Omis is a breathtaking region located in the heart of Dalmatia. Situated between the famous port city of Split and the popular Makarska holiday region, the beautiful Omis Riviera enchants its visitors with beautiful beaches, lots of nature and extremely beautiful attractions. Along the picturesque coast, you can experience a lot and explore many amazing places. Besides the magical old town and the castle, the most important sights of Omis are the fortress Starigrad on the mountain and the spectacular canyon with the river Centina. In addition, the Omis Riviera is a perfect starting point for field trips.
Mirabela Fortress, from the 13th century, is certainly the most important place to visit in Omis. It is located on a cliff and rises above the historic old town. A path with many stairs leads to Mirabela Fortress. A certain level of fitness is an advantage, because the stairs are quite steep and exhausting. After a 15-minute walk to the fortress, you will be rewarded with the best view of the Old Town Omis and the beautiful view of the Cetina Canyon. A top that must not be missed!
Another unique place to visit in Omis is the 15th century Starigrad Fortress. However, this is only a short walk away, as it is located on a high mountain peak just above the old town. The walk from Omis to the fortress is, depending on physical fitness, about 1 hour. You will have to climb 300 meters above sea level. But the effort is worth it, as Starigrad Fortika offers an indescribable view of Omis and the turquoise blue sea.
Another amazing place to visit in Omis is a visit to the viewpoint of the statue of Ivan Mestrovic. It is located about 5 km from the center and can be easily reached by a serpentine road by car. From the top you have a spectacular view of Omis Canyon, the mountains in the background, and even the waterfall. The whole panorama is indescribably beautiful, so the view from the statue is an absolute landmark for any trip to Omis.
History
Until the territorial reorganization in Croatia, it was part of the old municipality of Omis.
The area of the Adriatic coast was first inhabited by the Illyrians, around 1000 BC. n. e., and after them come the Greeks around 400 BC. n. e. who established colonies on the coast and nearby islands. After them, the Roman Empire came to power in 34 BC. n. e. Around 600, Serbs and Croats settled in what is now Dalmatia.
The first inhabitants of the area after the fall of Roman rule, according to Constantine Porphyrogenitus, were unbaptized Serbs, and Omis was part of the Serbian principality of Pagania. Omis was the most important city of Serbian Pagania, from where Omis pirates attacked ships. Omis is first mentioned in history under the name Oneum, which died out in the early 7th century. The historic center of Omis at that time was located on the east bank of the river Cetina (the name comes from the Phrygian word zetna – door, and thus describes the mouth of Cetina in the sea).
Beaches
Big Beach
Omis’s most famous beach is probably the Big Beach, the long sandy beach next to the city. It is the main beach of the Riviera and a popular place for summer vacations in Croatia. The beach is slightly sloping and therefore a perfect place for families with children. The sea is crystal clear and invites for a nice swim.
Duce Beach
Duce is an area of Omis and consists of the following residential areas: Luka, Rogac, Vavlja, Golubinka, Glavica and Docina. The beach in Duce stretches for about 6 km with several beautiful sandy beaches. Duce is also popular among the locals because the beaches are long and shallow and are great for swimming. The beach has many restaurants, cafes and snack bars. You can find natural shade in many parts. If you visit the beach by car, it will be difficult to find parking in the afternoon, as many locals also come to the beach after work. Parking is limited and is located along the main road.
Beach Brzet / Ravnice
On the left side of Omis is the beach Brzet / Ravnice which stretches for about 3 km. This part of the coast offers beautiful pebble beaches. The first part of Brzet beach was redesigned in 2020 and offers an asphalt promenade, cafes and restaurants. This part of the coast offers several beautiful bays. The sea is crystal clear, making it perfect for swimming and diving. This part of the beach is located next to green, fragrant pine trees. Therefore, in many parts you can find natural shade and enjoy the scent of pine trees. The view of the mountain landscape is breathtaking when you swim in the sea. There are many parking spaces on the street next to the beach.
Mala Luka Beach
Mala Luka beach is located between Nemira and Staniqi areas and is an absolute tip. This beach is with pebbles, with rock formations in the sea. At the edge of the beach, you can dive into the turquoise, clear blue sea and watch the fish. This beach offers two bays connected by a small hiking trail. Here you can find natural shade to relax from the sun. There is also a restaurant and a cafe. Paid parking is also available. If you want a day trip, this beach is highly recommended!
Beach in Stanici
This pebble beach is located in Stanici. This beach offers natural shade because there are many pine trees. Protruding rocks in the sea offer a beautiful backdrop. This is a paradise for young and old and offers restaurants and cafes for recharging. You can park on the spot, but it will be difficult at the height of the season as places are limited.
