Nestled along the quiet eastern shore of Murter island, Kosirina Bay is one of the Adriatic’s best-kept coastal secrets—a sheltered crescent of turquoise water, smooth pebbles, and dense pine forest that feels a world apart from the busier beaches of the Dalmatian mainland. As one of the finest Murter island beaches, Kosirina draws discerning sailors who recognise it as the best anchorage Murter has to offer: calm, crystal-clear, and perfectly positioned as a gateway to the legendary Kornati archipelago. Whether you drop anchor for a midday swim or settle in for a full overnight stay with Splendid Yachting’s crewed motor yacht charters, Kosirina beach Croatia delivers a rare combination of natural beauty, excellent holding ground, and blissful tranquility that keeps yacht crews returning season after season.
How to Reach Kosirina Bay by Boat
Kosirina Bay opens on the eastern coast of Murter island, facing the narrow Murter Sea channel that separates the island from the mainland. From ACI Marina Jezera, the bay lies just 1.5 nautical miles to the north-east—a leisurely ten-minute motor in calm conditions. Sailors arriving from Vodice or Šibenik will cover approximately 6 NM on a westerly heading, passing the Murter bridge and rounding the island’s south-eastern tip before the bay reveals itself between low, pine-covered headlands. From Tribunj, the approach is an easy 4 NM on a north-westerly course. The entrance is wide and free of hazards, though a depth sounder is useful as the bay shallows gradually from 8 metres at the mouth to 2–3 metres near the beach. Keep to the centre of the bay on approach, and watch for the occasional mooring line from boats already at anchor. Charts mark the bay clearly, and in daylight navigation presents no difficulties—even for less experienced charterers making their first visit to the Kosirina bay Murter area.
The Beach & Water
The beach at Kosirina is a gentle arc of fine to medium pebbles, roughly 200 metres long, backed by a thick stand of Aleppo pines whose canopy reaches almost to the waterline. The shade beneath these trees is a natural refuge during the midday heat—no need for an umbrella. The seabed transitions from smooth pebbles near shore to patches of sand and sparse posidonia grass further out, creating a luminous palette of aquamarine and jade that photographers adore. Water clarity is exceptional, with visibility often exceeding 15 metres, and the sheltered orientation of the bay means the surface stays remarkably calm even when a moderate maestral ruffles the open sea. Summer water temperatures range from 23 °C in June to a peak of 26 °C in August, while the shallow inner portion of the bay warms even faster, making it a favourite for families with young children who can wade safely for dozens of metres without the depth exceeding waist height.
History & Name Origins
The name Kosirina derives from the local Dalmatian dialect word košir, meaning a sloped or slanting plot of land, reflecting the gentle hillsides that cradle the bay. For centuries, this sheltered cove served as a refuge for Murter fishermen during sudden storms—a tradition recorded in 18th-century maritime logs from the Venetian period. The dense pine forest was deliberately planted in the 1920s as part of a coastal reforestation project, and those same trees now provide the signature shade and maritime fragrance that define the bay’s character. Local families from Murter village have long regarded Kosirina as their private retreat, visiting on Sundays for picnics beneath the pines—a tradition that continues today, blending seamlessly with the modern sailing community that has discovered its charms.
What to See & Do
Snorkelling is superb along both rocky headlands that frame Kosirina Bay. Colourful wrasse, damselfish, and sea bream dart among the submerged boulders, and patient observers may spot an octopus tucked into a crevice. The pine forest behind the beach is laced with informal footpaths that lead to elevated viewpoints over the Kornati islands—bring binoculars and you can count dozens of barren, silver-white islets stretching toward the open Adriatic. Murter village, a 15-minute walk or short dinghy ride to the south, is the main departure point for Kornati National Park excursions, and many sailors use Kosirina as a staging anchorage the evening before entering the park. On the village waterfront you will find traditional konoba restaurants serving grilled fish, octopus salad, and Murter’s renowned mussels. For a full day’s adventure, rent a kayak and paddle the coastline northward toward the uninhabited islets of Tegina and Arta, where you can swim in complete solitude. Alternatively, consider exploring nearby gems like Primošten, the charming marina town of Biograd na Moru, or the secluded coves of Šolta island as part of your Dalmatian sailing itinerary. Those seeking hidden anchorages reachable only by yacht should also explore Telašćica Bay on Dugi Otok or the pristine Skrivena Luka on Lastovo island.
Anchoring & Mooring
Kosirina is widely regarded as the best anchorage Murter offers for overnight stays. The bay provides depths of 4–8 metres over a bottom of sand, mud, and scattered weed—excellent holding once the anchor is properly set. There is ample swing room for 10–15 boats without crowding, and even in peak season the bay rarely feels congested. Protection is outstanding from the south, west, and north-west, as the surrounding hills and dense tree cover act as a natural windbreak. The bay is open to the east, so a strong levante or south-easterly jugo can push swell into the anchorage—in these conditions, consider relocating to Jezera harbour or Hramina marina on Murter’s western side. In settled summer weather, however, nights here are calm and quiet, with only the gentle sound of waves on pebbles. There are no mooring buoys or shore facilities at the bay itself, so bring sufficient provisions and water. A stern line to the rocks on the southern headland is a good practice if the anchorage begins to fill. For those seeking professional support and luxury amenities during their Adriatic cruise, book a crewed charter with Splendid Yachting to experience Kosirina Bay and the wider Kornati region in ultimate comfort.
Best Time to Visit
The prime window for visiting Kosirina bay Murter stretches from mid-May through September. Early season (May–June) delivers warm air temperatures around 24–28 °C, water at 20–23 °C, and the intoxicating scent of flowering macchia on the hillside. You will likely share the bay with only a handful of other boats. July and August are peak charter season and the bay can host a dozen yachts on popular evenings, though the atmosphere remains relaxed rather than crowded. September is arguably the finest month: summer-warm water (still 24 °C), dramatically fewer boats, softer light, and local restaurants at their culinary best after a full season of practice. October sailing is feasible for experienced crews, but the maestral becomes less reliable and bura events more frequent, so check forecasts carefully.
Essential Tips for Visitors
Bring reef shoes for comfortable entry across the pebble beach, and pack snorkelling gear—there is nowhere to rent equipment at the bay. Fresh water is not available on site, so fill your tanks before departing your marina. If you plan to visit Kornati National Park the next day, purchase your park entry ticket online in advance or at the Murter village tourist office to avoid queues at the park ranger stations. Mobile phone signal is strong thanks to the proximity of the mainland. Dispose of all rubbish aboard your vessel—this pristine bay has no waste collection facilities. Anchor with care over the posidonia patches; while the grass itself can reduce holding, it is a protected habitat vital to Adriatic marine ecology. Finally, arrive before mid-afternoon in July and August to secure a good spot; the bay fills from late afternoon as charter boats seek their overnight anchorage.
⚓ Anchorage Information
- Depth: 4–8 metres
- Bottom: Sand, mud, scattered weed — excellent holding
- Protection: Outstanding from S, W, NW; open to E
- Capacity: 10–15 boats comfortably
- Facilities: None on site; nearest provisions in Murter village
- Coordinates: 43°48.3’N, 15°37.8’E
Location & Map
Kosirina Bay is located on the eastern coast of Murter island, just 1.5 nautical miles from ACI Marina Jezera and approximately 6 NM west of Šibenik. The bay serves as an ideal staging point for exploring the Kornati archipelago and the wider northern Dalmatian coastline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kosirina Bay suitable for overnight anchoring?
Yes, Kosirina Bay is one of the best overnight anchorages on Murter island, offering excellent holding ground and superb protection from westerly and north-westerly winds. Avoid overnight stays if strong south-easterly (jugo) winds are forecast.
Are there restaurants or shops at Kosirina Bay?
No, the bay itself has no commercial facilities. The nearest restaurants, shops, and services are in Murter village, approximately 15 minutes away on foot or by dinghy.
Can I visit Kornati National Park from Kosirina Bay?
Absolutely. Kosirina Bay is an ideal staging anchorage for early-morning departures into Kornati National Park, which lies just a few nautical miles to the west. Purchase your park ticket in advance from Murter village or online.
What other beaches should I explore near Kosirina Bay?
Consider visiting Stiniva Beach on Vis island for dramatic cliffs, Veli Žal Beach on Dugi Otok for golden sands, or the stunning Blue Lagoon (Krknjasi) near the Kornati islands for snorkelling paradise.
Is Kosirina Bay safe for swimming with children?
Yes, Kosirina Bay is excellent for families. The shallow, gently sloping seabed allows children to wade safely for many metres, and the calm, protected waters rarely have strong currents. Always supervise young swimmers and bring reef shoes for comfort on the pebble beach.
What weather conditions should I avoid at Kosirina Bay?
Avoid anchoring at Kosirina during strong south-easterly (jugo) or easterly winds, as the bay is open to the east and can become uncomfortable with swell. Monitor forecasts carefully, especially in shoulder season (May, October), when sudden weather changes are more common.
What type of yacht is best suited for Kosirina Bay?
Kosirina Bay accommodates yachts of all sizes, from 30-foot sailboats to 60-foot motor yachts, thanks to its 4–8 metre depths and ample swing room. Catamarans anchor comfortably here, though monohulls may find it easier to deploy a stern line to shore if the bay becomes crowded during peak season.