Grljevac Beach is situated in the town of Podstrana, located within the Split-Dalmatia county of Croatia. The town, a series of coastal settlements, lies about 10 kilometers south of Split and 14 kilometers north of Omis. This beach is a part of the settlements that emerged with the growth of the tourism industry and the construction of the Adriatic highway during the 20th century.
Podstrana is renowned for its agricultural sector, particularly the production of vegetables, facilitated by the region's mild Mediterranean climate and fertile soil. The town is especially known for its delicious peaches.
The history of Podstrana extends back to ancient times, marked by the presence of the Illyrians and later the Romans, who established the settlement of "Pituntium" and cultivated vineyards, olive groves, and orchards. Roman architectural remnants can still be found in the area. In the 7th century, the Croats arrived and established several settlements. By the 11th century, Podstrana and neighbouring villages had formed the "Republic of Poljica," an autonomous community that lasted until its destruction by the French army in 1807.
Today, Podstrana is a popular summer holiday destination, known for its rich cultural and gastronomical heritage, natural beauty, clean sea, and beautiful pebble beaches. The town's proximity to Split, the largest city in Dalmatia, has significantly contributed to its development as a modern holiday resort. The Adriatic tourist highway that runs through Podstrana is lined with numerous hotels, restaurants, and private houses available for accommodation.
Grljevac Beach itself stretches for several kilometers and is characterized by white gravel beaches, providing ample shade and beach bars along a pleasant promenade. The eastern part of Podstrana, "Mutogras," is a popular spot for windsurfing, with equipment available for rent. Other water sports activities, including kayaking, diving, and boat rentals, are also offered. The western part of Podstrana houses the "Le Meridien Lav" hotel, which provides various services like pools, tennis courts, a wellness center, conference facilities, a marina, a casino, restaurants, bars, and a children's playground.
Grljevac Beach is typically not crowded and offers a clean, kilometer-long coastline. The beach provides a range of amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, a changing room, a shower, and a fountain with drinking water. For entertainment, there is a large inflatable for children and paddleboards available for rent. Stalls selling beach toys, food, and beverages can be found along the shore. However, it has faced criticism for its lack of shade and the presence of litter, including plastic waste in the water and on the beach. Despite these challenges, Grljevac Beach continues to be a popular destination for its natural beauty and amenities.
