24 Best Beaches in Split, Croatia

Author’s Note (Daniel): Croatia was where I first truly fell in love with traveling. Yet, despite my expectation that Dubrovnik would be my most dazzling stop along the Adriatic Sea, it was Split that shone brightest. The palatial city, with its nearby paradisiacal coastline stole my heart, and whenever I return to Croatia, Split and its surrounding rivieras are sure stops on my itinerary.

Beaches in Split, an historic city hugging the shore of the glittering Adriatic Sea, range from sun-soaked stretches of sand to pine-fringed pebbly coves. There are fine beaches all along this stretch of Croatia’s coast, both on the mainland and fringing the hundreds of islands scattered across the sparkling sea.

Beach lovers will find a plethora of seaside spots to relax and play on, all of which offer beautiful scenery. Whether you’re interested in something walkable from the center, a stretch of sand with watersports, or a beach surrounded by hiking trails, you’ll find the perfect spot in and around Split.

Here are the best beaches in Split to visit.

Bacvice Beach

A spacious and popular sandy cove, Bacvice Beach is one of the best beaches in Split. It’s located in close proximity to the center of the city as well as the port.

This urban beach is an all-around favorite place to head for if you’re looking for fun in the sun. Sink your feet into the soft sand and wade into the clear, shallow water for a cooling swim in the Adriatic Sea.

This lively stretch of sand is lined with seaside restaurants and bars along a picturesque promenade, ideal for taking a break from the sun and stopping for refreshments. Other facilities include restrooms as well as chair and umbrella rentals.

The scenery isn’t the only reason that Bacvice Beach is famous. It’s also the birthplace of a popular local game called picigin. This is played with a small ball thrown to players while they’re in shallow water, the goal being to keep the ball airborne without it falling in.

There are no bats; it’s like a version of volleyball but with a much smaller ball and no net. The city of Split and this beach is host to the annual World Cup of picigin too.

Whether you spend time swimming, lounging, people-watching, or joining one of the games, spending a day on Bacvice Beach is one of the best things to do in Split.

Žnjan Beach

Head to Split’s biggest beach for a full day of seaside activities. Situated southeast of the city, the white-pebble beach has crystal clear, shallow waters.

Swimming in the turquoise water is an unforgettable highlight; the waters of the Adriatic have a wonderfully clear quality.

Bask in the sun on one of the rented chairs or relax in the shade of an umbrella or the trees that line the coast here. With a wide beach area, there’s plenty of space to spread out as well.

This seaside destination is a hub of activity for outdoor and sports enthusiasts too. Watersports such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling are available, as is an inflatable playground for kids. Join a beach volleyball game or simply watch from the comfort of your chair or towel.

Thanks to a nearly year-long renovation project that began in 2024, Žnjan Beach has undergone a thorough upgrade, featuring gorgeous landscaped parks and a promenade that is perfect for people-watching.

The eastern end of the beach has also been adapted as a fully accessible beach featuring a ramp that leads directly into the sea. Additional facilities include accessible showers and bathrooms.

Concerts or events are sometimes held at the onsite amphitheater too, if you’re lucky enough to catch one. With so much going on, it’s no surprise that Žnjan Beach is one of the most popular Split beaches.

Kasjuni Beach

Venture to picture-perfect Kasjuni Beach for a rejuvenating day under the Croatian sun. You’ll find paradise on the Marjan Peninsula, just west of downtown Split where the rocky coastline is seemingly plucked straight out of a postcard.

This pebble beach feels a bit more secluded than some of the other city beaches and is a great place to unwind and absorb the scenery.

There are minimal facilities, but it’s a peaceful place—until the beach club’s music begins in the afternoon—to lay out a towel and relax. If you need a chair, cabana, or umbrella rental, they can be rented at the pricey Joe’s Beach Lounge.

Spend your time at Kasjuni Beach reading a book, taking a nap, sunbathing, and swimming. If you get restless feet after a few hours, the location is the perfect jumping-off point for Marjan Hill’s forested trails.

From here, it’s a short stroll out to Punta Marjana, the peninsula’s endpoint, or a track the hills trails and steps to Crkva Gospa od Betlema, a small church with sweeping sea views.

Firule Beach

The small but beautiful Firule Beach is tucked in a cove between Bacvice and Žnjan Beaches. The sheltered, calm waters are ideal for swimmers of any skill level, and perfect for wading.

Dip your feet into the gentle waves and cool off in the Adriatic Sea. This beach has sand instead of gravel or pebbles that are more typical of Croatia, making it comfortable to sunbathe on without needing a lounge chair.

There’s little to no shade here, so be prepared to soak up the sun, or simply float in the clear sea. The beach does have a couple of freshwater showers and changing facilities.

After splashing around, stop for a cold beer with a view at one of the slightly elevated beach bars behind Firule Pier to toast your day spent at one of the top Split beaches.

Bene Beach

Named after the church and historical landmark of St. Benedict that once stood intact nearby, Bene Beach is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. It’s possible to see the church ruins in combination with your trip here, as well.

Situated on Marjan Peninsula, this beach is a great choice for those interested in exploring some of the surrounding forested area on foot, or cycling along the network of trails.

The rocky shoreline has a plethora of shady spots, thanks to the Aleppo pine trees, and facilities such as chair rentals and restrooms are available as well to make your time spent at Bene Beach a comfortable one.

The shallow waters typically offer fantastic visibility, ideal for snorkeling, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot sea urchins, shellfish, and octopus. Rent a paddleboat and make your way around the calm cove, or hop in for a swim.

Other activities here include tennis courts, a playground, ice cream, picnic area, and a restaurant and bar. With so much to do, it’s easy to spend an entire day enjoying Bene Beach and the surrounding area.

Podrače Beach

A little over an hour’s drive south from Split, Podrače Beach is a beautiful seaside destination with a natural rock outcropping on the edge and facilities including bathrooms and showers.

The beach is composed of gravel, and with the Dalmatian Coast’s classic clear, azure waters lapping the shore, it’s one of the most photogenic beaches in the country.

Choose between sunbathing or relaxing in the shade of pine trees. Enjoy snorkeling, lounge in a chair, or visit one of the bars and restaurants to sample some local fare such as grilled calamari or clams, pasta, as well as the local white wine, Malvasia.

Podrače Beach is an excellent place to make memories along the coast and well worth the venture from the city of Split.

Punta Rata Beach

Slightly south of Podrače Beach, Punta Rata, also known as Dugi Rat, is another of Croatia’s most famous and cinematic shorelines. Thanks to a sea-hugging walkway, you can easily combine the pair into a perfect beach day.

Protruding from the pine forest-backed Makarska Riviera like an arrow, the two-sided pebbly beach is postcard-perfect. Just be sure to bring water shoes.

Kamen Brela, a small rock formation surrounded by sea and topped with a few trees, graces nearly every postcard in the region. Nearby, another sea rock is imprinted with a dinosaur footprint.

Folded into the foliage backing the beach are a few seafood restaurants and an excellent seaview cocktail and coffee bar alongside public bathrooms. Loungers, parasols, and kayak rentals are easily arranged.

After splashing in the impossibly clear waters, follow the paved pathway south under the shade of trees arched by the coastal winds. Beyond the equally inviting Maestral Beach, you’ll arrive in the town of Brela, a small village first settled by the Romans.

Author’s Note (Daniel): Punta Rata is one of the most popular beaches in the region, so aim to arrive early. Still, even though it was crowded when I visited on a summer afternoon, the less-developed coastline still feels calm, and the walkway provides access to a few other spectacular beaches, so finding a sunbathing spot isn’t hard.

Nemira Beach

Approximately 35 minutes south of Split, Nemira Beach is an idyllic coastal destination backed by mountains.

The pebbled beach and light blue sea provide a gorgeous setting against the backdrop of the hilly landscape and nearby stone-built villages.

Shade is easy to come by from the trees lining the beach, or you can opt to rent a chair and umbrella to switch between cooling off and sunbathing.

Catch a thrill on one of the jet skis available for rental, or enjoy a more leisurely pace on a paddleboat. Refuel at the onsite snack bar or restaurant or just order a cool drink to sip while enjoying the view.

Vruja Beach

Nature and adventure lovers will enjoy a visit to the stunning Vruja Beach, a little less than an hour from Split. Part costumed, part naturist, the hard-to-reach bay is rarely busy.

On a hot day, the water temperature at Vruja Beach is delightfully more refreshing than other nearby coastal spots. This is due to the deep freshwater springs along this stretch of coast and the stronger local winds, known as bora.

After picking your way for 30 minutes down a trail, which has some steep sections, you’ll feast your eyes on the fine gravel that leads to the vividly colored turquoise sea, for an extremely picturesque scene. It’s also possible to access this gem of a beach by boat.

If you’re interested in a secluded beach day, this is truly the place to get away from it all. Wear your hiking shoes, pack a picnic lunch, and bring your own snorkel gear, as there are no facilities.

If you’re interested in combining a hike with a visit to an unspoiled beach with peace and quiet, Vruja Beach has you covered.

Plaža Artina

The sun and the sea await at pebbly Plaža Artina, approximately 40 minutes from the heart of Split.

Set on the Omiš Riviera, this secluded, slender shoreline is sun-drenched, with a few wind-bent trees providing patches of natural shade. Umbrellas and sunbeds are available for rent should the cooler spots be occupied.

Frequented by families seeking a place to splash around, the crystal-clear waters promise a dreamy dip and a classic Dalmatian coast experience, with Brač Island glistening in the distance.

The beach’s sole restaurant serves simple snacks and refreshments, including pizzas and chilled beers. However, due to its popularity, you might want to pack a picnic while experiencing one of the best beaches in Split.

Read: Insider’s Guide to Old Town Split

Plaža Strozanac

Located just 10 minutes southeast of Split, Plaža Strozanac is a beach divided into two parts: the sandy northern stretch and, to the south, a more picturesque, fine-pebble beach section.

Chair and umbrella rentals are available for sunbathers, as well as boat, jet ski, and stand-up paddle boards for those looking to get out on the water.

Join or watch a beach volleyball game, or indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the restaurants nearby. The coastline here is a lengthy stretch—split by a marina—so it’s possible to have your own space in an uncrowded section.

Before heading back to Split, make sure to take some time to explore the historic village of Stobreč, located adjacent to the beach. This is a fantastic choice for those looking to get off the beaten path.

Stobreč is a lesser-known seaside village that dates back to the third century when the first Greek settlement was built, then known as Epetion. Wander around and try to peek into the ongoing excavation site where some of the old Greek city walls and Bronze Age structures were uncovered in 2024.

Ovcice Beach

Meaning “Little Sheep’s Beach”, Ovcice Beach is a small but picturesque cove located just five minutes from the center of Split, with Firule Beach also very close by. This pebble beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and dining in a peaceful spot.

Bring your snorkel gear and explore, keeping an eye out for sea urchins and starfish in the clear water. Rent a chair or umbrella and unwind, cooled by the sea breeze from the Adriatic.

A short promenade lines the coast here, with cafés and bars serving Croatian food and drink with a view as well. For a small, tranquil beach very close to Split, Ovcice Beach is a great choice.

Galeb Beach

Just west of the dramatic, mountain-flanked Cetina River—marking the point where the waterway meets the Adriatic Sea and the historical town of Omiš—Galeb Beach promises a jam-packed beach day 40 minutes from Split.

Lapped by turquoise shallows, the sandy shoreline is a firm favorite with families, thanks to the floating, inflatable aqua park, and adventurers keen to try wind and kitesurfing on some of the Adriatic’s best breezes.

Fronting a dedicated tourism resort, facilities are in no short supply. From the expected cafés, changing rooms and toilets to scuba diving boat trips, Galeb Beach is ideal for those seeking a more active beach day out of Split.

Before or after your time at Galeb Beach, cross the river to visit the town of Omiš, location of an impressive fortress. The Mirabela Fortress is perched high on a hilltop and dates back to the 13th century.

It’s possible to visit and climb the stairs of this old pirate hideout in the Cetina Gorge where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the town, sea, and the mouth of the river.

Read: Best Things to Do in Croatia

Plaža Dugi Rat

Not to be confused with Punta Rata, the coastal town of Dugi Rat’s namesake beach is only a 30-minute drive from downtown Split, right on the Adriatic Highway.

Shallow waters and shade-giving trees rising from the pebbly shoreline make this a popular beach with local families, especially as the proximity to town ensures well-kept facilities and a handful of bars and restaurants along the beach.

Golden Horn Beach, Brač Island

Zlatni Rat, better known internationally as the Golden Horn Beach, is one of Croatia’s most famous beaches.

Located on the southern side of Brač Island in Bol, the white-pebbled, horn-shaped split is flanked by sparkling azure, bath-like waters and backed by dense Mediterranean pines.

Facilities on the horn are flawless and varied. Kids will love the floating Aquapark, while couples will appreciate the beachside cocktail bars for a refresher between swims.

Watersports, including inflatable rides and parasailing, can be arranged directly on the beach. Within the diminutive peninsula’s forest are public changing rooms and showers.

Reaching Brač from Split takes under an hour by ferry. Yet once you arrive on the largest island in Dalmatia, you’ll instantly feel the pace of life slow down.

If you’ve time after sunbathing, walk along the promenade into Bol Town before taking the return ferry. Right on the waterfront, you’ll find Stina Winery, a century-old cooperative where you can taste island-produced wines Croatia is known for.

Đardin Beach

Roughly halfway between Split and the UNESCO-listed historic town of Trogir, Đardin Beach is an excellent spot to stop for a dip between sightseeing trips.

Located in the Bay of Kaštela—a bay formed by Čiovo Island pointing towards Split’s peninsula—like a beckoning finger, the waters here are calmer than the exposed coast, making Đardin a popular swimming beach.

Đardin is a pebbly, urban beach with crystal clear waters, so bathing here is a real treat, especially with the backdrop of the island and peninsula beyond. The beach bar and bathrooms aren’t large, but there are plenty of lunch spots—including the fantastic Tich Kitchen—just behind the beach.

Don’t miss the chance to visit old Trogir, one of the best places to visit in Croatia. The historic city is only 15 minutes further along the coast.

Occupying a small, bridged-linked island between the mainland and Čiovo, Trogri’s fortified walls contain a treasure chest of Venetian, Romanesque, and Renaissance architecture.

Pokonji Dol Beach, Hvar Island

Long the place to see and be seen, Hvar Island has been a celebrity haunt for decades. Reaching the glamorous main town only takes an hour from Split, making it an easy day trip.

Just east of Hvar Town is the picturesque city beach of Pokonji Dol. This pocket-sized pebbly cove sparkles in all shades of cyan and turquoise, usually with a handful of boats bobbing at anchor.

Dive right in and make the most of the roped-off bathing area. Swim slightly out, and once you turn back to face the island, you’ll be greeted by a swoon-worthy view of mountains and fragrant Mediterranean scrub.

The beach features a couple of restaurants, both with terraces offering a picturesque backdrop of the sea for a seafood lunch, as well as bathrooms and a hut that rents sunbeds and umbrellas.

Author’s Note (Daniel): Hvar is spectacular, but it’s at its prettiest from above. Perhaps my favorite panorama in all of Croatia is the view from Fortica, the medieval fortress high above Hvar Town. After climbing up and surveying the pretty harbor and islands in the distance, I promise you the 30-minute walk to cool off at Pokonji Dol Beach will feel even more rewarding.

Biloševac Beach

Drive a little over an hour from Split on the Adriatic Highway to reach the resort town of Makarska, central to its namesake Riviera.

Makarska is an ancient settlement with several historical sights and a picturesque seafront promenade. Yet its main pull is its unrivaled nature.

Makarska is surrounded by the dramatic Biokovo Mountain Range, Croatia’s second highest, so swimming here comes with plenty of scenery.

Just before reaching the urban shorelines, stop at the tempting clear waters and smooth pebbles of Biloševac Beach. With a handful of restaurants, bars, bathrooms, and facilities, it’s an idyllic spot for bathing before exploring the town.

Better still, take a parasail ride for a greater appreciation of the mountains looming behind the beach when seen from the water.

Lovrečina Beach, Brač Island

With ferries from Split to Supetar on Brač Island taking only 50 minutes, the island’s proximity and laid-back nature make it perfect for a beach day.

Spreading out along the north coast just east of Supetar is a string of fantastic beaches, with Babin Laz Beach being one of the finest near the port town. Venture a little further to Lovrečina Beach, and you’ll instantly fall in love.

This scenic, pebbly inlet, cocooned by lush greenery, is the perfect escape. Bring your water shoes, towel, and picnic and enjoy the Adriatic at its most relaxed, all with views of Split’s mountains in the distance.

Before taking the return ferry, be sure to poke around the ruins of a sixth-century basilica, found just a few minutes walk from the shoreline.

Read: Croatia Travel Tips

Kaštelet Beach

Another highlight of Split’s Marjan Peninsula, Kaštelet Beach—also known as Obojena Beach and connected to Plaža Ježinac—is a convenient, brief walk from the city’s marina.

This trio of pebbly artificial coves dotted with young palm trees is a local favorite, and you’ll often see people spreading their towels on the pier-like seawall or sitting on one of the many benches and enjoying the views. Nearby dining options are limited, but there are restrooms.

Just behind is one of Split’s best art collections, the works of local sculptor Ivan Meštrović housed in the stately Meštrović Gallery. And, with the beach just moments away, it’s easy to enjoy a dip after marveling at the marble pieces.

Brzet Beach

Meander 15 minutes south of Omiš on foot, and you’ll soon find the dreamy neighboring beaches of Plaža Slavinj and Brzet.

Combined, the pair furnish nearly half a mile of idyllic pebble shoreline, backed by dense pine forests and panoramas of imposing limestone mountains.

You’ll find everything you need here for the perfect day in the sun, with watersport and lounger rentals, a handful of shaded sea view bars, and public facilities, including showers and changing rooms.

Mala Raduča Beach, Primošten

Drive an hour up the coast from Split, and you’ll be rewarded with the real-life postcard that is Primošten—the kind of Dalmatian coastal village that will make your heart sing.

Appearing like half a turtle from above, the “head” is home to a near-circular old town, surrounded by excellent local restaurants and webbed by cobbled streets and medieval buildings.

Reaching the old town means a tombolo-like crossing, flanked by two of Croatia’s most scenic stretches of pebbles: Plaža Luka and Mala Raduča Beach.

Lay out your towel, paddle in the crystal clear shallows, or rent a small paddle boat from one of the stands near Mala Raduča’s widest stretch of sand. However you enjoy the shoreline, you can be sure that the storybook settlement of Primošten will keep stealing your attention.

Author’s Note (Daniel): My favorite sunbathing spot is towards the end of the beach on the “turtle’s flipper”, a usually less busy section backed by greenery and from which you get some gorgeous photos of the old town. For a peaceful beach amble, walk around the whole headland and loop back to town via Plaža Velika Raduča.

Solinska Beach, Drvenik Veli Island

One of the smaller islands near Split, Drvenik Veli is a popular stop on speedboat day trips from the city.

The island is famed for Krknjaši, its Blue Lagoon. Most visitors come to swim in the bay’s cerulean waters surrounded by impossibly brilliant shades of cyan. Underwater scooters provide another fun way to experience Krknjaši.

Afterward, spend some lounging on the pristine beaches on this almost untouched island carpeted in pines. Any will leave you smitten, but secluded Solinska Beach is subjectively the best.

Impossibly bright waters lap this tiny arch of pebbles, and this facility-free, rural beach assures the kind of tranquility that’s harder to find on the mainland.

Labadusa Beach, Čiovo Island

Čiovo Island is one of the easiest isles to reach from Split, as a bridge links it to the mainland via Trogir, removing the need to worry about ferries.

Once you’ve arrived at the relatively undeveloped island, you’re spoiled for choice for bathing spots, ranging from bay-facing beaches on the north to more rugged stretches in the south.

Southern Labadusa Beach, a narrow sweep of pebbles and jutting rocks, is delightfully unfussy and is mainly frequented by campers.

Within the campgrounds backing the beach is a fantastic, traditional Croatian restaurant. Or head to trendy Laganini Beach Club for a lavish lunch savored from your day bed.

Read: Most Beautiful Places in Croatia

FAQs

From idyllic coves with great snorkeling to seaside destinations buzzing with energy, there’s a beach to suit your needs in and around Split. Browse our cruises to Split and book your Croatian beach getaway today.