Hawaii Beach, the turquoise gem of the Verudela Peninsula
White pebbles crunch underfoot. The water transitions from cobalt blue to electric turquoise within just a few yards. Above, rocky cliffs stand sharp against the Adriatic sky, while below, the sound of children laughing mixes with the splash of daring divers. Hawaii Beach, tucked into the Principina cove just a few miles from the center of Pula, carries a bold name, and it earns it.
Why Hawaii Beach is worth the trip
This small bay on the Verudela Peninsula captures the essence of Croatia's coastline. Its name sparks curiosity. Some locals point to the dramatic waves the Jugo wind kicks up in the cove, while others cite the surreal colors of the water. Regardless, it remains one of the most photographed and popular spots in Pula. The pebble beach slopes gently into a crystalline sea where visibility often extends several yards, making it a prime spot for snorkeling.
Unlike the crowded beaches found elsewhere on the Dalmatian coast, Hawaii Beach keeps a human scale. It is an intimate cove framed by natural rock formations, where Aleppo pines and Mediterranean vegetation provide welcome shade by late afternoon. The swimming zone is marked by buoys, and lifeguards monitor the beach daily from 11 am to 7 pm during the peak season.
A beach for every traveler
Families with young children
Entering the water is easy. The shallows stay shallow for several yards, allowing toddlers to splash safely. Just above the beach, a small playground with swings and slides keeps kids busy between swims. Manicured lawns with lounge chairs allow parents to keep an eye on their children while soaking up the sun. The Aquarium Pula is also just a few minutes away on foot, perfect for a cooling cultural outing.
Thrill seekers
The cliffs surrounding the cove offer jumping points about 10 feet high. Teens and young adults make a regular spectacle of themselves here. About 50 yards away, the Verudela Canyon offers even more vertiginous jumps for true daredevils, reaching up to 50 feet. The deep, transparent water makes it easy to check the bottom before jumping.
On-site facilities and amenities
Hawaii Beach remains a natural site without heavy development. A snack bar located just above the cove sells cold drinks, ice cream, and light bites. For a more substantial meal, several restaurants sit in the immediate vicinity, ranging from traditional Croatian grill to refined Mediterranean cuisine. The Park Plaza Arena Pula, a hotel just steps away, features two outdoor pools for guests, as well as a sports center with tennis and volleyball courts.
Note that the beach has no showers or changing stalls, so pack your bag accordingly. Free parking is available a five-minute walk away, but spots disappear quickly by mid-morning in July and August.
Pro tip: Arrive before 10 am or after 4 pm to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best conditions. In the afternoon, part of the beach shifts into the shade, which is a plus when the sun is intense but less ideal if you are looking to tan. Bring water shoes, as the pebbles can be tough on sensitive feet. Also, the beach does not allow dogs, even on a leash.