Croatia is a traditionally tourist-oriented country. The growth of tourist traffic in recent years confirms that Croatia is on the way to tourism becoming an active generator of economic development. In order to increase the economic benefits of tourism, it is necessary to adopt and implement a tourism strategy aimed at sustainable development with a focus on those forms of tourism that will generate benefits for all participants. In recent years, the demand of tourists for specific types of tourism has been growing on the market. Historical heritage, beautiful nature and pleasant climate are the framework that, along with the development of high quality accommodation, rich offer of content and entertainment and top services, will enable Croatia to be attractive to modern tourists. The entire area of Croatia has an extremely diverse and preserved natural and cultural tourist potential, which is a valuable legacy that must be preserved and protected in order to contribute to the development of tourism in the long run. Tourism must become one of the main drivers of development in areas where it has been marginalized so far. Tourism significantly contributes to the economic growth of each country and the well-being of its citizens, based on the sustainable use of natural and cultural-historical potentials, actively participating in their preservation and development, creating an environment attractive to investors. The immediate dependence of tourism on the preservation of the natural environment and resources is undeniable, and on the other hand its very significant role in the world economy. Given this, this human activity is in a unique position to become the bearer and leader of change in human society from unsustainable, irresponsible and by nature and very harmful behavior, towards long-term sustainable, environmentally responsible and humane way of economic activity and living in general.