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Split, Croatia is a well-known coastal city that sees a steady stream of catamarans and ferries coming and going in the harbor – but that doesn’t mean there aren’t Split beaches, too! In the heat of summer, there is nothing quite as refreshing as taking a swim in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea along Split’s coastline. Grab your towel and sunscreen and let’s discover the 10 Best Beaches in Split, Croatia!
Best Split, Croatia Beaches
When planning a trip to Croatia, Split is one of the top cities to visit. Not only is Split easy to get to, but it is filled with fascinating history, delicious Croatian Cuisine, fabulous activities and miles an miles of beaches.
Split may have a bustling port, but the city’s location on the Adriatic Sea means there are numerous beaches near the Split city center. The best beaches in Split are within walking distance from the Split Old Town – and spending time on the shoreline is a highlight of any trip to Split.
To the east of the city center is a coastal walkway that connects several of the best Split beaches. Bacvice Beach is the most popular Split beach where swimmers can ease into the cool sea water and sunbathers can find a spot along the edge to catch some rays.
West of the city center, the rocky coastline around Marjan Hill provides a unique Split beach experience where swimmers can jump from the rocks into the clear blue water below.
Pro Tip: Get (and stay) organized for your Vacation to Croatia by using our Trip Planning Printables!
Sandy Beaches in Croatia
Much of the Croatian coastline is rocky, which begs the question: Are there beaches in Split that are sandy? Well, to be honest, the sandy beaches in Split are few and far between. Most of the top beaches in Split are either pebble, rock or concrete platforms.
But don’t let the lack of sandy beaches deter you from spending time on the shoreline. The beaches in Split, Croatia – whether sand or rock beaches – are stunningly beautiful.
If going to a sandy beach in Split is a must, there are only a few places to go. Bacvice Beach is the best sand beach in Split…and the small sandy section is highly coveted in the height of summer, so plan to get there early!
Top Tip: The best sandy beaches in Croatia are on the islands; the town of Lumbarda on Korcula has a wonderful sandy shoreline. Find out more about Split Day Trips to island beaches in our Day Trips from Split article.
Split Swimming
Swimming in Split, Croatia is one of our favorite activities! The water is unbelievably clear and always slightly cool, which is perfect in the summertime. Deciding where to swim in Split really depends on how you like to get in (and out of) the water. We prefer jumping into the sea from rocks rather than wading in from the shoreline. That said, there are numerous places for both.
Regardless of whether you go to rock, pebble or sand beaches in Split, if you plan on wading into the water, we recommend wearing water shoes. Not only are the pebbles uncomfortable to walk on, but the coastline is home to numerous spiky sea urchins (and an occasional piece of sharp glass).
Top Tip: The clarity of the water is great for viewing sea life. While the Croatian coast is not home to spectacular reefs or brightly colored fish, it can still be interesting to see what’s in the sea. If you have snorkel gear, bring it with you on your vacation to Croatia.
Split is certainly one of the best coastal towns in Croatia. Although spending time in and near the water is one of the top things to do, we have more tips for what to do in Split. Use our guide to the Best Things To Do in Split, Croatia!
TOP 10 SPLIT BEACHES
Our list includes the best beaches around Split. The beaches are categorized based on location (to the east or west of the Old Town, in order starting with the closest beach first).
For each featured Split beach, we include essential information and a pin drop, so that you can quickly get online directions. Additionally, you will find our Beaches in Split Map link at the end of the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Split Beaches Guide for your trip to Croatia!
Split Beaches to the East
Within an easy stroll east from the Old Town (just beyond the main bus terminal), a walkway leads to several Split beaches and seaside cafes.
#1 Bacvice Beach
{MAP} Incredibly convenient to the Old Town, Bacvice Beach Croatia is Split’s most popular beach for travelers. With lively beach bars, shallow water and a sandy shore, Bacvice Split Beach gets absolutely packed in the summertime with thousands of daily visitors descending on the bay.
Although we prefer less crowded Split beaches, Bacvice is a fun Split party beach complete with bars serving tropical cocktails and DJs spinning tunes.
Split Beach Bacvice is the only sand beach near the city; the sandy portion is in the center along the curve of the bay. Concrete makes up the rest of Bacvice Beach. Sun loungers are available for rent from the Split beach clubs, but many beach-goers simply spread out their towels on the pavement.
Top Tip: Looking for a place to stay in Split? We talk about Bacvice Beach Hotels and Split beach resorts at the end of the article.
Things To Do at Bacvice Beach
Besides sunbathing, swimming and drinking, the floating Aqua Park Bacvice Split is a fun way to enjoy a day at the beach – and there is also a place to rent jet skis.
At the western end of the bay, large boulders extend into the water. Adventurous travelers can climb the rocks to a nice viewpoint spot in Pomoraca Park.
Outside of the summer months, the beach exudes a low-key, local vibe. Most of the beach clubs and restaurants are closed, but Cafe Zbirac – at the sandy beach – is a lovely spot for a morning coffee. Despite the chilly water, it’s common for locals to play Picigin – a traditional type of handball played in the shallow water.
Bacvice Beach Nightlife
Bacvice Beach is not only hopping when the sun shines; it’s a place to be both day and night. Clubs at Bacvice keep the Split Beach party going well after dark…and the thumping bass continues into the wee hours of the morning.
Top Tip: We love the craft beer in Split! Find out the best places to drink craft brew in our guide to Split Bars serving Croatian Craft Beer!
#2 Ovcice Beach Split
{MAP} Just to the east of Bacvice is Ovcice Beach; a small, pebbly beach that is popular with families. Ovcice Split Beach is serviced by one café (aptly named Ovcice Café). The beach is slightly angled to the west, which makes it a great beach to catch some rays later in the day and a good spot for watching a Split sunset.
Tucked along the eastern side of Ovcice Beach are a couple of shaded tables. Local men gather at these tables in the late afternoon to play chess and gossip.
On top of the eastern headland that separates Ovcice from Firule (the next beach to the east), is a small park and parking lot. Visitors seeking a little shade can climb the stairs up to the forested park. Also, the sea-level concrete at the tip of the headland has a few benches and ladders where swimmers can get in and out of the water. The rocky outcrop that extends into Firule Bay is fun to explore at low tide!
#3 Firule Beach Split
{MAP} The Firule Bay is nearly as wide as Bacvice, but with a much smaller beach. In fact, water comes right up to the walkway on the entire western half of the bay, leaving only a small beach on the eastern side. When Firule Beach gets crowded, people stake their claim along the breakwater and on the walkway.
The shallow water along the beach is a good spot to ease into the sea, which makes it especially popular for families with young kids (and is another popular spot to play Picigin).
Mythos, up the stairs above the breakwater, has cliffside tables with great views and serves food, and the adjacent Day & Night Bar Tennis is just for drinks.
Zenta Split
This area to the east of Firule Split Beach is mostly taken up by the Zenta Marina. While swimming in the water at the marina is obviously prohibited, Bazeni Posk is a public swimming pool that is located at the marina. Next to the pool is the Zenta Café Bar and Nightclub.
Top Tip: Also perched above Firule Beach is Dvor, an upscale Michelin-recommended restaurant. Read our complete guide to the Best Restaurants in Split!
#4 Trstenik Beach Split (and Radisson Beach)
{MAP} Trstenik Beach lies to the east of the Zenta Marina. The calm bay has crystal clear water, a clean pebbly beach and plenty of room to spread out your beach blankets. However, currently there are no concessions at Trstenik Beach, so plan accordingly.
Radisson Beach Split
The Radisson Blu Resort Split sits just east of Trstenik Bay – and, therefore, the beach in front of it is often referred to as ‘Radisson Beach’. Loungers are available for rent (even by those not staying at the Radisson) and the stylish Mistral Beach Bar and Restaurant is run by the hotel.
Top Tip: Trstenik Beach is popular for water-sports. Visitors can rent jet skis or book trips for parasailing.
#5 Znjan Beach
{MAP} The Split Znjan Beach is popular with locals…and tourists who make the effort to get to it. There are numerous on-beach cafes, restaurants and beach clubs.
Located east of Radisson Beach, past the small bay, Beach Znjan is a long stretch of pebbly beach. Even though it gets very crowded in the peak summer months, the water at the beach is clean and the pebbles are finer at Znjan Beach than most other Split beaches.
Top Tip: It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to walk from the Split Old Town to Znjan Beach. There is a large parking lot at Beach Znjan for visitors who want to drive to the beach, but parking can be a challenge. Bus #15 is an alternate way to get Znjan Beach from the Split city center. The ride from Split Old Town to Beach Znjan takes about 20 minutes.
Marjan Beaches
West of the Split Old Town is the Green Lungs of Split, the Marjan Hill Forest Park Peninsula. There are several Marjan Split beaches around the base of the hill – and they tend to be rustic and less crowded than the beaches along the eastern shoreline.
The most popular Marjan Beach is Kasjuni Beach – but there are some other beach clubs and coves to discover as well.
Top Tip: Marjan Beaches can be accessed on foot, Uber or by Bus Line #12. This is the main Marjan Beach Bus and it originates at St. Frane Church on the west end of the Split Riva.
#6 Jadran Beach Split
{MAP} Although Jadran Beach is located not far from the Split Old Town right next to Sustipan Park, it’s a bit of a hidden gem. The Jadran Beach Bar Split sits on the sea, just beyond the harbor and is mostly popular with locals. The concrete and natural rock beach has ladders for swimmers to get in and out of the sea. Next to the Jadran Beach Bar, there is also a swimming pool.
Top Tip: Google Maps does not provide correct walking directions; the Jadran Beach cannot be accessed through Sustipan Park. Walk to the corner of the small marina and look for signs that lead through a gate to the pool and beach bar.
#7 Zvoncac Beach (Rocks along the Coastal Path)
{MAP} Along the shoreline path, west of the Lucica Marina, is (what we think is called) Zvoncac Beach. The water comes right up to the walkway, which is far too narrow for beach-goers to spread out their towels.
However, the natural rocks to the west of the bay provide a perfect perch above the sea. In fact, the rocky terrain that continues to the west is our absolute favorite Split beach for swimming. There are no services and the rocks are steep and sometimes slippery, so be careful!
Top Tip: From the rocks, swimmers can jump right into the sea. Before jumping, however, use caution and check that the water below is clear of rocks and deep enough to jump into. Also, before taking the plunge, make sure you have an exit strategy. Look for ladders bolted to the rocks so that you can more easily get back out of the water.
#8 Jezinac, Kastelet and Obojena Beaches Split
{MAP} Jezinac Bay has a fantastic beach and is often not as crowded, despite being absolutely beautiful. Both pebbles and rock create this three-cove beach that is occasionally overlooked by travelers.
The first cove is Jezinac and is the most natural (with a small, sandy beach). It is protected by a string of rocks just off shore, making the water nice and calm. Just above Jezinac Beach is the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery (which we highly recommend visiting during your Split trip!).
The next two beach coves (Kastelet and Obojena) are divided by a small peninsula, which is partly used as a parking lot. A simple café sits at the center cove and is a good spot for cold drinks. Jezinac Beach is ideal for laid-back vibes and easy access to wade into the water.
Top Tip: We are unsure if Jezinac, Kastelet and Obojena are all the same beach…or different names for the different coves. Regardless, we think they are some of the best beaches in Split, Croatia!
#9 Kasjuni Beach
{MAP} Kasjuni Beach – also spelled Kasuni Beach…and not to be confused with the inland town of Kasuni, Croatia – is the most popular Marjan beach.
Located in a large cove at the end of the peninsula, Kasuni Beach features a long, west-facing pebble beach that is perfect for catching afternoon rays and fabulous sunsets. The popularity of the Kasjuni Split Beach means that prices are a bit higher (for sun loungers, drinks and beach food), but the scenery is spectacular.
Top Tip: Looking for Nudist Beaches in Split, Croatia? The furthest end of Kasjuni Beach is designated FKK (a.k.a. Nude).
#10 Bene Beach Split
{MAP} Nearly as well-known as Kasjuni Beach (but still thought of as one of the hidden beaches in Split for it’s remote location), Beach Bene Split is nestled into a northern cove on the Marjan Peninsula. Bene Beach has a restaurant, tennis courts, a kids’ play area and natural shade.
Visitors can spread out on the flat rocks that sprawl into the sea, go swimming in the shallow water or rent kayaks. Typically, the setting at Bene Beach is laid back and serene.
Top Tip: While buses and Uber taxis transport people to Bene Beach, our favorite way to get there is to hike. From the Varos neighborhood, we walk up to the Split City Viewpoint (this is a must do when Split Sightseeing!), then hike the length of the peninsula to where the trail breaks off for Split Bene Beach. Find all the details of this hike in our Hiking Marjan Hill post.
Split Beaches Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Split, Croatia Beaches Map below.
More of the Best Beaches in Croatia
Croatia is home to thousands of miles of coastline and some of the best beaches in the world. We are highlighting a few more of our favorite beaches near Split, Croatia.
Banje Beach in Dubrovnik
If you are looking for the best beaches in Dubrovnik, put Banje Beach on your list! The stylish beach features epic views of Old City Dubrovnik – and has both a public section and beach bar. Read more about Banje Beach and 5 other incredible Dubrovnik Beaches!
Velika Plaza in Omis
One of the best beaches near Split, Velika Plaza is a sandy beach just steps from the picturesque Old Town. Unlike the small Split sandy beaches, Velika Plaza is big (as the name actually translates to Big Beach). Omis is a well-known adventure destination – with top activities like ziplining, hiking and rafting – but spending time on the beach is one the Best Things To Do in Omis.
Zlatni Rat in Bol on Brac Island
Zlatni Rat – which means Golden Horn – is the most famous beach in Croatia. The pebbly beach is a spit of land that extends into the Adriatic Sea…and it constantly moves with the currents and tides. Spending time on the beach is, of course, the best way to experience it, however, for the best view of the beach, you will need to hike up Vidova Gora.
Beaches on the Makarska Riviera
One of the best stretches of coastal shoreline is found along the beautiful Makarska Riviera. Located between Split and Dubrovnik, Makarska is a fantastic destination for Croatia beach vacations. We share tips about visiting the region in our guide to the Best Things To Do in Makarska.
Split Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation in Split, Croatia there are heaps of options! If you are looking for hotels in Split near the beach, however, there are far fewer choices. Before you start your search, read out Top Tips for Booking the Best Hotels.
Hotels Near Bacvice Beach, Split
Visitors looking for the best hotels near Split beaches should look at the accommodations closest to Bacvice Beach. We are featuring a few of the top rated hotels that are just a short walk to the best beach in Split, Croatia.
Briig Boutique Hotel
A new Bacvice Beach hotel in Split, the luxury Briig Boutique Hotel features a rooftop pool, included breakfast and sea-facing rooms. The swanky hotel is a bit pricey – the Penthouse Suite goes for almost $2,000 USD per night in the summer – but it is right off the beach. Look at the photos!
Hotel Park Split
Consistently rated as one of the best beach hotels in Split, the historic hotel dates to 1921 (and was completely renovated in 2015 and again in 2021). Just steps from Bacvice Beach, the classic hotel has a pool, on-site restaurant and spa. Check prices for your trip!
Split Beach Apartment in Bacvice Neighborhood
There are numerous holiday apartments for rent near Split beaches – especially so in the Bacvice neighborhood. On one of our recent visits to Split, we stayed in an apartment that was just down the street from Bacvice. We often prefer staying in apartments rather than hotels because we find they have more space, are sometimes less expensive and have a kitchen where we can make a few meals at home (especially breakfast!).
That said, there are pros and cons to staying in a vacation rental. We share tips and advice in our Guide to Booking Airbnb Apartments.
More of the Best Beach Hotels in Split, Croatia
Other highly rated hotels are found along the eastern shoreline, further from the Split city center. Visitors most interested in enjoying a beach vacation – rather than sightseeing in the UNESCO World Heritage city – might find the accommodations at these Split, Croatia beaches to be most enticing.
Hotel Fanat
Located on Znjan Beach, Hotel Fanat receives fabulous ratings. The hotel has an indoor pool, on-site restaurant and fitness center. Check available rooms now!
Marvie Hotel
Located by Firule Beach, the Marvie Hotel opened in 2017. The hotel features a rooftop pool, sea view rooms and an on-site spa. It’s an exceptional place to stay on the beach in Split, Croatia. Check out the features!
Beach Resorts Near Split, Croatia
Split also offers two fabulous beach resorts for your Croatia vacation.
Radisson Blu Resort
Located between Znjan and Trstenik Beach – the Radisson Blu is Split’s top beach resort. The luxury property features an outdoor pool, a high-end spa, sea view rooms with a balcony and a superb on-site restaurant. Read the Rave Reviews!
Hotel Amphora
Located on the far east end of Znjan Beach, Hotel Amphora bills itself as a spa oasis right on the water. Highly rated for couples, the Hotel Amphora may be a great choice for a romantic Croatian holiday! Read the Reviews!
When searching for the best hotels in Split – or the best beach hotels in Croatia! – start your search on Booking.com…like we do!
Planning a Trip to Croatia Beaches: Split Tips
Split beaches are top attractions – but there is so much more to see and do in the city! As Split is one of our favorite destinations, we are bursting with Split travel tips for your trip!
If this is your first trip to Croatia, we recommend starting with our guide to Planning a Croatia Vacation – and, if you are arriving from overseas, you might also find it valuable to read our tips for European Trip Planning.
To aid in planning your Croatia trip, we share our tips for the Best Croatia Destinations and have created a detailed 2-Week Croatia Itinerary.
Throughout this blog post, we have shared links to more of our Split travel guides – and you can find them all on our Croatia Travel Guide Page. That said, here are a few of the most helpful articles.
- Best Things To Do in Split
- What and Where to Eat in Split
- A Perfect 3-Day Split Itinerary
- Self Guided Split Walking Tour (including UNESCO World Heritage Diocletian’s Palace)
- Best Day Trips from Split
What To Pack for Split Beach Vacations
In this Split travel guide we have covered the best beaches in Split, a map to find your way, top beach accommodations and trip planning tips – so now it’s time to pack! Find all of our packing advice on our Travel Packing page.
Swimsuit, Flip Flops and Water Shoes
Of course, if you plan on spending time at the Split best beaches, then you need to pack beachwear for your trip. Pack at least one swimsuit (or two if you are planning a Split beach vacation).
We also recommend packing flip flops or sandals that you can wear from your accommodations to the beach. As we already mentioned, water shoes are a good idea for travelers who plan on getting in the water for a swim. They will protect your feet from the pebbles, sea urchins and glass.
We share more tips on footwear for your trip in our guide to the Best Travel Shoes.
Cover Up
Travelers – especially those staying in the Old Town – will also want to pack a swimsuit cover up for their trip. Visitors are required to cover up when walking through the Split Old Town – so a loose cover up is good to have for your trip.
Croatian Sun Protection
The sun in Croatia is intense! Make sure to pack sunscreen for your trip – and also consider bringing a wide brimmed travel hat and sunglasses.
Water Bottle
Although there are cafes at most of the Split, Croatia beaches, it’s always a good idea to bring your own water bottle. We recommend packing a refillable, collapsible water bottle for your Croatia trip.
Towel and Beach Blanket
You may or may not need to pack a towel and beach blanket. Both are a bit bulky and can take up room in your luggage – so find out if your accommodations provide beach towels before packing a towel. That said, a versatile wrap can double as a beach blanket – and it’s one of the must-haves on our Ultimate Packing List.
Waterproof Phone Case
The beaches of Split, Croatia are beautiful – so you will want to bring your phone to snap photos. However, if you plan on swimming – or getting anywhere near the water – we recommend protecting your phone with a waterproof case.
Split Beach Bag
When heading out for a day at the best beaches in Split, Croatia, you will want to bring a beach bag that can hold all of your essentials. We use small backpacks as our travel day bags – and they work for carrying everything we need for the beach, too.
Croatia Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance may cover a range of travel mishaps – from lost luggage to getting injured or ill abroad. If you don’t already have travel insurance for your trip to Croatia, consider the rates and coverage at World Nomads.
Start planning your Croatia Itinerary! Then, search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Tips For Your Trip To Croatia
Find the top attractions in Zagreb, explore romantic Rovinj, use our complete guide to Dubrovnik, see the sights in Zadar, and get out tips for visiting the famous Plitvice Lakes.
Going Croatian Island Hopping from Split? Use out guides to the best destinations like sunny Hvar, remote Vis, underrated Brac and historic Korcula!
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