Local guide

Discover
Šimuni and Pag Island

A relaxed fishing village by the sea, a distinctive island landscape, and authentic experiences throughout the year - from beaches and food to culture and outdoor activities.

Šimuni - a relaxed seaside fishing village

Šimuni is a small fishing and tourist village on the south-west coast of Pag Island. Known for its sheltered bay, long fishing tradition, and calm atmosphere, it is ideal for guests who want an authentic seaside break away from mass tourism.

In the village you will find a few small shops for everyday needs, a fish market with fresh catch, a marina, and restaurants and konobas serving local cuisine. Everything is easy to reach on foot, which makes Šimuni practical and comfortable for families, couples, and anyone who prefers a relaxed stay without constant driving.

Beaches, shade, and an easy daily rhythm

On the main Šimuni beach you can enjoy natural pine shade - a rare comfort on Pag and a real advantage during warmer months. Along the beach there are a few beach bars and restaurants, perfect for a morning coffee by the sea, a light lunch, or a relaxed dinner at sunset.

With a peaceful setting, clear sea, and an unhurried pace, Šimuni is a great base for exploring the whole island - in summer and outside the main season.

Šimuni as a starting point for exploring Pag

Šimuni is an ideal base for discovering the entire island of Pag. Its central position makes day trips simple - whether you are heading for cultural sites, nature, or food experiences - and there are also plenty of activities close by.

Diving, sailing, and water sports

  • Diving Centre Foka: located in Camping Šimuni - diving courses and organised dives.
  • Straton Project: a Roman-era shipwreck site with many amphorae, one of the most interesting underwater archaeological points on Pag.
  • Sailing and windsurf centre: also in Camping Šimuni - lessons and equipment rental for beginners and experienced riders.

Explore by sea

In the village, the local agency Pag Tours offers daily rental of small speedboats, giving guests the freedom to explore coves, hidden beaches, and the coastline of Pag from the sea.

All of this makes Šimuni a flexible base for an active and content-filled stay on Pag - throughout the year.

Pag Island - contrasts, character, and authentic experiences

Pag is one of Croatia's most distinctive islands, known for its rocky scenery, the strong bora wind, and a unique mix of nature, tradition, and modern tourism. It can look raw at first glance, but it hides a rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Šimuni sits in a particularly convenient spot - roughly between the town of Pag, known for its heritage, historic centre, and long tradition, and Novalja, famous for its lively summer atmosphere, festivals, and nightlife.

Nearby Kolan is just a short drive away and is widely known as the heart of Pag cheese production, with many family-run cheese makers. In the north of the island you will find Lun, famous for its centuries-old olive trees - one of the most valuable natural attractions in the Mediterranean.

Pag offers variety throughout the year: hidden bays and beaches, cycling and walking routes, local festivals, traditional gastronomy, and an authentic island way of life.

Culture and heritage - Pag as a living museum

Pag offers cultural experiences throughout the year. In the town of Pag, you can visit the Salt Museum, which presents the island's centuries-old salt-making tradition. There are also organised experiences such as morning visits to the salt pans, where you can learn how Pag salt is produced.

Pag is also known for Pag lace, an intangible cultural heritage protected by UNESCO. At the Lace Museum, visitors can explore the history, techniques, and significance of this unique island tradition.

This cultural side makes Pag appealing beyond summer, especially for guests interested in local identity, history, and heritage.

Gastronomy as an experience - more than tasting

Food on Pag is not only about restaurants - it is also about authentic experiences. Many local cheese makers offer Pag cheese tastings, often guided and accompanied by stories about tradition and production.

In the town of Pag, Paška sirana offers tours that explain the cheese-making process. In Kolan, the well-known Sirana Gligora runs visits and tastings that present both traditional and modern production.

These experiences are especially popular in spring and autumn and give guests a deeper understanding of island life and gastronomy.

Calendar of events - Pag throughout the year

Pag is not only a summer destination. The island hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, from sports and gastronomy to culture and tradition, making it attractive well beyond the main summer season.

Spring (March - April)

  • Life on Mars Trail, Metajna: an internationally recognised trail race in a striking rocky landscape.
  • MarsOvca (Stara Novalja): a spring gastronomic festival celebrating Pag sheep, Pag cheese, and Pag lamb.

Early summer (May - June)

  • Smaller local fairs and food events in places like Povljana, often featuring cheese, olive oil, and island products.
  • Excellent time for sailing, windsurfing, and active holidays.

Summer (July - August)

  • Fishermen's nights: in Šimuni and other villages - evenings of tradition, local food, music, and community.
  • Pag Art Festival (Town of Pag): classical music and cultural events in historic settings.
  • Cultural nights, concerts, and summer programmes in Novalja and nearby places.
  • Fešta od sira (Kolan): the biggest event dedicated to Pag cheese and local producers.

Autumn (September - October)

  • Squid Days (Šimuni): seasonal food event celebrating fishing tradition.
  • Perfect season for food lovers, photographers, and guests who want a quieter stay.

Winter (November - February)

  • Pag Winter Carnival (Pag): a traditional winter carnival held from January until Lent, featuring masked dances, music, and local customs.
  • Winter is marked by the Pag bora, a strong northeasterly wind that shapes the island’s landscape, atmosphere, and culinary identity.

Ready to plan your stay in Šimuni?

Explore our apartments, check directions, or send us a quick message.

Apartments Šimuni 66 - seaside accommodation in Šimuni with private parking, Wi-Fi and terraces - ideal for couples and families who want a relaxed stay close to the sea.