Split-Dalmatia County, Dalmatia, Croatia

Podstrana Beaches

Overview

Just south of bustling Split, Podstrana offers a more relaxed beach holiday experience on the beautiful Dalmatian coast. Visitors often wonder whether to stay in the city or by the sea, and the answer lies in your holiday style. Podstrana is the perfect choice for those seeking a calmer, family-friendly atmosphere with its six-kilometer coastline of fine pebble beaches and crystal-clear water. It provides a tranquil retreat while keeping the historic attractions of Split just a short journey away.

The beaches here cater to every taste, from convenient local spots to iconic day-trip destinations. For ultimate convenience, Podstrana Beach stretches right in front of the town's many apartments and hotels. A short trip opens up a world of celebrated coastlines, including the unique sandy shores of Bačvice in Split, famous for the local game of picigin. For truly unforgettable scenery, many visitors take a boat trip to the spectacular horn-shaped Zlatni Rat or the picture-perfect Punta Rata. To escape the crowds, the pine-shaded cove of Bene offers a quiet local retreat.

The atmosphere in Podstrana is generally laid-back, centered around leisurely days by the sea rather than a lively party scene. While you'll find plenty of charming seaside bars and restaurants perfect for watching the sunset, those seeking vibrant nightlife are better served by making the short trip into Split. With its blend of accessibility and tranquility, Podstrana serves as an ideal base for exploring the region's diverse coastal treasures. For more hidden coves and local favorites, be sure to explore our complete guide to the area's beaches.

FAQ

Are the beaches in Podstrana sandy or pebbly?

The beaches along Podstrana's six-kilometer coastline are predominantly pebble and gravel beaches. While some areas may have small patches of sand, you should expect fine pebbles. The water is known for being crystal clear, and the beaches are generally considered ideal for families.

Is it better to stay in Podstrana or Split for beaches?

Choose Podstrana if you want a more relaxed, less crowded beach holiday with easy access to the sea. Its long pebble beaches and calmer atmosphere are ideal for families and couples. Stay in Split if you prefer being in the heart of a bustling city, with sandier beaches like Bačvice, more nightlife, and immediate access to urban attractions. Podstrana is only about a 15-20 minute bus ride from Split, making it a great base to enjoy the beaches while still being able to visit the city easily.

Are the beaches in Podstrana good for families with children?

Yes, Podstrana is widely considered an excellent destination for families. The beaches feature fine pebbles and the sea is typically calm with shallow entry, which is safer for children. Many beach areas have nearby cafes, and some have playgrounds and water sports suitable for all ages.

Do I need to wear water shoes on Podstrana's beaches?

While not mandatory, wearing water shoes is highly recommended on Podstrana's pebble beaches. They make walking on the stones much more comfortable and protect your feet from sharp rocks and the occasional sea urchin, which are common in the Adriatic Sea.

Are there hotels or apartments right on the beach in Podstrana?

Yes, one of Podstrana's main attractions is the abundance of beachfront accommodation. You can find everything from luxury hotels like Le Méridien Lav, which has its own extensive beach area, to numerous private apartments and smaller family-run hotels located directly on or just steps from the shore.

What is the best time of year to visit Podstrana for swimming?

The ideal time for swimming in Podstrana is from June to September. During these summer months, the weather is warm and sunny, with sea temperatures being very pleasant, often reaching comfortable levels for extended swimming. July and August are the peak months with the warmest water.

What's the atmosphere like on Podstrana's beaches? Is it a party place?

The atmosphere in Podstrana is generally relaxed and laid-back, centered around family holidays and couples' getaways. You'll find plenty of beach bars and restaurants for a cocktail or a meal with a sea view, but it is not a major party destination like Hvar or parts of Split. For a lively clubbing scene, a short trip into Split is recommended.

How do you get to the beaches in Podstrana from Split?

Getting to Podstrana from Split is straightforward. The most common way is by public transport using local bus number 60, which runs frequently between the two locations and takes about 15-20 minutes. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also widely available and offer a convenient alternative.

People Also Ask

Are the beaches in Podstrana free to access?

Yes, the beaches in Podstrana are public and free to access. While you can lay your own towel down anywhere, many beach sections have cafes or hotels that offer sunbeds and umbrellas for a daily rental fee. The beach in front of the Le Méridien Lav hotel is also accessible, though amenities like pools are for guests only.

How crowded are the beaches in Podstrana?

Compared to the main city beaches in Split, Podstrana's beaches are generally less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience. While they are popular and can get busy during the peak season of July and August, the long coastline means you can usually find a comfortable spot. For more tranquility, walk further from the main access points.

Which part of Podstrana has the best beaches?

Podstrana's coastline is beautiful all along its length, but some areas are particularly popular. The beach in front of the Le Méridien Lav hotel is often cited as one of the most beautiful and well-maintained. The beaches in Grljevac are also highly rated for their fine pebbles and beach bars. For a quieter experience, the sections in Mutogras at the southern end can be a good choice.

Are there showers and other facilities at the beaches?

Yes, many of the more popular beach sections in Podstrana, particularly those near hotels and beach bars in areas like Strožanac and Grljevac, are equipped with freshwater showers. Public toilets can also be found, though they may be part of a cafe or restaurant for customer use. Amenities are more common in the central parts of the riviera.

Beaches for Every Taste

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Podstrana Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Podstrana: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
Today is an average beach day in Podstrana. The air temperature will reach a high of 29.6 °C. Be aware that there's a chance of rain showers. The sun will be fighting with the clouds, so expect mostly cloudy conditions. The UV index will reach 6.25, so make sure to apply sunscreen. The sea temperature is a comfortable 26.3 °C, and the waves are calm. The wind might pick up at times.
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Air

Low / High20.9°C/29.6°C
Feels Like (High)30.5°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature26.3 °C
Wave Height0.1 m
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Rain

Rain Chance68%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:37/20:23
Sunshine Hours4.3 hrs
UV Index6.25
Cloud Cover86%
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Wind

Speed18.6 km/h
Gusts51.1 km/h
DirectionSE

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