Hula Hula is one of Hvar’s most recognized beachfront bars, known for its open-air parties that start in the afternoon and reach their peak at sunset. Located a short walk from Hvar Town, it brings together music, sea views, and vibrant crowds for an experience that defines the island’s social scene.
Travelers come for cocktails, DJs, and the panoramic glow of the Adriatic. It’s not a nightclub but a daytime beach celebration that smoothly transforms into a golden-hour gathering. With a mix of travelers, locals, and yacht guests, Hula Hula offers a balance of casual energy and elegance. The sound of waves and music blends naturally, giving guests the feeling that the party belongs to the sea itself.
Location and How to Get There
Hula Hula sits about a 15-minute walk from Hvar Town’s main square, following a scenic path along the coastline toward Hotel Podstine. The walk is flat and easy, passing rocky coves and smaller swimming spots before opening up to the bar’s wooden deck. Signs guide visitors along the way, making it simple to find, even for first-time travelers.
Taxis and rented scooters are common alternatives, especially for groups or those carrying bags. For visitors staying farther out, water taxis also operate between nearby beaches and Hvar Harbor during the day. The bar faces west toward the Pakleni Islands, creating a direct line to the sunset. Its location feels remote enough to escape the main crowd yet close enough to reach safely after dark—a blend that captures the best of Hvar’s beach culture.
Best Time to Arrive for Sunset
While Hula Hula opens early, the atmosphere truly builds after 3 p.m. when guests begin arriving straight from the sea or nearby hotels. The music gradually shifts from laid-back beach beats to upbeat house tracks, signaling that the afternoon has turned into a pre-sunset celebration.
The most popular window is between 4 and 6 p.m., when the crowd gathers for drinks and dancing while the sky starts to change color. Arriving before 4 p.m. ensures a better seat, but even late arrivals find a lively scene. The golden light reflects across the Adriatic, and nearly everyone pauses when the sun touches the horizon—a daily moment that unites the crowd in applause. Many guests plan dinner or clubbing afterward, making Hula Hula the perfect first stop in an evening on the island.
Entry, Tables, and Reservation Tips
Hula Hula doesn’t charge an entrance fee, which makes it accessible to everyone. However, space fills quickly, and reserved seating becomes essential during high season. Sunbeds and deck loungers can be booked for a daily rate, while cabanas and VIP tables require a minimum spend that typically covers drinks and snacks for small groups.
Reservations are easiest through social media or the bar’s official contact number. For those who prefer to walk in, arriving before 3 p.m. gives the best chance of finding open spots without waiting. Staff members manage seating professionally, balancing between walk-ins and reserved areas.
Groups often share minimum spends, which keeps costs reasonable while guaranteeing table service. The system runs smoothly even when the crowd swells, allowing visitors to focus on the experience instead of logistics. It’s a relaxed setup, but planning makes the afternoon flow effortlessly.
Drink Prices and Payment Policies
Drink prices at Hula Hula align with its reputation as a premium beach venue. Classic cocktails like mojitos, Aperol spritz, and margaritas range between €12 and €18, while Croatian wines and local beers offer affordable options. Larger parties often choose pitchers or bottles to share, adding a social feel to the sunset ritual.
Most guests use cards, but carrying cash is wise for smaller transactions or tipping. The bar occasionally sets card minimums during peak times. Service remains fast thanks to several counters and servers circulating the deck. Bartenders are friendly and quick, keeping drinks consistent even during rush hours.
Tipping 10–15% is customary in Croatia, especially at tourist venues. It’s worth paying the tab before closing time, as queues can form when everyone leaves at once. For many, enjoying a cold drink with live music and a sea breeze becomes the highlight of their Hvar experience.
Music, DJs, and Party Flow
The soundtrack is what defines Hula Hula’s personality. Resident DJs begin their sets with chill tropical and deep house music that complements the early afternoon calm. As more people arrive, the tempo increases, blending rhythmic electronic beats with familiar remixes that keep energy levels high.
By late afternoon, the space transforms into an open-air dance floor. The DJ booth sits close to the water, allowing guests to dance just steps from the Adriatic. On select days, live performers like saxophonists or percussionists join the mix, creating a lively beach concert atmosphere.
The sound system is powerful but balanced, so guests can still talk comfortably at the bar or in seating areas. Hula Hula isn’t about overwhelming volume; it’s about rhythm, sunset, and connection. The playlist usually winds down around 9 p.m., giving visitors time to transition to dinner or late-night clubs such as Carpe Diem or Pink Champagne.
Dress Code and What to Bring
The dress code reflects Hvar’s effortless island style: relaxed but tasteful. Swimwear, beach shorts, and light cover-ups dominate the afternoon crowd, while many guests change into resort wear as the sun lowers. Flip-flops and sunglasses are standard, and lightweight dresses or linen shirts fit perfectly into the setting.
Shade can be limited, so sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles are must-haves. Towels are useful for spontaneous swims, and small bags are easier to manage since there’s no storage area. While the vibe is laid-back, people often dress with intention—it’s not unusual to see stylish beach outfits paired with confidence and attitude.
Cash for small purchases and tipping helps, and waterproof phone pouches come in handy if you plan to swim. Guests often describe the look at Hula Hula as “effortlessly chic,” which captures the essence of both the bar and the island itself.
Food Options and Popular Orders
Hula Hula serves a compact but high-quality menu focused on Mediterranean flavors. Grilled fish, seafood pasta, and fresh salads dominate lunchtime orders, complemented by local olive oil and herbs. The thin-crust pizzas are a top choice for sharing, and vegetarian options like Caprese salad or grilled vegetables are popular among daytime visitors.
The kitchen operates continuously through the afternoon, ensuring guests can dine without leaving their spots. Service staff deliver meals to sunbeds or tables, keeping the experience smooth even during rush hours. Portions are generous, and dishes are prepared quickly to match the pace of the day.
Many guests eat between 3 and 5 p.m. before the main party begins, using mealtime as a break between swimming and dancing. The combination of seaside dining and upbeat music gives every meal an atmosphere that feels both social and scenic.
Safety, House Rules, and Getting Back
Hula Hula maintains a relaxed but orderly environment. Security staff monitor the crowd and remind guests about safe swimming and respectful behavior. The rocks near the water can be slippery, so wearing water shoes or staying on marked entry points helps avoid falls.
ID checks are common for alcohol purchases, and the staff enforces local age laws strictly. Bags may be inspected during large events or when celebrity DJs perform, ensuring safety without spoiling the experience.
After sunset, the path back to town is well-lit and safe for walking. Taxis often wait near the bar entrance, and private drivers can be arranged in advance for groups. The party winds down gradually, giving everyone time to leave comfortably. Hula Hula’s team balances freedom and safety well, keeping the beach atmosphere fun and worry-free.
Photo Spots and Sunset Views
Hula Hula’s west-facing deck delivers some of Hvar’s best photo opportunities. The main platform near the sea gives a full view of the sun sinking behind the Pakleni Islands. Visitors often pose along the wooden pier, where reflections of the orange and pink sky create natural light filters.
The elevated lounge area near the bar also provides stunning angles, especially for group photos. DJs often coordinate music with the sunset, creating a cinematic experience that feels unique every evening.
From 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., the lighting softens, giving photographers the golden glow that makes Hvar famous. Tripods aren’t allowed during peak hours, but handheld shots are encouraged. Whether it’s a casual selfie or a panoramic capture, every frame at Hula Hula seems built for memory-making.
Nearby Alternatives if It’s Packed
If Hula Hula reaches capacity, several nearby venues offer similar charm with less crowding. Falko Beach Bar, located just a few minutes farther along the coast, provides a quieter vibe with hammocks and a relaxed soundtrack. It’s a favorite for those seeking chill drinks away from the rush.
Beach Club Hvar, closer to the town center, delivers a more polished experience with elegant seating, full meals, and strong cocktails. For guests looking to continue late into the night, Carpe Diem Beach across the bay keeps the energy high with world-class DJs and dance floors that run past midnight.
These alternatives ensure visitors can always find a place that matches their mood. Whether you crave quiet sea views or an all-night celebration, Hvar’s coastline offers endless ways to extend the rhythm that begins at Hula Hula.
References
- Hula-Hula, beach club Hvar – visit-hvar.com
- Beach Party at Hula Hula – bookaparty.com
