Foginovo Beach

Foginovo Beach is a riverside beach and recreation area on the Korana River in Karlovac, Croatia, widely regarded as the country's first officially arranged river beach. It sits just a short walk from the Old Town, making it an easy add-on for anyone exploring the "town of four rivers" who fancies a break by the water.

Where does the beach come from?

The story goes back to 1928, when Dragutin Fogin bought a plot of land along the Korana and turned it into a public bathing spot. He struck a deal with the Zagreb railway so that every Sunday a train would bring visitors straight from the capital for a day of swimming. That early push to turn the riverbank into a proper leisure destination is still visible in the beach's layout today, and Foginovo remains one of Karlovac's summer landmarks.

How do you get there?

The beach sits directly on the Korana, close enough to the Old Town to reach on foot along the riverside path, and cycling in is just as easy. Drivers will find free parking right next to the site, and there's no charge to enter the beach itself.

What is there to do?

Foginovo offers a lot more than a patch of riverbank to lie on. The grounds include courts for beach volleyball and basketball, table tennis tables, an outdoor gym, and a running track, so there's plenty to keep active visitors busy between swims. The centerpiece, though, is the diving structure: the boldest jumpers can take the plunge from the 10-metre platform, nicknamed locally the "Cener," while others can choose the 7, 5, or 3-metre boards instead. The river also has shallower stretches better suited to less confident swimmers and families, and water polo matches are a regular summer sight.

Is the beach accessible for everyone?

Yes — Foginovo has been set up with visitors of limited mobility in mind, including a water lift and adapted deck chairs that make it easier to get into the river. Changing cabins and toilets are available on site, and lifeguards keep watch over the swimming area, which makes the beach a comfortable choice for families with young children too.

When is the best time to visit?

The swimming season in Karlovac runs roughly from late spring through early autumn, with July and August drawing the biggest crowds thanks to warm weather that invites long afternoons by the water. On peak summer days it pays to arrive early to grab a spot on the grassy bank before it fills up.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Foginovo Beach free? Yes, both entry to the beach and the nearby parking are free of charge.

How far is the beach from central Karlovac? It's about a 10-minute walk from the Old Town, following the bank of the Korana River.

Are there lifeguards on duty? Yes, the swimming area is supervised by lifeguards, and there are designated shallow zones for children and less confident swimmers.

What else can you do besides swim? Visitors can play beach volleyball, basketball, or table tennis, use the outdoor gym, or try diving from platforms of different heights.