This popular swimming destination, known among the locals as Vela plaža or more commonly Sipar beach, extends along the coastal line of a small Mediterranean town called Mošćenička Draga.
Sipar beach is popular with locals and tourists during the summer due to its natural white pebbles, crystal clear water, azure coastline, and the view extending from Rijeka through the Kvarner archipelago to Velebit Mountain. Picturesque Mediterranean houses line the beach, together with cafes, restaurants, taverns, pastry shops, market shops, and even hairdressers. There are also stands where you can buy local fruits and vegetables, souvenirs and beach equipment, olive oil, and other Mediterranean products.
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Designed by Nature
The name Sipar means rock creep. The beach was gradually formed from the sand brought by the Draška stream that springs from the slopes of Učka Mountain. Sea waves naturally shape the white pebbles on the beach.
This beach continues south towards Sv. Ivan, with its stunning parts hidden between the limestone cliffs. Gorgeous villas from the late 19th and early 20th centuries adorn the coastline of this entire area. For a better view, taking a tour by boat and exploring the coast is recommended.
Mošćenička Draga
The view of this charming town is truly a postcard sight. An authentic Mediterranean town with many colorful houses squeezed tightly in rows along small streets and alleys, a small harbor and a beach, Mošećnička Draga is a small fishing port. Some traditional boats can still be seen in the dock like guc, pasara, gajeta, leut, and batana. Just above the harbor, in the so-called "House of the Sea" is the Interpretation Center of fishing and maritime heritage of Mošćenička Draga, where you can explore and learn more about the rich local heritage of the area. Worth paying a visit in breaks between swimming and sunbathing on the Sipar beach.
Some locals say, 'if you come to Mošćenička Draga once, you will come back every year'. Well, there is only one way to find out.
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