Svjetionik Rt Oštro

Svjetionik Rt Oštro (Lanterna) is a historic lighthouse standing on the Oštro headland at the entrance to Bakar Bay, right next to Kraljevica in the Kvarner region, between Rijeka and Crikvenica.

What is this place?

The lighthouse was built in 1872 under the Austro-Hungarian monarchy and ranks among the oldest lighthouses the empire built along the Kvarner Bay. Its purpose was to guide ships safely toward the Port of Rijeka and into Bakar Bay, which saw heavy maritime traffic at the time. Locals simply call it "Lanterna," a nickname that has stuck and is used just as often as the official name today.

The structure itself is compact: a small round stone tower joined to a single-storey building, together covering roughly 70 square metres. A 2008 renovation preserved its distinctive look — the red-and-white paint scheme that catches the eye from both land and sea.

How do you get there?

Rt Oštro sits on a small headland right beside Kraljevica, so driving is the most convenient option — Kraljevica lies on the main road connecting Rijeka and Crikvenica, so the trip from either town typically takes somewhere around fifteen to twenty-odd minutes. Once in Kraljevica, head toward the coastline and walk out to the headland itself — a short, pleasant stroll along the shore that opens up views over Bakar Bay.

What will you see?

The lighthouse is a scenic spot in its own right — the stone tower set against the sea and surrounding hills makes an impression, especially at sunset, when the red-and-white structure stands out against the blue water of the bay. The Oštro headland also leads naturally into the neighbouring beach of the same name, a swimming spot that has been popular since 1892, making it one of the longest-used beaches in this part of Kvarner. A walk here lets you combine a look at historic maritime architecture with time by the water.

When should you visit?

The lighthouse and headland are accessible year-round, but the setting is most appealing in spring and summer, when a walk can be paired with a swim at the neighbouring beach. Early evening is a good time for photos, as the setting sun brings out the contrasting colours of the tower. Outside the season, the headland tends to be quiet, which makes for calm walks and unhurried views of the sea.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside the lighthouse? Available information does not confirm regular public access to the interior — the lighthouse mainly functions as an active navigation aid and is viewed from the outside.

How far is it from the centre of Kraljevica? The Oštro headland sits right next to town, so reaching it on foot from central Kraljevica usually takes only a short walk along the coast.

Is there a beach nearby? Yes, the Oštro beach lies right next to the headland and has been a popular swimming spot since 1892.

How old is the lighthouse? The lighthouse dates back to 1872, making it one of the oldest built by the Austro-Hungarian monarchy on the Kvarner Bay; it was renovated in 2008.