Island Sv. Jerolim Pula

Visit Pula Review

Island Sv. Jerolim is a small but characterful escape in the Brijuni archipelago, combining clear water, simple facilities, and light exploring in one compact stop. It feels like a “mini Brijuni” with less structure and more freedom to roam and swim.

The atmosphere is relaxed and slightly wild: peacocks wander between pines, fish crowd around swimmers and the coastline alternates between pebble beach and rocky ledges. Most visitors come for a half-day of swimming, snorkeling and a lazy lunch or aperitif at the beach bar, with a short walk to the chapel and viewpoints. It works well for couples, families with water-confident kids, snorkelers and day-trippers from Pula who want something more natural than a town beach. Visitors should also factor in a landing fee of around 5€ per person, collected on arrival when you step off the boat.

Summer (June–September) is best for sea temperatures, but July–August can feel busy when several boats arrive at once and shade is in demand. Late spring and early autumn bring fewer people and softer light, making Sv. Jerolim a pleasant side-trip that still fits easily into a Pula holiday.

About Saint Jerolim

Island Sv. Jerolim is one of the smaller islands of the Brijuni archipelago, lying just off the coast of Pula in the Adriatic Sea. Historically, the island was used as a retreat in Roman times, and today you can still sense that “getaway” feeling in its mix of ruins, chapel and quiet coves. It is part of Brijuni National Park, so expect a more natural setting than on mainland beaches.

The island’s character is mixed: there is clear evidence of history, a small chapel dedicated to St. Jerome and scattered Roman remains, but the main draw for most visitors is the sea. The coastline is a combination of rocky shelves, stone entries and a more spacious pebble beach on the side opposite the pier, giving options for both quick dips and longer beach sessions.

Nature lovers will enjoy the pine and low Mediterranean vegetation, birdlife and very active underwater life – fish are plentiful and the water is famously clear. Peacocks roaming around the island add a slightly surreal touch and are especially popular with children and photographers.

A visit can be short and sweet (2–3 hours for a swim and drink) or extended into a half- or full-day outing if you want to explore, take photos, relax in the shade and swim several times. It is best suited to visitors comfortable with natural, sometimes rocky terrain rather than formal resort-style beaches.

List of amenities

• Beach bar / small restaurant near the main beach.
• Toilets available on the island.
• Showers for rinsing off sea salt.
• Drinking water points in the bar / facilities area.
• Designated pier and mooring area for tourist and private boats.
• Marked entrance / landing fee payable on arrival.
• Basic seating and shaded spots around the bar and under trees.

Getting there & parking

Sv. Jerolim is accessible only by boat, which is a big part of its appeal. Tourist boats and taxi boats run from Pula’s harbour area, taking you directly to the island’s main pier. The ride is short and scenic, with views over Pula’s coastline and the Brijuni islands.

If you rent or arrive with a private boat, you can dock at the designated area by the pier. A landing or “boat parking” fee is charged per person; recent visitors reported a per-person fee collected on arrival by national park staff.

On the mainland, you can use regular city parking around Pula’s harbour or nearby streets and paid car parks. In high season, allow extra time to find a space and walk to the departure point, especially if you are booked on a specific excursion or boat time.

There are no cars on Sv. Jerolim itself; once you step off the boat, all movement is on foot along natural paths and short tracks between the pier, beach, bar, chapel and viewpoints.

Things to do

Swim and sunbathe on the main beach near the pier or walk across to the more spacious pebble beach on the opposite side of the island. The water is crystal clear and usually calm.

Snorkel with abundant fish along the rocky sections of the coast, especially on the eastern side where visibility is excellent.

Explore light history including the small chapel dedicated to St. Jerome and scattered traces from Roman-era use.

Walk for viewpoints on an informal loop around the island, stopping at rocky points for views back to Pula and across the Brijuni islands.

Relax at the beach bar with drinks, snacks or a simple meal between swims.

Enjoy wildlife and photography with peacocks under the pines and clear-water marine life around the coast.

Tips for families and kids

Sv. Jerolim suits families with water-confident children who enjoy natural, rocky beaches. The pebble beach offers easier entry, but other areas get deep quickly.

Paths are moderately uneven and not suitable for strollers. Plan short walks and supervise children closely near rocks and in deeper water.

Shade is limited; bring a small umbrella or UV protection, especially in high summer.

Peacocks and fish are highlights for kids but should be observed respectfully.

Because access is only by boat, keep track of return times and carry snacks and water.

What to bring

• Swimwear, towels and a change of clothes.
• High-SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and optionally a beach umbrella.
• Water shoes for rocky and mixed entries.
• Snorkel gear for exploring the clear water.
• Comfortable walking sandals or trainers.
• Drinking water for the day.
• Snacks, especially when visiting with children.
• Cash or card for fees and the beach bar.
• A dry bag for valuables during boat rides.