Mala Solina

Mala Solina is a small pink-hued salt lake near the village of Zablaće, about 5 kilometers from Šibenik on Croatia's Dalmatian coast. It is one of two salt lakes in the area — the other being the much larger Velika Solina — and despite covering barely 122,000 square meters, it draws far more attention thanks to its unusual color.

What makes the water pink?

The lake's water ranges from pale pink to a vivid salmon shade, depending on the season and sunlight intensity. The color comes from the microalga Dunaliella salina, along with halobacteria and small crustaceans that thrive in the lake's highly saline water. Stronger sun and higher temperatures intensify the effect, which is why the color is most striking during the peak of summer.

How do you get to Mala Solina?

The lake sits right next to the settlement of Zablaće, only a short drive or bike ride from central Šibenik. A walking path circles the entire lake, and a full loop on foot takes well under an hour. It makes an easy add-on to a day spent exploring Šibenik or relaxing on the nearby beaches.

What is there to see on site?

Beyond the striking color, the lake has a small islet near its center and a shallow, muddy bottom that has been put to medicinal use for centuries. The mineral-rich mud is traditionally used to soothe rheumatic complaints and skin conditions, and locals have come here for mud treatments for generations. The site's history stretches back to the Middle Ages: the first records of salt works here date from 1432, and salt production continued until the mid-17th century, when the threat of Ottoman raids forced the people of Šibenik to abandon it. The former salt pans later evolved into a natural habitat for birds and fish.

When is the best time to visit?

The pink color is most vivid from June to September, when temperatures peak and sunlight is strongest. Early morning and evening light works best for photos, as it's softer and makes the water's tones look even more saturated. Keep in mind that the intensity of the color varies with weather conditions, so no two visits look exactly the same.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Mala Solina? The lake is shallow and muddy, so it isn't really suited to conventional swimming — most visitors come here to walk around it, take photos, and try the traditional therapeutic mud baths.

How far is Mala Solina from Šibenik? About 5 kilometers from the city center, roughly a ten-minute drive or bike ride.

What's the difference between Mala Solina and Velika Solina? Velika Solina is a much larger salt lake in the same area, while Mala Solina is smaller but known for its more intense pink color.

Is there an entrance fee to visit the lake? No, the lake is in an open area and can be visited freely by walking along its shore.