Rabac is Istria's most developed beach resort, set in a horseshoe bay on the peninsula's eastern coast. The white pebble beach and clear water earned it the local nickname "pearl of Kvarner," though that's marketing-speak for a functional resort that caters primarily to families and package tourists. The hills behind are green and the views across to Cres island are attractive. The old town of Labin — a hilltop medieval town 3km above the bay — provides the cultural interest that Rabac itself lacks. We recommend Rabac for families wanting a swim-and-relax holiday with Istria's interior towns within easy driving distance.
Why Stay in Rabac
- Beach: The main Maslinica beach and the smaller Girandella beach have white pebbles and clear, calm water. Beach services (loungers, umbrellas, water sports) are well organised. The water is swimmable from June to September.
- Labin: The hilltop old town above Rabac has medieval walls, a town museum with Renaissance frescoes, and art galleries. The contrast with the resort below is striking. Labin has genuine Istrian character.
- Eastern coast position: Less busy than Istria's western coast (Poreč, Rovinj). The views east to Cres and the Kvarner islands add visual depth. Sunrises over the sea are a bonus the west coast can't offer.
- Family orientation: The bay is sheltered, the water calm, and the resort infrastructure designed for families. It's not glamorous but it's effective.
