Pulenat Beach in Stomorska – a peaceful rocky bathing area on the eastern edge of the village

Pulenat Beach is located east of the centre of Stomorska, along the coastline that extends from the harbour towards the outer part of the bay. It is not accessible via the main road to Veli Dolac, but rather from the opposite side of the village, passing by houses and apartments situated above the sea. From the Stomorska waterfront, it takes approximately ten to fifteen minutes to walk, depending on your starting point.

Pulenat is not a typical pebble beach with a large shingle area. The shoreline mainly consists of flat rocks, stone slabs, and smaller concrete sections that local residents have adapted for entering the water. There are a few places with steps, small platforms, and arranged access points, but overall, the beach retains the appearance of a natural rocky bathing area.

The most convenient spots to settle are on the flatter concrete surfaces and stone slabs along the coastal path. A towel or thin mat is generally insufficient for a comfortable all-day stay, so it is advisable to bring a thicker mat or a foldable sun lounger. Between the more organised areas, there are uneven rocks that require careful navigation, especially when wet.

Entry into the water is not uniformly easy along the entire shoreline. In some places, there are steps, while in others, entry is over rocks and stone outcrops. Therefore, Pulenat is not the best choice for very young children, elderly individuals, or swimmers who require a wide and gradual entry into shallow waters. Water shoes are very useful here as the rocks are uneven and can be slippery in damp areas.

The sea deepens quite quickly along the shore. Just a few metres from the rocks, one can swim normally, making Pulenat more suitable for competent swimmers rather than families seeking a large, shallow area for play. The underwater terrain consists of rocks, stones, and marine vegetation, making the coastline interesting for snorkelling.

Pulenat faces the open sea and is not sheltered like the inner part of Stomorska harbour. When the weather is calm, the water is very clear and transparent. During stronger winds and waves, entry over the rocks can become tricky, so it is advisable to avoid swimming in the more exposed parts of the shore during such conditions. The most pleasant conditions are typically found in the calm morning hours.

Pine trees and other Mediterranean vegetation grow along parts of the coastline, providing some natural shade in certain areas. The most shade is found along the back edge of the bathing area and beneath the trees near the houses. However, most of the flat rocks remain in the sun throughout the day, and shaded spots are limited.

There are no beach bars, restaurants, shops, or organised rentals of sun loungers and umbrellas at Pulenat. There are also no public toilets, showers, or changing cabins. Visitors need to bring everything necessary for their stay from the centre of Stomorska. Fortunately, the village is not far away, allowing for easy returns to the waterfront for drinks, food, and other amenities.

Access to the area above the beach can be made by car via a local road, but parking is the main issue. There is no designated public parking along the coast, and spaces near the houses generally belong to private properties and their guests. It is advisable not to drive down to the end without a secure parking spot and turning space. The simplest option is to leave the vehicle in the wider area of Stomorska and continue on foot to Pulenat.

The path from the centre passes through a residential area and is not particularly demanding, but some sections lack wide pavements. The final approaches to the sea may involve steps, narrow passages, or uneven terrain. Therefore, sturdy sandals or trainers are more practical than completely flat flip-flops.

On the more distant rocky parts of Pulenat, naturists occasionally swim. This is not a designated or officially recognised nudist beach, and the areas closer to the houses are used by all bathers. Naturists generally settle further away from the main paths, on secluded rocks towards the outer part of the shore.

Pulenat cannot be compared to Veli Dolac, which has a pebbly entry, natural shade, and a beach bar. This beach is visited for its quieter bathing, clean waters, and the opportunity to find a private rocky nook away from the main beach. During the summer, it does not get overly crowded as access is not practical for everyone, and most bathers are guests of nearby apartments or individuals familiar with this part of Stomorska.

Pulenat Beach is best suited for couples, competent swimmers, and visitors who do not mind spending time on rocks. Families with small children, individuals with limited mobility, and those seeking showers, bars, and easy access to the water will find more satisfaction at Veli Dolac or other pebbly beaches in Stomorska.