Field School Hvar · Summer 2026

Welcome to Jelsa, and to Field School

You're bringing your family to a small town on a Croatian island for the summer. Exciting, and a little daunting. This guide is the friendly hand-off from parents who've done it: what to pack, how to actually get here, what your first day looks like, and where the good beaches, bakeries and gelato are.

Start with the basics Open the map

Start here

The guide, in the order you'll need it

First time on Hvar, first time at Field School, or both — work top to bottom, or jump to whatever you need right now.

Before you goTwo packing lists, phones & what to expect Getting to FontanaSplit airport, the ferry, boats & taxis Your first dayDrop-off, orientation & the camp backpack Life at FontanaThe building, pool, gym, laundry & swap table Beaches & swimmingWhere to swim, pinned on the map Food & drinkBakeries, gelato, dinners & the map Getting around the islandBuses, the timetable, rentals & day trips Local eventsWhat's on this summer in Jelsa & beyond

At a glance

The five things to know first

Where you'll stay

Resort Fontana, Jelsayour home base for everything below

Camp hours

2:00–9:00 pmMonday to Friday

Getting here

Fly to Split, then ferryabout 1–2 hours across the water

Money

Euro (€)carry cash for buses, taxis & small spots

Getting around town

On footno Uber on Hvar; one local taxi

Good to pack

Water shoes & a cheap old phonemore on the packing page

This guide was written by Field School parents, for Field School parents — starting with a family who came in Session 1. It's practical and a little opinionated, the way a good friend's advice should be. Spot something out of date or have a favourite to add? There's a link to send it at the bottom of every page.