The Elaphiti Islands or the Elaphites is a small archipelago consisting of several islands stretching northwest of Dubrovnik, in the Adriatic sea. The name comes from the Ancient Greek word for deer, which used to inhabit the islands in large numbers. The islands are famous for its crystal clear sea, beautiful sandy beaches, hidden bays, idyllic atmosphere, and hospitality of its people. The Elaphites have a total land area of around 30 square km and a population of only 850 inhabitants. Only the three main islands are permanently inhabited. The others are just a play place oasis for the gull rarely disturbed by the lonesome visitor in search of tranquil isolation. Koločep is is the closest island to Dubrovnik, located 5 km from the Dubrovnik harbour at Gruž. It used to be an important shipbuilding site in the Republic of Ragusa period. It has seven pre-Romanesque churches dating back to the times of the Croatian kings, from the 9th to the 11th century. Koločep is also known as an island of fishermen and coral-divers, where you can find a fishing area with plenty of lobsters. Lopud is second in size and best known for its sandy beaches, one of the most beautiful beaches in that part of the world. Beaches are sandy and very shallow, in other worlds, perfect for children and for playing Beach Volleyball and other beach sports. Lopud’s Šunj beach has a section for naturists, and the local legend says that if you bath there with your love one, you will stay together forever. It is located between Šipan and Koločep islands. Šipan is the farthest and largest island in terms of area (15.8 square km) and population of 436 inhabitants. It also has two settlements, Šipanska Luka and Suđurađ. To get to any of the inhabited Elaphite islands is fairly easy as ferry boats go on a regular basis leaving out of Dubrovnik's port, the Port of Gruz. And if you would like to go to the other islands or maybe even take a cruise on the Adriatic you can always rent or charter a boat or a sailboat. For more information about sailing in Dubrovnik area, 

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