14 best beaches in Pula that are waiting for you

Looking for the best beaches in Pula? During my many visits to Pula, I’ve found the best ones and shared them in this post.

Pula has some of the best beaches in Istria so it’s easy to find incredible spots for snorkeling, kayaking or swimming in this region.

But with numerous beautiful bays and so many stone beaches to choose from, which are the best?

In this beach guide, I’ll help you choose the best beaches in Pula to add to your itinerary.

Read next: How to spend 3 days in Pula

The best beaches in Pula

Pula beaches are mostly pebbly, which means you’ll need a pair of these.

The waters?

Crystal clear and great for snorkeling and swimming. The rock formations around most of these beaches work as a natural platform for cliff jumping and as a little shade in the water.

Most pebble beaches are lined with pine forest where you can also find shade.

Real insider tips

You’ll need water shoes

The beaches in Istria are rocky and pebbly, and there are very few sandy beaches here. So, to avoid hurting your feet, you’ll need a pair of these 👇

How to get around Pula

Before diving into the stunning beaches of Pula, it’s important to know how to get around.

The easiest way is to rent a car, but if you prefer not to drive, you can take a bus.

Many of the great beaches have parking available, and most of them are free.

Map of the best beaches in Pula

Below is a map of the most popular beaches in Pula. Use the map by clicking the + and – sign in the corner to zoom in or out.

Where to stay in Pula

Boutique Hotel Oasi (⭐ 9.2) Located 200 m from one of the best beaches in Istria and 10 minutes drive from Pula arena, this eco-friendly hotel is the perfect base. It has an outdoor pool and a wellness area. Check rates and availability.

Best beaches in Pula

Alright, let’s get to the beaches! Below, you’ll find a list of the 14 best beaches in Pula, Croatia.

Read next: 9 best beaches in Premantura you should visit

1. Hawaii beach

Hawaii Beach in Pula is the most beautiful beach in Pula. It’s got this bay that could be on a postcard, and it’s right there on the coast of Pula.

The beach itself is a pebble beach with white stones, and it eases into the shallow water surrounded by cool rock formations. Almost feels like you’re in the Caribbean.

The water is super clear, great for snorkeling, and it has an amazing turquoise colour.

2. Gortan cove

Gortanova Uvala is another great pebble beach tucked away in a secluded cove.

Once you hit the shore, you’ll see the crystal-clear waters lapping against the rocky coast.

Gortans is full of marine life, making it a top spot for snorkelers and anyone who loves exploring underwater.

3. Galebove Stijene

Galebove stijene is a rock beach in Pula with turquoise water.

It’s got some natural shade, and it’s a wild beach, which means it hasn’t been developed for tourism so there are no bathrooms, showers or beach bars.

It’s great for cliff jumping, chilling out and enjoying the view.

4. Ambrela Beach

Ambrela Beach is a popular Blue Flag beach for its calm, turquoise waters, perfect for a chill swim.

You can find shade under the pine trees when you need a break from the sun. And the beach also has a lifeguard services and snack bars where you can get refreshments.

5. Histria Beach

Just wait until you see the crystal-clear blue waters of Histria Beach – they’re an absolute snorkeler’s paradise!

It’s an ideal spot for families because of the day beds that provide lots of shade. There’s also a fun aqua park and kayaks available for rent, which makes it a fun-filled day for everyone.

⛱️ It can get a little crowded in the summer, so make sure to arrive early before 9 A.M. to secure a day bed.

6. Hidrobaza Beach

Hidrobaza Beach is a little north of Pula towards Fazana. Its water is so clear, and the vibe is relaxed like at most other beaches in Istria.

The waves gently lap against the shore, creating a super soothing and relaxing atmosphere.

Whether you want to take a refreshing swim or just soak up the sun, Hidrobaza Beach is the perfect spot to unwind and find your zen.

7. Stoja Beach

Stoja is a nice beach with pebbles and some rocky parts, but nothing that makes getting into the water difficult.

Above the beach, you’ll find a camping resort where you can rent equipment for water sports. If you’re hungry or thirsty, they’ve got restaurants and bars. There’s also a shop and an exchange office if you need it.

One really great thing about this place is the long promenade that stretches along the coast from Stoja all the way to Valsaline. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset, listen to the waves, and enjoy the summer breeze.

8. Mornar Beach

Mornar beach is often called Valsaline-Mornar beach. But they’re actually two different beaches in Pula, located right next to each other.

The key difference is that Valsaline is more for lounging and relaxation, while Mornar is the go-to spot for beach sports.

So, if you’re looking for a game of beach volleyball or just want to get active, Mornar Beach is the place for you.

9. Brioni Beach

Brioni Beach is a cool spot about four kilometers from Pula.

It’s mostly rocks with some concrete patches, perfect for catching some sun. You won’t go hungry or thirsty with a restaurant, café, and food kiosk right there on the beach.

Plus, you can rent lounge chairs, parasols, and even sports gear if you’re up for some fun.

There’s jet skiing, water skiing, and para-sailing too. And no worries about facilities – they’ve got showers, toilets, and changing rooms sorted out for you.

10. Ciklonska plaža

Cyclone beach is a beautiful beach in Pula with a great sea live – perfect for snorkeling. Mind you, there are some jellyfish – but not the dangerous ones.

Like many of the Pula beaches, it’s most crowded in July and August. From September, you’ll see few people there.

A great feature?

Parking is free.

11. Saccorgiana cove

Tucked away in the larger Brankoras Bay, you’ll find Saccorgiana beach. It’s got a neat pebble beach that gently slopes into the water – great for kids, and it’s sandwiched between flat rocks.

If you’re around in summer, you’ve got to swing by Zeppelin Beach Bar. It’s right next to the beach.

They’ve got a great restaurant and you can rent cabanas, pedal boats, jet-skis, and more for some daytime fun. Once the sun goes down, it turns into a cool lounge bar.

12. Banjole Beach

Banjole Beach, or Del Mar beach as some call it, is a popular spot in Pula. It’s near the Banjole tourist area in the southern part of the region.

Families love this place because it’s got a 450-meter long shallow beach with white pebbles and clear water – just a great vibe overall.

You can rent umbrellas and sunbeds during the season, and there are a few trees for shade. Plus, at the start of the bay, there are restaurants and cafes for food and drinks

13. Valkane Beach

Valkane Beach is perfect for families. It’s got a long pebble beach and everything you need for a chill day out.

You can go for a walk or just relax in the sun. Plus, there are showers and restaurants on-site, making it easy for everyone to enjoy themselves

14. Pješčana Uvala Beach

Pješčana Uvala Beach is one of the few sandy beaches in Pula.

It’s got soft white sand and calm waters, so it’s the perfect place for a swim and some fun with the family.

You can rent sun beds and parasols, and there’s also a water playground for the kids.

FAQ

More posts from Istria you might like

• 9 best beaches in Premantura you should visit
• 12 best beaches in Istria you should visit (+ map)
• Istria itinerary: 15 unforgettable things to do in Istria
• 10 stunning Istria hilltop towns you have to visit
• 6 insanely cute towns in Istria you should visit
• Gourmet Food in Istria you just have to eat (and where to find it)
• 20 fun facts about Croatia you didn’t know

Save it!