When you explore the Slovenian coast with your children, a visit to the Moon Bay is a must. Moon Bay (Mesečev zaliv in Slovenian) is widely recognized as a biodiversity hotspot within the Gulf of Trieste due to its abundant seagrass growth on the bay floor. These seagrasses are regarded as indicators of pristine seawater quality. Within the Strunjan Nature Park, the shallow sandy bottom of the bay is covered by flourishing flora such as Neptune grass, small seagrass, and genuine seagrass, creating vibrant underwater meadows. These plants thrive only up to a depth of 8 meters (26 feet) as they require sufficient light for photosynthesis. The seagrass environment provides a habitat for seahorses, young fish, enormous tube worms, cuttlefish, and octopuses.
How to get there and where is the nearest parking to Moon Bay Beach?
It is impossible to get to the bay. But you can park nearby and then walk down the path to the bay. You can leave your car in a small free parking lot in front of the Church of the Apparition of the Virgin Mary in Strunjan (GKY: 391552, GKX: 44359). If you cannot find a parking space, head to a larger parking lot by the Stjuža Lagoon. If you do not have your own means of transport, you can also get to the location by bus. Get off at the Strunjan bus station, and walk for another 1.5 km (0.93 miles) to the church. The trail has a view of the Piran Salt Pans. At the signs for Strunjan hotels, turn left. When you reach the chapel, which stands at the foot of a paved road, head up the same road uphill to the parish church.
Continue from the Church of the Apparition of the Virgin Mary, or other starting point, with the church on your right. At the first crossroads, turn right, go by the Okrepčevalnica pri Križu Restaurant and continue past the sluice, which prevents cars from driving further. Although you may feel that you are lost, you will soon spot a white cross. When you reach it, a view of the most beautiful Slovenian bay, the Moon Bay opens up. Continue to the right, down towards your finish line.
The route, which will take you about 20 minutes, is suitable for walking with children aged 3.5 years and older. Be careful, as the track is damaged and dangerous in some parts. You can easily walk down the stairs to the bay with a baby carrier. However, the ascent back to the starting point may be harder ;).
Although most visitors come here during summer, the bay is just as magical in spring and autumn..