Soline beach - the obvious first choice
Long shallow bay, fine pebble with a small sand area, 5.5 km from Martha's. Water knee-deep for almost 50 m. Lifeguard in peak summer. Beach bar, ice cream, rentable umbrellas and sunbeds (15-25 EUR/day). Parking 200 m back.
Best time: arrive before 10 a.m. for a good spot, or after 4 p.m. when crowd thins. Avoid 12-15 with toddlers (peak heat + busiest).
What to bring: small beach tent for shade in the front row, water shoes (the pebbles get warm).
Janice beach in Pakostane - the calm alternative
Eastern edge of Pakostane village, 8 km from Martha's. Long shallow strip, less crowded than Soline. Pine shade right behind the pebbles. No sunbed rentals - bring towels and shade.
Better for: families who prioritise calm over amenities. Smaller kiosk for coffee and snacks. Stroller-friendly access from the village.
The eastern end towards Drage has the quietest stretch.
Biograd town beach - convenient walking choice
Concrete sunbathing platform with steps into shallow water + a thin pebble strip near Hotel Ilirija. Lifeguard in peak summer. Row of mature pines for shade. Beach bars and ice cream within 50 m.
Best for: families staying in Biograd centre, toddlers who like still water without waves. Stroller-accessible with a ramp.
Honest note: not the prettiest beach in the area, but extremely practical if you do not want to drive.
Beaches to skip with young kids
Some popular beaches do not work for tiny children:
- Bosana / Crvena luka: water gets deep within 5 m. Beautiful for swimmers, bad for toddlers. Steep access path with stairs.
- Drazica: deeper than Soline, no amenities, no lifeguard.
- Unmarked rocky coves: pebbles are larger and the entry into water is uneven.
Wait until kids are confident swimmers (usually age 6+) before trying these.
What to bring for a family beach day
Practical kit list for a Biograd family beach day:
- Water (no taps on most beaches)
- Sunscreen (apply at the villa, not at the beach)
- Water shoes for the pebbles
- Small beach tent for under-3s
- Snacks (most beaches have only kiosks)
- Towels and a wet bag for the car
- Beach toys (most kids want a bucket and a small shovel)
Most beach bars sell ice cream, coffee, soft drinks, beer, and grilled sandwiches. Lunch quality varies; we usually pack a picnic.