A guide to the best beaches and coves
Split isn’t just a city with beaches — Split is a city that lives by the sea. In a single day, you can swim in a sandy bay in the center, feel pebbles under Marjan Hill, and in the evening take a seaside walk toward the eastern beaches. This guide gives you practical recommendations: which beaches to choose if you’re traveling with kids, where it’s the calmest, where you’ll find the most facilities, and which “wild” beaches feel more natural (with little to no infrastructure).
Quick pick: which beach should you choose?
- Sand + city center: Bačvice
- Views + pebbles under Marjan: Kašjuni
- Pine shade: Bene
- Seafront promenade + facilities: Žnjan
- A calmer bay for kids: Firule
- Comfortable and well-equipped: Trstenik
The most popular beaches in Split
Kašjuni (Marjan)
A large pebble bay at the foot of Marjan with great views and beach amenities. Along the beach, there’s often a section popular with those who prefer a more natural vibe, and there’s also a dog-friendly area. Perfect if you want “Split, but quieter,” with that feeling of escaping the city.
Bene (Marjan)
A beach in pine shade with a more natural atmosphere — a solid choice when you want to avoid the peak heat. Bene is also great for an easy day out, with space for walking and spending time in nature.
Bačvice
Split’s most famous sandy beach, legendary for picigin and its lively, urban vibe. If you want the sea just minutes from the center and a buzzing promenade, Bačvice is the obvious pick.
Firule
A calmer bay and a great choice for families: it’s usually more relaxed, and the entry into the sea tends to be easier for kids. Bonus: you’re close to town, but without the full “Bačvice energy.”
Trstenik
A well-kept pebble beach with a gentle entry and good overall comfort. It’s practical thanks to the nearby promenade and facilities.
Žnjan
A large area for walking, sports, and a “everything in one place” type of day. Žnjan is often the best option when you want lots of space, a promenade, and multiple choices without over-planning.
How to choose a beach by your “day style”
- Quick swim + city vibe: Bačvice, Firule
- Peace and views: Kašjuni
- Shade and nature: Bene
- Promenade and facilities: Žnjan, Trstenik
Practical tips (to avoid crowds)
- Best time: 08:00–10:30 or later in the afternoon.
- Parking: it varies the most in summer — allow extra time and consider walking/public transport.
- Bring the right gear: pebbles = good water shoes; Marjan = water + light sun protection.
FAQ
What’s the best sandy beach in Split?
Bačvice is the best-known: sandy, central, and packed with atmosphere.
What’s the nicest beach under Marjan?
Kašjuni is among the top favorites thanks to the views, pebbles, and overall “wow” factor.
Where should I go with small children?
Firule is often a calmer bay, while Trstenik is a convenient, well-equipped option. For shade and nature — Bene.
Which beaches in Split are “wild”?
For a “wild” feel (more natural coves and less infrastructure), people most often look along the coastline around Marjan and its more secluded bays. That’s where you can find quieter spots with a rockier shore and fewer amenities — ideal if you want the sea without much city noise.
Which beach is best for sunset?
For sunsets, the west side usually works best (Marjan/Kašjuni and nearby coves) thanks to the more open view toward the horizon.