The best beaches in Varna, Bulgaria

Beaches within Varna city

Let’s start right in the heart of Varna. These are the beaches located within the city limits, making them the most accessible. 

I’ve listed them starting from the closest to the city center, gradually moving outward, so the further down the list you go, the more tucked-away and more complicated to access the beach becomes.

Central Beach

If you’re staying in Varna and just want to hit the beach without much planning, Central Beach is your spot. 

Central Beach is just below the main entrance of the Sea Garden, less than 1 km from the city center. You can go from morning coffee to toes-in-the-sand in about 10 minutes.

The beach itself is about 500 meters long, stretching all the way up to Ribarski Beach to the north. The sand is soft, the sea is calm and shallow near the shore – great if you’re not a strong swimmer or if you’ve got kids tagging along.

You’ve got all the basics covered here:

• Sunbeds and parasols for rent
• Showers and changing areas
• Water attractions (pedal boats, SUPs, etc.)
• Beach bars and restaurants

Just a heads-up: this beach gets busy, especially in summer. But if you like a lively vibe, this one’s buzzing from sunrise to sundown with music, families, joggers, and beachgoers.

How to get there:

• By foot or bike: The Sea Garden is a beautiful and shady route – definitely the most pleasant way in.
• By bus: Hop on bus lines 17a, 20, or 39, get off at the “Festivalen k-s” stop, and walk through the park for 10 minutes.
• By car: There’s no direct access, so you’ll need to find a parking spot either somewhere in the Blue zone or on a paid parking lot.

Image source: Unsplash.com

South Beach 

If you want a beach day without leaving Varna but need a bit more space to breathe, head to South Beach located about 1 km away from the city center. 

It’s the widest and most spacious beach in the city – stretching over 600 meters from the Aquarium and the Astronomical Observatory all the way to the Primorski public pool.

The vibe here is lively and active:

• Beach volleyball and sports zones
• Showers, changing rooms, first aid and lifeguard towers
• A waterslide right on the sand that’s basically a South Beach icon
• Boat trips, pirate cruises, and sailing tours leave from the nearby Sea Port

Here, you’ve got plenty of food options, but don’t miss Mr. Baba – a replica of a wooden ship turned restaurant, right on the sand. It’s a local classic where you can grab a meal or drink with a sea view (and a cool setting to match).

How to get there:

• By foot or bike: Through the Sea Garden or along the seaside promenade – which actually starts right here.
• By bus: Hop on lines 17a, 20, or 39 and get off at the “Baseyna” stop.
• By car: Like most central beaches in Varna, it’s pedestrian-only, so you’ll need to park in a Blue zone or a paid parking spot nearby and walk from there.

Local tip

There’s a city drain pipe that empties into the sea near the southern part of the beach. If you’re planning to swim, I recommend heading north toward Central Beach or Ribarski Beach, where the water tends to be cleaner and the vibe’s just as good.

Image source: Unsplash.com

Ribarski (also Fisherman’s or North) Beach

Located about 2 km from Varna’s city center, Ribarski Beach (aka Fisherman’s Beach) runs from the First Seashore Embankment along the northern end of the promenade. It’s a low-key spot with great sea views, benches, and plenty of nearby restaurants.

This isn’t a classic beach anymore – a storm about 10 years ago washed away most of the sand and destroyed the old pier and surf school. But in 2023, a rare natural shift briefly brought the sand back, reminding locals of the beach’s past.

Today, it’s more of a chill waterfront area than a sunbathing spot, but you’ll still find a modern surf and diving school, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset or grab a bite close to the water.

How to get there:

• By foot or bike: Through the Sea Garden or along the promenade
• By bus: 17a, 20, 39 to “Akademiyata – Tsar Osvoboditel” or 9, 14, 109, 409 to “Akademiyata – Knyaz Boris”
• By car: Again – park in a Blue zone or a paid parking spot nearby and enjoy the walk.

First Buna (Ofitserski) Beach

First Buna Beach, often called Ofitserski Beach, sits about 2 km from the city center, between Ribarski Beach and the Second Seashore Embankment. On Google Maps it may look like two beaches, but locals treat it as one long strip – especially since it’s all connected around the famous “Topla Voda” hot spring pool.

This beach has a mix of good and not-so-good, but let’s start with the good:

• It’s easy to reach from the Sea Garden
• You’ll find cafes, changing rooms, and beach gear rentals
• The hot water spring is a quirky, much-loved spot
• The nearby “Swan Bay” is perfect for photos, especially in winter when the birds gather
• Geologists and sand collectors even rave about the beach’s colorful quartz-rich sand, which is pretty unique for the region.

How to get there:

• By foot or bike: Through the Sea Garden
• By bus: Get off at “Sportna zala” using lines 9, 14, 17A, 39, 109 or 409.
• By car: Free parking near the Palace of Culture and Sports.

Local tip

There’s a canal (“Shokarovia canal”) nearby that’s supposed to carry only rainwater, but due to some dodgy plumbing and illegal discharges, the water near this beach can get murky. Some days it’s fine, other days – not so much. 

Locals know to skip the swim when the water looks off.

Bottom line: Ofitserski is a nice beach to hang out, especially off-season when swans and fewer crowds make it peaceful. Just keep an eye on water conditions if you’re planning to swim.

Image source: Unsplash.com

Second Buna Beach (aka Rapongi)

Second Buna Beach, often called Rapongi (after the popular beach restaurant there), is about 3 km from Varna’s city center, just below the zoo and between Officer’s Beach and Third Buna.

This spot is super popular with families thanks to its calm, shallow waters, and there’s plenty of space for free sunbathing as well as paid zones with umbrellas and loungers. The sand is clean, the beach is wide, and it’s well-maintained overall.

You’ll also find various things to do:

• Beach volleyball courts
• Spots where people jump off the embankment
• Lots of cafes and restaurants for drinks and food
• A good mix of locals and tourists

Water quality can vary a bit depending on the season and currents – usually fine, but not always crystal clear, so it’s good to check before swimming.

How to get there:

• By foot: Walk through the Sea Garden (~30 minutes), then head down to the beach.
• By bus: Get off at “Akaciite” (lines 9, 14, 17A, 39, 109, 409).
• By car/bike: Take the “Pochivka” turnoff to reach the promenade and park nearby.

Third Buna Beach

Third Buna Beach, about 3 km from Varna’s city center, is a northern city beach that draws in locals with its easy access, free parking, and calm waters. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done – especially if you’re coming by car or bike via the “Pochivka” turnoff.

There are a couple of things you should know:

• The old pier is in bad shape – unsafe and best avoided
• The beach is mostly unpatrolled and doesn’t offer umbrellas or loungers, so bring your own.

Nevertheless, what’s amazing is that Wake Park Varna is just south of the beach – the only cable wake park in the region, plus skate ramps and BMX zones.

How to get there:

• By bus: Get off at “Akaciite” (lines 9, 14, 17A, 39, 409), then walk.
• By car: Access is possible in the southern part via the first roundabout at the city exit (the “Pochivka” turnoff).

Despite its flaws, the beach is still popular with families and budget travelers looking for a relaxed, less touristy spot.

Image source: Unsplash.com

Pochivka (Holiday) Beach

Located about 4 km from Varna’s center, Pochivka Beach offers a more natural, peaceful escape from the city’s busier beaches. It’s a bit rugged – with rocky spots, old coastal blocks in the water, and dense forest around, but that’s part of the charm.

The beach strip stretches for about 2 km, from the Trakata area down to Third Buna, though it’s broken up in places. Erosion has taken its toll, and the beach has been getting narrower over the years, but it’s still a favorite for those looking to relax in peace, far from the crowds.

Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards, no sunbeds, umbrellas, or food spots – bring everything you need. The beach is more about quiet and nature than comfort.

How to get there:

• By foot: Reachable through the northern part.
• By bus: Get off at “Studentska” or “Picadilly Park” (lines 9, 31A, 109, 209B, 409), then walk ~10 minutes.
• By car: Use the Pochivka turnoff and park nearby.

The Hidden (Lonely) Beach

Tucked between Euxinograd and Fourth Buna, this small, secluded beach is technically part of Pochivka, but it feels like its own secret spot. 

About 5 km away from the center, It’s peaceful, beautiful, and not on the tourist radar – which makes it a favorite for those who want a quiet, no-fuss beach day.

How to get there:

• By foot: Walking from Forth Buna through the shore and rocks.
• By bus: Get off at “Studentska” (lines 9, 31A, 109, 409), then climb down toward the sea via the steep metal stairs.
• By car: You can drive fairly close if you find a parking spot, but you’ll have to walk a bit after.

It’s not super easy to get to, but that’s exactly why it stays calm and uncrowded.

Local tip

Nudists often visit, so just something to be aware of before you go.

There are no facilities, no shops, so bring everything with you, including water, snacks, and beach gear. But if you’re after quiet, nature, and a hidden slice of coastline, this spot’s totally worth the effort.

Trakata Beach

Trakata Beach is a small, quiet bay about 8 km north of Varna’s city center, popular with locals who want a more laid-back, off-the-map beach day. It’s around 200 meters long, tucked next to a small forest, and backed by a tiny fishing port, which gives it a chilled, village-like feel.

The sea is usually calm and shallow, and it’s a nice spot for relaxing, snapping a few photos, or even diving, which is popular here. You won’t find umbrellas or loungers, so come prepared.

There are a couple of restaurants near the parking area, especially toward the Trakata embankment and the fisherman’s village – perfect for grabbing lunch with a sea view.

How to get there:

• By bus: Get off at “Trakata” (lines 9, 31A, 109, 209B, 409), then walk ~25 minutes to the beach.
• By car: Turn right off the Varna – Golden Sands main road. There’s a small parking area near the port, but if you don’t arrive early, expect to walk ~1 km from roadside parking.

Local tip

Trakata isn’t the easiest to reach. There are a few stairs down to the sand, so it’s not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.

Asparuhovo Beach

Located about 8 km south of central Varna, Asparuhovo Beach is one of the widest and most comfortable beaches in the area. It stretches for over a kilometer and is more than 100 meters wide in places – so even in high season, it rarely feels overcrowded.

You’ll find fine sand, shallow calm waters, and a great view across the bay back to the city. It’s a mix of free zones (bring your own towel) and paid areas with umbrellas and loungers. There are also water attractions, sports grounds, and even accessible entry for visitors with limited mobility.

What makes it even better:

• A nearby fishing village where you can enjoy fresh fish and mussels
• Regular events like sports competitions and the colorful Kite festival in late August
• Easy access and plenty of parking on Parvi Mai Blvd
• A local nightlife scene that kicks off after sunset

How to get there:

• By bus: Take line 12 and get off at “Parvi May”, “Sokol”, or “Orel”. Then walk through Asparuhovo Park to reach the beach.
• By car: Park along Parvi Mai Blvd – right by the beach.

The beaches in St. St. Constantine and Helena

Located about 10 km from Varna’s center, St. St. Constantine and Helena is Bulgaria’s oldest seaside resort, and it’s still one of the most beautiful. The beach strip here stretches for 3.5 km, divided into several cozy beaches like Sahara, Angel’s Beach, South Beach, and a few unnamed hidden spots.

Here, you’ll find:

• Soft golden sand and crystal-clear water
• Sunbeds, parasols, and water attractions at every beach
• Beach bars, cafés, and restaurants for a full-day chill
• A chance to see the Neptune statue rising from the sea
• A freely accessible natural hot spring (45°C) with sea views

What makes this place special is the combination of mineral and sea water, rare even for the Bulgarian coast. The clean air, high humidity, and iodine vapor also make it a great spot for thalassotherapy and climate treatments.

How to get there:

• By bus: Take lines 9, 31A, 109, 209B, 409 (stops: Balkan, Botanicheska gradina, Minyor, Letovishte, Sv. Sv. Konstantin and Elena). Walk a few minutes to reach the beaches.
• By car: Easy access with plenty of parking options in the resort.

There’s also disabled access to most parts of the resort.

Image source: Unsplash.com

Galata Beach

If you’re up for a bit of effort, Galata Beach rewards you with clean, coarse sand, crystal-clear water, and over a kilometer of unspoiled coastline. Located about 12 km from Varna’s center, it’s one of the quietest beaches around – mostly because it’s hard to reach.

The southern part of the beach is rockier, forming natural coves perfect for those seeking privacy or a quiet swim. There’s no view of Varna, just open sea and anchored ships in the distance. Also, the sun dips early behind the forest-covered cliff above.

There are no bars, shops, sunbeds, or lifeguards. The beach is definitely not ideal for kids, strollers, or anyone with mobility issues

How to get there:

• By bus: Take lines 17, 17A, 46, or 60 to “Galata Tsentar”, then walk down Kapitan Prvi Rang G. Kupov Street to reach the stairs.
• By car: Park along Kraibrezhna Street, then descend the steps.

Both ways, you’ll need to walk down 1,500 steps (about 800+ meters on foot). The stairs are wide and well maintained, but don’t underestimate the climb – especially on the way back up after a sunny day at the beach. 

Beaches north of Varna

Heading north from Varna city, the coastline opens up to a mix of resort-style beaches, quieter coves, and long sandy strips. These beaches are still within the Varna province, and many of them are easily reachable by car or public transport.

In this section, I’ve listed the best beaches near Varna, Bulgaria in order of proximity to the city to the north.

Sunny Day Resort Beach

Located about 11 km north of Varna, Sunny Day Resort Beach is a peaceful spot tucked into an east-facing bay, known for its fine golden sand, gentle slope, and clear, calm waters. The air here is famously clean and rich in minerals like iodine, ozone, and bromine, which is why it’s long been seen as a great place for rest and recovery.

The beach has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag every year since 1996 – meaning it meets high standards for water quality, cleanliness, and environmental care.

On the beach, you’ll find what to do:

• Water sports, a children’s play area, and food & drink options
• A relaxed, resort-like vibe without the huge crowds
• Beautiful natural surroundings and great sea views

How to get there:

• By bus: Take lines 9, 109, 209B or 409 to the “Strandzha” stop, just a short walk from the resort entrance.
• By car: Limited access into the resort. Parking is available nearby or in the upper Green Zone lot (for a fee).

Kabakum Beach

Located about 14 km north of Varna, Kabakum Beach is one of the most popular and well-known beaches in the area. It stretches for over a kilometer, from the Journalist area to the Sunny Day Resort.

Expect wide sandy areas, clean water, and a lively summer vibe. It’s especially popular with younger crowds, thanks to the mix of bars, beach restaurants, water sports, and clubs.

You’ll find:

• Jet skiing, volleyball, and tube rides
• Fast food stands, beach shops, and small family-run hotels
• Plenty of space for sunbathing or just relaxing by the sea

The seashore embankment divides the beach into two parts, but both are easy to reach.

How to get there:

• By bus: Take line 109, 409 to “Pisatel”, “Horizont”, or “Zhurnalist” stops – from there it’s a 10-minute walk.
• By car: Accessible from both the north and south, with roadside parking nearby.

Chayka Beach

Chayka Beach, located about 15 km north of Varna, sits between Riviera Beach to the north and Kabakum Beach to the south, north of the Journalist area. The Trifon Zarezan landslide area has shaped the surroundings, but it hasn’t taken away from the beach’s natural charm.

On the beach, you’ll find umbrellas and a small restaurant where you can grab a bite or a refreshing drink.

How to get there:

• By bus: Take lines 9, 109, or 409 to “Zhurnalist” or “Republika” stops, then walk down to the shore
• By car: You can drive very close to the beach.

Golden Sands Beach

About 18 km north of Varna, Golden Sands Beach is one of the most famous beach destinations on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. It stretches for 3.5 km, from the yacht port in the north all the way down to Riviera Holiday Club in the south – and yes, the fine golden sand really lives up to the name.

This is a full-service beach packed with everything you might need:

• Paid zones with sunbeds and umbrellas
• Free public areas
• Water sports, beach games, and attractions
• Restaurants, beach bars, and nightclubs, some right on the sand
• Hotel-exclusive areas for resort guests
• Shallow sea access, ideal for families with kids

It’s a busy beach, no doubt, but it’s also well-maintained, secure, and accessible – including for visitors with reduced mobility, thanks to paved walkways and pedestrian alleys along the strip.

How to get there:

• By foot: If you’re staying in the area, the entire beach is easily walkable.
• By bus: Take lines 9, 109, 209B, or 409 to any of these stops: “Travel”, “Madara”, “Akva Park”, “Republika”, “Direktsiyata”, “Zora” or “Kukeri”.
• By car: There are paid parking spots or sometimes free parking is available near most hotel entrances (for guests only).

Panorama (Nirvana) beach

Located about 19 km north of Varna, Panorama Beach – also known as Nirvana Beach – is a clean, quiet, and less crowded alternative to Golden Sands. The beach strip is 1.5 km long, situated between Golden Sands’ northern edge and the resort’s yacht port.

The beach is split into three sections:

• A nudist area in the more secluded northern end
• A paid zone with umbrellas and sunbeds
• A free zone where you can bring your own towel

It’s shallow, making it suitable for families with kids, and the wide strip offers enough space to spread out. You’ll also find toilets, showers, and a small beach bar nearby. The surrounding fishing village and campsite add a bit of local character to the whole place.

There are also some cliffs and underwater rocks, so swimming is best near the lifeguarded areas.

How to get there:

• By foot: You can walk to it from the northern end of Golden Sands.
• By bus: Take lines 109 or 209B to “Panorama” stop.
• By car: Accessible via local roads – free parking is limited, so come early.

Beaches south of Varna

Now let’s head south of the city, where the beaches become more spacious, wild, and nature-heavy. This part of the coast is perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy quiet coves, forest-backed shores, and even a few hidden gems that locals love.

Just like before, I’ve listed them in order of proximity to Varna, starting with Fichoza and going all the way down to Byala.

Fichoza (Veteran) Beach

Located about 17 km south of Varna, Fichoza (Veteran) beach is a 2+ km strip of coast nestled below the Priboy area, just past Galata. Naturally enclosed by boulders and cliffs, it borders Galata Beach to the north and Chernomorets Beach to the south – though there’s no direct connection between them.

The beach is divided into two parts:

• Veteran Beach (North) – Shallow waters, underwater rocks, and diving-friendly zones. Great for shell and sea glass collectors, with plenty of pebbles, snail shells, and mussel fragments along the sand.
• Fichoza Beach (South) – A wider beach strip with deeper waters and a flat seabed. In the afternoon, the dense forest above the shore casts natural shade, making it cooler and more relaxing. 

Despite its wild feel, the beach is not remote. There are a few beach restaurants and bars, making it a favorite with both locals and visitors who want clear sea, views, and space – without total isolation.

How to get there:

• By bus: Use line 60, but getting to Fichoza is trickier – from stops on the Galata-Rakitnika road, it’s a 3 km walk, either through the forest or along the road. Closest stop: “Veteran”.
• By car: The easiest option. The road leads directly to Veteran Beach, and you can park along the roadside (no official parking, though). The beach is just a few steps away.

There are also hiking trails, marked from Galata, if you’re feeling adventurous. No disabled access, and you’ll need to bring anything extra you want for the day.

Chernomorets Beach

Chernomorets Beach, located about 17 km south of Varna, sits between Fichoza Beach and Pasha Dere, offering nearly 2 kilometers of peaceful coastline. It’s a favorite for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature – surrounded by forest, with clear waters, clean sand, and rocky spots perfect for diving.

It’s not uncommon to see sailing boats and motorboats cruising by the coast, adding to the beach’s relaxed, off-the-grid atmosphere.

What to know:

• No shops, restaurants, or rentals: So bring everything you need – food, water, shade, and gear
• No lifeguards or beach facilities
• Not accessible for disabled visitors

How to get there:

• By bus: Take line 60 to stop “Chakala”, but be ready for a long walk to reach the beach.
• By car: Drive through the villa zone, then leave your car at the tourist holiday base. From there, walk about 100 meters down a steep path.

Pasha dere Beach

About 19 km south of Varna, Pasha Dere is one of the last truly wild beaches near the city – no hotels, no restaurants, no concrete. Just clean sand, wild forest, and crystal-clear water. 

The beach strip is over 4 km long and especially popular with campers and nature-lovers. Even if you’re not into tents, there are guesthouses 5-10 km away for a more comfortable stay.

Behind the beach, you’ll find a cool, shaded forest, perfect for escaping the midday sun. And if you’re into collecting beach souvenirs, the sand is rich with shells, pebbles, and natural finds. The deeper waters also attract fans of small sailing boats and quiet paddling.

How to get there:

• By foot: Follow the marked trail from Galata – about a 2.5-hour hike, scenic but long.
• By car: Drive through Rakitnika villa zone, turn near the gas station and park nearby; then walk 20-30 minutes to the beach.

Make sure to bring your own food, water and beach gear as there are no restaurants or shops nearby. 

Kamchiya or Kamchiya Sands

Kamchiya Beach (also called Kamchiya Sands) is located about 27 km south of Varna, where the Kamchiya River flows into the Black Sea. This area is known for its natural beauty, clean beaches, and the lack of urban development – a quiet, scenic place ideal for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.

The wide and nearly 2 km long beach is part of the protected area “Kamchiyski Piasatsi”, which also includes pristine sand dunes and a longoz forest nearby. The entire zone is quiet, clean, and home to a wide variety of plant and animal life.

The beach is also the northernmost section of Bulgaria’s longest beach strip, which continues south through Shkorpilovtsi and ends at Cherni Nos.

How to get there:

• By car: Through the Kamchiya resort area, following the road to the beach

Local tip

While the scenery is stunning, swimming near the river mouth is dangerous due to underwater currents and sudden drop-offs. Visitors should be careful and avoid entering the water where the river meets the sea.

While you are in the area, make sure to book and enjoy a boat ride or a kayaking trip along the Kamchiya river, which offers views of the dense vegetation unique to the area.

Shkorpilovtsi

Located about 45 km south of Varna, Shkorpilovtsi Beach holds the title of the longest and widest beach on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. It stretches for a massive 13 kilometers, and in some areas, it’s over 100 meters wide – offering a huge, uninterrupted space to enjoy the sea and sun.

The beach sits near the village of Shkorpilovtsi and forms the southernmost part of Bulgaria’s longest sand strip, which begins near Kamchiya (by camping sites “Rai” and “Romantika”) and ends at Cherni Nos.

There’s even a 230-meter-long pier and a sunken bridge under the water – a point of interest for diving enthusiasts. There are plenty of amenities, including restaurants and accommodation options nearby

How to get there:

• By car: There is a road exiting the village of Shorpilovtsi heading towards the northern part of the beach. Take a right (south) to continue towards the southern part for a more secluded stay.

Karadere

Karadere Beach is located about 55 km south of Varna, between the town of Byala and the village of Goritsa, near the northern slopes of the Stara Planina mountain range. This is one of the last truly wild beaches on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast – with no resorts, no infrastructure, no electricity, and no restaurants.

There are no shops, no running water, and no toilets, so you need to come fully prepared. There is little to no cell coverage on most of the beach.

How to get there:

By car: The last 6 km to the beach is a rough dirt road, full of potholes and easily flooded after rain; High-clearance vehicles are recommended; not suitable for low cars.

Local tip

Although it’s somehow difficult to reach, this beach has become extremely popular in the past few years, so don’t expect to be alone. Most visitors stay in tents, and the beach has become especially popular around July Morning. Keep in mind that in Bulgaria it’s illegal to camp on the beach, so it’s best to stay in the forest behind.

Byala beach

Located about 55 km south of Varna, Byala Beach offers a stunning mix of clean, deep blue water, mountain views, and a peaceful coastline. It’s one of those places where you can enjoy both the quiet of a small town and the beauty of raw nature, all in one beach day.

The sandy strip is spacious, and while parts of it get deep quickly, there are also shallower areas, making it suitable for a mix of swimmers. The sand is coarse, with some pebbles and occasional stones, especially after strong waves.

There’s a combination of paid and free beach zones and all the basic amenities you might need, plus water attractions, as it’s in a residential zone.

How to get there:

• By foot: Best if you’re staying in Byala. Getting to the sand requires descending steep stairs
• By car: The beach is accessible by asphalt road, but be prepared as it’s steep. There is a public parking area nearby.

Local tip

Here you will see a specific emerald green color of the sea, caused by coccolithophores that bloom in late spring and early summer – a rare sight on the Black Sea that can be seen even from satellites (see below). The White Cliffs (Beli Skali) to the north is a unique site where you can literally see the Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary and fossils from the time of the dinosaurs.