Punat on Krk Island: a dream destination for your Croatia holiday
In the south-west of Krk Island, nestled in one of the Adriatic’s best-sheltered bays – the Puntarska Draga – lies the picturesque little harbour town of Punat. With around 1,900 inhabitants the town has kept its charming, authentic character while offering holidaymakers excellent infrastructure.
Whether you’re a passionate boater, beach lover, foodie or active holidaymaker: Punat is one of the most fascinating holiday spots in all of Croatia.
The most beautiful beaches in Punat
The coastline around Punat is characterised by lovely pebble beaches, crystal-clear water and shady pine forests. In high season a little tourist train links the centre with the beaches – a highlight for families!
- Punta Debij (China Beach): Just a few hundred metres from the centre begins this spacious beach, partly paved and partly pebbly. It offers excellent facilities with showers, beach bars and water sports, and a gentle entry into the water, which makes it ideal for families.
- Medane beach (Gramagul): About 15 minutes’ walk south of the centre lies this beautiful pebble beach. It’s a little quieter here, but you don’t have to do without comforts such as beach bars or loungers for hire.
- Mala Krasa beach: An idyllic pebble beach that’s perfect for anyone seeking peace and quiet. The gentle sound of the waves and the layered pebbles make this spot a little refuge.
Top activities & sights
Punat offers a mix of tradition, culture and modern water sports that delights guests of all ages.
1. The monastery island of Košljun
In the middle of the bay of Punat lies the region’s absolute highlight: the tiny wooded island of Košljun. On the island there is a Franciscan monastery housing an important collection of rare books, traditional costumes and historical artefacts. The island can only be reached by a short water-taxi ride from the Punat promenade.
2. Wakeboard Cable Krk
For adrenaline junkies, Wakeboard Cable Krk is an absolute must. The state-of-the-art facility stretches over 650 metres in the bay between Krk town and Punat. Whether beginner or pro – there’s something for everyone here. The adjoining beach bar on a 400 m² terrace above the sea is also a great spot to end the day with good music and cocktails.
3. Marina Punat & olive oil tradition
Punat is Croatia’s nautical heart and home to Marina Punat, the country’s oldest marina (founded in 1964) and one of the best-equipped in the Adriatic. Another hallmark of Punat is its high-quality olive oil. In the old town centre you can visit the “Stari Toš” interpretation centre – one of the island’s best-preserved historic olive mills.
Pure food: the best restaurants in Punat
After a long day on the beach or on the water, Punat offers an excellent food scene ranging from freshly caught fish to homemade pasta (Šurlice).
- Olive Garden Ulika Maslinik: This absolute highlight is beautifully set in a large olive grove a little above Punat (towards Kornić). The “farm-to-table” concept is fantastic: enjoy homemade specialities, grilled lamb, their own olive oil and even an excellent vegan menu – all paired with an unforgettable panoramic view over the bay.
- Restaurants on the harbour promenade: Along the marina and the waterfront promenade you’ll find numerous traditional konobas and fine restaurants. A trip to Krk town just 10 minutes’ drive away is also worthwhile, to end the evening at renowned places such as Konoba Galija .
Exploring Krk Island from Punat
Thanks to its central location in the south of the island, Punat is the ideal base for further exploring. Take a trip south to spectacular Baška with its famous Vela Plaža (big beach), or visit the charming wine village of Vrbnik on the east coast to taste the local white wine, Žlahtina.






