What to do with our STUFF while swimming?

It really depends on the vibe of the beach, if the area is not crowded, we have left our stuff in a pile, nothing too obvious showing, and even in the water, we could at least keep it in sight. Of course we take very little with us, you can keep a credit card and a few euros in the pocket of a swimsuit (well guys anyway), hotel keys you can leave at the desk, if you really need a phone, you can get waterproof carriers, things like shoes, towels, clothes really are not that attractive, but best left in a neat pile, if anything, a stuffed bag is more appealing (for what it might contain).

We have also had people let us know they were heading to the water, would we mind keeping an eye out, we usually do not engage others, but if it feels right, why not. On busier beaches, we have taken turns. Of course on busier, packed, beaches frequented by tourists, all bets are off. I would say that we have never had a problem, but we pick relatively secluded, less densely packed beaches. People for the most part respect your space and belongings, and even watch out for each other.

I always just leave my t-shirt, shorts, sandals, towel, etc. on the beach. I use a waterproof waistpack for money, credit card, and key. I leave my passport in the hotel when I am at the beach.

There’s kind of an unwritten beach rule where people are watching out for each other. They’re all in the same boat you are.

Common sense comes with this of course, the big official crowded beaches are not a great place to leave your stuff unattended. However, in a place like Lokrum or other secluded places there’s few enough people that you can keep an eye on things and relax. Lokrum actually has an entrance fee to boot, which few thieves would bother with.

Lands End has women's swim shorts with a zippered pocket in the back waistband big enough for a credit card. Should suffice for the hotel key card and some $$. Who would want to steal your clothes and towels?

Thanks everyone for your suggestions. Paul, I was wondering if saltwater is bad for credit cards. You know, contactless technology, stripe to swipe, embedded chip. On that note, I also wonder how saltwater might affect a card key for our room/apartment if we don't have an old-fashioned metal key. Any idea?
Laura, thanks. I'll see if I can find a waterproof waist pack. I probably still would not trust the waterproof packs with my phone but I could put a few euros (and maybe a return ticket from Lokrum Island) in the pack. Come to think of it, I may have a small waterproof "sack" from a trip many many years ago.
And thanks, awrzesinski for the suggestion about Lokrum Island. We were thinking of going there anyway so this makes it even more appealing. Any particular place on Lokrum to swim?
khansen, thank you for the zippered pocket swim shorts suggestion. Same question I asked Paul, how well do credit cards and hotel card keys survive saltwater?

There’s some great swimming spots on Lokrum. The Dead Sea pool is neat, and then there’s an expansive rock beach right by there, with ladders into the water posted along the way. You’ll also see an awesome little secluded beach on the boat ride in, facing Dubrovnik. That’s a bit of a hike.

Since we’re on the subject, in Dubrovnik I loved swimming at Buza II, the bar on the rocks outside the wall. Buza I is more for the kids, with beers and cliff diving. Buza II is the chill adult version. Unbeatable for an evening drink, but a fun spot to swim too.

was wondering if saltwater is bad for credit cards.

If you decide to just use a pocket, put the card in a ziploc bag before putting in your pocket. Cards can take some water but they are not meant to be soaked in water for an extended period of time.

With regard to the waterproof pouch, I have not had any problems with leakage; however, I agree with you and I don’t use it with my phone. I leave the phone in the hotel room. By the way, you will need the water shoes when you swim. I went swimming in the Lapad area of Dubrovnik and was glad I had them with me.