It’s a good idea to buy a pair of swim shoes so you can get in and out of the water easily.
And since this is the Mediterranean, good sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses are a real necessity!
Best beaches in Split
Bačvice, Split’s town beach, a 5 minute walk from the ferry terminal, up the hill on the road that begins opposite the ferry terminal at the end of the bus station.
And it’s a real all sand beach, with places to eat, shower, and even rent a chair with an umbrella. Sandy sea bottom too, so great for kids.
Island beaches
Bol beach, or Zlatni Rat, the famous golden horn beach on the island of Brac that changes its shape with the tides. Many 45 minute ferry departures to and from Split to Supetar and then grab a bus to Bol. There is also less frequent service directly to Bol. For schedules: www.jadrolinija.hr. The timetable is in English and other languages.
Stiniva beach, accessible only by boat, on Vis, is a real gem!
Down the coast towards Dubrovnik
Stobrec and Podstrana, just 15 minutes via highway, good for kids, flying kites and swimming. Lots of places to eat, too.
The Makarska Riviera—the stretch of coastal road about an hour from here, starting with Omis, which also has a good town beach. Makarska itself, Brela, and other charming seaside towns.