Clubbing holidays with the lads are great fun, but – instead of heading to the usual hotspots – you should always be on the lookout for new and exciting places to check out. This summer, why not jet off to Novalja on the Croatian party island of Pag? If your troops love huge clubs and cool electronic music festivals, then this is a guaranteed winner.
Where?
Novalja is somewhat of a hidden gem, but those who have visited “the Croatian Ibiza” will testify that it is one of Europe’s elite party spots. Situated in the north of Pag, Novalja is a fun-loving village where you can enjoy cheap drinks, big beats and plenty of sun, sea and sand – the perfect ingredients for the ultimate lads’ break.
The real action is at Zrće beach, located right next to Novalja. This party paradise has a number of clubs that keep the fun going all day and night. The boys will absolutely love its cracking atmosphere!
The Big Clubs
Aquarius – A cool beach bar and restaurant by day and wicked club come evening, Aquarius should be one of the first places on your list when you visit Zrće Beach. Although the club is packed with party animals each night, it never feels overwhelming, because it is open-air and spread out over two floors. Thanks to its quality tunes and experienced organisers, Aquarius has appeared in DJ Mag’s “Top 100 Clubs” – so you can be sure that you’re in for a good time here!
Cocomo – Cocomo is a top spot for kick-starting your night, as it’s set on the seafront of Novalja and slightly away from the hectic crowds. It also provides amazing views over the Adriatic, which are best enjoyed while sipping a cocktail (or two!) on the club’s trendy terrace. Cocomo’s huge dance floor comes in handy in the evening, when resident DJs show off their skills and a handful of bars start serving drinks across two floors.
*Insider Tip: If you fancy a club crawl, there are buses right outside of Cocomo’s entrance that will take you to the centre of Zrće. How’s that for convenience?
Kalypso – This is the oldest club on Zrće Beach. Kalypso has a laid-back atmosphere during the day, allowing you to relax on comfy sun beds and watch some beach volleyball. But don’t be fooled: the club cranks things up a notch once the sun goes down. Kalypso is ideal for music lovers, and has a unique, bowl-like stage in the centre, which is perfect for moving and grooving. You might even get lucky and catch a world-famous DJ!
*Insider Tip: Kalypso is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2017! The festivities are bound to get wild and crazy, so I recommend planning your lads’ holiday accordingly.
Papaya – Last but certainly not least, Papaya is perhaps the most popular club on the Adriatic coast. This gigantic venue opens its doors to 5,000 party animals each night and has two swimming pools, five bars, an enormous stage and several dance floors. You would think that a club of this size would lack character, but the open-air Papaya has a cool and consistent style. Revellers also enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the club’s vicinity to the ocean, which is just a stone’s throw away.
Summer Festivals
Hideout Festival – You will need to be on the ball if you want to attend this legendary electronic musical festival, as it sells out each summer. Since its launch in 2011, this event has quickly risen through the ranks, and is now considered one of the top festivals in Europe. Many of the top DJs from around the world descend on Zrće each summer to dazzle the crowds with their legendary tunes.
Fresh Island Festival – If hip-hop is your squad’s music of choice, then I recommend planning your trip around this fantastic festival. Hosted inside the clubs of Papaya and Aquarius, renowned artists such as Snoop Dogg, Method Man & Redman, Eve and A$AP Rocky have graced Fresh Island Festival with their incredible beats in previous years.
Sonus Festival – Sonus promises 5 days of good, booze-fuelled vibes. With techno parties that take place in the clubs, on the beach and out on the sparkling blue ocean waters, you and the lads should expect to rage epically during this festival. Starting in August, Sonus always has a stellar line-up, featuring legends such as Sven Väth, Dixon and Ricardo Villabos. A relatively new festival, this one is definitely on the up and up.
Barrakud Croatia – A summer techno party that takes place in the clubs, on the beach and even out on the sea: what’s not to love? Barrakud takes place in August ever year, and is an absolutely wild festival that any techno-head will adore. Why not take a weekend off with your lads and enjoy the hedonistic atmosphere, sunny weather, and all-around great vibes of this festival of a lifetime? You won’t regret it!
How to Get to Novalja
The best way to reach this party haven is to fly from London Stansted to Zadar Airport (ZAD). This flight is made 9 times per week, and I suggest booking with a budget carrier like Ryanair – you could get return flights for as little as £89! The flight is only two and a half hours, so have a mid-flight beverage, shoot the breeze with your buddies, and you will touch down before you know it.
Since you’ll be raring to hit the clubs, you won’t want to hang around and wait for public transportation or cabs upon arrival. Instead, pre-book a private or shared Shuttle Direct vehicle, meet your driver at the airport, and you’ll be at your hotel in a little over an hour. Easy-breezy!
About Shuttle Direct
Eliminate the stress of rounding up the troops and navigating public transportation by simply booking a Shuttle Direct transfer. We can get you to your hotel, airport, train station or wherever else you need to go as quickly and conveniently as possible. As one of the leading transfer providers in Europe and North Africa, we pride ourselves on our efficient and affordable services.
