Combine discovering history in Croatia’s second city with a beach break, with this guide to the best beaches in Split.
Split may be best known for Diocletian’s Palace and its Riva Promenade, but the summer months see visitors flock here to enjoy the area’s pristine – pebble and sand – beaches and to take a dip in the Adriatic. The blissful beaches on the city’s doorstep include lively stretches with plenty of options for eating and drinking, as well as more secluded spots and beaches particularly suited to families.
One of Split’s more popular beaches, Bačvice is located in a sheltered bay. Although smaller in size, it is a popular destination for sightseers looking for a place to cool off thanks to its location, a mere 10-minute walk from Diocletian’s Palace. Additionally, some parts of the beach are paved, which allows for easier access for visitors with limited mobility. Because of its central location, there are also numerous dining options along the beach’s eastern curve. Getting here: From Diocletian’s Palace, walk towards the main bus station (Autobusni kolodvor Split) and the ferry port (Trajektna Luka Split). Continue onto Katalinićev prilaz and the walkway; the bay will be on the right.
Located 20 minutes from the centre of Split and close to the Meštrović Gallery, Kaštelet is a pebble and sand beach known for its clear blue waters. This beach is good for non-swimmers and small children, by virtue of its shallow banks. Showers, toilets and a beach bar are located on-site. Getting here: On foot from the Ivan Meštrović Gallery, it it is approximately a five-minute walk to the beach. From the gallery, head south, then west onto Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića directly to the beach. For those with a car, parking is available at the beach itself.
Particularly popular with locals, Ježinac is a pebble and sand beach located west of the city centre in Meje, an elite Split neighbourhood in the southern foothills of the Marjan peninsula. Surrounded by pine trees, it is a great location if you want more of a laid-back spot to enjoy the sun as well as a safe place for kids to swim. Amenities include a shower and café-bar. Getting here: It is approximately a 25-minute walk from Riva to get to this beach. Alternatively, take bus line 12, Sv.Frane – Bene – (MEJE) – Sv.Frane to get here.
Located on the eastern side of Split, the pebble beach at Trstenik offers a secluded location and amenities including toilets and changing rooms, as well as good access for those with limited mobility. Part of the beach is under concession by the nearby Radisson Blu Resort Split, so expect more hotel guests there in the summer; however, you can also rent a sunbed from the resort, which is a plus. Getting here: If you are feeling active, you can walk approximately 30-40 minutes from Riva to get to this beach. Otherwise, it is a 10-minute drive to the beach, and parking is available on-site. For those using public transport, take bus line 17, Spinut – Lora – Trstenik to get here.
Žnjan beach is a pebble beach located to the east of Trstenik. It is the largest beach in Split and is connected to Trstenik beach via a waterside promenade. Žnjan beach is popular year-round thanks to the plethora of restaurants, bars and cafés that surround it, as well as playgrounds and themed activities for the whole family. Try to get here early, as it can get crowded during the summer. Getting here: For those with a car, it is approximately a 15-minute drive from Riva to Žnjan beach, where parking is available. For those using public transport, take bus line 7, Žnjan – Zvončac – Žnjan, or line 8, Žnjan – Zvončac – sv. Frane – Žnjanto, to get here.
Kašjuni is a deep pebble and sand bay, which is popular for its breathtaking location beneath Marjan Hill. Here you will find picturesque scenery and clear blue waters, as well as creature comforts including showers, changing areas and a beach bar. If you are looking for a quieter spot to enjoy the sea, and perhaps to have a picnic, stopping by here for a day is worthwhile. Getting here: For those driving, it is approximately a 15-minute drive from Riva to Plaža Kašjuni beach, where free parking is available. For those using public transport, take bus line 12, Sv.Frane – Bene – (MEJE) – Sv.Frane to get here.
Bene’s location is a little more remote. A part-sand and part-rocky beach, it is situated in the northeastern section of the Marjan Forest Park and is surrounded by pine trees, which provides for a tranquil swimming and sunbathing spot. Because of its location, it is also a great starting point for walks into the park. Amenities include a restaurant, showers, a tennis court and a children’s playground. Getting here: From within Marjan Forest Park, walking paths lead to this beach; otherwise, take bus line 12, Sv.Frane – Bene – (MEJE) – Sv.Frane to get here.
