Pula: Kayak Tour to Island St. Jerolim and Kozada

Paddle through Croatia’s captivating coastline, exploring islands rich in natural beauty, history, and wildlife. This guided kayak experience from Pula offers an authentic way to see some of Istria’s most intriguing spots, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and exploring historic military sites. With a friendly, knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll get an up-close look at lesser-visited islands that are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of physical activity and cultural discovery. We especially like the chance to explore the former military sites, which add a layer of history and mystery to the natural scenery. And the fact that snorkeling gear is included means you can dive into the clear waters without worrying about extra costs. However, one possible consideration is that the tour requires a basic level of physical fitness, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or non-swimmers.

This kayaking trip is ideal for active travelers who want to experience Croatia’s coast in a more intimate way. If you’re comfortable on the water and enjoy exploring unique landscapes, you’ll find this tour a memorable blend of adventure, culture, and wildlife. It’s perfect for those looking to avoid crowded tourist spots and discover the quieter side of Istria’s islands.

Key Points

• Authentic natural experiences: Visit exclusive islands away from crowds, with plenty of wildlife and natural beauty.
• Historical intrigue: Explore a former military flight school site, adding a layer of history to your trip.
• Wildlife encounters: Meet peacocks and other animals freely roaming on St. Jerolim, making this tour especially interesting for animal lovers.
• Snorkeling included: Dive into crystal-clear waters at St. Jerolim beach with provided gear, perfect for underwater explorations.
• Expert guides: Led by local guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and ready to share fascinating stories.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance if needed.

A Detailed Look at the Kayak Tour Experience

Starting from the Hidrobaza, a historic site once part of the Austro-Hungarian seaplane base, this tour instantly immerses you in Croatian history. The meeting point is a small log house with a bamboo fence, just a short walk from the popular Dog Beach. Arriving 10 minutes early is advised to ensure a smooth start. Parking is available nearby if you’re driving, or you can reach the site via public transport.

Once gathered, the tour kicks off with a friendly introduction and instructions on kayaking techniques and safety. This short lesson, led by experienced guides like Bobo—who gets high marks for speaking excellent English—sets you up for a safe and confident paddling session. The group is usually small, fostering a relaxed atmosphere where everyone gets attention and tips.

After the briefing, you’ll set off towards Kozada Island, a fortress of natural and historical interest. Once home to a military flight school, the island now offers a chance to explore remnants of its past while enjoying the rugged coastlines. The guides share stories about the island’s military history and its transformation over the years, adding context for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Moving on, your boat heads to St. Jerolim Island, which earns its reputation as an outdoor zoo. The island’s free-roaming peacocks, along with other local wildlife, create a lively scene that’s especially charming. You might even catch sight of other animals or listen to the sounds of nature—an experience that feels more intimate than typical tourist spots.

The highlight of this day is snorkeling at St. Jerolim beach. With clear waters and abundant marine life, the snorkeling session offers a fantastic chance to discover underwater scenery. The included masks and snorkels make this an accessible activity for most, even if you’re new to snorkeling. The tranquil waters and scenic backdrop make this a favorite part of the trip, giving you a true taste of Croatia’s marine environment.

As you paddle back to the starting point, your guides share stories about the islands’ history, culture, and significance over the centuries. The route back offers more chances to enjoy the coastline’s rugged beauty and perhaps spot some more wildlife. The tour wraps up at the original meeting point, ideally around mid-afternoon, leaving you with plenty of time to explore Pula further or relax afterward.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour package offers excellent value, including all necessary gear—kayaks, paddles, life vests, dry bags, and snorkeling equipment—so there’s no need to rent anything separately. The guides will give you a full introduction, ensuring even beginners feel confident on the water.

To prepare, travelers should bring a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, water, beachwear, water shoes, and sportswear. The Croatian sun can be intense, especially during summer, so protective gear is essential. Since the tour is weather-dependent, bad weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellation, so flexibility is recommended.

Logistics and Practical Details

The meeting point is conveniently located near Dog Beach, just 50 meters to the right of the showers. If you’re driving, a parking lot is nearby, and public transport options are available. The activity lasts about 3-4 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure that combines physical activity with sightseeing.

The tour is priced at $58 per person, which offers good value considering all equipment, guide services, and the snorkeling gear. For those who enjoy active outdoor experiences and are comfortable on the water, this price point makes for an affordable day out, especially with the personalized attention from guides like Bobo.

Booking is flexible—reserve and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s a good idea to book early, especially in high season, to secure your spot.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Highlights

One of the key things that stood out from reviews is how knowledgeable the guides are. Bobo, in particular, received praise for his fluent English and his tips on the best routes back to the mainland. This added a layer of confidence and ease to the whole experience.

The visit to Kozada Island’s military history provides a different perspective—an insight into Croatia’s past military significance, now integrated into a scenic natural setting. The wild peacocks roaming freely on St. Jerolim give this tour a playful, lively atmosphere that’s quite different from more commercialized tours.

On top of that, the snorkeling session is not just a side activity but a genuinely enjoyable highlight, with clear waters and vibrant marine life. Many travelers appreciate that snorkeling gear is included, removing the hassle and extra expense often associated with such activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active, curious travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and are comfortable on the water. It offers a balanced mix of physical activity, sightseeing, and wildlife encounters, ideal for those wanting an authentic taste of Croatia’s coast.

It’s perfect for small groups or couples seeking a personalized experience, especially since the guides tailor the route and storytelling based on the group’s interests. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, non-swimmers, or those over 287 lbs (130 kg) due to safety restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This kayak tour from Pula offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Croatia’s coast in a way that combines history, wildlife, and marine discovery. The guided approach ensures you’ll learn interesting stories about the islands’ military past, while the wildlife encounters and snorkeling add a lively, immersive element. The included equipment and flexible booking make it accessible and straightforward, especially for those seeking an active adventure.

For travelers who value personalized guides, authentic experiences, and natural beauty, this tour hits the mark. Whether you’re a history buff, wildlife lover, or just in search of a fun day outdoors, you’ll leave with memorable stories—and probably some great photos too.

FAQ

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, the tour includes masks and snorkels, so you can enjoy exploring underwater without needing to rent gear separately.

How long is the tour? The activity typically lasts around 3 to 4 hours, including paddling, exploring, and snorkeling.

Where do we meet for the tour? The meeting point is a small log house with a bamboo fence near Dog Beach, about 50 meters to the right of the showers.

Is the tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the guides provide a brief but thorough introduction to kayaking techniques and safety, making it friendly for beginners.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

What should I bring? Pack a sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, sunscreen, water, beachwear, water shoes, and sportswear for comfort and protection.

Is parking available at the meeting point? Yes, there’s a parking lot nearby if you’re driving. Public transportation options are also accessible.

Are children allowed? The tour’s age restrictions aren’t specified, but it’s mainly suitable for those comfortable on the water and of a suitable physical condition.

What if the weather is bad? The tour may be rescheduled, postponed, or canceled if weather conditions are poor, so check the forecast and communicate with the provider if needed.

This kayak tour from Pula offers a well-rounded, engaging experience that blends active adventure with cultural insights and wildlife encounters. It’s a wonderful way to see the Croatian coast in a relaxed yet energetic way, perfect for those who want genuine, off-the-beaten-path discoveries.