Plan your perfect day at Cape Kamenjak, a nature park on Istria’s southern tip. Explore wild beaches, snorkel spots, bike trails, and a bar in the cliffs.

Cape Kamenjak on the Adriatic coast of Croatia is where Istria lets its hair down. Just south of Pula, this rugged peninsula is a protected nature park bursting with rocky coves, turquoise water, and wild Mediterranean scents. Think pine forests, hidden bays, cliffs to jump from, and a legendary bar tucked between the rocks. If you’re dreaming of a day that feels like freedom, this is it.

🌿 What is Cape Kamenjak?

Cape Kamenjak (Rt Kamenjak) is the southernmost point of Istria, extending like a long, rugged finger into the Adriatic Sea from the quaint village of Premantura. This wild peninsula is part of the Protected Landscape of Donji Kamenjak and the Medulin Archipelago, a nature reserve that safeguards over 400 plant species, including several endemic and endangered orchids. It’s a haven for nature lovers, photographers, adventurers, and anyone seeking a slice of raw Mediterranean beauty.

Discover more about the natural wonders and unique features of Cape Kamenjak.

What makes Kamenjak so special is its unspoiled, almost prehistoric vibe. The coastline stretches for over 30 km, cut into countless bays, coves, and rocky shelves sculpted by the sea and wind. The terrain is wild and jagged, but that’s part of its magic—nature reigns here, and modern development has been kept deliberately minimal.

Inland, you’ll find pine forests, maquis shrubs, wild herbs like sage and immortelle, and winding dirt trails perfect for hiking or mountain biking. The salty air carries the scent of rosemary and the song of cicadas in summer. And then there’s the sea—crystal-clear, intensely turquoise, and often calm enough to see fish gliding over the rocky seabed. It’s one of the best spots in Istria for snorkeling, especially around the small sea caves and natural pools near the southern cliffs.

This is not a place of big resorts or beach bars—though there’s one legendary one (Safari Bar!)—but rather a raw, elemental corner of Istria, where you go to disconnect, explore, and get salty.

🚗 How to Get There

Cape Kamenjak is about 12 km south of Pula, with the charming village of Premantura acting as its gateway.

• By car: Follow signs to Premantura and continue south to the main park entrance. You’ll pay the vehicle fee at a gate or kiosk.
• By bike: This is one of the best ways to experience Kamenjak. From Pula, it’s an easy 45–60 min ride. Bikes enter free.
• By bus: Buses go to Premantura, but from there it’s a walk or a rented bike to reach the best spots.
• By boat/kayak: You can explore the coastline by sea, including nearby islets like Porer (with its dramatic lighthouse).

🗓️ The park is open year-round, but best enjoyed from late spring to early autumn.

🌅 What to Do & See

Cape Kamenjak isn’t about rigid sightseeing—it’s about letting go and immersing yourself in nature. There are no ticketed attractions or souvenir shops here, just freedom, adventure, and wild beauty. Still, there are a few unmissable experiences to anchor your visit:

🚲 Cycle or Hike the Trails

The best way to explore Kamenjak is to follow the winding network of dirt trails that crisscross the peninsula. Whether you’re on two wheels or two feet, the terrain is dry, scenic, and surprisingly varied. You’ll pass olive trees, open meadows, coastal cliffs, and shaded pine groves. Just bring plenty of water, sun protection, and a camera—you’ll want to stop often.

🪂 Cliff Jump at Kolumbarice

Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you. The cliffs at Kolumbarice Bay offer some of the most thrilling cliff-jumping spots in Istria. With deep, clear water below and natural ledges at various heights, it’s the perfect place to test your courage. Even if you don’t jump, it’s worth visiting for the dramatic seascapes and great swimming.

🤿 Snorkel in the Crystal-Clear Coves

Kamenjak is a snorkeling paradise. The sea here is teeming with life—sea urchins, fish, and even small octopuses hide among the rocks. Bring your own gear and explore underwater caves and crevices, especially around Pinižule Beach and Kolumbarice. The visibility is excellent, especially in the early morning or on calm days.

🦕 Explore Caves and Dinosaur Tracks

Millions of years ago, dinosaurs left their footprints in the limestone, and you can still see them today. Near Pinižule, look for a flat rock slab marked with real dinosaur tracks, preserved for curious visitors. There are also small caves nearby, fun to explore with kids or adventurous souls.

🌇 Watch the Sunset

Few places in Istria offer sunsets like Kamenjak. The cliffs near the tip of the peninsula—or the viewpoint near Porer lighthouse, just offshore—are ideal for a golden hour picnic. Bring a blanket, sip something cold, and watch the sky turn to fire as the sun sinks into the sea.

🍹 Visit the Safari Bar

Hidden behind bamboo fences and carved into the cliffs near Kolumbarice, Safari Bar is part tiki hideaway, part jungle playground. Wooden towers, hammocks, rope bridges, and sea-view lookouts give it a wild charm, and the vibe is ultra laid-back. Order a cold drink or grilled sandwich and soak in the eccentric atmosphere—there’s truly nothing else like it.

🏖 Beaches at Cape Kamenjak

If you’re chasing wide sandy stretches, Kamenjak might surprise you—this isn’t your typical beach destination. But what it lacks in sand, it makes up for with character. The coastline is rugged, wild, and wildly rewarding, made up of rocky shelves, tiny coves, and pebble bays where the Adriatic gleams like cut glass.

Here are a few favorite beach spots:

🌊 Mali Portić

Tucked into a sheltered cove, Mali Portić is one of the most family-friendly beaches on the cape. It’s small and pebbly with easy water access, surrounded by rocky walls that offer a bit of natural privacy. Great for swimming, sunbathing, or simply floating.

🧜‍♀️ Kolumbarice Cliffs

This area is less about lounging and more about leaping. The cliffs here are famous for cliff jumping and snorkeling, with deep blue water and dramatic scenery. A true adventurer’s hangout, complete with hidden caves and an energetic vibe.

🪸 Pinižule Beach

A quieter option, ideal for snorkelers and those who like a mix of rock and pebble entry. You’ll find shade under the pines and even the dinosaur tracks just a short walk away. Perfect for nature-loving families or a peaceful retreat.

🌴 Njive and Školjić Beaches

A little off the beaten path, these coves offer a more secluded experience. Bring everything you need with you—there’s no infrastructure, but that’s part of the charm. You’ll often share the bay with only a handful of people… or curious crabs.

🧴 Pro tip: Bring reef-friendly sunscreen, a snorkel set, and water shoes—those rocks are no joke!

🍹 Where to Eat & Drink

There’s one place on the cape that every visitor talks about:

🍹 Safari Bar

Part Robinson Crusoe fantasy, part jungle maze, Safari Bar is built entirely from natural materials—wooden lookouts, rope swings, palm fronds, and secret corners to discover. It’s fun, quirky, and perfect for cold drinks or a casual grilled lunch after a long beach day. Try their veggie sandwich or a giant salad with local olive oil.

You’ll find it near Kolumbarice Cliffs, but it’s not always clearly marked—just follow the sound of music and laughter.

🍕 Premantura Village

If you’re heading out of the park, Premantura has several cafés, pizzerias, and seafood restaurants worth stopping by. It’s also the best place to stock up on snacks, ice, and water before entering the park, as there are no supermarkets inside Kamenjak.

🧭 Planning Tips for Cape Kamenjak

Before you pack your towel and sunscreen, here are a few local tips to make the most of your Kamenjak adventure:

🧾 Entry & Timing

• Entry fee for vehicles (cars, scooters, campers): approx. €15–20 per day in peak season.
• Pedestrians and cyclists enter for free.
• Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds (especially in July and August).

🅿️ Parking

• Several gravel parking areas are available inside the park, close to major beaches.
• Some roads can be dusty and bumpy, so take it slow—this is not the place to rush.

🧃 Bring Supplies

• Shade is limited, so bring your own umbrella, plenty of water, snacks, and cash (some places may not accept cards).
• Most beaches have no amenities, and bins are scarce—leave no trace behind.

🦎 Respect Nature

• Kamenjak is a protected area, home to rare plant species and nesting birds.
• Stick to marked paths, don’t pick wildflowers, and don’t leave trash behind.

🗺️ Offline Maps

• Internet signal may drop inside the reserve, so download offline maps or mark spots in advance.