OOO ARR!
The ‘secret’ pirate beach town on one of Europe’s most popular coasts with astonishingly cheap TUI holidays
It is just 35 minutes from a major airport that has direct UK flights
A HIDDEN former pirate town is said to be one of the most beautiful spots in Croatia.
Omiš is just 35 minutes by car from Split Airport, so its an easy day trip for Brits.
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Named one of the best "secret" towns by Telegraph as well as a by TravelAwaits, it lies on the end of the Cetina River.
It was once a stronghold for pirates during the Middle Ages before being under Venetian rule in the 15th century.
Two of the medieval fortresses the pirates built remain, which you can climb for amazing views.
And every year in August you can even watch pirate battle re-enactments with sword fights and cannon shootings.
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Taking place on August 18, actors play out the Venetian and Omis pirates, alongside live music and street food, all of which is free to see.
Now, the town is popular with thrill-seekers, with both ziplining across the canyons as well as white water rafting activities.
But for a more relaxed visit, there is the main sandy beach - a rarity in Croatia with many being pebble beaches.
Velika Plaza - meaning 'long beach' - stretches 700 metres with shallow waters as well as sunlounger rentals and cafes.
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Or there is the smaller Mala Luka, a stony beach that is more secluded.
And with cafes and restaurants lining the river in town, you can hop between the waterfront eateries.
The secret European island with just one hotel, hidden beaches and wine bars selling cheap local booze
Due to its seaside location, you can expect a lot of seafood dishes, but also pizza due to its Italian history.
Make sure to visit the Omis Rivieria, which is a collection of small villages to the south too.
TUI has seven night stays for £462pp, including return Gatwick Airport flights.
A similar deal can be found with easyJet, also costing £462pp with Bristol flights.
Happy to go even cheaper? A seven-night stay with loveholidays can be found for as little as £279pp.
One of the top hotels is Hotel Villa Dvor, which was a Tripadvisor award winner last year.
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Otherwise one of the cheapest options is Hotel Plaza, which is on offer with TUI and loveholidays.
If staying in Split, you can drive by car in around 35 mins, or take a longer bus in around 45 minutes, although tickets are just a few euros.
The Sun's Harry Corton visited the town during a sailing trip around Croatia - here's what he thought.
Elsewhere is Croatia is Krk, its largest island.
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And here is how to take a trip to Dubrovnik, dubbed the Pearl of the Adriatic.
Want to move to Croatia? A small town is selling houses for just 11p.
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