Vacation in Bulgaria on the sea

One of the most beautiful and affordable countries on the Balkan coast is Bulgaria.

Bulgaria fascinates visitors with its diverse landscapes, stretching from mountains to the sea, and its unique cultural heritage. It is a destination for all seasons, offering a wide variety of activities year-round.

If you dream of a seaside holiday, Bulgaria is one of the best choices: crystal-clear waters, wide sandy beaches, and delicious cuisine are all at your disposal.

Best Time to Go for a Beach Holiday

The country is so rich in natural and historical landmarks that travelers come here throughout the year. You can go skiing, explore ancient monasteries, and of course, enjoy relaxing days by the sea.

Start of the season falls in June. The water warms up to around +19°C in the northern regions (near Varna) and up to +22°C in the southern areas (around Burgas and Sozopol).

High season begins in mid-July and lasts throughout August. During this time, the sea temperature averages +24°C. However, keep in mind that prices also rise during the peak season.

Velvet season lasts through September. The sea remains pleasantly warm — about +23°C — but there are far fewer tourists. Prices also become much more attractive towards this time of year.

Beach Holidays in Bulgaria

The Sea of the Balkan Country

The Bulgarian coastline is washed by the Black Sea. Its gentle entry and shallow areas near the shore make it especially attractive for family holidays with children.

The water is clean and transparent.

The sea is almost always calm, with high waves being a rare occurrence. Swimming here is therefore extremely comfortable.

The sea is not very salty. As a result, seaweed can sometimes be seen, and during hot weather this may contribute to the spread of infections. However, since the country’s authorities are focused on tourism development, most beaches proudly fly the “Blue Flag”, a mark of cleanliness and safety.

Beaches in Bulgaria

Cleanliness

Bulgaria ranks among the top six EU countries for beach cleanliness. Both public and private beaches are cleaned daily. The water may not appear as clear as on pebble beaches, but this is due to the sandy seabed.

Beach Prices

Depending on your budget, you can choose from a variety of options. From more comfortable paid beaches with sunbeds for rent, to budget-friendly spots where you can bring your own mat. Bulgarian beaches cater to every preference.

Sunbed and umbrella rental costs between 6–12 BGN per day, depending on the prestige of the resort.

The most popular resorts in Bulgaria

The length of the coastline in the country is 354 kilometers, on which are located mostly sandy beaches. Due to the length of the coastline, there are many resorts ranging from expensive to small and undiscovered corners. Tourism is actively developing here, and even small villages are ready to host travelers.

How to choose a vacation spot

On the coast of Bulgaria you will find both well-equipped fashionable resorts and beaches, and quite wild and deserted places.

Active pastime. Head to the trendy resorts of Golden Sands and Sunny Beach for comfort.

Secluded Vacation. If you prefer deserted places and wide open spaces, we recommend you to go a little away from any city and you will find what you are looking for.

Resorts for active vacations

Golden Sands

One of the most popular and expensive resorts in the country. Golden Sands is surrounded by mountains on one side and the sea on the other, making the climate here truly unique.

beaches. For the most part, they are well equipped. There are changing cabins, fresh water showers, and toilets.

Services. You can rent a sun lounger or sit on your own bed if you wish.

Sunny Beach

This is another fashionable resort in Bulgaria, which attracts a large number of tourists. The beaches of Sunny Beach are equipped with everything necessary, and the safety of tourists is ensured by lifeguards.

Varna

This resort attracts tourists with its beaches and numerous lively bays. Varna is a famous tourist resort. The beaches here are also well equipped.

Burgas

One of the biggest cities in Bulgaria, located on the coast. The sea is clear and calm, and the beaches are covered with dark fine sand.

Burgas attracts active tourists, here you can find sports entertainment for all tastes. Along the coastline there is a beautiful marine park.

Balchik

This resort attracts depth lovers. Balchik is a large port and the sea here is quite deep compared to other resort towns.

The entrance to the sea here is possible mainly from the breakwaters. This resort is not suitable for vacation with children.

Secluded Holiday Spots

Obzor

A small town that is rapidly gaining popularity among travelers. Visitors are drawn here by the warmer sea compared to the northern resorts, as well as by the more affordable prices.

Nessebar

Another resort that is not yet very crowded with holidaymakers. Here you will find fewer tourists and quieter beaches, yet with well-developed infrastructure.

The sea has a very gentle and convenient entry, making this resort especially appealing to families with children.

Ravda

This small but very charming town attracts many visitors. The beaches are well equipped, and the sand is fine and golden.

Aheloy

This little village, which you can walk through in a single day, attracts travelers with its “wild” beaches. For a more comfortable stay, head to the hotel beaches where you will find sunbeds and umbrellas.

Pomorie

This renowned balneological resort is famous for its healing mud, extracted from the nearby Pomorie Lake. The beaches here are covered with black sand, also believed to have therapeutic properties.

Lovers of “wild” beaches should visit the local spit stretching between the sea and the lake.

Sozopol

This small yet well-known Bulgarian resort is particularly popular among families with children.

Thanks to its southern location, the water temperature here is slightly warmer. The beaches are well equipped, ensuring maximum comfort for visitors.

Food at Bulgaria’s Seaside Resorts

Discovering new countries and cities is always exciting through their cuisine. Coastal resorts delight visitors with an abundance of fish and seafood. Here’s what you should definitely try in Bulgaria:

Fish. You’ll find both familiar varieties such as flounder, dorado, and trout, as well as the exotic tsatsa (a tiny local fish). If you’re curious, you can even try shark fillet.

Seafood. The choice is just as rich — almost every restaurant serves calamari, shrimp, mussels, and lobsters.

Where to Eat

For a beautiful view, head to the restaurants located along the coast. Keep in mind that the panorama of the sea comes at a price — dishes here tend to be a little more expensive.

If you’d like to immerse yourself in true Bulgarian flavor, visit the traditional taverns known as mehanas. Prices are much lower, and the generous portions will surely satisfy a hungry traveler.

A beach holiday in Bulgaria is both affordable and diverse. Whether you travel on your own or with a package tour, you’ll enjoy the sea and beaches of this remarkable country.

And if you wish to broaden your trip beyond Bulgarian sights, you can easily reach Turkey, Romania, Greece, and other countries of the Balkan Peninsula.