Holidays to Rabac offer up pine-covered hills, a buzzing waterfront promenade, historic sites and white pebble beaches.

Pearly pebbles

On the eastern side of Croatia's Istrian peninsula lies Rabac. The white pebbly beaches look like piles of pearls, and the water's crystal clear – just right for snorkelling. It's had a serious glow-up since the days when fishermen hauled in their nets along its shores – now, Rabac welcomes sea-seeking travellers to its shallow coves and pretty streets.

As far as the eye can see

The Istrian Riviera's got over 250 kilometres of coast, so you won't be short of shores to choose from. Rabac's just a hop-skip from Plaza Girandella, a Blue Flag award-winning beach where you can stake out a spot on a sunlounger or go wild with jet-ski and banana boat rides.

History comes alive

There's no denying Rabac knows how to do a good beach – but it's also got plenty for history buffs. Within a 10-minute drive, you'll come to Labin's maze of cobbled alleys and streets lined with candy-coloured houses. As for historic sites, they don't come much grander than Pula's Roman amphitheatre, just an hour away by car.

At a Glance

  • Visit a Blue Flag award-winning beach
  • Explore the Venetian old town in Rovinj, an hour's drive away
  • Tour nearby Pula's Roman amphitheatre