18 Ways to Go to the Beach in Pula.

After “The 23 Ways to Go to the Beach in Trieste” comes Pula!

There are places that instantly make me slow down as soon as I arrive. For me, Pula is one of them.

Every time I return to Istria, I rediscover that perfect mix of crystal-clear sea, the scent of maritime pines, and small hidden coves. Over the years, I’ve loved exploring the coastline around Pula, moving slowly between city beaches, wild little bays, and rocky headlands overlooking a sea dotted with tiny islands.

So I decided to gather in this story the beaches I recommend to anyone asking me where to go to the seaside near Pula. I’ve ideally followed two directions: eastward, along the Verudela peninsula down to Medulin, and westward, where the coastline becomes wilder and more surprising.

This isn’t a “technical” list, but a personal story. These are the beaches I’ve truly experienced — the ones where I stayed until sunset, where I walked, rested under a pine tree, took a swim, or simply watched the sea 🙂

From Pula Towards the East: The Most Beautiful Beaches Between Verudela, Premantura and Medulin

1. Pula Lungomare

Pula’s Lungomare is always my starting point. This is not just one beach, but a long sequence of sea access points, smooth natural rock platforms, and small pebble coves.

I especially love it early in the morning, when the sea is perfectly still and locals are already swimming before work. The water is incredibly transparent, and the contrast between the white rocks and the deep blue Adriatic is one of the colors I instantly associate with Istria.

This area is perfect for anyone who enjoys alternating seaside walks with quick swims without going too far from the center of Pula.

Useful info: along the Lungomare there are several sea access points with rocky platforms, ladders, and small coves. In summer, many bars, gelato shops, and kiosks are open nearby. Some sections are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, especially around Valkane. Public showers and shaded pine areas are available. Dogs are tolerated in some quieter coves, although not always officially designated.

2. Hawaii Beach – Verudela

The first time I saw Hawaii Beach, I immediately thought the name was absolutely deserved.

This small white-pebble bay is surrounded by rocky cliffs that create an almost unreal turquoise sea. It’s one of the most photographed beaches in the Verudela area, and I completely understand why.

To reach it, you need to leave your car about 500 meters away and continue on foot, but the short walk is absolutely worth the breathtaking view that suddenly opens up in front of you.

During high season, it’s best to arrive early: it’s one of the most popular beaches near Pula.

Useful info: Hawaii Beach is a free pebble beach with crystal-clear water ideal for snorkeling and cliff jumping. Despite its natural appearance, nearby resort areas offer bars, toilets, and sunbed rentals. The path and rocky terrain make it less suitable for people with reduced mobility. Very crowded during summer. Dogs are generally not allowed on the main beach.

3. Ambrela Beach – Verudela

If I had to recommend a beach that is both comfortable and beautiful, I would choose Ambrela.

Sea access here is incredibly easy, parking is only a few meters from the beach, and the atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming.

The water is calm, clear, and perfect for families with children. I love how organized the beach is without losing the natural charm of Istria. The surrounding rocks and transparent sea still preserve that authentic Mediterranean feeling I always look for.

Useful info: Ambrela is one of the best-equipped beaches near Pula and is ideal for families. You’ll find showers, public toilets, changing cabins, lifeguards, beach bars, sunbeds and umbrella rentals, and parking very close by. The beach has received the Blue Flag award for water quality and services. There is also easier access for people with disabilities, although the beach remains pebbly. In summer, arriving early is recommended.

4. Banjole

Banjole has a completely different atmosphere compared to Verudela.

Here the sea feels slower, quieter. The coastline alternates between low rocks, natural platforms, and sheltered little bays. I always recommend this area to anyone looking to truly relax away from crowds.

One of my favorite things to do in Banjole is stopping at one of the small seaside restaurants after swimming, especially at sunset, when the sky turns orange and the smell of grilled fish fills the entire coast.

Useful info: Banjole’s beaches are more natural and peaceful than those around Verudela. The coastline alternates between rocks, stone platforms, and small pebble coves. Some campsites and beach bars offer facilities such as toilets, showers, and sunbed rentals, while many coves remain free and untouched. The area is especially appreciated by travelers with dogs thanks to its wilder and less crowded spaces.

5. Premantura

For me, Premantura is where Istria truly becomes wild.

The road leading to the village crosses dry Mediterranean landscapes, and as soon as you arrive, you immediately understand that the sea is the real star here. These beaches are not “comfortable” in the traditional sense, but they have an incredible charm.

There are flat rocks perfect for sunbathing, hidden coves, and water so transparent it almost feels unreal.

Useful info: Premantura is perfect for travelers who love natural beaches and wild landscapes. Facilities depend on the specific cove: some have seasonal beach bars and snack spots, while others are completely isolated. Most beaches do not offer umbrellas or sunbeds. Many areas are dog friendly, especially away from the busiest spots.

6. Cape Kamenjak Nature Park

Kamenjak is one of those places that never stops surprising me, no matter how many times I visit.

There isn’t just one beach here: the entire peninsula is a succession of bays, cliffs, hidden coves, and natural platforms overlooking a sea with Caribbean-like colors.

What I love most is the feeling of freedom. You drive along dirt roads, stop wherever the view inspires you most, and choose a cove almost instinctively.

Some spots are perfect for cliff diving, while others offer gentler sea access. Either way, the scenery here is spectacular.

Useful info: Kamenjak is a protected natural reserve with a wild and free atmosphere. Most beaches are rocky or pebbly and often without services. However, iconic beach bars such as Safari Bar can be found along the peninsula. Some areas are difficult to access for people with reduced mobility due to dirt roads. It’s one of the best places near Pula for travelers with dogs. Water shoes and extra drinking water are highly recommended.

7. Medulin

Medulin has a livelier and more touristy atmosphere, but it remains one of the places I recommend most often, especially for windsurfing lovers, since the wind here creates ideal conditions for sailing and watersports.

The beaches are easier to access, and some areas even have sandy stretches — something rather rare in Istria. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a more comfortable beach day.

In the evening, the waterfront comes alive with restaurants, bars, and seaside walks. I especially enjoy ending the day here with dinner by the harbor.

Useful info: Medulin is one of the most family-friendly seaside destinations thanks to its sandy beaches and many services. You’ll easily find bars, restaurants, sunbed and umbrella rentals, playgrounds, inflatable water parks, and watersports facilities. Some beaches have dedicated dog-friendly areas. Accessibility is generally good along several parts of the promenade.

From Pula Towards the West: Cliffs, Secret Bays and Authentic Sea

8. Stoja

Stoja is one of the areas I visit most often when I want beautiful sea without leaving the city.

The coastline here is rugged, with smooth white rocks shaped by the sea and deep water in intense shades of blue. It’s very popular among locals and still keeps an authentic atmosphere even during summer.

Useful info: Stoja is loved by locals and alternates rocky areas with comfortable stone platforms for sunbathing. During summer there are kiosks, bars, and a few basic services. Some sea access points may be difficult for people with mobility issues. Excellent snorkeling thanks to the crystal-clear water.

9. Galebove Stijene

This is probably one of the most spectacular places near Pula.

The cliffs of Galebove Stijene look as if they were sculpted by wind and sea. There are natural caves, hidden passages, and perfect spots for cliff jumping.

Every time I visit, I’m amazed by the color of the water: an almost unreal deep blue.

Useful info: this is a very scenic natural area famous for cliff diving and sea caves. There are no organized facilities: no umbrellas, sunbeds, or structured beach services. Bringing water and water shoes is highly recommended. Not ideal for small children or people with reduced mobility. The atmosphere remains very wild and natural.

10. Lost Bay

Lost Bay is one of those coves that still feels secret, even if it no longer truly is.

You need to walk a little to reach it, but that effort helps preserve its peaceful and wild atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for anyone searching for silence and untouched nature.

Useful info: one of the quietest and least developed coves in the area. There are no beach resorts or facilities, which is exactly what makes it so charming. Perfect for crystal-clear water, relaxation, and snorkeling. It’s best to bring your own water, umbrella, and comfortable shoes.

11. Fort Punta Christo

This area combines sea and history in a truly unique way.

The beaches surrounding the old Austro-Hungarian fort have a special almost cinematic atmosphere. I especially love arriving here in the late afternoon, when the golden light illuminates the fortress walls and the sea turns emerald green.

Useful info: small rocky beaches surrounded by nature can be found near the historic fort. Some areas feature seasonal beach bars and food stands during summer and music festivals. The sea is very clear and the atmosphere relaxed. Accessibility can be limited due to uneven dirt paths.

12. Puntižela

Puntižela is a wide and peaceful beach, perfect for anyone looking for comfort without chaos.

The sea here is incredibly clear, and the atmosphere feels calmer than the beaches around Verudela.

Useful info: spacious and quiet beach with pebble areas and sea platforms. Seasonal bars, showers, and shaded pine areas are available. Great for families and anyone wanting a more relaxed day by the sea. Some sections are easier to access with strollers.

13. Camping Brioni

What I love most about this area is the open view over the Brijuni Islands.

The water is transparent, and the coastline alternates between rocky sections and easier sea access points. At sunset, the panorama here becomes truly unforgettable.

Useful info: the Camping Brioni area offers equipped beaches with bars, restaurants, mini markets, showers, and sunbed rentals. Ideal for travelers seeking comfort without giving up crystal-clear water. There’s also a diving center and various watersports activities available.

14. Štinjan

Štinjan still preserves a very local soul.

The beaches are simple, surrounded by greenery, and less touristy compared to other areas around Pula. It’s the ideal place for anyone looking for peace and quiet.

Useful info: Štinjan is a more authentic and less touristy area with beaches immersed in Mediterranean vegetation and a relaxed atmosphere. Services are basic, but in summer small bars and kiosks can be found nearby. Excellent area for travelers with dogs thanks to the quieter spaces.

15. Gradska Plaža – The City Beach

Pula’s city beach is perfect for anyone wanting a quick swim without going too far.

It may not be the most spectacular beach in Istria, but it has that relaxed atmosphere typical of authentic seaside towns.

Useful info: very convenient beach for travelers staying in the city. Nearby you’ll easily find bars, supermarkets, parking areas, and public services. Some access points are adapted for people with reduced mobility. Ideal for a quick swim without using the car.

16. Traversada

A lesser-known but very pleasant beach, easy to reach, with pebbles and a small beach bar that’s perfect for sunset aperitifs by the sea.

Here I mostly found silence, crystal-clear water, and a slow atmosphere that made me want to stay all day.

Useful info: peaceful pebble beach with clear water. The small beach bar is one of the reasons many people stay here until sunset. Relaxed and less touristy atmosphere compared to more famous beaches.

17. Fažana

Fažana is one of my favorite seaside villages in Istria.

The beaches here are simple yet beautiful, with views over the Brijuni Islands and a waterfront lined with restaurants and small fishing boats.

It’s the perfect place for a beach day followed by dinner at sunset.

Useful info: Fažana is very well organized for families and relaxed tourism. Along the promenade you’ll find bars, restaurants, gelato shops, sunbed rentals, and shaded areas. Some beach sections offer easier sea access and comfortable platforms. Public showers and toilets are available.

18. Barbariga and Uvala Marić

This is the stretch of coastline I recommend to anyone looking for a quieter and less touristy side of Istria.

Uvala Marić has a wonderfully natural atmosphere, with crystal-clear water, Mediterranean vegetation, and a silence that feels increasingly rare during summer.

It’s one of those places where I simply stop and stare at the sea without doing anything at all. And maybe that’s the greatest luxury Istria can offer.

Useful info: very peaceful and natural area, perfect for escaping crowded beaches. Uvala Marić is minimally developed, with no real beach resorts, which helps preserve its authentic atmosphere. Ideal for silence, snorkeling, and total relaxation. Dogs are generally tolerated in several areas.

My Final Tip

What I love most about the beaches near Pula is that each one has its own personality.

There are the turquoise bays of Verudela, the dramatic cliffs of Galebove Stijene, the wild nature of Kamenjak, and the slow peaceful atmosphere of Fažana and Barbariga.

My advice is never to stop at just one beach. In Istria, the real beauty lies in exploring: following a coastal road, stopping at a hidden cove you suddenly notice, waiting for sunset while sitting on the rocks, and letting yourself be surprised by the colors of the sea.

Because near Pula, the sea is not only beautiful. It truly has the power to slow you down.