Porer Lighthouse: The Lonely Landmark Beyond Cape Kamenjak

Porer Lighthouse is a 35-metre stone lighthouse built in 1833 on a tiny islet about 2 km southwest of Cape Kamenjak, the southernmost point of Istria. It is the tallest lighthouse in Istria and cannot be reached on foot. The best way to see it is on a boat excursion from Premantura, Medulin or Pula. Many tours only sail around the islet rather than land on it.

Stand on the rocky shore of Cape Kamenjak and look towards the open Adriatic. On the horizon, a solitary stone tower rises from an islet so small that the lighthouse seems to occupy almost all of it.

Porer Lighthouse at a glance

A lighthouse at the edge of Istria

Porer Lighthouse was built in 1833 on the rocky islet of the same name, 2 km southwest of Cape Kamenjak. Its round stone tower rises 35 metres above an islet only about 80 metres across, which makes it look even taller when approached from the sea. A low stone building around the base once housed lighthouse staff. 

For almost two centuries its beam has helped vessels navigate one of the most exposed stretches of the Istrian coast.

Why was Porer so important?

The waters around the southern tip of Istria change quickly. Strong currents, waves and submerged reefs make navigation demanding, especially in poor weather. Shipwreck remains have been found around Porer and nearby islets, which shows why a reliable light was essential before modern navigation.

The same conditions have kept the area wild. From the islet there is little to see except open sea, the low coastline of Kamenjak and the smaller islands of the Medulin Archipelago. Nearby Fenoliga adds another layer to the story: fossilised dinosaur footprints found there show that this coast’s history begins millions of years before the lighthouse.

How can you see Porer Lighthouse?

Porer cannot be reached by road or trail. Boat excursions from Premantura, Medulin and Pula often include a panoramic sail around Cape Kamenjak and Porer. Depending on the tour, weather and sea state, you may also swim in a sheltered Kamenjak cove or see nearby islands.

Not every boat advertising Porer lands on the islet. Many only sail around it, which still gives excellent views and photographs. Before booking, ask the operator about the exact itinerary, departure point, duration and swimming stops.

Safety: Do not try to swim to Porer. Strong currents surround the islet, and even experienced swimmers should only enter the water at approved spots and follow the crew’s instructions.

Stay close to Cape Kamenjak

Guests staying in Premantura are ideally placed to combine a Porer boat trip with a day in Cape Kamenjak.

• Arena Stupice Campsite: easy access to Kamenjak’s wild beaches, coves and water activities, located 5 minutes’ to the cape entrance

• Arena Runke Campsite: peaceful base with views of Medulin Bay

• Arena Tašalera Campsite: a few minutes’ drive from Premantura

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Porer Lighthouse?
35 metres, making it the tallest lighthouse in Istria.

When was Porer Lighthouse built?
In 1833, on the islet of Porer off Cape Kamenjak.

Where is Porer Lighthouse?
On Porer islet, about 2 km southwest of Cape Kamenjak, the southernmost point of Istria, Croatia.

Can you visit Porer Lighthouse on foot?
No. It can only be reached by boat, and many tours only sail around it.

Where do boat trips to Porer depart from?
From Premantura, Medulin and Pula.

Can you swim to Porer Lighthouse?
No. Currents are very strong. Swim only at approved spots and follow the crew’s instructions.

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