Tucked into Croatia’s sun-drenched northwest corner, just a skip away from Italy and Slovenia, Istria is a region that whispers “summer” with every salty breeze. It’s where Mediterranean charm meets Italian flair — think cobbled streets in coastal towns, hilltop villages carved from white stone, and the kind of laid-back rhythm that makes time slow down in the best way.
Istria isn’t just a destination — it’s a vibe
Yes, foodies come here for the black truffles, silky olive oil, seafood so fresh it could wink, and local white wines like crisp, citrusy Malvazija. But there’s so much more in your glass than just wine.
In recent years, Istria has become Croatia’s craft spirit capital. The region is not only known for its vibrant culinaryand oenological scene, but for its rich distilling tradition, reimagined by a new generation of artisan producers — crafting gins, liqueurs, and aperitifs that have earned international acclaim.
And the setting? It’s pure Adriatic magic.
Forget sandy beaches — Istria’s shores are defined by crystal-clear waters, smooth rocky coves, and the region’s iconic terra rossa — rich, red soil that gives Istria its earthy soul and unforgettable wines. These beaches, framed by pine forests and sun-bleached stone, are the perfect places to unwind — and just steps away, some of the coolest beach bars on the Adriatic await.
This is your ultimate guide to the beach bars that capture the spirit of summer in Istria — laid-back, lively, and always served with a twist of local flavor.
Mulini Beach Bar – Rovinj
Vibe: Sophisticated & serene
A. Smareglia 1, Rovinj
Daily, 9 AM – 8 PM
Set beneath the elegant Monte Mulini Hotel, Mulini Beach Bar is all about casual luxury. The airy terrace overlooks the peaceful Lone Bay, while the menu offers curated wines, signature cocktails, and fine champagne. The service is impeccable, the views timeless — it’s a masterclass in seaside sophistication.
Try with: A Malvazija spritz at golden hour.
Saint & Sinner – Poreč
Vibe: Glamorous, bold & electric
Zelena Laguna, Poreč
Daily, 10 AM – 8 PM
Flamboyant, fashionable, and full of flair — Saint & Sinner is a daytime beach bar that transforms into a nightlife hotspot. Think creative cocktails, DJ beats, and a playful, chic crowd. Perfect for a sundowner that turns into a spontaneous celebration.
Try with: A bold Epulon-based cocktail — bitter, herbal, unforgettable.
The Beat Beach Club – Poreč
Vibe: Modern, mellow & beach-luxe
Šetalište Antona Restovića 25 A, Poreč
Daily, 11 AM – 8 PM
Tucked into the beachfront of Valamar Marea Suites, The Beat lives up to its name with chill vibes, gorgeous sea views, and tasteful tunes. The open design, soft colors, and curated drink list make it ideal for lounging in quiet elegance.
Try with: Aura gin & tonic with fresh rosemary and orange peel.
D’Or Beach Club – Funtana
Vibe: Chic, colorful & upbeat
Bijela Uvala 12, Funtana
Daily, 9:30 AM – 9 PM
D’Or Beach Club brings a splash of Mediterranean glamour to the relaxed village of Funtana. Trendy loungers, bright umbrellas, curated playlists, and a lively crowd make it the perfect spot for an all-day beach escape that ends with a sunset toast.
Try with: A Teranino-based cooler — sweet, smooth, and purely Istrian.
Safari Bar – Premantura (Cape Kamenjak)
Vibe: Raw, playful & wildly relaxing
Rt Kamenjak, Premantura
Daily, 9 AM – 10 PM
Hidden in the wild pine groves of Cape Kamenjak, Safari Bar is a magical, barefoot paradise. Built from driftwood and bamboo, it offers treetop lookout points, wooden swings, secret pathways, and unbeatable views. Come for the wild setting, stay for the simplicity.
Try with: Local beer or a rustic cocktail under the trees.
Craft Spirits of Istria: More Than Just a Drink
✨ Aura Distillery – Motovun
If there’s one place that defines the renaissance of Croatian craft spirits, it’s Aura. My favourite Aura is in the fairy-tale hilltop town of Motovun, this distillery, based in Buzet, produces award-winning gins infused with wild herbs, juniper, orange peel, and botanicals harvested from the Istrian countryside.
Their gins are refined, aromatic, and bursting with character, forming the base of countless cocktails served all over Croatia — but tasting them in Istria is an experience like no other.
And their flagship shop in Motovun? A must-visit. Warm, rustic, and full of spirit(s), it’s not just a boutique — it’s a place to meet people, chat, taste, and fall in love with Istria in a glass. Their staff shares stories, pours generously, and knows how to match your mood to the perfect drink.
Try: Aura Karbun Gin – filtered through activated charcoal and perfect with tonic and citrus.
Rossi Winery – Višnjan
While Rossi is a respected winery producing superb Malvazija, Teran, and Muscat, this family-run estate has also made waves with its Pelinkovac Epulon — a bold, herbal Croatian liqueur that’s been reimagined for the cocktail world.
Complex, aromatic, and slightly bitter, Epulon adds sophistication to modern mixology. And yes, you can go for a wine tasting — but if you ask us, we’re here for the Epulon.
Try: Epulon Negroni or a chilled Epulon spritz with orange twist.
Teranino – Istria’s Liquid Dessert
Velvety, deep ruby red, and sweet with a hint of spice, Teranino is a luscious liqueur made from Teran wine, macerated with forest fruits and aromatic spices. It’s Istria’s answer to limoncello — but moodier, richer, and undeniably seductive.
You’ll find Teranino everywhere — from chic bars to traditional konobas — and always with a little flourish. Served neat, on ice, or in creative cocktails, it’s an absolute summer favorite.
Try: A Teranino sour — rich, red, refreshing.
☀️ So… Where’s Your First Round?
From sophisticated beach lounges to rustic forest hideaways, from crisp Malvazija to bold Pelinkovac, and from craft gin to Teranino temptations — Istria serves summer in a glass.
This isn’t just drinking by the sea.
This is tasting the land, the sun, and the spirit of Istria — one cocktail at a time.
So… are you ready to sip like a local?
Živjeli!
