For anyone contemplating an autumn escape to a sunnier climate, Bol in Croatia is an ideal place to kick back and enjoy what remains of the summer.

The weather in Croatia in September is a really pleasant 25-30 degrees and with the summer beach rush already over a more relaxing time awaits. The sea water in Croatia is also a little warmer in September, than June or July, which is just perfect for beach lovers who want to enjoy outdoor swimming or water sport activities. The Dalmatia region of Croatia is an excellent place to explore and I recommend an Island hopping holiday around the areas of Split and Bol.

10 ways to enjoy Croatia

1) First stop Bol Harbour

From Split airport take a taxi to Split Harbour (about 20-25 minutes away) and then catch the 45 minute ferry to Supetar. From here continue to nearby Bol Harbour. Set your cases down in Bol, relax, take in the sun and calm of the place and enjoy the small shops and restaurants at Bol Harbour. Some of Croatia’s best hidden beaches are in Bol, so this is the perfect place to unwind and work on the tan.

2) The Monastery Beach, Bol

This is a truly lovely beach reached by a short walk along the coastal path. The setting is pure magic and there’s an old fisherman's house open to the public for meals. Here, you can swim, enjoy great food and, if you wish, enjoy a coffee or beer, brought to you while you sit under the trees.

3) Zlatni-rat beach

This is Croatia’s most famous and most photographed beach. Zlatni-rat is a white pebble beach, it stretches 500 meters into the sea, in the shape of a horn. It is unique because the tip of the horn changes direction, according to the currents. The winds from the West have made the Zlatni-rat a windsurfer’s paradise, September winds are just right for those interested in windsurfing or kite surfing. The water in this area is crystalline clear so great for swimming and snorkeling.

4) Sites of interest

Follow the gravel cliff-top road from Zlatni-rat some 5 km to the west of the beach and you will reach the historic eco-village of Murvica with its famous beach, and the archaeological site of "Dragon's Cave". Here you will find traditional stone homes, and endless vineyards. Continue further to discover a stunning old Monastery and just few minutes more, an ecological paradise completes the scene.

5) Dive and dine

Lucice Cave on the south-east coast of the island, is close to Milna. It is the biggest cove in this area and it has five smaller coves. Local diving schools take many people to the cave so book in advance if you’d like a lesson. Its initial depth of only 5 meters makes a good spot for beginner instruction classes.

The lovely deep cove of Lovrecina also has a spacious sandy beach 100 meters long stretching out into the sea. On the beach you’ll also find a beach bar, restaurant, volleyball and other beach activities going on.

6) Postira

Postira is a picturesque fisherman’s village and the Island of Brac port. Its name originates from the Latin name pasture. This is a quaint village by the sea; there are four local beaches to enjoy here. On the east end of Postira village, is the very attractive sandy beach, Lovrecina. This is one of the few sandy beaches in the area and the lush green pine forest of the area is spectacular. It is perfect for young children as the sea is very shallow here. However, you do some wheels to get there.

7) Island hopping

Treat yourself to a water taxi direct from Bol to Hvar town to Bol or look for an excursion to this notable island. The Island of Hvar is known for its friendly people, picturesque beaches and bay, its lush green surroundings of olive trees and lavender. Once on Hvar Island there’s plenty of interesting places to discover including the most beautiful of bays in the region.

8) Supetar

Should you want a change of pace then jump on the ferry across to Supetar. This town and a city are on the northern side of the Island. Aside from its clean beach, there’s the opportunity to see the town and marvel at the churches and a rich cultural history dating back to the Roman times. The Christian mosaics near the parish church (VI century) and the villa rustica (VI century) are noteworthy examples.

Supetar also offers a large variety of coffee houses, restaurants and nightlife so an overnight stay might be worth considering if you wish to enjoy the variety of clubs in the area.

9) Meander in Marjan

Marjan is a hill on the peninsula Split. Set in a dense Mediterranean pine forest but close to the city and the sea. At the western end of the Riva in Split, you will find a staircase that takes you up a hill where you can get lovely panoramic views of the old town of Split and enjoy a refreshing beer. This location is perfect for those who enjoy walking and cycling and its beaches are also amazingly clean, its lovely turquoise waters complete the scene.

10) Don't rush back too soon

When you step off the Bol Split ferry, on the way to Split airport its worth taking a day to visit the old town of Split. The old is very attractive, with many little shops, so get your holiday souvenirs from here. The Old town is clean, and welcoming, enjoy choose a place to drink and enjoy the pretty squares which are great for people watching. A plethora of good restaurants, bars and eating places await you.