The Island of Rab has always carried an air of joy, balance, and beauty. Known since Roman times as Felix Arba—meaning “Happy Rab”—this island has attracted settlers, travelers, and sailors for thousands of years. Archaeological findings show traces of prehistoric life, while the Romans established Rab as an important settlement thanks to its fertile land, fresh water, and natural harbors. During the Middle Ages, Rab Town grew into a fortified settlement with its four iconic bell towers, symbols of faith and protection. Over the centuries, the island endured pirate raids, naval battles, and sieges, but always remained a place of resilience, faith, and celebration.
🐬 Dolphins and the Island of Rab
Dolphins are common residents of Rab’s waters. They often play in the distance while you relax on Paradise Beach, one of the island’s most famous sandy shores. Locals like to believe dolphins choose Rab because they feel happy here. But it wasn’t dolphins or Croatians who named it the Island of Happiness—it was the Romans, inspired by Rab’s natural diversity and beauty.
🏖️ Sandy Beaches of the Island of Rab
Unlike most Adriatic islands known for rocky shores, the Island of Rab is famous for its abundance of sandy beaches. In fact, Rab has the most sandy beaches in the Adriatic. The star is Paradise Beach (Rajska plaža) in Lopar, stretching nearly 2 kilometers, perfect for families with shallow, warm waters. Close by lies Sahara Beach, a nudist beach known for its golden sand and calm atmosphere. From lively shores to hidden coves, Rab offers endless seaside escapes.
🌳 Forests, Springs, and the Green Heart of Rab
The Island of Rab is one of the greenest islands in the Adriatic, with about 35% of its surface covered in forests and more than 300 freshwater springs. The Kalifront Peninsula is home to a preserved oak forest, while Dundovo Park is a lush green area with unique Mediterranean flora and fauna. These landscapes provide shady walking trails, peaceful picnics, and encounters with nature rarely found on other islands.
🥾 Hiking Trails and Mountain Views on the Island of Rab
Rab even offers mountain-like experiences. The famous Premužić Trail, built by Croatian pathbuilder Ante Premužić, winds across the island and showcases the art of dry-stone architecture. Walking here reveals stunning panoramas of the Adriatic, where islands rise from the sea in every direction. It’s an experience that combines history, architecture, and nature all in one.
⛪ Legends and the Patron Saint Cristopher
The Town of Rab, with its four church towers rising like the masts of old ships, carries stories of faith and miracles. According to legend, the island’s patron saint, St. Cristopher, protected Rab three times from invading fleets in the 11th and 12th centuries. When his relics were brought to the city walls, enemies mysteriously retreated. These events strengthened Rab’s reputation as a blessed and happy place, where courage and faith triumphed over fear.
🎉 A Tradition of Happiness
Over the centuries, the Island of Rab embraced its role as a joyful island. From the medieval Rapska Fjera festival every July, to the making of the famous Rab cake, to evenings filled with song and laughter, Rab continues to radiate happiness and hospitality. Even today, its people carry the same spirit celebrated by the Romans—Felix Arba, the Happy Island.
📝 My Personal Note
The Island of Rab swept me off my feet the moment I arrived. I expected sandy beaches, but I found so much more—stories carved in stone, forests filled with silence, and the joy of seeing dolphins dance on the horizon. Walking the alleys of Rab Town, climbing the bell towers, and tasting the famous Rab cake felt like stepping into living history. The island carries a happiness you can feel—it’s no wonder the Romans called it Felix Arba, the Happy Island.
👉 Your Next Step
Discover Rab at your own pace. Wander through its medieval Old Town, rest under pine trees in Komrčar Park, swim on sandy beaches like Paradise Beach, and join the rhythms of local festivals. Every corner of Rab invites you to slow down and enjoy life.
Find more ideas in our complete Things to Do on Rab guide — filled with insider tips, hidden gems, and stories that will make your Croatian journey unforgettable.
Written with the sun on our skin and the sea breeze in our hearts,
– Your CTC Crew 🌞
