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.
Varna has beaches right in the city and a string of longer, quieter ones to the north. For a quick swim, go to the Central Beach below the Sea Garden; for a full beach day, take bus 409 north to Sts. Constantine and Helena, Kabakum or, in summer, Golden Sands.
The beaches at a glance
| Beach | Where | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Central Beach | Below the Sea Garden’s main entrance | A swim before or after work; bars in the old Sea Baths buildings |
| Asparuhovo | South of the port, across Asparuhov Bridge | A more local, less touristy feel |
| Sts. Constantine and Helena | Resort north of the city | Calm days, trees close to the shore, mineral springs |
| Kabakum | Between Sts. Constantine and Helena and Golden Sands | A long sandy beach (about 1.3 km), families, water sports |
| Golden Sands | Large resort further north | A classic summer resort day |
Central Beach
According to Visit Varna, the Central Beach stretches about 500 m north towards the “Ribarski” beach. It has fine sand, a shallow, flat seabed, sunbeds and parasols for hire, and bars and restaurants in the renovated Sea Baths buildings. Buses 17a, 20 and 39 stop at “Festivalen kompleks”, about ten minutes away on foot through the park. Cars cannot enter the Sea Garden. Source: Visit Varna.
Asparuhovo
On the southern side of the port canal, Asparuhovo is a residential district with its own beach. It is reached across Asparuhov Bridge and feels more like a neighbourhood beach than a resort.
Kabakum
Kabakum, also called Journalist Beach, has fine golden sand, supervised swimming, a free zone, showers and bars. A chairlift at its southern end climbs to the Chayka area, and there is a hot mineral spring at its northern end.
Getting north by bus
Line 409 links the airport, the bus station and the city centre (Cathedral) with Sts. Constantine and Helena, Chayka and Golden Sands – the last only in summer. Lines 9 and 31A also run from the railway station via the centre to Sts. Constantine and Helena.
Beach etiquette
- Swim on lifeguarded beaches in season and follow the flags.
- Take your rubbish with you.
- Out of season many beach services close, but the sand stays open for long walks.
- Not sure the water is warm enough yet? Check sea temperature in Varna by month before you pack a swimsuit.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Which Varna beach is closest to the city centre?
The Central Beach, just below the main entrance of the Sea Garden, about ten minutes on foot from the nearest bus stop.
How do I get to Golden Sands by bus?
Line 409 runs from the airport through the centre to Sts. Constantine and Helena, Chayka and, in summer, Golden Sands.
Are the beaches free?
Access to the sand is free; sunbeds and umbrellas are for hire, and some beaches have free zones for your own towel.
