Island Hopping on Two Wheels: Exploring Croatia’s Islands by Scooter and Motorcycle
Let me ask you something: when you picture island hopping in Croatia, do you imagine sitting in a packed ferry with your luggage and then squeezing into a rental car that struggles to find parking in a tiny seaside village? Or do you imagine stepping off that ferry, strapping on your helmet, and cruising along the coast with the sea breeze on your face?
Exactly. Two very different vibes.
That’s why I always say — if you really want to feel the islands, see their hidden corners, and move around like a local, then do it on two wheels. In Dubrovnik, scooters are basically everywhere (and for good reason). And for the adventurers out there, big bikes like the BMW GS1000 or KTM Adventure turn Croatia’s roads into a dream playground.
So today, I want to share with you why scooters and motorbikes are the best way to explore the islands around Dubrovnik, which islands you absolutely can’t miss, and a few tips to make sure your ride is smooth from start to finish.
Why Two Wheels Beat Four (Especially on Islands)
Cars are fine if you’re road-tripping with kids and suitcases, but here’s the thing: most Croatian islands weren’t built for cars. The streets are narrow, parking is a headache, and honestly, you miss out on half the fun.
On a scooter or bike, you:
- Squeeze into parking spots right by the beach.
- Spend way less on fuel (and ferries).
- Get to pull over anywhere the view makes you say wow.
Actually feel the adventure instead of sitting behind a windshield.
And let me tell you, once you’ve cruised through a small fishing village or rolled up to a hidden cove on two wheels, you’ll never want to go back to exploring islands by car.
Dubrovnik: Your Two-Wheel Launchpad
Dubrovnik isn’t just a beautiful city — it’s the gateway to the islands. Ferries leave daily for places like Mljet, Korčula, Hvar, and Brač. The beauty is, you can just roll your scooter or bike onto the ferry, enjoy the ride, and then hop off ready to explore.
With a 200cc+ scooter, you’ve got enough power to handle the hills and longer stretches. With a big bike, like a KTM Adventure or BMW GS1000, the entire Adriatic coast becomes your personal road trip.
The Islands You’ll Fall in Love With
Mljet – For the Nature Lovers
Mljet feels like a giant nature reserve. It’s green, peaceful, and home to Mljet National Park, where you’ll find two saltwater lakes and even a monastery in the middle of one.
On a scooter, you can bounce between little villages and coves. On a big bike, those winding forest roads feel like a proper escape. Either way, it’s pure magic.
Korčula – Mini Dubrovnik with Vineyards
If Dubrovnik had a little sister, it would be Korčula. Same medieval charm, but quieter and more laid-back.
Here’s what makes Korčula amazing on two wheels:
- Riding along the Pelješac Channel with sea views on one side and vineyards on the other.
- Stopping at Lumbarda for sandy beaches (a rarity in Croatia!)
- Exploring Marco Polo’s birthplace without worrying about parking.
Trust me, Korčula is best discovered slowly — scooter pace is perfect.
Hvar – Beaches, Lavender, and a Bit of Party
Hvar is famous for its nightlife, but it’s so much more than clubs and cocktails. Imagine riding through fields of lavender, pulling over for a swim in a hidden bay, and then ending the day with sunset views over the Adriatic.
Scooter or bike, you’ll love it here. Just one warning: the coastal roads are gorgeous but curvy — so ride carefully, especially if you’re tempted to look at the view every two seconds (it’s hard not to).
Brač – Scenic Roads and Iconic Beaches
Brač is like a playground for riders. You’ve got the climb up to Vidova Gora, the highest peak of all Adriatic islands, with views that will blow your mind. Then there’s Zlatni Rat, one of Croatia’s most photographed beaches, with its unique golden “horn” shape.
The wide, winding roads are perfect if you’re on a BMW GS1000. But scooters work beautifully too — just maybe give yourself a bit more time for the climbs.
Bonus: Beyond Croatia
Here’s the secret sauce of renting in Dubrovnik — you’re not stuck just in Croatia. Big bikes especially are great for a quick hop into Montenegro (hello, Kotor Bay!) or even Bosnia & Herzegovina (Mostar, anyone?). Suddenly, your island-hopping trip turns into a three-country adventure.
A Few Tips to Keep It Stress-Free
Before you pack your helmet, let me give you a few quick pointers:
- License matters – Scooters above 200cc and big bikes need the right license. Make sure you’ve got it covered.
- Book early – Summer in Dubrovnik = scooters sell out fast. Don’t risk it.
- Travel light – Two wheels = limited luggage space. A backpack works best.
- Ferries are easy – Just show up early; bikes go on first, off first.
- Fuel up smart – On smaller islands, gas stations can be rare. Don’t risk running out.
Why Rent with Us?
Okay, quick brag: at Ragusa, we make this easy. We’ve got powerful scooters (200cc+), adventure bikes like BMW GS1000s and KTMs, and we don’t play games with hidden fees. Helmets are included, our support line is 24/7, and you can pick up your ride right in Dubrovnik’s port, airport, or city.
Basically, we want you to focus on the ride, not the rental paperwork.
Conclusion
Island hopping in Croatia is already a bucket-list experience. But doing it on two wheels? That’s next-level. You’ll see more, feel more, and collect the kind of memories that stick with you forever.
So next time you’re in Dubrovnik, don’t just rent a car and stick to the usual tourist route. Grab a scooter for the beaches and villages, or hop on a big bike for the ultimate Adriatic adventure.
The islands are waiting. The ferries are ready. And we’ve got the wheels. All you need to do is ride.
