Hotel Liburna

This boutique hotel takes its name from an ancient ship used by the inhabitants of the Dalmatian coast, and the property's logo is a stylized illustration of it. The building dates to the less distant 1980s (when this was Yugoslavia), and a 2015 renovation has given its airy interiors a modern lift. A glossy white reception desk sits at one end of a bright lobby, and chic yellow chairs and retro tables create small lounge area. While attractive, it isn't a spot that invites lingering, but guests can be found at the outdoor pool and sundeck, or playing tennis or mini-golf. The hotel attracts families and couples seeking an affordable beachfront stay.  

Hotel Liburna sits on a rocky beachfront on a rounded outcrop of land that juts into the sea. It has great views across the bay to the old city, which is about a 15-minute walk away. There's plenty of dining and shopping along its medieval streets, in addition to top sights including Cathedral of Saint Mark and the Marco Polo Museum (the island is debated as a site of the explorer's birthplace). 

It's a six-minute drive to the car ferry terminal, and the journey across the narrow strait to Orebic takes just under 50 minutes. The closest airport is in Dubrovnik, which is about a three-hour car trip. 

Guest rooms have neutral contemporary decor, with light wood furniture, warm gold highlights, and accent walls with Liburna ships above the beds. Standard rooms have gray carpet with double or twin beds, built-in desks, small seating areas with armchairs and tables, and views are of the sea or park, with some offering furnished balconies. All units are equipped with flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, and free Wi-Fi, but there are no kettles or coffee/tea. Some upgraded units add sofa beds, and Junior Suites have separate living rooms with couches, and most have two furnished balconies (though not all have sea views). There are also some bi-level apartments with lofted bedrooms and separate living rooms. Bathrooms are modern and sleek, with attractive square sinks, shower/tub combos with removable showerheads, heated towel racks, hairdryers, and toiletries. 

This boutique hotel has a solid lineup of features for a comfortable stay, with its beachfront access topping the list. There isn't much sunbathing space along the rocky coast, but concrete platforms add spots for a variety of canoes, sailboats, and motorboats that can be rented. Another highlight is the outdoor pool -- which is a bit small -- and sundeck overlooking the sea, with loungers and umbrellas. There are also two outdoor clay tennis courts, and a mini-golf course. 

For drinking and dining, the buffet restaurant has a covered terrace with romantic views of the old city, and hosts regular theme evenings. A free breakfast buffet is included. The lobby bar has an espresso machine and a stylish lounge, and the poolside bar has a handful of minimalist white chairs and tables.

The hotel has weekly live music performances on its outdoor terrace, plus daily kids activities, though both are only offered seasonally. There's no on-site gym, but guests have access to a nearby sister property, the Marko Polo Hotel, which has a fitness center, a spa, and a kids' club. Wi-Fi is free throughout, and there's on-site parking for a fee.