Fažana, a small fishing town on the western coast of Istria, is the closest harbor to Brijuni National Park, an archipelago of 14 islands known for Tito's former residence, a safari park, and 100-million-year-old dinosaur footprints. Unlike the organized tourist boats that depart from the same harbor, a rental boat offers the flexibility to explore other coves along the Istrian coast before or after visiting the park.

Proximity to Brijuni National Park

Fažana is the official starting point for visits to Brijuni National Park, though access to the main island of Veli Brijun is restricted to organized tours with park boats and guides. With a rental boat, you can sail around the archipelago's outer islands and enjoy views of the park from the sea, while the actual tour of Veli Brijun is booked separately.

Fishing tradition and the harbor

Fažana was a fishing town for centuries, and that tradition is still felt today in the small harbor full of fishing boats and restaurants serving fresh fish straight off the pier. The seaside promenade offers views of the Brijuni islands and is calmer than the busier parts of nearby Pula.

Pineta cove and the pine forest

South of town, Pineta cove, surrounded by dense pine forest, offers a shaded beach and calmer sea, popular among locals as an alternative to Fažana's busier center. It's a pleasant spot for a shorter swim before a longer sail toward Brijuni or Pula.

When to rent a boat in Fažana

The season runs from May to October, peaking in July and August. June and September offer warm seas and a calmer harbor, ideal for sailing around Brijuni without the crowds of peak-season tour boats.