Best Beaches in Split, Croatia (2026 Ultimate Guide)

A Guide to Split's Best Beaches: From Sandy Shores to Secluded Coves

Split, Croatia, is renowned for Diocletian's Palace and its vibrant Riva promenade, but its stunning Adriatic coastline is the city's true summer jewel. While many visitors use Split as a jumping-off point for islands like Hvar and Brač, the city itself boasts a diverse range of beaches catering to every type of traveler. From the sandy, shallow waters of Bačvice to the chic pebble shores of Kašjuni, finding the perfect spot to soak up the Mediterranean sun is easy—if you know where to look.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the best beaches in Split for the 2026 season, complete with prices, facility details, and local tips to help you plan your perfect beach day.

Understanding Split's Coastline: What to Expect

Before you pack your towel, it's important to understand the local geography. Unlike the vast sandy expanses found elsewhere in the world, the vast majority of beaches in and around Split are pebble beaches. The pebbles range from fine, smooth stones to larger rocks.

Key Characteristics of Split's Beaches:

• Water Clarity: The pebble seafloor contributes to the Adriatic's legendary crystal-clear water, making it excellent for snorkeling.
• Water Shoes: A pair of water shoes is a highly recommended investment. They make walking on pebbles and rocks much more comfortable.
• Sea Urchins: While not a widespread problem at popular managed beaches, sea urchins can be found in rockier, more secluded areas. Water shoes offer protection.
• Blue Flag Status: Many of Split's main beaches, including Bačvice and Trstenik, have been awarded the Blue Flag certification, indicating high standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.

The Top 5 Beaches in Split: A Detailed Review

Here’s a breakdown of the must-visit beaches located within Split's city limits, each offering a unique atmosphere.

Bačvice Beach: The Heart of Split's Social Life

Bačvice is more than just a beach; it's a cultural institution. Located a mere 1.2 km walk from Diocletian's Palace, it is the city's most famous and accessible beach. It is also one of the few genuinely sandy beaches in the area.

• Description: A wide, semicircular bay with fine sand and very shallow water that extends for over 50 meters, making it exceptionally safe for children. It's the birthplace of picigin, a traditional ball game played by locals year-round in the shallows.
• Who is it for? Families with young children, young adults, tourists seeking convenience, and anyone wanting to experience a local tradition.
• Facilities & Prices: Bačvice is fully equipped with freshwater showers, changing cabins, and public restrooms. A set of two sunbeds and an umbrella typically costs €25-€30 for the day. The promenade behind the beach is lined with cafes, fast-food restaurants, and nightclubs that come alive after sunset.
• How to get there: A 10-15 minute walk east from the main Riva promenade and ferry port.
• Insider Tip: To avoid the biggest crowds, visit on a weekday morning. For a unique cultural experience, stay until late afternoon to watch the local picigin players in action.

Kašjuni Beach: Scenery and Style on Marjan Hill

Nestled on the southwestern side of Marjan Park, Kašjuni Beach offers a stunning natural setting that feels a world away from the city bustle. Its mix of natural beauty and modern amenities makes it a favorite among locals and discerning tourists.

• Description: A long, picturesque pebble beach framed by pine trees and the dramatic cliffs of Marjan hill. The water here is deep, clear, and a brilliant shade of turquoise.
• Who is it for? Couples, style-conscious travelers, nature lovers, and those looking for a relaxed yet upscale beach club vibe.
• Facilities & Prices: The main area is serviced by Joe's Beach Lounge & Bar, which offers comfortable sun loungers, cabanas, cocktails, and food service. Prices here are higher; expect to pay €35-€45 for a standard sunbed set. There are public showers and changing areas.
• How to get there: Take the #12 bus from the Riva (Sveti Frane stop). A taxi or Uber costs around €10-€12 from the Old Town. There is also a dedicated parking lot, which fills up quickly in peak season.
• Insider Tip: If you walk to the far western end of the beach, past the main beach club, you'll find a quieter, unofficial FKK (nudist) section. This area offers more privacy and a more rustic feel.

Žnjan Beach: The Family-Friendly Hub

Following a major redevelopment project, the Žnjan plateau has been transformed into Split's largest and most family-oriented beach destination. It is a massive complex of interconnected pebble beaches stretching for several kilometers.

• Description: A sprawling coastline with medium-sized pebbles and countless coves. The area is designed for activity and accessibility, with wide promenades and easy water access.
• Who is it for? Families with children of all ages, groups of friends, and water sports enthusiasts. It is also the most wheelchair-accessible beach in Split.
• Facilities & Prices: Žnjan has it all: inflatable water parks, jet ski rentals, playgrounds, trampolines, and dozens of modern cafes and restaurants. Sunbed and umbrella sets are more affordable here, generally ranging from €20-€25.
• How to get there: Located 4.5 km east of the center, it's best reached by bus (#8, #15, or #17) or car, as there is extensive parking available.
• Insider Tip: Because Žnjan is so large, the experience can vary greatly depending on where you settle. The western end (closer to Trstenik) is often quieter, while the central and eastern parts are bustling with activities.

Trstenik Beach: Quiet Relaxation

Situated between the busier Žnjan and Bačvice areas, Trstenik offers a more peaceful and organized beach experience. It is maintained by the adjacent Radisson Blu hotel but remains fully open to the public.

• Description: A beautifully maintained bay with fine, smooth pebbles that are more comfortable underfoot than at many other beaches. The water is exceptionally clean and protected from strong winds.
• Who is it for? Couples, older visitors, and anyone seeking a tranquil day by the sea without sacrificing convenience.
• Facilities & Prices: The beach has public showers, changing rooms, and a designated swimming area. You can rent high-quality sunbeds and umbrellas for €20-€25. A quiet beach bar offers refreshments.
• How to get there: It's a 3 km journey from the Old Town. Bus #17 stops nearby. It's also a pleasant 15-minute coastal walk from Žnjan.
• Insider Tip: While the main beach is excellent, explore the small, unnamed coves just to the east of Trstenik for a more private swimming spot.

Bene Beach: A Rustic Escape in the Woods

Located deep within Marjan Park on its northern shore, Bene Beach is a classic local hangout that prioritizes nature and activity over pristine sands.

• Description: Not a traditional beach, Bene consists of rocky shores and paved concrete platforms set under the deep shade of a dense pine forest. Ladders provide easy access to the clear, deep water.
• Who is it for? Active families, locals, and anyone who prefers natural shade and a rustic atmosphere over crowded, sunny beaches.
• Facilities & Prices: Bene is a mini recreational center with tennis courts, a children's playground, and a simple restaurant serving grilled classics. Basic sunbeds are available for around €15-€20, but most people lay their towels directly on the concrete platforms or in the pine forest.
• How to get there: This beach is car-free. Take the #12 bus to its final stop, or hop on the small tourist train that runs from the Riva promenade.
• Insider Tip: Bene is the perfect choice for a very hot day, as the pine canopy provides all-day shade, a rare commodity on most other Split beaches.

Practical Tips for Your Split Beach Day

To make the most of your time on the Croatian coast, keep these tips in mind:

• Purchase Water Shoes: They are sold everywhere in Split for about €10-€15 and will significantly improve your comfort on pebble beaches.
• Stay Hydrated: The Croatian sun is intense. Drink plenty of water. Tap water in Split is perfectly safe and of excellent quality.
• Use Public Transport: Parking near beaches in July and August is extremely difficult. The local bus network is efficient and cheap for reaching beaches like Žnjan and Kašjuni.
• Respect the Environment: Always take your trash with you and use the provided bins. Help keep the Adriatic beautiful.
• Check the Wind: A strong southerly wind (Jugo) can create large waves and make swimming less pleasant, while the north-easterly Bura wind cools the air but usually results in calm seas.