who want a comprehensive day out with plenty of swimming, scenery, and authentic food. The value at $46 per person for a full day of adventures makes it a solid choice. The combination of authentic local dining and scenic cruising makes this an ideal trip for those seeking a true taste of Dalmatia.
Bottom line: Perfect for nature lovers and foodies alike, this tour balances activity with relaxation—and the chance to enjoy a real Dalmatian meal.
2. Zadar: Sakarun Beach and Dugi Island Boat Tour with Lunch
At number two, this 4.9/5-rated tour is designed for travelers who want a beach-focused day with excellent swimming and a memorable meal. Your day begins with a visit to Saharun Beach, famous for its white sands and shallow, warm waters—a favorite for families and sunbathers alike. You’ll also explore the sunken ship and snorkel in the clear waters, making the most of the natural surroundings. The lunch is served at a family restaurant in Bozava, offering fresh local specialties that perfectly complement the day’s relaxed vibe. Afterwards, you can swim in a natural cove with pine trees touching the sea, or visit the oil mill and military tunnels for a bit of adventure. The tour’s high rating and $93 price reflect its popularity among those craving a full day of beach and water fun.
If you’re after crystal-clear waters and a laid-back atmosphere, this trip hits all the right notes. The combination of swimming, snorkeling, and authentic Dalmatian lunch makes this a standout for beach lovers.
Bottom line: Ideal for sunseekers and anyone wanting a leisurely day on Dugi Island’s best beach, with plenty of time for swimming and tasty local food.
3. Zadar: Telascica and Kornati Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch
Ranking third, this 10-hour trip offers a rich mix of spectacular scenery and local dining. The trip takes you through both Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park, famous for their dramatic cliffs and shimmering salt lakes. The meal at a Robinson Crusoe-style village on Kornat island is a highlight, with fresh, locally prepared dishes served in a setting that feels like a true adventure. The tour also includes a swim in Lake Mir on Dugi Otok and snorkeling in turquoise waters of Kornat, which is perfect for underwater enthusiasts. Rated 4.2/5 with 145 reviews, travelers appreciate the scenic beauty and the opportunity to taste authentic Dalmatian food in a remote setting. The price of $65 balances affordability with a comprehensive experience suitable for those with a full day to spare.
This trip is best suited for travelers wanting a full immersion in nature with good food and stunning vistas, plus the chance to snorkel and explore unspoiled islands.
Bottom line: A longer, more scenic option for those eager to see the best of Kornati and Telašćica while enjoying homemade lunch amid nature.
4. Zadar: Kornati and Telascica Cruise with Lunch and Tickets
In fourth place, this cruise offers a luxurious yet authentic experience of Kornati and Telašćica. The focus is on stunning vistas and swimming, with a Robinson-style lunch served on Kornat island. The boat allows for panoramic views and includes the chance to spot dolphins, adding a dash of excitement. Rated 4.1/5 and priced at $76, it’s a good middle ground for travelers who want comfort and scenic beauty combined with local cuisine. The duration isn’t specified but is likely similar to other full-day options.
This trip really emphasizes unspoiled landscapes and the tranquility of uninhabited islands. The included lunch is simple yet authentic, making it a good pick for travelers valuing scenery and local flavors over luxury.
Bottom line: A dependable choice for those wanting a well-rounded day embracing nature and local atmosphere with a comfortable cruise experience.
5. Zadar: Fishing Boat Trip with Lunch and Swimming Included
Number five offers a 8-hour fishing trip on a traditional boat, perfect for those who want to participate actively. The highlight is fishing for your lunch, which means that after catching fish, you enjoy it fresh on board. The tour includes time to swim in the Zadar archipelago and a visit to the old olive mill on Ugljan. Rated a perfect 5/5 by nine reviews, this experience is lauded for its authenticity and hands-on approach. The cost is $93 per person, making it a bit more expensive but well worth it if you want to be involved in the process.
The journey is best suited for adventurous travelers or food lovers who enjoy active days and fresh seafood. The chance to fish your own lunch makes this a memorable, personalized experience.
Bottom line: For those wanting a hands-on, authentic fishing adventure combined with swimming and local culture, this trip is a standout.
6. Zadar: 4-Islands Escape & Hidden Shipwreck with Lunch
This 8-hour tour is perfect for explorers wanting a varied day on islands like Molat, Dugi Otok, Sestrunj, and Ugljan. The experience includes swimming, snorkeling, and diving around a shipwreck, which appeals to underwater enthusiasts. The highlight is a Dalmatian lunch cooked by chef Goran in a traditional tavern on Sestrunj. Rated 4.7/5 from three reviews, it combines beach days, local food, and underwater adventure. The itinerary includes visits to Lighthouse Veli Rat and several beaches, with ample free time for swimming and relaxing.
This tour is best for travelers who want to mix water activities with cultural and culinary experiences. The inclusion of lunch in a Dalmatian tavern adds authentic culinary flair to the day.
Bottom line: An excellent pick for active travelers who love underwater exploration, island hopping, and local food.
7. Zadar: Boat Tour to Kornati Secluded Bay, Local Life & Lunch
Number seven offers a 10-hour private-style adventure that takes you away from crowds. It features swimming in private bays, local wine and barbecue, and a chance to see how real locals live. The tour explores uninhabited islands and offers panoramic sailing. With a $58 per person price, it’s a good value for a more intimate experience, especially for those wanting to escape tourist spots and experience local traditions firsthand.
The tour emphasizes authenticity and serenity, making it perfect for travelers seeking a quiet retreat with hearty Dalmatian food.
Bottom line: Ideal for those craving a personalized, relaxed day with beautiful scenery and genuine local flavor.
8. Zadar: Kornati and Telašćica Nature Park with lunch & drinks
This 10-hour trip uses the Moj Dragulj boat for a full day of exploration, swimming, and panoramic sailing. The tour includes breakfast, cookies, and local aperitifs, followed by free time for sightseeing and swimming. Highlights are the Kornati islands and Telašćica Nature Park, with a focus on stunning scenery. Rated 4.0/5 from 23 reviews, it offers a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities and swimming. The lunch is a traditional meal served amid natural beauty, emphasizing authentic Dalmatian cuisine.
This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day with sailing, swimming, and local food in a less crowded setting.
Bottom line: Great for travelers valuing scenic cruising and authentic local meals in a flexible, relaxed atmosphere.
9. Zadar: Full-Day Kornati & Telašćica Boat Trip with lunch
Coming in ninth, this 10-hour excursion emphasizes scenic views and authentic dining. You’ll cruise through Kornati and Telašćica, ending with a lunch at a Robinson-style settlement on Lupeška. The itinerary includes scenic cliffs, salt lakes, and snorkeling. Rated 4.1/5, this option balances scenic beauty with local food, especially suited for those who want to combine exploration and genuine Dalmatian flavors.
It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace but still want to see the highlights of Kornati and Telašćica with a hearty meal.
Bottom line: Well-suited for those seeking a scenic and authentic day out with key attractions and regional cuisine.
10. KORNATI: Full-Day Trip with lunch
Number ten offers the most budget-friendly option at $24 per person. It features a spacious ship, professional guides, and includes lunch, with a focus on scenic cruising and island visits. Starting from Obala kneza Branimira, it takes you to Lavdara, with stops for lunch and sightseeing. Be aware of the cash surcharge of 45 EUR when boarding. This tour is best for budget travelers or those who want a simple, straightforward day exploring Kornati’s beauty without frills.
The value here is the included lunch and guided experience, making it a practical choice for those who prioritize cost and basic comfort.
Bottom line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers eager to see Kornati with a simple, organized tour.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Zadar
When selecting your ideal lunch tour, consider your budget, interests, and preferred pace. If you want a full day of sightseeing and authentic Dalmatian cuisine, the Kornati & Telašćica boat tour with lunch offers excellent value. For a beach day, the Sakarun Beach and Dugi Island tour combines swimming and delicious local food. If you’re after something more personalized or quieter, the Secluded Bay tour provides a private feel with traditional flavors.
Budget travelers might prefer the full-day Kornati trip at just $24, while those wanting a more luxurious experience can opt for tours with more amenities.
Practical tips: Book early in the season, especially for popular tours like the Sakarun Beach trip, which fills quickly. Also, check if lunch is included and what type of food is served—most tours emphasize fresh seafood, local specialties, and outdoor dining.
Final Thoughts
Zadar’s lunch experiences range from full-day boat adventures that combine sightseeing, swimming, and hearty meals, to beach-focused trips with exceptional swimming and casual dining. For a balanced day packed with scenery and local flavor, the Kornati & Telašćica boat tour is a standout. If you prefer a quiet, intimate day, the Secluded Bay trip offers a more personalized experience. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordable Kornati full-day, which provides good value without sacrificing scenery.
No matter your style or budget, early booking is advised, especially in peak season. With so many options, Zadar is a city that truly makes your midday meal an adventure—so pick your perfect trip, and enjoy the flavors and scenery of Dalmatia.