Kamenjak National Park: everything you need to know

If you’re someone who likes to get out into the great outdoors when you’re on holiday, you won’t want to miss Kamenjak National Park near Pula on your trip to Croatia. Just ten kilometres from Pula, you’ll find this beautiful place on the Premantura peninsula on Istria’s southern tip. Celebrated for its gorgeous scenery, Kamenjak makes a great day out for all the family. Here’s why…

What to do in Kamenjak National Park

See dinosaur footprints
Kamenjak is famous for being home to fossilised dinosaur footprints, and these are well worth seeking out. Follow the popular and educational ‘Dinosaur Path’ – sure to be a hit with little ones thanks to its model dinosaurs – to Cape Grakalovak to find them.

Kamenjak beaches
Bring your swimwear and have fun paddling, swimming or snorkelling off Kamenjak’s pebbly beaches. The water is wonderfully clear, and there are some interesting coves and caves waiting to be explored. Keep a lookout for marine species such as dolphins and the rare Mediterranean monk seal.

Eat at the Safari Bar
Always a popular dining spot, the Safari Bar in the south of the park is a fun place to have lunch if you’d prefer not to bring a picnic with you. It’s not the only beach bar in the park, but with its tables amidst the undergrowth, it’s definitely the most fun.

Get active
As well as being a popular spot for cycling, Kamenjak is a great place for other action sports. There’s a windsurfing centre that also rents out kayaks – perfect for exploring the area’s sea caves. Some visitors enjoy getting the adrenaline pumping by jumping off the rocks into the sea at the ‘Cliff Jump’ site near the Safari Bar.

How to get to Kamenjak National Park

You can reach Kamenjak National Park near Pula from the village of Premantura – just follow signs to Cape Kamenjak if you’re driving. You only have to pay the 35 Kunas entrance fee to get in if you’re travelling in by car; if you cycle in or go on foot or by boat, it’s free. You can get a bus directly from Pula, but if you drive, you’ll find designated car parks at various points around the park.
It’s worth noting that there are two entrances, and if you’re entering at the Rupine entrance you’ll need a pre-paid ticket to drive in; you can buy tickets either at the Parendine entrance or from local tourism agencies. The entrances are open from 7am until 9pm, with the park closing at 10pm. For more information, visit the Kamenjak National Park website.