Sunny Beach, also known as Slanchev Bryag in Bulgarian, is a renowned seaside resort on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria, situated 35 km north of Burgas and 94 km south of Varna.
Established in 1958 as a weekend retreat for Bulgarian families, it has evolved into the country’s largest tourist and vacation destination. The resort’s rapid growth has led to a wide array of recreational activities, services, gambling establishments, sports, and music venues.
Sunny Beach’s main strip of high-rise hotels stretches 5 km along a wide bay, and during the summer, it becomes a bustling hub for thousands of tourists. Its connection with nearby historical sites like Nessebar and various attractions like water parks and beach competitions adds to its allure as a prime vacation spot.
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Attractions and Things to do in Sunny Beach
1. Sunny Beach Resort
Sunny Beach is a popular seaside resort on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. Created in 1958, it has grown to become the largest tourist spot in the country, offering a wide variety of recreational activities, sports, music venues, and gambling establishments. Its extensive growth has led to a merger with the nearby town of Nessebar.
Travel Tip: Visit during the summer to enjoy the bustling atmosphere, but book accommodations in advance as it can get crowded.
2. Nessebar Historic Site
Located near Sunny Beach, Nessebar is a historic site that adds a touch of ancient charm to the modern resort area. Known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, it’s a must-visit for those interested in Bulgarian culture.
Travel Tip: Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of Nessebar.
3. Water Parks
Sunny Beach offers two water parks with a third one being planned. These parks provide a fun-filled day for families and those looking to enjoy water sports and slides.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid long lines, and don’t forget to pack sunscreen.
4. The Decade of Symphonic Music and International Folklore Festival
These cultural events held in Sunny Beach showcase music, fashion shows, and various beach competitions. It’s a great way to experience local culture and enjoy live performances.
Travel Tip: Check the event schedule in advance to plan your visit accordingly.
5. Golden Orpheus Song Contest (Until 1999)
The Golden Orpheus song contest was a notable event held in Sunny Beach until 1999. Though no longer active, it remains a part of the resort’s cultural history.
Travel Tip: Explore other current music events and festivals in the area for a taste of local talent.
6. Beach Activities and Water Sports
The main attraction of Sunny Beach is, of course, the beach itself. With a 5 km long strip of high-rise hotels backing onto the beach, visitors can enjoy various water sports and relax by the sea.
Travel Tip: Rent equipment from reputable vendors and always prioritize safety when engaging in water sports.
7. Emergency on Sunny Beach (Documentary Series)
In 2022, a 6-part documentary series called “Emergency on Sunny Beach” was produced, covering how local emergency services handle the summer peak in tourists. Though not an attraction, it provides an interesting insight into the resort’s operations.
Travel Tip: Watching the series before visiting may offer a unique perspective on the resort and its challenges.
Unique Activities in Sunny Beach
1. Half-Day Black Sea Catamaran Cruise
Embark on a memorable catamaran cruise on the Black Sea. Experience the beauty of the coastline and the serenity of the open waters. This half-day adventure promises breathtaking views, a touch of luxury, and an unforgettable experience.
Day Trips from Sunny Beach
1. Nesebar
Discover the ancient town of Nesebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its cobbled streets, historic churches, and picturesque sea views. Delight in local seafood delicacies and immerse yourself in its rich history that spans over three millennia.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven stone streets and always check the local cultural events schedule – you might catch a traditional music or dance performance.
2. Burgas
Head to the city of Burgas to experience its vibrant urban culture, scenic Sea Garden, and bustling shopping streets. While there, make sure to visit the Burgas Salt Pans and watch the sunset over the tranquil waters.
Travel Tip: If you’re traveling in summer, visit the Burgas Sand Sculptures Festival to see amazing creations by artists from around the world.
3. Sozopol
Venture to Sozopol, one of the oldest towns on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coastline, where ancient wooden houses meet modern beach resorts. Dive into history at the Archaeological Museum and relax on the golden sands of Harmanite Beach.
Travel Tip: The annual Sozopol Arts Festival held in early September offers a mix of music, theater, and art – plan your trip around it if you’re an art enthusiast.
Where to stay in Sunny Beach
Sunny Beach, located in Bulgaria, is a vibrant tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. With over 1503 hotels, it offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. From luxurious five-star resorts to budget-friendly hotels, Sunny Beach caters to families, couples, solo travelers, and party enthusiasts. The hotels often come with amenities like swimming pools, water parks, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
1. Best Reviewed Hotel
Hotel & SPA Diamant Residence- All Inclusive (★★★★)
- Description: Situated only 450 meters from the sandy beach and 2 km from Nessebar, this hotel offers a luxurious stay with access to a spa.
- Price: €121 per night
- Rating: 9.1 (Superb)
2. Most Luxurious Hotel
Planeta Hotel & Aquapark – Ultra All Inclusive (★★★★★)
- Description: Located 70 meters from the beach in the center of Sunny Beach, this first-class hotel offers swimming pools with water slides.
- Price: €143 per night
- Rating: 7.5 (Good)
3. Budget Hotel
Hotel Zaara (★★★)
- Description: Featuring a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool, Hotel Zaara is just 200 meters from Cacao Beach and offers budget-friendly accommodation.
- Price: €34 per night
- Rating: 8.1 (Very good)
4. Hotel for Family
Tiara Beach – All Inclusive (★★★★)
- Description: Offering both outdoor and indoor pools, Tiara Beach is family-friendly and located just 150 meters away from the beach.
- Price: €153 per night
- Rating: 8.8 (Fabulous)
5. Hotel for Couples
Galeon Residence & SPA (★★★★★)
- Description: Located 200 meters from the Black Sea, Galeon Residence & SPA offers air-conditioned accommodation with free access to a heated outdoor swimming pool.
- Price: €71 per night
- Rating: 8.6 (Fabulous)
6. Hotel for Solo Travelers
Cook’s Club Sunny Beach – Adults Only (★★★★)
- Description: Featuring indoor and outdoor pools, this adults-only hotel is suitable for solo travelers and is located 400 meters from the nearest beach.
- Price: €66 per night
- Rating: 8.0 (Very good)
Did you know? Facts about Sunny Beach
- Sunny Beach is a seaside resort on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria, created in 1958 as a weekend getaway for Bulgarian families, and has since become the largest tourist spot in the country.
- The resort’s rapid growth has made it the largest on the Black Sea coast, and it has even merged with the town of Nessebar to the south.
- During the afforestation of Sunny Beach, over 550,000 m³ of fertile soil were transferred, and more than a million trees, shrubs, and flowers were planted, with investments exceeding BGN 150 million.
- Sunny Beach was the first Bulgarian resort to be awarded the Blue Flag eco award, a prestigious international recognition for meeting strict environmental standards.
- The resort has recorded significant tourist milestones, including the registration of the millionth tourist in 1969, and by 1988, nearly 8 million people had vacationed there.
- Sunny Beach is served by Burgas Airport and Varna Airport, and the construction of the Black Sea highway has further established it as one of the largest socio-economic centers in Eastern Bulgaria.
- Attractions for tourists include the beach, water sports, nearby historic site of Nessebar, two water parks, and various music and cultural festivals, such as the Decade of Symphonic Music.
- The resort has a humid subtropical climate, with average annual temperatures around 14°C, and during the summer, the sea temperatures stay around 26°C.
- Sunny Beach has been the subject of various media programs, including documentaries and reality shows, focusing on both positive and negative aspects of the resort.
- The planning of Sunny Beach began in 1957, and its construction started in an area known as the small Nessebar desert, transforming endless sands into a thriving tourist destination.
FAQ about Sunny Beach
What Are the Top Attractions in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria?
Sunny Beach offers a variety of attractions for tourists, including the beach itself, water sports, and the nearby historic site of Nessebar. There are also two water parks near the resort, and various events such as the Decade of Symphonic Music, fashion shows, and beach competitions.
How Can I Reach Sunny Beach Resort from Varna, Burgas, or Sofia?
Sunny Beach is well-connected with the cities of Varna, Burgas, and Sofia through numerous bus lines. Additionally, the construction of the Black Sea highway has established Sunny Beach as one of the largest socio-economic centers in Eastern Bulgaria.
What Are the Accommodation Options in Sunny Beach?
Sunny Beach offers a wide range of accommodation options, with 108 hotels providing over 27,000 beds. The resort also features over 130 restaurants, night clubs, bars, discos, coffee shops, and aperitifs.
What Is the Climate Like in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria?
Sunny Beach has a humid subtropical climate with average annual temperatures around 14°C. During the summer, sea temperatures stay around 26°C, while winters are cool, windy, and have moderate rainfall.
How Has Sunny Beach Evolved as a Tourist Destination?
Created in 1958 as a weekend getaway for Bulgarian families, Sunny Beach has grown to become the largest tourist and vacation spot in the country. Its growth includes a large variety of recreational activities, gambling establishments, sports, and music venues.
What Are the Media Portrayals of Sunny Beach?
Media coverage of Sunny Beach includes programs like “Booze, Bar Crawls and Bulgaria: Stacey Dooley Investigates” by the BBC, and “What Happens in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria” by Channel 4, focusing on various aspects of the resort.
What Are the Environmental Initiatives at Sunny Beach?
Sunny Beach was the first Bulgarian resort to be awarded the Blue Flag eco award. During its afforestation, 550,000 m³ of fertile soil were transferred, and large numbers of trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants were planted.
What Are the Historical Milestones of Sunny Beach?
Sunny Beach’s planning began in 1957, and construction started in 1958. The resort has registered significant tourist milestones, including the millionth tourist in 1969 and the five millionth tourist in 1981. It has also undergone privatization and name changes.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunny_Beach
https://www.getyourguide.com/sunny-beach-l1658/
https://www.booking.com/city/bg/sunny-beach.en-gb.html
