Veli Rat

Veli Rat is the northernmost village on Dugi Otok, sheltered inside Čuna Bay. Its origins are associated with the Roman period, while the parish church of St Anthony is the settlement’s principal religious landmark. The best-known sight stands three kilometres northwest of the village: Punta Bjanka Lighthouse, built in 1849 and rising 42 metres, is the tallest lighthouse on the Adriatic. A small chapel dedicated to St Nicholas occupies its courtyard, and the surrounding pines, pebble coves and open-sea horizon create a striking contrast with Veli Rat’s quiet harbour. Southeast of the village lies Sakarun, an approximately 800-metre beach known for pale sand, shallow water and a pine backdrop. Veli Rat itself has a tourist office, post office and Baotić marina, while further dining options continue into neighbouring Verunić. Travellers bringing a car use Jadrolinija’s ferry from Zadar’s Gaženica port to Brbinj; the published 2026 schedule indicates a crossing of roughly two hours, depending on the departure.

Veli Rat occupies Čuna Bay at the far northern end of Dugi Otok, where sheltered harbours alternate with shores exposed to the open Adriatic. The island’s official destination guide traces the settlement to Roman times and identifies the parish church of St Anthony as its main sacred building. Its modern identity combines fishing, sailing and lighthouse heritage: Baotić marina serves the harbour, while Punta Bjanka stands three kilometres away. Veli Rat is not a large resort; its distinct appeal comes from immediate access to Sakarun, Pantera Bay and the tallest lighthouse on the Adriatic.