Bijela

You will find Bijela on most lists of Croatia’s best beaches, and the photos are not misleading.

Good to know

Bijela stands in Istria, one of the six regions that make up the Croatia most visitors fall for. From the Adriatic shore to the karst mountains and the quiet inland valleys, this part of the country gives you something worth the detour.

Midday in July is the busy, hot, expensive hour. Aim for before 9 or after 5, and pack water shoes for the pebbles.

Practical info

• Entry: check the official source before you travel. Prices and opening hours change, and some spots close entirely out of season.
• How to get there: The map above gives exact directions. Expect paid, signposted parking in most towns (blue P zones), and pad your schedule if you are catching a ferry to an island.

Best time to visit

Plan Bijela for May to October, with June and September the quietest warm months. July and August bring the crowds and the heat; winter is cheaper and handsomer than people expect, especially in the inland cities.

This is part of an open Croatia library by Photograph by John, real places, real maps, no paywall. Share it if it was useful.