Šipan is a small island in the southern Dalmatia, but still the largest in Elafiti archipelago which also includes nearby islands of Lopud, Koločep and Jakljan as well as a dozen of islets. It is just a bit over 6 nautical miles far from the famous town of Dubrovnik, while Koločep channel separates it from the mainland.
Owing to its prettiness and lush greenery it is a popular day-trip and especially admired yachting destination. Besides large and fertile field where numerous Mediterranean plants are grown, there are many historical buildings as well from glorious past times of Republic of Ragusa. Visitors will be surprised by the number and grandeur of the old summer aristocracy residences, fortresses and chapels, largely abandoned. In addition there are several nice bays and two permanent settlements, Suđurađ at the southern and Luka Šipanska in the central part of the island. Suđurađ is a typical small Mediterranean village with vivid harbour and stone houses, among which stand out two tallish ancient towers. There are several moorings for the yachts as well while azure sea in the bay is quite tempting.
Luka Šipanska is located in the bottom of the spacious bay of the same name, open to the north-west and protected partially by the neighbouring island of Jakljan. With houses scattered around the bay, shallow waters and pine trees almost touching the sea it offers notably different atmosphere than Suđurađ. There are also several berths on the waterfront, but boats mostly drop the anchor or catch buoy placed by few wonderful restaurants in the village.
If Šipan is too crowded there are several other nearby possibilities for overnight stay, such as calm and quiet Veli Jakljan bay with lovely sandy beach on the uninhabited island of Jakljan, or capacious Luka Slano bay with ACI marina. South-east of Šipan there is also a charming Lopud island famous for its gorgeous sandy beaches.
