Is the Black Sea safe to swim in? Varna flags, currents, jellyfish
Yes, in season and on guarded beaches: Varna's water tests excellent. The real risks are currents and swell; local jellyfish give only mild stings.
Varna beaches and sea: safety, temperature
Varna beaches, sea temperature by month, flags, currents and jellyfish, checked against the Red Cross water rescue service and RZI Varna.
Sources: Bulgarian Red Cross · RZI Varna · Visit Varna
Latest
Epiphany (Jordanovden) in Varna 2027: the cross in the sea, programme and the icy swim
On Wed 6 January 2027 a priest throws a cross into the sea in Varna and swimmers race for it: catching it is said to bring a healthy year. What to know.
Sea temperature in Varna by month
The sea at Varna averages about 24–25 °C in July and August and about 7 °C in February. Month-by-month sea temperatures and the swimming season.
Where to watch the sunrise in Varna
Varna faces east, so the sun rises straight out of the sea. The best calm spots: the Central Beach, the Sea Garden and the beaches to the north.
Varna beaches: from the Central Beach to Golden Sands
Varna's beaches at a glance: the Central Beach in town, Asparuhovo to the south, and Sts. Constantine and Helena, Kabakum and Golden Sands to the north.