Drvenik is a small fishing village in southern Dalmatia, Croatia, which administratively belongs to the municipality of Gradac. It lies at the foot of the steep ridges of the Biokovo mountain range. It is one of the pearls of the Makarska Riviera.
It was first mentioned in written sources in the 13th century. Today, the remains of the settlement in the village of Staro selo bear witness to this time. It got its name from the word tree, which means tree. Drvenik is rich in archaeological and historical sites. Among them, the most prominent are the church of St. George from the 14th century, the prehistoric fortress of Gradina, the monument to unrequited love - Kostanica greb from the 15th century, the path over Biokova and the church of St. Rocco, which was built in 1965. After the earthquake in 1962, the locals moved from the Staro Selo settlement at the foot of the Rilic mountain to two bays: Gornja and Donja Vala. Staro Selo has become an ideal place for vacations. Well-kept olive groves, unspoiled nature, views of both Drvenik bays and the Braski and Hvar canals offer a priceless experience. Throughout the year, Drvenik is connected to the island of Hvar by a ferry line via Sucuraj, the resort and port, and in the summer via Dominc to the island of Korcula. The place has two ports, south and north. The southern one, which is the ferry port, is protected by a 50-meter-long breakwater, at the end of which stands a lighthouse. The main economic branch is tourism. In addition, fishing and agriculture are also developed, especially goat breeding and olive groves. The rich gastronomic offer of local restaurants ensures an unforgettable experience. Numerous sports, entertainment and cultural events offer something for everyone.
The place is characterized by kilometers of pebbly beaches, mostly covered by the shade of pine trees, a long seaside promenade, marked mountain hiking trails, viewpoints and sports and recreational facilities. The most famous beaches in Drvenik are: Gornja Vala beach, Donja Vala beach, Lucica beach, Vira beach and Duba beach. Gornja Vala beach is the longest and main beach in Drvenik. It is very clean, gravelly and suitable for all generations. The beach is nicely landscaped and offers a pleasant shade of pine trees. Near the beach there are many bars, restaurants and kiosks with fruit and ice cream. A promenade stretches along the beach and there are benches for pleasant evening moments at sunset. There is an open water amusement park in the shallows of the sea, which is ideal for the youngest. Donja Vala beach stretches across the entire bay between the harbor for the locals' boats and the ferry port for the island of Hvar. It is covered with the shade of pine trees and the terraces of many bars, restaurants, cafes and pizzerias. Duba Beach is the easiest to reach by boat or car. It is about two kilometers from the center of Donja Vale. The beach is pebbly and secluded and is suitable for those who do not want crowds. There is no natural shade on the beach. There are also no bars and restaurants. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the Makarska Riviera. Vira beach is similar to Duba beach. It is gravelly and without natural shade. Visitors can enjoy silence and peace throughout the day. There is a parking lot nearby for a small number of cars.
Lucica beach is located about a ten-minute easy walk from Gornja Vala towards Zaostrogo. It is easily accessible thanks to the promenade that connects the two places. Above the beach there are outdoor gym equipment for sports activities after swimming and lounging.