Day 1: Flew into Split and explored the city. The city center is a historical zone so ubers can't pick you up/drop you off, but you can get close enough. It's a very small area. All uber rides are a flat rate to/from airport. Explored the city.
Day 2: We rented a car (a MUST for Croatia, you can see so much of the country this way) and drove along the coastline to Korenica. We stopped at different beaches along the way--very scenic drive. Pro Tip: Bring your own snorkel/goggles, the water is pristine but the swim wear is expensive! We stayed the night at #fallinglakeshostel which was incredible. They have daily excursions and social hours. Bistro-Pizzeria is where we had dinner -- a very small city so not much to choose from, but pretty good. There is a grocery store right across the street from this restaurant where we were able to stock up on food.
Day 3: We woke up very early and headed to Plitvice Lakes National Park (we got there as soon as they opened). We did the full 13 mile hike around the park. I recommend starting with the most picturesque part of the park (also the most popular) because it was packed by the time we reached the area. It's a beautiful hike so pack food and enjoy it. Of course we were exhausted so we came back and had dinner at the same restaurant and went to bed.
Day 4: We drove back through Split and dropped the car off and then hopped on a Ferry to the island of Vis. A shuttle to the city of Komiza was waiting for the boat to dock, so we arrived into Komiza via bus (20 min drive). A beautiful, beautiful island. All of the restaurants are great and it is a very small town so it is easy to soak it all in. The #beachclublunatic is a fun nightlife club on the beach, but it doesn't get crazy until after midnight. We were there prior to midnight and it was dead. This is the only nightlife on the island and the only place that is open late so plan your days accordingly.
Days 5-8: We lounged on the beach, snorkeled, ate really good food, went to the blue caves, and took a few trips to the other side of the island (vis). Truly a luxurious island. Very relaxing. Visit if you want to soak in the sun and the quiet mornings. Not for someone looking for constant activity or clubs. We ended our final dinner at #fortfeorge which was an incredible dinner. We booked dinner right before the sunset, which was incredible. You arrive via private jeep from the vis port. We arrived a few minutes early as they have a cocktail lounge surrounding the restaurant. Great food, great location, great everything.
Day 9: We took the early Ferry back into split and relaxed throughout the day. We hiked to the top of #parksumamarjan which had breathtaking views.
We stayed at the Starlight Hotel in Split both times and had a lovely experience.
How highly do you recommend Plitvice Lakes National Park? My wife and I were in Croatia, but didn't get to go because we thought it would be too far of a trip. Thinking we should go back and see it? Thanks for the hiking tips generally, will do more of that when we come back to Croatia.