Istria is famous for its crystal-clear water, hidden rocky coves, and charming pebble beaches. With over 500 kilometers of coastline, choosing where to swim can be a challenge.
Before we dive into our Top 10, keep one thing in mind: This list is just the beginning. Istria is home to hundreds of beautiful bays, from wild rocky cliffs to small, secluded lagoons. Often, the most stunning spot is just around the corner, unmarked by any sign. Our selection highlights the absolute best – a mix of sand, adventure, and nature.
Map: All Top Beaches at a Glance
To help you find your perfect spot immediately, we’ve marked the top 10 locations on this interactive map. How to read the map:
- 🟡 Yellow Pins: Sandy Beaches (Perfect for toddlers & sandcastles).
- 🔵 Blue Pins: Pebble & Rock Beaches (Where the water is clearest).
1. The South: Pula & Medulin
The southern tip of Istria is wild and diverse.
- Hawaii Beach (Pula): An Instagram favorite on the Verudela peninsula. White pebbles and turquoise water make for stunning photos. Arrive early in peak summer!
- Cape Kamenjak / Mala Kolombarica: A protected nature park at the very south. No hotels here, just wild nature, cliffs for jumping, and the legendary Safari Bar hidden in the bamboo.
- Bijeca (Medulin): Probably the most famous sandy beach (🟡) in Istria. The water is extremely shallow – you can walk out for hundreds of meters. A paradise for families with small children.
2. The West: Rovinj & Poreč
- Lone Bay (Rovinj): Swimming with a view of the old town. Located in the Zlatni Rt forest park, this beach offers plenty of natural shade under ancient trees.
- Cisterna Beach (Rovinj): A true hidden gem. Located further south and accessible via gravel roads, this shallow bay is often much quieter than the city beaches.
- Val Marea Sandy Family (Poreč): A luxurious, man-made sandy beach (🟡). Ideal for those who appreciate comfort: sunbeds, umbrellas, and clean facilities are top-notch here.
3. The North: Umag
- Zambratija: One of the few natural sandy beaches (🟡) in northern Istria. Due to the shallow water, the sea warms up very quickly here in spring.
4. The Wild East Coast: Rabac & Brseč
- Girandella (Rabac): White pebbles create a water color here that rivals the Caribbean. The facilities, including beach bars and water sports, are excellent.
- Klančac (Brseč): One of Croatia’s most spectacular beaches. Hidden between steep cliffs, you have to hike down for about 10 minutes – but the view is 100% worth it.
5. Our Island Tip
- Levan Island: A tiny island off the coast of Ližnjan made almost entirely of sand (🟡). You can easily reach it by taxi boat. With a beach bar and grill, it’s the perfect day trip.
⚓ Experience Istria’s Coast from the Water
The most beautiful bays and hidden caves are often inaccessible on foot or by car – you have to see them by boat.
Do you want to explore the Blue Cave, watch dolphins at sunset, or spend a day on a private boat?
👉 Discover our exclusive boat tours & excursions here (Direct booking with local experts, no hidden fees.)