Beach bar Ulika

Beach Bar Ulika is a relaxed drinks spot on the seafront of Punat, a small town on the island of Krk, in the Kvarner Gulf, and it is known for a rooftop terrace with a view over the coast. It stands along the waterfront promenade, a short stroll from the harbour, and although it is not directly on the sand or pebbles, it is close enough to the sea to have a beach atmosphere. People come here for coffee in the morning, for a cold drink in the afternoon after swimming and for cocktails as the sun goes down. The bar is open for long hours, and its position makes it a natural meeting point on the promenade.

The menu is simple and focused on drinks, with coffee, soft drinks, cold beer and a range of well-priced cocktails. The bar also offers beach rentals, including sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are restrooms available, which makes it convenient to stay for several hours. The mood is friendly and informal, and service is generally praised for its speed even when it is busy, though the experience can vary at peak times in July and August. The rooftop terrace is the main attraction, since it provides a higher view of the bay, the boats and the shoreline, and it is a pleasant place from which to watch the sunset.

The setting is what makes the bar worth a stop. Punat lies on a long, sheltered bay, often called Puntarska draga, which has made it one of the island's busiest boating centres, with a large marina and boatyard. In the middle of the bay lies the islet of Košljun, which has a Franciscan monastery dating from the 15th century, and small boats take visitors across from the waterfront. The Lungomare promenade runs along the shore with benches, shade trees and places to swim, and the nearby Medane beach offers pebbles and shallow water for families. An underwater park near Punat is of interest to snorkellers and divers.

Punat also has a quieter, historic side. The Mir archaeological site on the outskirts of town is one of several small traces of ancient settlement on the island, and the Old Town of Krk and the Baška tablet are within a short drive. The bar is easy to combine with a walk along the waterfront, a boat trip to Košljun and a swim.

Ulika suits couples, groups of friends and families looking for a casual stop by the sea. It is within walking distance of most accommodation in Punat, so there is no need to drive. Arrive in late afternoon for the best light, and expect the evening to be livelier.