Primorje-Gorski Kotar Croatia, Primorje-Gorski Kotar
Kandarola FKK Beach (Rab)
FKK Plaža Kandarola sits on the island of Rab in the Kvarner Gulf, just outside the village of Kampor on the island's northwest coast.
About this place
FKK Plaža Kandarola sits on the island of Rab in the Kvarner Gulf, just outside the village of Kampor on the island's northwest coast. Rab holds a special place in Croatian naturist history—it's often cited as the birthplace of organized Adriatic naturism, dating back to the 1930s when British king Edward VIII reportedly swam nude at Kandarola. Today the beach is better known locally as Rajska plaža (Paradise Beach), and it remains one of Rab's established free naturist beaches rather than a resort naselje. The shoreline here is the typical Kvarner mix: pale rock and pebble, clear water, and pines that come right down to the waterline. It's not a hidden cove—Kandarola is well-signposted and popular, especially in July and August when German and Austrian families anchor the crowd. You'll find a relaxed, long-standing FKK culture: towels spread along the rock terraces, snorkeling off the point, and plenty of shade under the trees. There are no resort amenities on-site—no restaurant, no sunbed concession—so pack what you need. The appeal is simplicity and the history: you're swimming where Central European naturism took root nearly a century ago, and the vibe still reflects that low-key, family-tolerant tradition.
Visitor notes
Contributed by ClothingOptional.org Editorial Team
Who visits
Kandarola draws the classic Adriatic FKK demographic: German and Austrian families, Italian couples, and Croatian regulars from the mainland. Summer weekends skew local; mid-week in high season is heavily international. Age range is broad—retirees who've been coming for decades, young families, middle-aged couples. The atmosphere is sociable but not social in the resort sense; people stick to their own towels, and there's little organized activity.
How to find it
Rab is connected to the mainland by ferry from Jablanac (Valbiska line) or Stinica. From Rab town, drive west on the island's main road toward Kampor; Kandarola is signposted just past the village. There's a small car park at the trailhead, and the beach is a 5–10 minute walk down through the pines. The path is well-worn but uneven—wear sandals you can hike in.
Things to watch out for
Rocky bottom and sea urchins in the shallows—reef shoes are strongly recommended, especially for children. The beach faces northwest, so it's sheltered from the southerly jugo but exposed to the bura; on windy days the water can be choppy and the pines loud. No facilities on-site means no toilets, no fresh water—plan accordingly. July and August are crowded; arrive early or visit in June or September for elbow room.
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Etiquette & ground rules
Croatian FKK beaches and naturist sections are clearly signposted — stay within the marked area. Phone cameras are off-limits without explicit consent. The mix between nude and textile bathers shifts by site; respect the local norm you encounter. Pack out all trash; many Adriatic FKK beaches have minimal facilities.
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