Three islets are scattered just off the coast of Pakoštane on the mainland. Each islet has its own unique character: Sv. Juština is home to a small church, Veliki Školj sports a large stone cross, and Babuljaš is covered by a small grove. Locals call them VJERA, UFANJE, and LJUBAV (FAITH, HOPE, and LOVE), the three daughters of the good spirit of Christianity. Exploring the islet of Sv. Juština is an adventure through landscapes typical of the Pakoštane region. The path from the church leads through dry grasslands, past blackberry fields and shallow sand wetlands. The church, old cemetery, and remains of houses blend with nature, bearing witness to the historical importance of the islands for the local population.
The Church of Sv. Juština is a symbol of Pakoštane. Several legends exist on its origin, each emphasising courage and faith. The island also holds stone foundations of houses that once served as shelters during Ottoman incursions. These islands’ soil is a gallery of its own kind: its muddy terrain hides treasures, while dry and rocky grasslands change with the seasons, while the craggy shoreline houses many endangered plant species. So, take a closer look and appreciate the natural canvas of these unique islets.
Start your Three Island Tour from the Pakoštane pier or Janice Beach, the place where the tales of sea and land intertwine. You can reach the islands by boat, pedal boat, or by paddleboarding leisurely. If you wish to experience the magic of the underwater world, take a panoramic submarine ride from the Pakoštane waterfront to explore the remains of a late-antique ship near Veliki Školj and an ancient port near Janice Beach.
The best time to embark on an adventure of the Three Island Tour is at sunrise, when the first rays of light illuminate the new day. Take your paddleboard and glide across the sea. Visit the islands in perfect morning harmony, relax, and let nature inspire you with its beauty and tranquillity. As you paddle through the silence, you will feel connected to the sea and experience a sense of freedom that only nature can provide.
