Croatia is well known for it’s gorgeous beaches and crystal clear waters, so travel and summer holiday is never complete without some quality beach time and fun in the sun. The Peninsula of Istria has the added bonus of having some of the most extraordinary beaches in Croatia. A convenient drive by car to or very short flight from most of Europe is an extra! Discover the beauty of Istria, Croatia with our top 10 must-visit beaches list. Immerse in crystal-clear waters and pristine shorelines.
Croatia offers thousands of kilometers of coastline, and thousands of known and unknown beaches to find a beach time escape. The beaches on our list meet 2 main criteria. #1 Each is a special, beautiful place worthy of spending time to explore! #2 Each is located on the peninsula of Istria in Croatia and is easily reachable by car in less than 1 hour from the HR/SL/IT border.
For those traveling by air – arriving via Pula (PUY) all are an easy 20-30 min drive from the airport!
Croatia Time Top 10
- Verudela – is a favorite place for adrenaline lovers because of its 15-meter Pula Kanjon (Canyon) which ranks among the most beautiful canyons on the Adriatic. Jumping into the sea from this cliff is a true adventure reserved only for the bravest. As a result, Verudela is as much fun to enjoy as it is beautiful.
- The Cape Kamenjak – Premantura – Kamenjak rugged coastline, about 30 kilometers long consist of numerous bays and various beaches forming an area of exceptional natural beauty, so offers many places to swim, high water jump, coves and caves to explore. Some places are available only from the sea for example. But like most places on our list, make sure you bring a camera. As a result, you will bring home lasting memories and some truly gorgeous photos to last a lifetime.
- Girandella – Rabac – Located near the city of Labin, Girandella is a beautiful water playground, crystal clear waters and several beaches to choose from, so it made it to our Top List: many beach and water activities to choose from as well plus hotels, food and bars on site. As a result, Girandellla has become a local favorite.
Explore Top Beaches in Istria
- Zlatni Rt – ‘ The Golden Cape’, Secluded, rocky cove popular for swimming, with pebble & sand beaches & views of nearby islands. Located near the picturesque town of Rovinj, this gorgeous beach and hiking area is dog / pet friendly and has a wheelchair -accessible entrance, picnic tables and great area for kids and families. So The Golden Cape makes our list!
- Brulo Beach – situated on the southern edge of the city of Porec, beautiful, publicly accessible pebbled and rocky beach. Nestled in a shallow and very protected bay surrounded by pine trees. So the Brulo Beach is ideal for families with small children. Boredom is never an issue at this beach because of the nearby sports center and the various water ball sports that are offered. A special highlight is the water park- children especially love the slides and pools for instance.
- Katoro – Umag – is the westernmost town and westernmost point in all of Croatia. Umag has a population of approx 13,000 residents, the shopping, dining and beaches including Karoro and Polynesia beach are well worth a visit. Located in Istria Region.
- Puntizela and Valbandon – both have a beautiful pebble beach with soft entrance to sea which makes it suitable for families with kids and older persons for instance. Parts of the beach are concrete. Near the beach there are many beach bars, restaurants, sports fields and sport harbor. Plus the water park for the small ones. Part of the beach is pet – dog friendly.
Croatia Time Top 10
Croatia Time Top 10 Beaches in Istria – Croatia
●Wild Beach – Located on Istria’s eastern coast near the town of Marcana. Wild Beach is off the beaten path and away from the more traveled tourist type spots. A lovely and unique experience. Peaceful environment with good paved roads and nice restaurant nearby.
●Savudrija – Savudrija is a coastal settlement in northwestern Istria, Croatia and developed from a fishing village into a pleasant holiday center. The 19th century Savudrija Lighthouse is a distinctive local landmark. It is the oldest in Croatia, and the oldest operational light of the Adriatic. The 29-metre-high (95 ft) lighthouse is also the most northerly in Croatia. Savudrija is known for it’s summer winds. As a result, the area is popular with windsurfers.
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