Is Split a good destination if I mainly want a beach holiday?
Split offers a mix of city break and beach access, rather than being a dedicated beach resort town. While it has several popular beaches easily reachable from the city center, they can get crowded in summer. If your priority is solely relaxing on diverse, spacious beaches for your entire trip, you might prefer Croatian islands like Brač or Hvar, or other parts of the Makarska Riviera. However, Split is great if you want to combine historical sightseeing, city life, and day trips with convenient beach time.
How do Split's beaches compare to Dubrovnik or the islands?
Split's beaches are generally more accessible from the city center than Dubrovnik's main beaches. They are mostly pebble or concrete, with Bačvice being partly sandy. Croatian islands like Brač (e.g., Zlatni Rat), Hvar, or Vis often boast more numerous, arguably more scenic, and sometimes less crowded coves and beaches, often requiring boat trips or drives to access the best spots. Split offers convenience for a city-beach combo, while islands often provide a more immersive beach experience.
Are the beaches in Split sandy or pebbly?
Most beaches in and around Split are pebble beaches, ranging from fine pebbles to larger stones. Some areas have concrete platforms for sunbathing and sea access. Bačvice beach is the most famous exception, known for its shallow, sandy seabed, although the surrounding area is concrete. If you strongly prefer sandy beaches, Split has limited options compared to some other Mediterranean destinations.
Can you swim in the sea in Split? What's the water like?
Yes, absolutely! Swimming is very popular in Split. The Adriatic Sea here is known for being very clear and clean, often with a beautiful turquoise or deep blue colour. Water quality is generally excellent. The water is salty, so it provides good buoyancy.
What areas are best to stay in for easy beach access in Split?
For closest access to Bačvice, look for accommodation in the Bačvice neighbourhood itself or the eastern parts of the city center. For Žnjan, the Trstenik and Žnjan neighbourhoods are ideal. Staying near the western edge of the Old Town or in the Varoš neighbourhood provides reasonable walking/bus access to the beaches below Marjan Hill (like Ježinac, Kaštelet, Kašjuni).
When is the best time to swim at Split's beaches?
The main swimming season runs from late May or early June through to late September or early October. Water temperatures are warmest in July and August (typically 23-26°C / 73-79°F), which is also the peak tourist season with the most crowds. June and September offer pleasant swimming with potentially fewer people, though the water will be slightly cooler than peak summer.
Which beaches are closest to Split Old Town / Diocletian's Palace?
Bačvice beach is the closest and most famous beach, about a 10-15 minute walk east from the Old Town and ferry port. Ovčice and Firule beaches are just slightly further east from Bačvice. Ježinac and Kaštelet beaches are located west of the Old Town, below Marjan Hill, reachable by a longer walk (20-30 mins) or a short bus/taxi ride.
How do you get to beaches like Kašjuni or Žnjan?
Kašjuni beach, located on the south side of Marjan Hill, is best reached by bus (line 12 from Riva/St. Frane church), taxi/Uber, or a longer walk/bike ride. Žnjan beach, a large pebble beach area east of the center, is easily accessible by local bus lines (e.g., lines 8, 15, 17 from the city market/Pazar or main bus station), taxi/Uber, or by car (parking available).
Are Split beaches crowded?
Yes, beaches in Split, especially the easily accessible ones like Bačvice, Kašjuni, and Žnjan, can get very crowded during the peak season (July and August). If you prefer quieter spots, consider visiting early in the morning, later in the afternoon, or exploring smaller coves around Marjan Hill (like Bene beach) or further along the coast.
Are there family-friendly beaches in Split?
Yes, several beaches are suitable for families. Bačvice is popular due to its shallow, sandy bottom making it easy for kids to play, though it gets very busy. Žnjan beach is large and pebbly, with playgrounds, cafes, and lots of space. Bene beach on Marjan Hill offers shade from pine trees and calmer waters, along with sports facilities.
Are there party beaches in Split?
While Split isn't primarily known for 'party beaches' like some destinations (e.g., Zrće beach on Pag island), Bačvice beach has numerous cafes and bars that get lively, especially at night. Kašjuni beach also features popular beach clubs (like Joe's) that attract a younger crowd with music and drinks during the day and for sunset.
Do I need water shoes for Split beaches?
It's highly recommended, especially if you're not used to pebble beaches. Most beaches in Split are pebbly or rocky, and water shoes make walking on the pebbles and entering/exiting the water much more comfortable. They also offer protection against sharp rocks or the occasional sea urchin, particularly in rockier coves.
What is Picigin and where can I see or play it?
Picigin (pronounced 'pi-tsi-gin') is a traditional ball game originating from Split, played in shallow water with a small ball (often a peeled tennis ball). The aim is for players to keep the ball from hitting the water using acrobatic jumps and dives. Bačvice beach is the spiritual home of Picigin, and you can often see locals playing it there year-round, even in winter!
Are there free beaches in Split or do you have to pay?
All the main public beaches in Split (like Bačvice, Kašjuni, Žnjan, Trstenik, Bene, etc.) are free to access. You only pay if you want to rent sun loungers or umbrellas from the concessions or beach clubs located on parts of these beaches. You are always free to lay down your own towel.
Is it safe to swim at Split beaches? Are there jellyfish or sea urchins?
Swimming is generally very safe. The water is clear, and there are rarely strong currents close to shore at the main beaches. Jellyfish are not a common problem, though occasional sightings can occur, usually depending on currents and time of year – they are rarely dangerous. Sea urchins can be found in rocky areas and less frequented spots; wearing water shoes minimizes any risk of stepping on one.
