About twenty minutes boat ride from Korcula’s port is island Badija. Island Badija is one of the largest islands in the Korcula archipelago. It is located on the east side of Old Town of Korcula. Island covers the area of one square km and is covered by dense maquis and pine , cypress and olive trees.
Flint knives were found in the Lokve locality, proving that life existed in the caves of Badija in prehistoric times. A stone monuments found on Badija are proofs that Romans were on the island .
Badija was first mentioned in writing in 14th century by the priest Vlaho Ivanovic from Korcula, who lived there as a monk.The present Franciscan monastery and the church date from the 14th century.
A legend says that the old arms from Badija, kept today in the Korcula Cathedral, belonged to the king of Aragon and Naples, and that they were taken from him by the Korculans in a fierce battle.
Island Badija is popular excursion point for the people of Korcula and tourists.The development of tourism in Korcula inevitably turns towards this natural pearl which will enable even the most discriminating tourists to enjoy in this exceptional scenery and stimulating atmosphere.
Badija has a lot of suitable swimming spots and some pebble beaches all over the islands.
On island Badija is a restaurant/caffe bar that is opened in summer months, where one can have snack, refreshment or a meal. Badija is ideal place to spend whole or half day out in the nature.
Getting to island Badija is pretty easy. You have taxi boats , regular or speed boats, going there all the time.
Island Badija is also reachable with rented boats or sea kayaks.