What is Znjan Beach?
Znjan Beach (pronounced “Zhnyan”) is Split’s largest beach, stretching over 2 kilometres along the city’s eastern coastline. After a landmark €45.77 million transformation (including €13.94 million in EU funding) completed in 2025, it has been reborn as the “Miami of Split” — a modern beachfront with 11 new pavilion buildings, an underground parking garage, redesigned promenade, and world-class amenities.
The beach officially reopened on June 21, 2025 (the first day of summer), and is managed by Znjan d.o.o. (director: Marijan Ciprijan) under a 40-year concession from the City of Split. The total concession area covers an enormous 218,322 m² — 95,176 m² of sea and 123,146 m² of land.
How to Get to Znjan Beach
By Bus
The most affordable option. Take bus line 8 or 15 from Split city centre. The ride takes approximately 15–20 minutes. Get off at the Žnjan stop — you’ll see the beach immediately.
By Car
Follow the coastal road (Šetalište Pape Ivana Pavla II) east from the centre. The new underground garage has 530 parking spaces, plus 451 outdoor parking spots. During peak summer months, arrive before 10am for the best availability.
By Taxi or Uber
A ride from Diocletian’s Palace takes about 10 minutes and costs €6–9. Uber and Bolt are both widely available in Split.
By Bicycle
Split has expanding cycling infrastructure. The promenade along Znjan is flat and well-paved — perfect for cycling. Several rental shops operate near the beach.
Parking at Znjan Beach
| Parking Type | Spaces | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Underground garage | 530 (2 levels) | Covered, cooler for your car in summer |
| Outdoor lots | 451 | Closer to some beach areas |
| Total | ~981 |
Parking is €1 per hour (charges began July 16, 2025). The full 2026 price list is available on znjan.hr. Ten spaces in the underground garage are reserved for disabled drivers.
Tip: The underground garage fills up fast on weekends from late June through August. Consider arriving early or using public transport.
Beach Areas
Znjan Beach is divided into several distinct zones:
- Main Beach — The central stretch with the finest pebble surface, ideal for families. Lifeguards on duty in summer.
- Kids’ Area — Shallow water zones with soft entry, playgrounds, and family-friendly facilities.
- Sports Zone — Beach volleyball courts, fitness areas, and water sports equipment rental.
- Promenade — A redesigned 2km walkway connecting all areas, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.
- Rocky Eastern End — For those who prefer a more natural setting. Popular with snorkelers.
What’s New After the Transformation
The €45.77M investment (designed by architect Ante Kuzmanić, built by Lavčević d.d.) brought:
- 11 brand-new pavilion buildings awarded through FINA auction with 10-year leases (generating €2.8M annual revenue)
- Underground parking garage (530 spaces, 2 levels) — no more chaotic surface parking
- Redesigned promenade stretching 2+ km the full length of the beach
- ~48,000 m² of green space — ~730 trees/palms and 12,815 native shrubs, making it Split’s second-largest park after Marjan
- Amphitheatre with steel dome — Open-air venue for concerts, cinema, and events
- Modern infrastructure including new water, sewage, electrical, and fibre-optic systems
- Full accessibility — Hydraulic sea-access elevator, accessible beach (opened summer 2024), ramps throughout
- Skate park (~1,200 m²), playground (~600 m²), splash pads, and sports courts
- Tourist medical clinic — Operating June–September for beach-related medical needs
Where to Eat and Drink
The new pavilion buildings house some of Split’s most exciting venues:
- Palma Beach Club — Premium beach club with cocktails, lounges, and sea views
- Taboo Beach Club — Upscale seaside venue with DJ sets and VIP areas
- Mistral Beach Club — The area’s long-standing favourite at Radisson Blu Resort
- Casa Sol — Mediterranean restaurant with Italian influences
- Central Beach — All-day dining right on the beachfront
- MIMI Italian Clubino — Italian cuisine and fine dining by F Group
- GAL Split — Casual Mediterranean dining on the promenade
Activities and Water Sports
There’s no shortage of things to do:
- Swimming — Clean Adriatic waters with lifeguard supervision in summer
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) — Rental available along the beach
- Beach Volleyball — Multiple courts in the sports zone
- Kayaking — Explore the coastline from the water
- Cycling & Running — The promenade is perfect for both
- Snorkeling — Best at the rocky eastern end
Nearby Hotels
Several hotels are within walking distance:
- Radisson Blu Resort & Spa — 4-star, 252 rooms, 2,600m² spa, beachfront
- Hotel Amphora — 4-star, 206 rooms, indoor/outdoor pools
- Hotel Fanat — 4-star boutique, 22 rooms, wellness centre
- Hotel More — 3-star family-run, 11 rooms, right on the promenade
- Mövenpick Hotel Žnjan — Opening 2026, Croatia’s first Mövenpick, rooftop infinity pool
Best Time to Visit
- June–September — Full season. All venues open, lifeguards on duty, water warm enough for swimming (22–26°C).
- May & October — Shoulder season. Fewer crowds, pleasant weather, some venues may have limited hours.
- November–April — Off-season. The promenade is great for walks, but most beach venues are closed.
Peak hours in summer are 11am–4pm. For a more relaxed experience, visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
Tips for Your Visit
- Bring water shoes — The beach is pebble, not sand
- Arrive early in peak season for parking and the best spots
- Use sunscreen — The Adriatic sun is strong, especially from noon to 3pm
- Try the local food — Skip chain restaurants and enjoy the new pavilion venues
- Explore beyond the main beach — The eastern rocky area is less crowded and great for snorkeling
- Download Uber/Bolt — Taxis can be hard to find at busy times