Rovinj's beaches are mostly rocky, with flat limestone shelves, pebbly coves, and a few patches of fine shingle. Anyone expecting a traditional sandy beach will be disappointed, but the clear water, active sea life, and dramatic coastal scenery compensate well. Good shoes with grip are useful.
The main swimming spots closest to the old town are on its western shore — Cuvi, Skarabaja, and Balsamake — a series of rocky platforms where locals have been swimming for generations. These get crowded in July and August.
The better swimming is at Zlatni Rt (Golden Cape), a protected forest park 15 minutes' walk south of the centre, where footpaths wind through pine and holm oak down to a series of quieter coves. The combination of shade and swimming makes it especially pleasant in midsummer. Crveni Otok (Red Island), reached by boat from the harbour, has the most sheltered water and is a half-day trip in itself.