The best family friendly hotels in Croatia

We’ve spent hours reading the hundreds of reviews you’ve shared with us, to produce a shortlist of the best hotels in Croatia for families. We hope you find this really useful, and if you do, that you consider booking via our complimentary Tiny Travel Agency service or the affiliate links in the article (meaning we make a small commission, and can keep providing you with this kind of content!)

A bite sized guide to: The best hotels for families in Croatia

Our favourite all-inclusive beach resort for all ages: Arba Resort 4*, Valamar Collection, Rab

Our favourite for a culture-packed city break with next-level kids’ clubs: Valamar Tirena Hotel 4*, Dubrovnik 

Our favourite budget-friendly break with a baby club: Family Hotel Amarin, Rovinj

Our favourite stylish & sustainable resort (with a splashpark!): Valamar Amicor Green Resort, Hvar

Our favourite combining a city break with beaches *and* childcare: Sun Gardens, Dubrovnik

Our favourite for self catering stays: O’live Residence, Zadar

Our favourite under the radar resort: D-Resort Šibenik, Šibenik

Our favourite for family friendly luxury: San Canzian Village & Hotel, Buje

Our favourite for a best of both break: Hotel Kompas, Dubrovnik

Our favourite for a boutique beach stay: Boutique Hotel Valsabbion, Pula

Our favourite for a chic home from home: Three bedroom Seafront Apartment, Split

Our favourite for a luxurious location: President Hotel, Valamar Collection

Our favourite family friendly all inclusive: Rixos Premium Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik

Our favourite for aesthetic amenities – Maslina Resort, Hvar 

Arba Resort, 4* Valamar Collection, Rab

Set right on the emerald edge of Rab Island, Arba Resort 4* delivers the kind of (affordable!) beachside family holiday that feels almost too good to be true. Newly opened, slick and beautifully designed, this is a resort where luxury touches meet next-level family facilities. Everything about it is geared towards effortless holidays: heated pools, splash zones and the sprawling Maro World.The all-inclusive setup makes switching off simple, though Rab’s charming old town is just a short drive away if you fancy a change of scenery. With space and activities for every generation, Arba is the kind of place where toddlers, teens, parents and grandparents all genuinely have a great time 

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Valamar Tirena Hotel 4*, Dubrovnik

This is the sweet spot for families who want culture for the grown-ups and full-throttle fun for the kids. Just a quick hop from the airport and only 15 minutes from Dubrovnik’s fairy-tale Old Town, Tirena makes exploring one of Europe’s most beautiful cities feel refreshingly easy – without sacrificing downtime. The children’s offering is truly exceptional: the Maro Club (ages 3+) runs all day with supervised activities, while Maro World spans two floors of soft play, LEGO zones, STEM spaces, interactive aquariums and even a rooftop trampoline park. It’s so impressive it feels more like a children’s attraction than a hotel kids’ club

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Family Hotel Amarin, Rovinj

For families chasing fun without the stress (or spend), Family Hotel Amarin is hard to beat. The Baby Club welcomes newborns—one of the few in Europe—while older kids can dive into a nonstop schedule of activities, from mini discos and talent shows to science experiments, Lego robotics, SUP, and drone flying. Supervised sessions run until 8pm, giving parents a rare chance to unwind or enjoy a quiet dinner. Outside, adventure continues with a giant playground, slide-filled kids’ pool, shaded baby pool, lazy river, and adults-only swimming areas. Rooms are spacious, bright, and family-ready, sleeping up to six, while full-board dining includes children’s corners and baby-friendly facilities. With extra touches like baby gear to borrow, kitchen-equipped parent-and-baby rooms, and laundry facilities, Family Hotel Amarin makes holidays effortless

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Valamar Amicor Green Resort, Hvar

I mean, it’s definitely one of the chicest family focused resorts I’ve ever seen. A world away from aggressive, primary coloured plastic toys and interiors stuck in the 90’s, Valamar Amicor Green Resort is the exactly the kind of new hotel opening you need to know about. Bursting onto the scene in 2022, it’s the first sustainable family stay on Croatia’s Adriatic, designed in harmony with nature using renewable materials and 100% green energy. Nestled in a secluded cove steps from the historic centre of Stari Grad, the resort is at one with its surroundings – designed with local artists, set amidst gardens protecting native flora and serving up fresh seasonal ingredients

From 3 person suites to villas with private pools sleeping 6, all accommodation has its own outdoor space – perfect for families of all sizes. Entertainment has been equally well thought through, with a sprawling waterpark and spaghetti slides (as tasteful as they come), multiple play areas and a Kids Club from age 3, an eco garden welcoming tiny botanists and an open air cinema. Offering accommodation up to a half board basis, the stonewashed lanes of Stari Grad are lined with local tavernas, hipster cafes & ancient churches for lazy, lingering afternoons spent exploring

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Sun Gardens, Dubrovnik

Without a doubt, Sun Gardens Dubrovnik is the city’s leading hotel if you’re looking for a spot really catering for children. Not only do they run an extensive range of Kids Clubs throughout the summer holidays (four in total, ranging from 12 months to 15 years), but there’s plenty of evening entertainment too, so you can sit back and relax with a cocktail in hand. Tailor made for tiny travellers, ‘Tropical Adventure’ & ‘Superhero’ evenings await (plus everything you can imagine in between), running from 8pm – 11pm daily during peak

Proud owner of tiny travellers with endless energy to burn? The hotel also hosts football, dance, tennis, swimming and squash academies throughout the year for ages 7-15. If it’s free-for-all fun that’s on the agenda, you’ll want to make tracks to the Gaming Room, two family pools, or pristine slice of beach. And Dubrovnik itself is bursting with attractions for all ages. Luckily, the Reception team are dab hands at pulling together kid-friendly itineraries

As all parents know, often ‘the smaller tot, the bigger the headache’ when travelling (there’s just so much stuff!) but here? Not so. The Baby Concierge service saves serious packing stress, letting you pre-book everything from cots to potties, toys and sterilisers. And for any last minute emergencies (when nappy or baby food supplies run dry!) the onsite Rosetta store is an actual life saver

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O’live Residence, Zadar

More of a homestay-er than a hotel goer? This one’s for you. If it’s space, a swimming pool and serious style you’re seeking, the suites at O’live Residence deliver in spades. There are 5 two bedroom apartments to choose from, each as beautiful as the next, sharing a pristine private pool, beautiful al fresco dining spots, a garden that oozes relaxation and a concierge service on hand to help with your every whim – from organising local excursions to sourcing fresh-from-the-sea fish for you

Designed by avid travellers aiming to create an indulgent home from home experience, special attention has been paid to comfort, down the the premium mattresses and bedding. For tiny travellers, cots, high chairs & baby baths are provided as well as blackout blinds to eek out every last minute of sleep! Located a short drive away from Zadar in the heart of Dalmatia, mountains, waterfalls, island boat trips & cobblestone streets are yours to explore

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D-Resort Šibenik, Šibenik

With lots more specifically for tiny travellers, without a hint of compromise on style, D-Resort Sibenik is a marine side masterclass in modern design, benefitting from wide stretching sea views. As well as rooms and suites of all sizes (all of which can accommodate an extra bed or cot) the resort has a handful of Exclusive Villas, complete with kitchenettes, second bedrooms, and most excitingly, private pools – no need to be frustratingly nap trapped here. Once the kids are awake and seeking entertainment, take them to check out the Kids Club, which runs two sessions a day throughout summer for those 4-11. There are also 2 family friendly pools (our fav is at the Yacht Club, with an insta-worthy infinity edge and separate shallow section), a playground, basketball nets and table tennis for little ones who magically never tire

Their energy may be boundless but let’s be honest, ours isn’t. Embrace the childcare and treat yourself to 5 minutes alone (okay, more like an hour) to slip off to the spa, and let tensions melt away in the grand white marble hammam. Away from the hotel, water taxis can whizz you over  to soak up the cobblestone magic of Sibenik’s Old Town or to one of Croatia’s charming tiny islands, where quaint cafes, time frozen fishing harbours & laidback vibes await

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San Canzian Village & Hotel, Buje

Craving the indulgence of an adults only holiday but, er, one where you can bring the kids along too? Enter San Canzian Village & Hotel in Istria, an ultra luxe hideaway where rustic charm is merged seamlessly with achingly stylish, modern interiors. Nestled amongst citrus trees, grape vines and olive groves, an intimate cluster of 24 rooms & suites (plus one villa) dot sun dabbled farmland, where there is little on the agenda beyond swimming, feasting & lounging (unless you’re under the age of 12; then add ‘exploring’ to the list too)

While there are no specific activities for tiny travellers, the grounds are expansive enough for little legs to run wild and fruit picking is encouraged, plus the pool is family friendly. Babysitting can be arranged upon request, and suites with multiple bedrooms are perfect for those seeking separate sleeping spaces. A landscape of burnt oranges, deep purples and olive greens, a stay is like stepping into a real life oil painting where nature is the star of the show, showcased best through the expertly curated and created gastronomic experiences drawing heavily on local ingredients

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Hotel Kompas, Dubrovnik

Torn between city and coastline? Who says you have to pick. Hotel Kompas ticks both boxes, a stones throw from Lapad Bay and a short drive (or bus journey) from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. A chic minimalist retreat, think crisp white cotton sheets, sleek monochrome furniture and statement 60’s architecture. With stunning sea views, most rooms have balconies overlooking the bay, and a popular promenade lined with buzzing restaurants and bars is just a stroll away. Back at the hotel, the outdoor pool glistens invitingly, there’s a seasonal Mediterranean restaurant and pine shaded terrace, as well as a choice of 2 bars and a serene spa with Finnish sauna, steam room and  a spoiling treatment menu. Highchairs, cots and extra beds can be provided for tiny travellers, and there are interconnecting rooms available too. Next to one of Dubrovnik’s most popular family beaches, it’s the location that makes this one a hit with the kids, providing welcome relief from the city cights

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Boutique Hotel Valsabbion, Pula

Searching for an under-the-radar stay that feels like your very own secret spot? Located in a pleasingly quiet bay away from the crowds of Insta-iconic Pula, Boutique Hotel Valsabbion has just 11 rooms best described as ‘understated & luxurious’, it’s own small private beach, heated outdoor pool and medical spa (the massages at this one are worth bribing your partner for). About as far away from Kids Club territory as they come, the vibe here is laid back and best suited for those seeking a restorative stay (well, as restorative as is possible with kids, though the tranquility of the surroundings is infectious). It also acts as a perfectly located pad for intermittent escapades into Pula, a 15 minute drive away, best known for its 2,000 year old Roman amphitheatre, ancient monastery and al fresco cafes

Equal parts stylish and unpretentious, decor is contemporary yet comfortable and brimming with thoughtful touches – the assured work of 2 sisters who have long mastered hospitality and deliver discrete, efficient service aimed wholly at making your life easier. Babysitting is available upon request; if we were you, we’d take advantage and enjoy a sundowner to remember at the serene pine tree shaded beach bar

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Seafront apartment, Split

If only my home looked like this, I’d never go on holiday! A shining example of why you should never judge a book by it’s cover, it might look like little feet have never set foot in this bold and beautiful magazine-worthy apartment, but it’s actually brimming with all the parental paraphernalia you need for a hassle free holiday. From a cot & highchair, to baby bath, children’s tablewear, toys, safety gates and corner guards – you name it, they’ve thought of it. A quiet sanctuary a short stroll from both Split city centre and the beach,  with three bedrooms and a super spacious living area the flat is great for larger families, sleeping 6 (plus an infant). This light filled retreat occupies the whole floor of a 1920s Italian villa, and the pièce de résistance? The balcony, your own private slice of paradise to enjoy a coffee (or better, cocktail), watch yachts sailing by, and even spot the occasional dolphin if you’re lucky

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President Hotel, Valamar Collection

If Greece has Sani, Croatia has Valamar. Some of the best boltholes in the country are part of the brand’s portfolio – driven largely by their epic Kids Club, Maro World. Here you’ll find everything from soft plays and interactive trampolines to cutting edge digital games rooms and the latest consoles. The sleekest member of the family has to be the 5* President Hotel. Proving it really is possible to have your cake and eat it too, this uber luxe base offers a blissful beach break and city crash pad in one. Dubrovnik’s Old Town is in easy reach (15 mins by car), plus the upscale district of Babin Kuk is only 15 mins away on foot. If you fancy shaking up meal times (from the 2 restaurants onsite), you’ll find delicious dining and scenic beach clubs on your doorstep

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Rixos Premium Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik

Parent’s don’t need to worry about ferrying their families from A to B at Rixos Premium Dubrovnik – an enviably located luxury hotel just a 15 minute walk into the Old Town and a 13 minute car ride from the airport. There’s an interactive Kids Club for those 3+, while the whole family can make waves in the freshwater outdoor pool, or slink straight from the decadent deck into the sea. Sprogs are made to feel equally welcome in the onsite restaurants, and the generous interconnecting rooms make separate sleep spaces a breeze. A siren call for those who like a little evening entertainment, you’ll find the city’s only casino here, plus summertime brings live DJs and jazz concerts

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Maslina Resort, Hvar

Holistic happiness takes centre stage at this wellness wonderland, where style-seeking parents who want facilities at their fingertips will be in their element. Maslina Resort feels very different to many of the countries’ big player pads, this is a stay rooted in low-key luxury and location. Everything from the finessed foodie fare dished up in on the onsite restaurants to the sanctuary-spa treatment menu is in homage to Croatia’s bountiful beauty. A seasonal Kids Club runs throughout the summer (4+), although the crafting corner, outdoor play area and climbing wall are open to all ages when accompanied by a parent. If you want to reclaim your evenings, brilliant babysitters can easily be booked, and the cobblestoned restaurant-rich streets of Stari Grad can be reached in 10 minutes via the hotels free-to-borrow-bikes. An insta-iconic pool and tranquil beach complete the pretty picture

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Themes: The Family Friendly European Edit, Hotel Hotlists

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