Things to Do in Croatia in March

This guided walk through Zadar threads Roman ruins into medieval churches, pausing for freshly caught sardines, tangy sheep's cheese from the hinterland, and crisp Maraschino liqueur. The tour borrows its name from the susurrus, the whisper the Sea Organ makes when waves push air through underwater pipes. Charcoal smoke drifts from a street grill. Melodic notes rise from stone.

A private boat leaves Hvar, skimming past fragrant pine on the Pakleni islands toward rust-red cliffs that give the Red Cliffs their name. The engine drops to a purr inside secluded coves of startling turquoise. Along Hvar's south shore, fishing villages smell of brine and drying nets.

A Tuk Tuk breezes up Hvar Town's steep, cobbled lanes to panoramic terraces above terracotta roofs and a harbor of idle yachts. The little engine buzzes as you climb to the Napoleonic fortress. From there the central Dalmatian islands scatter across the horizon. Spring rosemary and lavender scent hidden courtyards.

This group boat departs Zadar harbor for nearby islands such as Ugljan, where olive groves lean to the sea and a Franciscan bell tolls. The vessel cuts crystalline blue water; cool, humid air drifts off the Velebit channel. In a small village you can nibble salty olives or sip coffee on a quiet seafront.

On Dugi Otok you paddle a stand-up board across Telascica Bay, a natural park where limestone cliffs rise straight from emerald water. The dip of your paddle and the sun on your shoulders are the only sounds and warmth. The day finishes at Sakarun Beach, its blinding white sand framed by pines that smell sharp and clean.

A private food tour lets you choose between the moon-like Kornati archipelago or the gentle farms of Vrgada island. You'll slurp just-shucked oysters, sip herb-steeped grappa, and eat prsut whose savory depth lingers. Woodsmoke from a konoba hearth drifts past endless tiny islands.