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15 Best Things to Do in Sunny Beach (Bulgaria)

Sunny Beach is one of Europe’s party capitals where revellers will encounter clubs and bars that are full of party-goers in July and August. It’s one of those raucous destinations in Bulgaria that pulls in the students and stag parties and makes sure they have all they could want for an action-packed holiday.

The endless sandy beach and nightlife are matched with a water park and amusement park, and by day you’ll also find a range of activities available, like diving and day trips.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Sunny Beach :

1. The Beachfront

The scene at Sunny Beach is one you’ll know from the most popular Mediterranean beach resorts.

There’s a long and very wide golden sandy beach that reaches out for several kilometres next to Flower Street.

All along you’ll be able to hire a parasol and sun lounger, and after that you can rest easy, safe in the knowledge that all the amenities and services you could want are just a few steps away.

For young party animals there are beachfront bars with djs, while kids won’t be able to resist the playgrounds and bouncy castles next to the promenade.

Move away from the main strip and follow the coastal road round towards Cape Emine, and you’ll come to Irakli Beach.

This is the perfect antidote to the mayhem of the Sunny Beach strip.

There’s little sign of civilisation in the wooded hillsides that rise behind the beach’s golden sands and if you like you can take a walk along the sand beneath the tall bluffs that mark Irakli’s eastern boundary.

On a clear day the sea at Irakli is almost transparent, and the moderate currents will be safe for most swimmers.

3. Nightlife

Sunny Beach is now well-established as one of Europe’s wildest party destinations, up there with Malia and Kavos for the 18-30 crowd.

The resort has some 15 bars and nightclubs, many of which are huge venues that can pack in a few hundred partygoers, and put on themed nights with paint and foam.

There are also several companies in Sunny Beach that organise bar crawls at night, and all sorts of activities and parties by day.

So if you’re a party animal you’ll be pretty pleased with what you find here.

4. Turkish Bath

For those visiting Sunny Beach for a Stag holiday or a week of clubbing, a couple of hours at a Turkish Bath may be the perfect therapy if you’re worse for wear.

The Erma Spa in the centre of the resort is a Hammam, where you’ll enter a “hot room” before washing off in cold water and taking a massage.

Women can also indulge in cosmetic treatments and mani-pedis, so by the end of a visit everyone should be feeling a little more like themselves again!

5. Action Aquapark

Bulgaria’s first water park, Action Aquapark has been around since 2001 and gets bigger with each new year.

There are 30 water attractions in all here ranging from extreme plunges to more relaxing rivers and pools.

If you’re up for some action then you’ll want to make straight for the Free Fall, with speeds of up to 70 km/h, or the ominously-named Kamikaze, which starts at a height of 18 metres.

The Kids Zone is where the little guys and girls can make a splash in shallow pools or clamber through the various rope bridges and nets of the pirate-themed Adventure Island.

6. Sunny Beach Luna Park

Sunny Beach has its own large amusement park, with a host of funfair rides and games.

Big kids and adults can strap themselves into white-knuckle rides like The Booster, in which they enter one of two pods and will be flung at high-speed at the end of a rotating arm.

There’s also a roller-coaster with loops, all joined by the classic fairground games that we know from our childhoods.

Smaller children aren’t forgotten either; there are carousels for little ones, as well as the Family Apple Coaster with a caterpillar theme.

Nearby Nesebar is home to Angel Divers, a five star PADI dive resort.

The centre can offer courses and excursions for all levels of experience, and organises trips all along the Black Sea coast.

So whether you’ve always wanted to head beneath the waves for the first time, or want to get qualified, or are a seasoned diver who wants to explore a new sea, you’ll find what you’re looking for.

If wreck diving is your thing then there are tonnes of vessels on the seabed off Sunny Beach, including no fewer than three German u-boats!

8. Karting Track

Sunny Beach has a go-karting track just off the Burgas-Varna road outside the resort.

It’s more family-friendly than you might think as the track puts speed restrictions on children’s karts, so kids as young as eight or nine will be able to take part.

But the karting track is a day out that will appeal to 20-somethings looking for an alternative to the beach and waterpark.

The 400-metre track is well looked-after, while the staff are friendly and helpful.

9. Day cruises

For the ultimate day of relaxation you could spend a day aboard a luxury catamaran, sunbathing and indulging in great food and drink.

On a typical cruise you’ll board the boat in the morning and then lie back as you make a serene voyage to a remote beach.

The captain will drop anchor here and you’ll be free to go swimming or snorkelling in these tranquil waters.

Climb aboard for lunch and if you want you’ll be able to take the wheel and steer the catamaran for a while.

10. Off-road tours

In the countryside it also pays to call on someone who knows the terrain.

In Sunny Beach there are a couple of businesses that organise 4×4 excursions along the coast and into the backcountry.

If you aren’t renting a car during your trip to Sunny Beach, this represents the easiest way to see the landscapes around the resort.

You’ll visit a windswept lighthouse, a medieval orthodox church, swim at a deserted cove and explore Cape Emine the rugged and undeveloped headland just up from the resort.

The whole trip will be interspersed with little activities like walks, archery and rides on a horse and cart.

11. Bulgarian food and drink

Sunny Beach is replete with kiosks and food joints with international menus where kebabs appear alongside pizza and hamburgers.

Food is a bit more affordable at Bulgarian resorts compared to those on the Mediterranean.

It might be that you’re in the mood for an authentic night of dining. If so you could make for one of the smaller towns or villages around Sunny Beach such as Nessebar, where there are Bulgarian taverns or Mehanas.

Here a meal will involve lots of meat seared over hot charcoal and served with rakia or Bulgarian Marvrud wine.

12. Nessebar

This coastal town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is just moments from Sunny Beach.

Nessebar is crammed with churches, some of which date to the years when Christianity was only just starting to spread through the Roman Empire.

The Church of St. Sophia is from the 400s and often listed as one of Bulgaria’s top tourist sites.

Even though it has been a ruin since the 700s three sides of the building are still standing, including the nave.

Take time to explore the rest of the town, stopping by the old fortifications and the distinctive windmill that marks the entrance to Nessebar.

13. Pomorie

A short drive or bus ride south of Sunny Beach will get you to Pomorie a seaside town with a picturesque location at the end of a peninsula.

Of course, you’ll find the hallmarks of a resort here, with sandy beaches and waterfront bars. But if you delve a little deeper you can see wonderful fragments of history here.

There’s a Thracian tomb from the year 200 and the old town has houses built in the traditional wooden style. Also check out the Monastery of St. George, as well as the saline Pomorie Lake, a birdwatcher’s paradise, where salt has been harvested for millennia.

South of Sunny Beach the city of Burgas borders the largest lakeland area in Bulgaria.

The shores of these lakes have been inhabited since the Bronze Age when they became a vital Thracian trading post, and new discoveries are being made all the time.

On the shore of Lake Mandrensko there’s ancient Deultum, with mostly Roman ruins that include the detailed hypocaust of a bathing complex.

On a column of land between Lake Mandrensko and the sea is the Poda Protected Area, wetlands that support 46 nesting bird species (with large colonies of herons and egrets) and welcome many more migratory species.

Also see: Things to do in Burgas

If you have a car then you could also spend the day in the city of Varna, around 90 minutes up the coast from Sunny Beach.

Varna is often described as Bulgaria’s “Summer Capital”, the coastal city that people from Sofia escape to when inland temperatures shoot up in July and August.

What you get a is all the fun of a seaside resort, including a humongous waterfront Sea Garden with a host of attractions and sights, with some serious pieces of culture.

If you do nothing else here, go to the Varna Archaeological Museum where the Gold of Varna is on display.

This is the oldest gold treasure in the world, dating back 6,000 years to the beginning of the Thracian civilisation.

15 Best Things to Do in Sunny Beach (Bulgaria):

• The Beachfront
• Turkish Bath
• Action Aquapark
• Sunny Beach Luna Park
• Karting Track
• Day cruises
• Off-road tours
• Bulgarian food and drink

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > 20 Ideas On What To See And Do In Sunny Beach Bulgaria

20 Ideas On What To See And Do In Sunny Beach Bulgaria

Written by our local expert Guru

Written by a local specialist we know and trust to bring you the most up-to-date travel information.

Sunny Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bulgaria. Here is a list of things to do in Sunny Beach on the Black Sea Coast.

Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, is a pure tourist destination. The main reason why it is so popular is because of its nightlife. If you are looking for a place to absorb Bulgarian culture, looking at other destinations like Varna or Sofia is best. Sunny Beach is like Las Vegas and Cancun mixed.

Sunny Beach is one of the most popular Spring Break destinations in Europe . Sunny Beach attracts so many tourists because of the relatively low prices compared to more well-known destinations. 

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Things To Do In Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

If you are coming with family, the daytime is the best time to explore Sunny Beach in Bulgaria. These are some places around Sunny Beach we recommend checking out.

1. Sunny Beach Strip

Sunny Beach is the main area to kick back along the coast and is wildly popular. The wide, golden sandy beach is the perfect place to bury your toes for the day. When you dip in the sea, you will instantly notice that you can float more than in a pool or a regular ocean because of the higher salt content. It is one of the best Sunny Beach activities on days when the sun gets too hot. 

Along the 2.5 km strip, you will find rows upon rows of deck chairs that belong to different resorts available for rent. Hotels become less stringent with rental fees towards the end of the day when they start packing things in. 

2. Irakli Beach

Head to the golden sands of Irakli Beach for a break from the crowds you will find at Sunny Beach. A little more secluded and a little more out of the way, this beach is perfect for those looking for a quieter venue. Follow the coastal road towards Cape Emine to find this gem along the bluffs.

3. Luna Park

Another family-based activity in Sunny Beach is Luna Park. This large amusement park has classic fairground games, rides, and a roller coaster. Kiddie rides and carousels are also available for the youngest visitors. It’s the perfect place for people of all ages to feel like a kid again!

4. Action Aqua Park

Action AquaPark, along the beach, is known as Bulgaria’s first water park . The 30-plus attractions at this water park will keep the whole family busy, from pools to relaxing rivers to extreme plunges. The Kids Zone features shallower pools and a pirate-themed island, so it’s great for all ages.

5. Karting Track

One of the places to visit in Bulgaria , Sunny Beach caters g to ages as young as eight and up; this 400-meter karting track is found along Burgas-Varna road and is a great way to take a break from the beach. The karts have speed restrictions for younger drivers, making it a family-friendly option for those with tweens. Adults can enjoy karts without the speed restrictions, so take a few fast laps!

6. Water Sports

It wouldn’t be complete as a resort town without ample water sports offerings. You can rent jet skis, banana boats, kayaks , or paddleboards for all your water adventuring needs. Remember that some of the rental facilities are further away from the main Sunny Beach area.

7. Scuba Diving

A list of Sunny Beach attractions would not be complete without scuba diving . If you venture nearby to Nessebar, check out Angel Divers, a five-star PADI dive resort. This area of the Black Sea coast is a hot spot for wreck diving, including German U-boats. The center caters to all experience levels, so whether you’re an expert or beginner, there’s something they can help you do.

8. Boating Tours

You’ll also come across several excursions when you look up Sunny Beach things to do. You can go out for a day on a few different boat tours, including the Tattoo Party boat, for those who want to let loose during the day. Also available are luxury catamaran tours with stops at remote beaches for swimming and snorkeling .

Of course, there are many other choices, but no matter your preference, you can expect food , drink, and a chance to sit back while your captain sails you along the waters.

9. Off-Road Tours

Another superb tour option is traveling along the backcountry coastal land via 4 x 4. Book a tour to explore a lighthouse, a medieval orthodox church, the rugged Cape Emine, and a swim in a deserted cave .

10. Shopping

Sunny Beach features a wide array of shops all along the walkway, covering the whole strip. Going from one end to the other will take about an hour and a half, including frequent stops at gift shops. These shops are quite popular places in Sunny Beach among the summer crowds.

Gift shops offer typical novelty items like sailor hats with Bulgaria on them, sunglasses, etc. You won’t find anything of high quality, but it’s fun to browse around and see what each place has. You can try bargaining with some of these vendors. Some will bite, some won’t, but your chances become more favorable if you buy more than one item. 

11. Turkish Bath

You will find a delightful Turkish Hammam in the Erma Spa, complete with a hot room, cold water bath, and massage. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day at the beach or on a night out on the town!

12. Slingshot Sunny Beach

For adrenaline junkies, this is an activity you won’t want to miss! Find this vertical amusement ride near the pier. With the beach in the background, get launched over 100 meters into the air at a speed of 160 meters per hour.

Groups of two at a time slingshot in the air together, and if your partner is willing, you can work with one another to get the ride capsule spinning. Once in the air, prepare to plummet back to the ground.

You can opt to purchase a video of their ride experience – what a cool souvenir to take home! 

13. Paintball

If you love paintball or want to give it a try after days spent at the beach, Sunny Beach Paintball Park is a great option. You are provided 100 paintballs, a paintball gun, armor, boots, and a mask. Create your team and accomplish your missions!

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Nearby cities worth a visit, 14. nessebar.

When needing a break from the party scene, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nessebar. Located just a few minutes from Sunny Beach, this coastal town is home to ancient fortifications , windmills, and churches, including The Church of St. Sophia from the 400s.

It’s also a great place to stay if you want easy access to Sunny Beach but don’t want to be right in the crowd.

Burgas is one of the most popular ports on the southern Black Sea coast . Far from the ancient and historical centers that populate the country in other places, it is mainly a modern art deco with well-maintained coastal parks.

You can also attend some of the hottest music festivals in Bulgaria , such as the Spirit of Burgas Festival, which more people attend yearly.

North Beach is the most popular sandy beach in the city. Still, Burgas has another under-the-radar gem: the majestic trio of lakes stretching from the bird-spotting haven of Vaya in the west to the saltwater of Atanasovsko in the north.

16. Pomorie

Just south of Sunny Beach is the seaside town of Pomorie.

Located at the end of a picturesque peninsula, there are plenty of sandy beaches , waterfront bars, and swimming spots to choose from for a day in the sun.

Nature lovers will also delight in a trip to Pomorie Lake, a coastal lagoon separated from the sea by a sand spit. Many migratory birds journey to this location, and the mud here is said to have healing properties. 

Historical gems such as a Thracian tomb from the year 200 and the Monastery of St. George are worth a visit, and a stroll through the old town where you can see houses built in the traditional wooden style. 

About 90 minutes along the coast from Sunny Beach is Varna’s modern city, which scores serious cultural points along with boasting a beautiful seafront promenade and Sea Garden.

Varna is the third-largest city in the country, and with parks, beaches, museums, and happening nightlife, there is not a dull moment, making it perfect for a day of exploration.

Nightlife In Sunny Beach, Bulgaria 

18. party party party in sunny beach.

The nightlife in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, is legendary. At night, some very hammered people are stammering along the Entertainment District.

If you are into the club scene, most pubs and bars are nestled within a few blocks of Flower Street. Things usually start at about 11:30 – 12 a.m. and can go well into the night at 6 a.m. 

19. Flower Street

The ironically named Flower Street is one of the best places in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, if you want to party. It is home to tons of bars, clubs, and strip clubs. Be warned, though, when they say that the club is popping, it’s usually not unless it is a more well-known bar. You can barely go 20 feet without a club promoter trying to stop you. 

My friends and I visited the Den Glade Viking Club and the Bounce Bar.

Den Glade Viking Club

Known for its cheap drinks and disco party scene, this is a happening club on Flower Street. You will often find live performers and DJs creating music in the early morning hours. 

The Bounce bar is not as popular, but we always ended up back there every time, as it was usually the most fun place. Bulgarian MCs were rapping on some nights; on other nights, they would just be bumping good beats throughout the night. You can also order Hukka in the club or the lounge on the deck outside. 

Cacao Beach Club

Another bar we tried to check out was the Cacao Beach Club. It’s one of the more prestigious clubs in Sunny Beach, but it is further away from Flower Street’s central hub, so we had to take a cab. Unfortunately, we found going on weekends rather than weekdays worthwhile, so we hastily had to take a taxi back.

LOCAL TIP: Speaking of cab rides, ensure you price out fares. Sunny Beach is notorious for overcharging tourists who don’t know the normal fare. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and do some negotiating. 

Bubbles Beach Bar

If you are not a huge party person and want something a bit more relaxed and chill, head to one of the bars along the beach, or better yet, find a Hookah bar.

We went to Bubbles Beach Bar, where I tasted what was probably the best Pina Colada in my life right out of a coconut. They also had a lot of different flavors of Hookah, which put you in a lovely relaxing state, especially if you are trying to detox from the festivities of Flower Street. 

20. Sunset Cruise

Interested in something a little different? Why not take a romantic sunset cruise? With panoramic views of the shore and stunning hues on the horizon over the water, it’s sure to be the perfect end to your beach day. 

Often, these cruises come with refreshments, like champagne and fruit or nuts. For a more inclusive evening, opt for a package that includes dinner.

Where To Eat At Sunny Beach In Bulgaria

Marina Restaurant

My favorite restaurant I went to was the Marina restaurant, managed by the sweetest older lady, who ensured we would get a table. The staff was very courteous, and the meal portions were gigantic. I had two full-sized chicken skewers with fries and some vegetables. I can’t remember being as full as I was after eating this delicious meal! The prices were also pretty reasonable as well. 

Local’s Favorites

Other popular restaurants in Sunny Beach in Bulgaria include the Hawaii Restaurant And Bar and  Euphoria Bar & Grill . We didn’t get a chance to visit them, but we heard from locals that those were good options.

Restaurant Djanny

For fancier restaurants, we visited Restaurant Djanny, one of the highest-rated restaurants in Bulgaria . If you want to impress a lucky lady and do more refined dining, this would probably be where to take her. 

Food Trucks

If you end up doing the late-night circuit, many late-night food trucks will be open next to the pier that will serve your stomach some much-needed hamburgers, pizza, and, of course, late-night donairs. 

Are you looking for hotels near the Sunny Beach strip? You’ll find our recommendation for hotels in Bulgaria here .

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How To Get To Sunny Beach

Trains and buses take 6 to 7.5 hours, while driving by car slashes the time by half, taking about 3.5 hours to get there. 

What we ended up doing was we traveled from Varna to Sunny Beach. This is a shorter route, and there are a few ways to get there: train, bus, or taxi. We ended up choosing the bus. It says it takes an hour and a half on the internet, but it was more like two and a half hours as they take frequent stops for “smoke breaks.” 

If you are coming from another country, chances are it makes the most sense to land in Varna and take the bus as the most cost-efficient option. 

Wrap Up On Going To Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Those looking to experience authentic Bulgarian culture should probably not venture here. It is purely a tourism destination for people who want to soak up the sun on one of the sunny beaches in Bulgaria or those who want to drink their troubles away.

Overall, I would say Sunny Beach was a destination I would visit once for a few days and then venture to other places in Bulgaria . If you are a Spring Breaker or student, you will probably have a lot of fun here.   

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Great post and very detailed information! Wonderful way to explore the area and to meet the local life is via day trips :)

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Bulgaria · August 2, 2022

13 Best Things to do in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Sunny Beach has become one of Europe’s party capitals, attracting party-goers from all around the continent, and stealing the scene from other popular resorts like Magaluf and Ibiza. 

The countless clubs and bars along the beach strip of Sunny Beach are full with holiday-makers during the peak summer months of July and August.

But there’s so much more to do in Sunny Beach than just going to the bars. That’s why I put together this comprehensive list of the best things to do in Sunny Beach to make your holiday in Bulgaria all the more fun and exciting!

Make sure to read the full article to find the best activity suited for you.

Let’s take a look at the best things to do in Sunny Beach .

Prepare for your trip to Sunny Beach

➔ Book your accommodation in advance – find the best hotel deals for Sunny Beach here .

➔ Find the best tours in Sunny Beach – book your adventures in Sunny Beach in advance.

➔ Rent a car – the best and easiest way to get around Bulgaria is by renting a car .

➔ Travel Insurance – make sure you’re covered before your trip! I always use SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance which is super affordable and flexible.

➔ Travel cards – Get a Wise or Revolut bank cards to avoid overseas charges and save money on your travels.

The Best Things to Do in Sunny Beach

1. enjoy the sandy beaches.

Bulgarian beaches are blessed with soft golden sands and clean warm waters. Perfect for a day of relaxation and enjoying the summer weather. 

Sunny Beach has a 2.5km beach strip where you can rent a parasol and sun lounger and spend the day with a cocktail in hand from one of the beach bars. 

If sunbathing all day doesn’t sound too appealing to you, there’s also a number of water sports and activities you can take part in for a fun day at the beach.

5. Go on a Half-Day Catamaran Cruise in Sunny Beach

One of the best things to do in Sunny Beach is going on a catamaran cruise! It’s a really fun way to explore the area and do something a little different on your holiday.

The best thing about this half-day catamaran cruise is that it includes time for swimming and snorkelling (goggles and snorkels provided by the tour). You also get to see all the marine life of the Black Sea in its natural habitat.

And did I mention there’s a high chance of seeing dolphins in the wild during the cruise?! That’s already reason enough to get your seats booked straight away and not miss this fun activity! 

The tour includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at the bar, snacks and a full delicious meal for lunch! It’s perfect for both couples, friends groups and families.

Book the tour here : Half-Day Catamaran Cruise in Sunny Beach

3. Visit Nessebar – The Pearl of the Black Sea

Nessebar is one of the oldest seaside towns in Bulgaria and a UNESCO world heritage site. It’s located only a few kilometres away from Sunny Beach. 

This historical seaside town is located within a small rocky peninsula jetting out of the Black Sea. It’s lined with numerous cobblestone streets filled with cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops selling local art and handicrafts. 

Strolling on the streets you can still see remains from different civilisations and epochs that have been based in the city throughout its history. From Roman and Mediaeval walls, and Byzantine and Bulgarian churches to houses from the 18th-19th century. 

Make sure to visit Eco-Bar by Michael a super cool bar located in an artificial cave. It’s a great place to cool down and have drink.

I also highly recommend that you stay over to enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the restaurants overlooking the sea. 

Location: Old Town Nessebar

4. Water activities in Sunny Beach

While some may prefer to spend the whole day sunbathing and chilling on the beach (a.k.a sobering up from the night before) there are a number of water sports activities you can do in Sunny Beach. 

Whether you’d like to feel the thrill of riding a jet ski along the Black Sea coast, riding a banana boat with friends or getting a birds-eye view of the resort while parasailing, there’s something for everyone who seeks a bit of adrenaline rush on their holiday.

You will find the prices of all water activities at every lifeguard post along the beach strip (there’s one every 100 metres). 

All the prices are set but usually there’s discounts if you decide to do more than one activity or if it’s a few of you. 

6. Go on a romantic sunset cruise with dinner & champagne

Who said Sunny Beach can’t be romantic? This sunset cruise is the perfect quiet escape from the crazy party crowds for a couple of hours. 

The catamaran departs from the harbour in Sunny Beach and takes you along for a scenic ride along the coastline of Old Nessebar to enjoy the beautiful panorama of the historic town. 

The vibe of this cruise is best suited for couples who are looking for an intimate sail on the Black Sea while enjoying a bottle of champagne and a nice dinner under the sunset sky, overlooking the Old Town of Nessebar.

Sounds like the perfect romantic evening, doesn’t it? 

It’s definitely one of the best ways to experience the sunset on the Black Sea and something you shouldn’t miss especially if you’re visiting Sunny Beach as a couple!

Book the tour here : Romantic Sunset cruise in Sunny Beach

7. Try the Slingshot

This is one for the adrenaline junkies! The slingshot is one of my favourite things to do in Sunny Beach that makes you scream from the top of your lungs and leaves you wanting more! 

The slingshot is one of the most exciting vertical rides. It propels you 100 metres up in the air only to drop you back down to the bottom and spin you around, and do it all over again. 

It’s an amazing experience for two that will make your holiday in Sunny Beach all that more exciting ! The slingshot is right next to the beach so if you’ll also have a beautiful view while flying up in the air! 😀 

The slingshot has a mounted camera that records you flying into the air and your reaction, that you can purchase to keep as a memory. 

Just make sure to let them know in advance that you want to buy the video . As the first time we did the slingshot ride they didn’t record us as they didn’t know we wanted the video!

Price of the ride is: 15 lv each (£7 ; $10)

Price for the video: 10 lv

Location: Slingshot Sunny Beach

8. Check out Sunny Beach’s Amusement Park

The Slingshot isn’t the only adrenaline-pumping activities in Sunny Beach. In fact, the party resort has its own amusement park right by the beach and in between all the clubs and bars.

There are multiple rides to choose from or if you’re feeling extra adventurous you can buy the Adrenaline Package. It includes the Booster ride, a Roller coaster, Star Flyer and the Drop Tower.

We did a couple of the rides on our trip to Sunny Beach and it was one of the most fun experience we had!

The Booster ride was absolutely amazing although at times super scary! But if I could do it again, I definitely would!

There’s also rides suitable for children like Bungee Trampoline, bumper cars, mini ship and more.

Tip: I would recommend you visit the amusement park before you’ve had any alcholic drinks to avoid feeling ill on the rides. Since most of them involve quite a lot of spinning around!

Location: Sunny Beach Amusement Park

9. Go-Karting

The fun doesn’t have to stop with the amusement parks and water attractions. If you have a need for speed this activity in Sunny Beach will be perfect for you!

The track, initially designed as a training facility for one of the Bulgarian professional racing teams , is now a popular attraction for adrenaline-thirsty tourists.

Sunny Beach Karting track is one of the fastest karting tracks in Bulgaria and it’s a great activity for groups of friends looking for a fun high speed race during your holiday in Sunny Beach. 

The karts are capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 m/h in the straight section followed by a fast flowing circuit of twists, bends and straights, stretching out for 440 metres. 

The track has been designed as a miniature blueprint of some of the world’s best renowned F-1 corners such as ones from Monaco and Imola. It is also built with night lighting which allows you to experience the night time speed chases with your friends and imagine you’re doing the races in Singapore or Abu Dhabi. 

Suitable both for adults and children (all children karts are equipped with speed limit devices).   

Price: 67lv (£29; €34) per person for 15 minutes

Location: Go Karting Sunny Beach

Book your tickets here

10. Action Aquapark in Sunny Beach

The Action Aquapark in Sunny Beach is another one for the adventure seekers ! 

Here it’s guaranteed you won’t get bored all day with over 30 water attractions ranging from extreme waterslides to more relaxing rivers and pools.

There’s also a few themed bars and restaurants, and areas for relaxation and sunbathing to take a break from the slides. 

This aqua park was the first one to be built in Bulgaria and it’s now one of the most fun ways to spend your day in Sunny Beach. 

It’s perfect both for little ones and grown ups looking for an adventurous day.

Location: Action Aquapark Sunny Beach

11. Paintballing

I can’t think of a better bonding activity with your friends than paintball! 

The paintball facility in Sunny Beach is located right next to the karting track so it’s a great opportunity to combine them both for a full action-packed day. 

The activity takes place over 5000 sq.m of land constructed with wood shacks, barrels, trenches and rattle traps. Testing your physical stamina and warfare abilities against your enemy team. All with the aim of capturing the enemy’s flag and proclaiming victory for your team. Needless to say losers buy the first round at the bar later! 

Price: £25 per person for unlimited time; includes all necessary equipment and 100 paintballs.

Location: Paintball Sunny Beach

12. Airsoft

If you want to take your warfare skills to the next level and experience a Call Of Duty type of battlefield, you’re gonna love the Airsoft activity in Sunny Beach. 

Curing your hangover by running around fields, shooting AK47-like modelled weapons and throwing smoke grenades never sounded like a better idea 😀 

The ‘battlefield’ takes place in an unbuilt hotel surrounded by woodland for a proper authentic feel of a military mission. 

It’s definitely a unique experience to make your holiday in Sunny Beach even more exciting! 

Price: £35 per person

Location – Airsoft Sunny Beach

13. Visit Burgas

Burgas is the biggest city in the southern coastline of Bulgaria and only a short 30-minutes ride away from Sunny Beach. 

It’s worth visiting for its vibrant city vibe, beautiful Sea Garden park and harbour area and enjoy a stunning meal at one of the seaside restaurants! 

The central area is great for people watching while having a drink at one of the numerous coffee shops around, or if you’re a history lover you can also stop by one of the museums around such as the Archaeology Museum, Museum of Natural History or the Regional History Museum. 

Other things to see in Burgas include visiting Lake Atanasovsko most commonly know as the pink lake, similar to the famous one in Mexico. 

Where to stay in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Budget-friendly options, 1. harmony suites grand resort.

Harmony Suites Grand Resort is a great budget-friendly option for all types of travellers. With a range of accommodations, including studios, 1- and 2-bedroom apartments, you can enjoy a comfortable stay equipped with a mini kitchen, balcony, washing machine, and secure storage for valuables.

The resort’s tranquil garden creates a soothing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. It’s a great place to relax on the sun loungers by the outdoor pool or take a refreshing dip to cool off.

Families will appreciate the on-site playground, keeping children entertained and active.

For a balance of comfort, affordability, and amenities, Harmony Suites Grand Resort is a fantastic option for your next vacation destination.

»» Check out prices and availability for you dates at Harmony Suites Grand Resort here ««

2. BSA Boulevard Boutique Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Sunny Beach resort, BSA Boulevard Boutique Hotel is conveniently located just 150 meters from the beach and within easy reach of all the hustle and bustle of the resort including bars, shops, and restaurants.

The boutique-style, air-conditioned rooms feature comfortable beds, providing a cozy retreat for guests at affordable prices. Its central location and budget-friendly options make it a favourite among visitors to Sunny Beach.

»» Check out prices and availability for you dates at BSA Boulevard Boutique Hotel here ««

Mid-range places to stay in Sunny Beach

1. hvd club bor.

Embodying the “Ultra All Inclusive” philosophy, this hotel offers outstanding amenities and stellar service. HDV Club Bor has a spacious outdoor pool, sun loungers, and full WiFi coverage on its premises. With 55 rooms available, there are ample choices, suitable both for couples or families with two children.

Rooms come with a snack-stocked minibar and balconies that have beautiful sea views. Nothing better than waking up to nature’s soundtrack and the sound of the waves.

Entertainment options include billiards, darts, table tennis, and live performances, catering to both adults and children. Or you can simply just chill by the pool after a long night out.

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The Top 10 Things To Do And See In Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Sunny Beach (or Slanchev Bryag to Bulgarians) is principally known for its sandy beaches and scorching weather. Here are the best ways to have fun and stay active in Bulgaria ‘s top beach resort.

Party till the sun comes up

No one can talk about Sunny Beach without highlighting its status as one of the top party destinations on the Black Sea coast. It is particularly attractive among young party-goers who want to let off steam after exams without breaking the bank. In fact, the nightlife here is incredibly affordable. If you like your hedonism organized, why not join one of the cities famous pub crawls? They offer everything from foam parties to party boats during the summer season.

It was John Lawton of Uriah Heep who unwittingly inspired an entire festival with his 1971 song of the same name. Back in the day, Bulgarians would sing the words to July Morning as a sign of protest against the oppressive Communist rule, which had censored much of the music coming in from the West. Since then, the practice has turned into a celebration of freedom and the beauty of nature. Traditionally, early-birds gather at Kamen Bryag after having camped out on the cliffs to greet the sun as it rises in the morning on 1st July. They are joined by John Lawton himself who performs the song in front of thousands of fans. Meanwhile in Sunny Beach, the party starts from the previous night on Cacao Beach with a line-up of local DJs, and together they usher in the new day.

Sample local wines at Chateau Medovo

Bulgarian wines may have suffered a decline in popularity abroad at the hands of their European and New World rivals. However, they are part of an age-old tradition surviving from Thracian times, enjoyed locally now more than ever. Located 12 kilometers from Sunny Beach itself, the Medovo Winery has made it possible for visitors to indulge in red and white Bulgarian wines made from their own grapes. They have two separate wine tasting sessions for their classic and premium wines, and one for their brandies and rakias (the local spirit made from fermented fruit, usually grapes). The ethnographic complex is made up of houses built in an old Bulgarian style and provides a harmonious setting in which to enjoy an afternoon of civilized drinking.

Embark on a safari adventure

If sitting on a beach all day isn’t quite your thing and you’re feeling particularly adventurous, then head on down to Marinka village just south of Burgas and go on safari for the day. The team of delightful British hosts offer guided river tours which see visitors delve into the wildernesses of the Black Sea coast and explore areas rich in rare species of reptiles and other animals. Oh, and bring a picnic with you to enjoy while you relax by the private pool in between activities. (Remember a towel and a change of clothes).

Go all out at the summer music festivals

In the space of just 10 years, annual festivals have been established on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, all of which vary greatly in musical policy. The longest-running is the Kavarna Rock Fest , which since 2006 has been serving up unforgettable rock and heavy metal acts to its hardcore fans at the Kaliakra Stadium. For those who listen to EDM, there is a month-long electronica shindig in Sunny Beach each year, welcoming DJs from all over the globe and hosting some party nights to remember (or perhaps forget). The main stage at Spirit of Burgas | © Vladimir Petkov/Flickr

Explore one of Europe’s most ancient settlements

The ancient city of Nessebar has seen many civilizations pass through its streets, from the Thracians and Greeks to the Roman and Byzantine empires, leaving behind countless traces of their respective cultures over the course of three millennia. In the Middle Ages, it was one of the most important towns on the west coast of the Black Sea. It functioned as a spiritual center, evidenced by the beautifully preserved medieval religious buildings on the peninsula. It is worth dedicating an afternoon to exploring this one’s magnificent architecture, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Consider staying on for dinner too, as there are several lovely restaurants serving traditional food that can be found among the ruins of the ancient city.

Sail the coast on a hydrofoil

Want to feel the breeze as you speed along the coast on a scenic tour? The folk at Fastferry Hydrofoils promise twice-weekly, full-day excursions on their Kometa hydrofoil. Cruisers are picked up at 8:30am from Sunny Beach and taken to the Old Nessebar harbor where they board the fast ferry. From there they set sail for Sozopol, where visitors can spend a whole afternoon exploring the old town at their leisure (lunch included), before returning in the evening. An alternative route incorporates a morning cruise along the Ropotamo River, one of Bulgaria’s most precious natural reserves. Some have called these reserves the Bulgarian Amazon and they stand out for the wild animals and stunning rock formations.

Frolick in the mud baths

One of the local secrets of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast is its mud baths, which formed naturally over millions of years. They are said to act as a cure for joint and skin conditions. It was Hitler, believe it or not, who was the first to profess their healing properties back in 1942. In fact, he was so impressed that he ordered three truck-loads of mud to be taken back to Germany . Next to the mud baths is a shallow rust-colored lye pool, whose high salt content allows swimmers to float on the surface much like in the Red Sea. Located by Atanasovsko Lake just north of the coastal city of Burgas, these are only a half hours’ drive from Sunny Beach and, best of all – absolutely free.

Seek out the virgin beaches of the Black Sea

Sunny Beach can get pretty crowded in the high season, and some tourists prefer to look for less densely populated sand stretches to put the towel down. The closest alternatives are the beaches in Sveti Vlas to the north and Nessebar to the south. To avoid the resorts entirely, head to Irakli. This three-kilometer stretch of beach is a protected strip of land, preventing investors from building on or near its sandy dunes (though the local government has recently threatened to change this). It is typically frequented by young Bulgarians for its clear, golden sands and the surrounding wild vistas, and it is not uncommon to see enthusiasts camping out in tents. On the way back to town, stop off at Cape Emine and look across the water from the tip of the 60-meter-tall cliff, the former site of a Medieval fortress and monastery, now in ruins.

Stay active in Sunny Beach

Holiday-makers with families can enjoy activities without even having to leave the resort. There are excellent facilities for water sports, from the more casual to the more extreme. Among these, banana-boating, waterskiing and parasailing are the most sought after. If you prefer not to get your feet wet, then you can set up a game of volleyball at the nets on the beach, or go for tennis and riding lessons nearby. At the exit of the resort there is a go-kart circuit and a bodydiving arena. What’s more, all of these thrills, like most things in Sunny Beach, cost only a fraction of the price compared to other European resorts.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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14 Very Best Things to Do in Sunny Beach

Looking for fun things to do in sunny beach, bulgaria check out this list of the very best things to do in sunny beach..

Sunny Beach is without a doubt one of the most popular travel destinations in Bulgaria . The long beaches, low prices, and colorful nightlife attract families with children as well as young people. It is the perfect travel destination if you dream of sunbathing on the beach during the day and partying in the evening.

During my trip to Bulgaria, I found it insanely difficult to find fun activities in Sunny Beach during the day. It took a lot of searching on Google before I came up with some exciting experiences. Of course, I would like to share them with you before your trip to Sunny Beach.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Bulgaria, you should read this list of the very best things to do in Sunny Beach.

Table of Contents

Best things to do in Sunny Beach:

1. action aquapark.

Action Aquapark in the city center is known for being the oldest water park in Bulgaria . Here you’ll find 30 different water attractions including plenty of water slides, a Lazy River, and a wave pool. Of course, there’s also a children’s pool with a fun playground and lots of water activities for the little ones.

A trip to Action Aquapark is one of the best things to do in Sunny Beach with kids and teens. If hunger strikes during your visit, there are also several different eateries to choose from.

2. The bazaar

The bazaar in Sunny Beach is located at the end of Flower Street and is a nice area with a wonderful atmosphere. Here you’ll find a myriad of stalls and shops that sell all kinds of copy goods at cheap prices. The shops sell everything from clothes, shoes, and bags to jewelry, ceramics, and souvenirs.

Although the prices in the bazaar are usually low, you can always try to negotiate a much cheaper price on most things. Just make sure to haggle a bit about the price but be careful that the sellers don’t get offended.

3. Boat trips

If you’re going on a boat trip in Sunny Beach, there are plenty to choose from. If you’re traveling to Sunny Beach with children, you can go on a boat trip with a pirate ship . Along the way, there’s plenty of fun for the kids.

Oh, and if you’re traveling with friends, there’s a party boat with loud music and alcohol on board. As you can see, there are plenty of boat trips to choose from. You may want to contact your travel company or hotel reception for more information on the various boat trips.

4. Flower Street

This pedestrian street is a popular area that offers plenty of shops and stalls. Here it’s possible to buy clothes, shoes, bags, sunglasses, and all sorts of souvenirs at cheap prices. There’s also a myriad of restaurants and cafes on Flower Street.

If you’ve traveled to Sunny Beach to party, you’ll probably spend a lot of your time in this area. Flower Street and the area along the seafront are the places where you’ll find the wild nightlife in Sunny Beach . Get loose on the large selection of colorful discos, nightclubs, and bars – Just enjoy your time!

5. Sunny Beach Karting Track

On the outskirts of the city is the go-kart track which is extremely popular with the whole family. It’s a fun activity in Sunny Beach for both children and adults. And don’t worry if the kids want to join in, because there are also kids’ go-karts with speed limits.

The go-kart track is 440 meters long and has a total of 13 go-karts for adults. It is said to be one of the fastest go-kart tracks in Bulgaria with a speed of up to 80 km / h. You can read more about Karting Sunny Beach here .

6. Luna Park

Luna Park is an excellent amusement park in Sunny Beach with rides for both children and adults. Here you’ll find a couple of roller coasters, a haunted house, a carousel, trampolines, radio cars, and various stalls.

It is completely free to visit the amusement park, but it isn’t free to try the rides. Even if you don’t want to try the rides, it’s still one of the best things to do in Sunny Beach in the evening.

7. Nessebar

Nessebar is just a few kilometers from Sunny Beach and can be easily reached on foot if you have the courage to walk a good distance. The charming old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the absolute biggest attractions in Bulgaria.

The old town is located on an idyllic rocky peninsula, connected only to the mainland by a narrow dam. When visiting Nessebar, it almost feels like stepping into a vibrant museum town with narrow cobbled streets, historic churches, small cozy houses, and shops.

During the day, Nessebar is reasonably touristy, but in the evening, the old town is transformed into an extremely romantic place . I especially recommend visiting one of the cozy restaurants with panoramic views of the Black Sea at sunset.

If you don’t feel like walking the entire distance from Sunny Beach to Nessebar, you can take a ride on a fun tourist train . The popular trains run between the cities several times an hour every day.

8. Paintball

At Karting Sunny Beach on the outskirts of town, there is also ample opportunity to unwind on their large 5,000 square foot paintball field. It consists of a large labyrinth of wooden huts, barrels, trenches, and desolate battlefields.

On the field, you can show your shooting abilities, physical endurance, and running skills to your enemies and opponents. It is an excellent activity in Sunny Beach for team building , as it usually strengthens the ties of the participants to each other. You can read much more about the paintball field here .

9. Royal Marina Mall

Royal Marina Mall is a shopping mall in Sunny Beach , located close to Flower Street. In this center, there are about 90 shops and restaurants spread over two floors. Here you can buy all kinds of branded goods, but you shouldn’t expect that there are that many stores you know from home.

It’s honestly a slightly lame shopping mall, but maybe you’re lucky to find something. The Royal Marina Mall is still a great place to visit if you’re planning on shopping in Sunny Beach.

10. The beach

The long and wide beach of Sunny Beach stretches for several kilometers. The beach is incredibly child-friendly and has even received the EU’s blue flag due to its cleanliness. Along the beach, you’ll find one sun lounger after another that you can easily rent for a whole day.

On the beach, you’ll also find plenty of beach cafes, clubs, vendors, and water sports activities. Along the beach, there’s a cozy promenade that is completely car-free. It is thus an obvious place to take a nice walk along the waterfront in Sunny Beach.

11. Water sports

On the beach, there are plenty of opportunities for water sports. It’s such a popular thing to do in Sunny Beach that it’s almost a shame if you don’t try some of it. You can choose from many different water sports activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, water skiing, and much more.

12. Aquapark Nessebar

The largest water park in Bulgaria opened its doors in 2006 and is located in Nessebar just outside the city. Here you’ll find an impressive selection of rides with 60 attractions , 38 of which are water slides.

Get your adrenaline pumping in one of the water slides, swim in the many pools, or relax in a jacuzzi. There are also two children’s pools with lots of water activities for the kids.

It’s easy to spend an entire day in the Aquapark Nessebar. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Sunny Beach and the surrounding area. Inside the water park, you’ll also find several eateries and bars where you can enjoy some food or a cocktail. Read much more about Aquapark Nessebar here .

13. Khan’s Tent

Khan’s Tent is a restaurant that looks like a big tent and is located in the mountains high above the city. From here there’s an absolutely stunning panoramic view of the entire surrounding area!

Best of all, though, is their entertainment show . You can watch it while enjoying dinner with the amazing view in the background. A visit to Khan’s Tent is without a doubt one of the most popular things to do in Sunny Beach.

14. Day trips from Sunny Beach

If you want to go on adventures, there are also lots of fun and exciting day trips from Sunny Beach . For example, you can take a trip to a small Bulgarian village or ride an ATV in the Balkans.

You can also visit the cities of Burgas, Varna, Sozopol, or Pomorie, all less than 100 kilometers from Sunny Beach. If you have the courage for a slightly longer trip, I can highly recommend a trip to Istanbul .

You can find organizers of day trips all around the city. Don’t forget to check if your hotel or travel company is arranging day trips from Sunny Beach.

So that’s all on this list of the very best things to do in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria. What are your favorite things to do in Sunny Beach? What are you looking forward to on your trip? Feel free to leave a comment.

Planning a trip to Bulgaria? You might also want to check out this article:

The best places to stay in bulgaria, related posts.

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Hey Nikita, great content about Sunny Beach!

Greetings from Bulgaria!

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Sunny Beach Bulgaria – Mini Guide to Having Fun

Sunny Beach Bulgaria is one of the “must visit” spots for tourists from all over the world, while in this country. The popular destination features sandy beaches that stretch for almost 2.5 kilometers on the Black Sea.

We visited Sunny Beach Bulgaria in August 2021 and loved it ever since.

Its popularity is based on its affordability, colorful nightlife, and its pristine beaches. Whether you are traveling solo or as a group, you are guaranteed an unforgettable vacation on Sunny Beach.  

Besides being the perfect summer destination, Sunny beach is also near major airports, making airport transfer easier. The closest airport is Burgas, which is only 30 km from the resort and takes visitors about half an hour to get to Sunny Beach. Alternatively, you can travel to Bulgaria via Varna Airport which is approximately 100km from Sunny Beach with the journey taking about two hours.

It is the best option for those looking for better deals on flights and are willing to pay more to travel down to the beach.

• When to visit Sunny Beach Bulgaria

What to choose: Golden Sands or Sunny Beach?

• Where to have fun in Sunny Beach
• How expensive is Sunny Beach?
• Top Things to do in Sunny Beach Bulgaria
• Where to eat in Sunny Beach Bulgaria
• Where to stay in Sunny Beach Bulgaria

When to Visit Sunny Beach in Bulgaria

Sunny Beach is an all-year-round destination because of its warm climate and limited chances of rain.

Summer, is from June to August is the best time to visit because the climate is warm and dry. The temperatures experienced in Sunny Beach during these months are usually highs of 28°C, especially in August.

Nevertheless, the resort experiences cooler climates compared to other areas within the Mediterranean making it a popular destination in summer.

If you prefer cooler weather, consider visiting from November to May, when the temperatures are mild and humidity levels bearable. 

The two top destinations for tourists traveling to the Bulgarian coastline are Golden Sands Bulgaria and Sunny Beach. They both offer the best spots for relaxation, entertainment, and unique attractions. Even with their popularity, they offer different features to visitors allowing them to choose one over the other. 

So, is Sunny beach better than golden sands?

Sunny beach is a “Blue Flag” award winner meaning it maintains high standards on the beach. Some of the reasons for winning the award in 2016 include clean seawater and beach unpolluted by sewage of industrial water. It also has lifeguards and facilities that are clean and well maintained.

Alternatively, Golden Sands also takes the lead in the list of top-tier European beaches . The gold-colored sand in the long stretch of beach feels wonderful underneath bare feet. High levels of cleanliness and modern facilities are some of the things visitors can expect at the beach.

If you prefer, spending your vacation surrounded by nature, then Golden Sands is the best spot. The beach is near several nature parks that are worth exploring on foot during the summer. Some of the parks include Golden Sands Park, Sea Garden in Varna, and Botanical Garden in Balchik .

On the other hand, Sunny Beach is the perfect destination for history lovers. The beach is home to several archaeological sites with the most popular being Nessebar, an ancient coastal city. 

Whether you go for Sunny Beach or Golden Sands, you are assured of a beautiful shoreline perfect for relaxation.

Our personal opinion ? Go for Sunny Beach if you want a more vibrant atmosphere and if you like the hustle and bustle. If you’re more of a person that likes to just relax, then go for the Golden Sands!

Where to Have Fun in Sunny Beach

Sunny Beach is often referred to as the ultimate party destination in Bulgaria, because of the many events that take place on its shores. The beach is home to several big discos and clubs where revelers can dance the night away.

If you are looking for a vibrant destination to have fun summer days and party with the best DJ-s during hot nights, Sunny beach is your ideal spot.

Clubs and Bars in Sunny Beach

Cacao beach located on the south coast of Sunny Beach has some of the best clubs and bar chains for partying. The entertainment spots in Cacao never sleep, earning it a spot among the top 100 clubs in 2016.

Some of the “must visit” clubs include the Bedroom Beach Club, La Cubanita Beach Bar, and The 1. These clubs offer an incredible party atmosphere, famous DJ-s and celebrities, diverse music, and excited revelers. Some of the clubs are so popular, you need a reservation to get in. 

The entire beachfront of Sunny Beach is a “bar street” with countless bars lining the street. Some of the most popular bars to visit include Scandals for British drinks; Flying Dutchman and Ballarmann Beach bar for Dutch fans. For the best cocktails, make your way to Shooters, which is at the center of the beach. 

Flower Street is a “must visit” spot for party lovers in Sunny Beach with its many bars, big clubs, and strip clubs. The clubs on the street are usually full from 11 pm onwards, with some closing the doors at 6 am. Disco and club promoters are always on the street trying to entice people to visit bars to have fun. 

Sunny Beach nightlife is a party scene that goes on and on, making it the best destination for an exciting vacation.

Besides the clubs and bars, there are also some amusement parks you’ll definitely have to visit. One of them is Luna Park and it’s situated right near the beach line.

This was the place we got to spin our brain around and experience some nausea at a certain time. When we decided we were going to take on each and every attraction, we weren’t quite aware of the implications.

We first went safe with the spinning swing that got all the way up , above the buildings. It was a nice ride, considering the speed was moderate. Still, if you’re afraid of heights, we definitely don’t recommend this one!

After that, we said we were going to do just one per night. And so we did. The next evening we migrated to Luna Park and stood in line to wait for the carousel ride . Oh, what a fun ride that was! You get to spin at 380 degrees at some point, but the ride is short in length. After the ride ended my shoulders hurt from the safety blocks.

We found that the most scary ride was the hammers. That’s one ride we won’t be taking again. One is just enough. It’s not actually called the hammers, but it resembles that ride. You are standing in a seat, with some safety belts on and the ride pulls you up, as the ends where you are keep rotating . There are 2 seats, back to back on each end. The heights are incredible. At one point it stops and you are head down and don’t actually understand where you are. Then it lets you go and you are simply lifted from the seat. Speed is fantastic! If you’re looking for adrenaline, this ride is a must!

Sling Shot Ride

This is yet another crazy ride you can try, while in Sunny Beach Bulgaria.

It’s basically a forged ball, with two seats inside. The ball is made out of steel bars (at least I hope they were steel) and it’s anchored down by elastic ropes. Those ropes are tensioned and once you’re secured in there, someone just lets go of the elastic ropes and you go up-up above!

As the ball goes up, in a split second, you get that feeling in your stomach. You know what I’m talking about! See our video below to check it out.

Price for one person is 10 EUR. You can go ahead by yourself or with another person. If you can’t find anyone courageous enough to try it with you, a staff member joins. The ball will not go up with one person only.

Aqua Park in Golden Sands Bulgaria

If you love water rides and can’t reach Nessebar and its aquapark, then this one will settle down your appetite for fun. Whether you like the adrenaline rush of some fantastic slides or just need to relax on a lean river slide, this place might just be ideal for you.

Although much smaller in size than the one in Nessebar, you’ll love it for sure if you’re up for some great fun! You can checkout the prices on their website and browse around some photos to decide.

How Expensive is Sunny Beach

Sunny Beach is one of the most affordable resorts for travelers from all over the world. The beach offers cheap yet quality accommodation and entertainment spots for visitors. The destination attracts thousands of tourists annually because of its low prices when compared to similar destinations in Bulgaria.

From what we had seen so far, prices were very low compared to the conditions. We thought even the hotel was cheap, but it looked fabulous – you’ll see below.

Compared to other beach resorts in Bulgaria, you can say it’s more on the expensive side. Although it’s animated and has a few posh places, pricing is more than decent, compared to other similar locations all over the globe.

That’s why tourists from all over the world come to visit Sunny Beach Bulgaria. While we were there, coach cars were leaving tourists to their hotels. Germans, French people, Dutch, Romanians, some Americans and other nationalities were there.

Things to do in Sunny Beach Bulgaria

With several things to do for tourists in Sunny Beach, you may find it hard to choose the best ones. Luckily, the 8km shoreline offers several options to travelers visiting alone or with family. Some of the “must-do” things are highlighted below. 

Visit the waterpark

During summer, the best way to cool off in Sunny Beach is by visiting the waterpark. The popular ones are Action Aquapark which is the largest in the area which features rides, slides, and thirty themed pools.

Its amenities include an adventure island, fountain, geysers, wooden bridges, and a black hole. If you are visiting with children, make sure to visit the mini zoo and Adventure Island. 

Take part in watersports

At Sunny Beach, sports lovers will be spoilt for choice with various options made available for tourists. Try out jet skiing, volleyball, and paragliding while on a beach holiday. If you want to explore areas further away from Sunny Beach, consider booking an excursion where you can rent banana boats, paddleboards, or kayaks. 

Tour Nessebar

Walk through the streets of Nessebar, one of the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bulgaria. Its traditional architecture showcases the merging of many civilizations into a culture infused with a rich history.

Also referred to as the “Pearl of the Black Sea”, the protected town has various attractions worth checking out. They include the Thracian fortifications wall, Apollo temple, the Acropolis, and several churches with ornamental decorations common in the Byzantine era. 

Go shopping

The walkway in Sunny Beach has numerous shops which take over an hour to explore. The shops vary in the merchandise on sale with some having gift items such as sailor hats with Bulgaria printed on them and several stylish sunglasses. Vendors at the shops sometimes allow buyers to bargain. This gives you the opportunity to get unique items at reasonable rates. 

Where to Stay in Sunny Beach Bulgaria

When we visited Sunny Beach, we stayed at the Casino Hotel . This was more towards the end of the beach town, towards Nessebar. As a big plus, the hotel is right next to Kikki beach and has a great outdoor pool.

Did we enjoy our stay? Yes. Would we recommend it to others? Yes, some of our friends later came and stayed there.

The design is a bit eccentric I would say, with pink flamingos and mirror mosaic pumas. But the rooms are great, exactly as shown on the booking site.

One thing I didn’t like was that we never actually got our room cleaned. We went out at around 9 am and came back at around 2 pm. Then left at 5pm and got back at around 9pm. During this time no one came to even change the sheets, although the sign was on for room service. But instead, while we were taking a quick nap, someone would knock at the door – we assumed it was the housekeepers but we just couldn’t move ourselves away from the bed.

One thing we have to mention is that although the hotel did have a casino, it was closed during our stay. But if you wanted to play black jack or anything else, they would personally call a car and escort you to another casino without any additional costs.

The hotel was close to the beach – I mean a couple of meters away. There were nearby restaurants and places we could eat. As for the food at the hotel, we only had breakfast that was included. Would not recommend it. There wasn’t much to choose from and it was the same each morning: toast, eggs, cheese, some gratinated potatoes, some pie, pancakes and fruits. Oh, and coffee for me, please!

Another thing we have to mention is that this hotel is dedicated to adults, as in it doesn’t have a kids playground or pool. The was a kids pool at a certain point in time, but it was just left unattended and it’s in ruins now.

There are of course other places you can book your stay. The prices range from wildly affordable to a bit expensive. We have yet to find a place that we can truly call expensive in Sunny Beach Bulgaria.

If you’d like to see the costs for your stay, then just adjust your dates below and you’ll have a full list of hotels and apartments you can book.

Where to Eat in Sunny Beach Bulgaria

Overall, Sunny Beach is an ideal destination for inexpensive summer trips and worth visiting when in Bulgaria. 

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Sunny Beach Things to Do – Attractions & Must See

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Sunny Beach Things to Do

Sunny Beach is a resort city in the European country of Bulgaria. Located on the Black Sea, the town offers numerous things to do during the summer months.

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Best Time to Visit

If you are looking for fun in the sun, the best time to visit Sunny Beach is from May to September. During the winter and fall months, though, the temperatures drop dramatically. So, plan your trip accordingly. But, when you visit during the warmest months of the year, you will find many attractions to enjoy your stay.

The main attraction is the beach itself. This is a fantastic and very clean beach, but they do charge for amenities while enjoying the sand and sunshine.

One of the unique attractions in Sunny Beach is horseriding on the beach. You can rent a horse from one of the many hotels that line Sunny Beach. They also offer horseriding trips in the country and nearby hills.

Places to Visit

After enjoying the beach, you might want to find other things to do while staying in Sunny Beach. One unique option is a quad biking safari . The biking adventure runs near Bourgas with proper safaris and an instructor. They also offer pickup and drop-off services. The tour includes an exciting trip through Bulgaria’s countryside and hills.

Another popular thing to do is touring the seaside locations that surround Sunny Beach. A popular location is historic Nesebar, which is a quaint village by the sea with beautiful views of the water. You can walk around the many cobbled streets to find souvenir shops and eating places. There are other excursions and road trips to choose from while staying in Sunny Beach. Find a tour guide who can help you decide which towns to visit to make the most out of your trip.

Other Things to Do

A popular attraction in Sunny Beach is the Action Aquapark . It follows the seasonal schedule, though, and only opens during the summer months. The aquapark is not very big, but it has some top quality slides. You can buy a pre-paid ticket or pay when you arrive. There are rentable lockers, food places, and plenty of slides for you and your family to enjoy.

On the flipside, there is the Bedroom Premium Club in Sunny Beach . This special attraction is an adult-themed night club that bounces the latest tracks from top European DJs. The club is full of young people who are dancing, drinking, and laughing.

Whether you are looking for fun in the sun, water and road adventures, or nighttime partying on the beach, Sunny Beach offers plenty of things to do during the summer.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Sunny Beach Travel Guide
• Sunny Beach Nightlife – Clubs, Bars, & Nightlife Tips
• Sunny Beach Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Sunny Beach.

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Things to do in Sunny Beach Bulgaria + Day Trips

Sunny Beach is the party town of Bulgaria.  It’s located on the Black Sea coast, here are a few things to do in Sunny Beach Bulgaria;

Beach and Water Activities

Sunny beach promenade, sunny beach main strip.

• Cheapest bar in Sunny Beach Bulgaria

Luna Park Bulgaria

• Day Trips to Nessebar, Burgas and Varna

There are hundreds of resorts and hotels in Sunny Beach therefore you’ll find one to suit your budget.

As you would imagine in a town called Sunny Beach, there are a huge variety of beach and water activities.  As a matter of fact, there are probably more water activities available than you can imagine.  When you’re relaxing on the Black Sea beach, you’ll see plenty of companies offering beach and water activities, enjoy!

Hotel Globus Sunny Beach

Hotel Globus is one of the landmarks of Sunny Beach.  It’s located opposite the beach, as a result the higher forward facing rooms have sea views.  This resort features a huge pool with a popular pool bar.  Furthermore, there are games rooms, as well as an onsite restaurant.  For those who like the convenience of eating in, you can book a room half board.  Check out the Hotel Globus Sunny Beach rates.

It’s inevitable that you’ll take a walk on the Sunny Beach Bulgaria promenade.  Along the promenade are several souvenir shops, beachwear stores, restaurants, fast food and beach bars.  As I mentioned, Sunny Beach is a party town aimed at younger clientele, for this reason, you’ll see some very strange items on sale.  In addition, there are quite a few tattoo parlors.

The beach bars are by far the most popular of things to do in Sunny Beach Bulgaria.  If you visit late evening, it’s likely they’ll be packed throughout the night.  In fact, it’s likely they’ll be packed until early morning the next day.  Although the drinks are not the cheapest in town, they are still much cheaper than other resorts in Europe.

Blue Pearl Sunny Beach

The Blue Pearl Sunny Beach Bulgaria is an incredibly popular resort in the town.  In fact, it’s located on the beach therefore every sea facing room has a seav view.  Obviously, the higher room, the better the view.  Additionally, this is an all inclusive resort so you won’t go hungry of thirsty.  Read more about the Blue Pearl Sunny Beach and its facilities here.

For most visitors to Sunny Beach, the main strip and nightlife zone is the main reason to visit.  What is the name of the main strip in Sunny Beach?  Flower Street.  Along Flower Street are casinos, bars, discos, nightclubs, fast food restaurants, money exchange and souvenir shops.  If you’re in Sunny Beach Bulgaria then you’ll spend most of your time on this strip.  Be aware, that this area is the most expensive part of the town, even McDonald’s is overpriced.  One piece of advice, money exchange isn’t good value on the strip therefore change your money elsewhere.

LTI Neptun Beach

The LTI Neptun Beach resort is always a popular option.  It’s adjacent to the beach, only the promenade separates it.  As a result, most of the balcony rooms have stunning Black Sea views.  Moreover, they have views over the huge onsite pool and beach bar.  A fun feature of this hotel is the panoramic elevator, even if you’re not a higher floor it’s worth taking the elevator to the top floor at least once.  Finally, this resort also features an indoor swimming pool.  Read more about the LTI Neptun Hotel and its features here.

The pier is an extension of the main strip of Sunny Beach, Flower Street.  As the resort is east facing, it’s best to visit for sunrise.  Maybe after a long night out in a beach bar or on Flower Street, you can come here to watch the sunrise?

Hotel Astoria Sunny Beach

The Hotel Astoria Sunny Beach is described as an ultra all inclusive resort.  You can eat and drink to your heart’s content, and yes, that includes alcoholic drinks.  What’s more, you can enjoy these alcoholic drinks in the majestic onsite swimming pool.  If you wish to swim in the sea, it’s adjacent to the swimming pool.  However, it seems a shame to leave this beautiful pool!  Read more about the Hotel Astoria Sunny Beach and its facilities here.

Cheapest Bar in Sunny Beach

Sunny Beach Bulgaria is famous for cheap drinks but not everywhere actually sells cheap drinks.  However, the Condor Bar does offer cheap drinks as well as an efficient service.  As a matter of fact the bar is located in the excellent value Condor Hotel.  The hotel itself is not adjacent to the beach but it’s within walking distance of both the beach and Flower Street.  In addition, it features a lovely swimming pool.  The bar offers beers and cocktails which range in price from less than a €1 to €2.  They offer well prepared drinks with friendly service.  I guarantee when you receive your bill, you’ll think you have been undercharged!  Read about the excellent value Condor Hotel which has this excellent value bar.

Iberostar Sunny Beach

Iberostar is a popular resort which is close to the beach.  As a result the higher beach facing rooms have a wonderful view of the Black Sea.  Additionally, this is an all inclusive resort.  What’s more, it features the biggest selection of swimming pools in Sunny Beach Bulgaria.  If relaxing by a pool whilst enjoying drinks is your thing, I strongly recommend this hotel.  Read more about the Iberostar Sunny Beach and its features here.

Alongside the promenade walk is Luna Park Bulgaria.  If you’re visiting Sunny Beach with kids or you just want to have a bit of excitement, you must visit this theme park.  Rides include, Dragon Coaster, Pirate Ship, Star Flyer and also the tradition Bumper Cars.  For a full list of activities and prices, visit the Luna Park Bulgaria site.

Day Trip to Nessebar – UNESCO

Nessebar is just a couple of kilometers from Sunny Beach therefore it’s easy to visit.  Additionally, it’s a UNESCO town full of history.  As you enter the town, you’ll pass a rare Black Sea wooden windmill.  In the center, there are picturesque Bulgarian wooden houses.  Of course, you’ll find lots of restaurants and souvenir shops.   Nessebar has a very peaceful feel to it, as a result, you can visit to escape the madness of the Sunny Beach nightlife.

Day Trip to Burgas

The truth is, when you visit Sunny Beach you’re not seeing the true Bulgaria.  For this reason, a day trip to Burgas is a must to experience the true Bulgaria.  If you take a walk around the city, you’ll see colorful Bulgarian houses, cathedrals as well as parks.  Something famous in Burgas is the Sand Fest where they create Instagram worthy sand sculptures.  Most importantly, on a visit to Burgas you can eat some real Bulgarian food, exactly where the locals do.  Read about Burgas Bulgaria on my travel blog.

Day Trip to Varna

Varna is quite a day trip from Sunny Beach, but it is possible.  However, it’s a 90 minute journey each way.  What is your reward for visiting Varna?  Firstly, you’ll see the true Bulgaria.  Secondly, there is one of the most impressive cathedrals you’ll ever see.  Finally, you can visit the archaeological museum which features skeletons wearing the oldest gold in the world.  Read about the things to do in Varna on my travel blog.

How to get from Sunny Beach to Burgas

There are regular buses from Sunny Beach to Burgas which leave from the bus station .  The journey takes less than an hour and stops at Nessebar on the way.  Sit on the left for the best views of the Black Sea and enjoy the ride.

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Popular Sunny Beach Excursions

There is a great selection of excursions available to you to book in resort through your local rep. for your own peace of mind, we recommend that you only book excursions through balkan holidays partners to ensure you are booking with reputable excursion suppliers..

Real Bulgaria

An absolutely amazing day out to discover what this country is really like. Join us on a picturesque journey through traditional Bulgaria with fantastic photo opportunities.

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Don't miss the chance for a fun filled family day out with lots of slides and flumes, crazy and lazy rivers, pools and much more sure to give the kids a day to remember.

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A summer holiday isn't complete without a day spent lazily cruising along the coastline, while topping up your tan, swimming and fishing.

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This unmissable evening in the resort is filled with live music, international artists and a delicious four course meal that will keep you entertained throughout the night.

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Best Time to Visit Sunny Beach Bulgaria

Climate Overview

What is the sunny beach and where is it?

Fresh water or salt water: is the sunny beach by the sea.

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Distances to Sunny Beach Bulgaria

Where’s sunny beach bulgaria, continent: europe, sunny beach bulgaria: experiences of our visitors.

Great weather, great hotel! This is the sixth time we’ve been in the sunbeam!

Weather Rating: 5 stars – Excellent

It was just good weather, just a little windy. But in the evening we sat outside for a long time. Water was still nice and warm.

Weather Rating: 4 stars – Good

Great weather. Also in the evening still nice mild that one can stay in the free seat.

It was a very haunting and beautiful holiday. Weather super eat spuer.wir fly back there.

were from 27.8.to 10.09.at the sunny beach quite great weather.1 rainy day that was good to rest.can recommend any Bulgaria

We were there for 14 days, one of them a light rainy day the rest of the day.

Great weather, every day about 30 degrees. We also did not need jackets in the evening.

It was just great everything I was there two years ago with grandchild and this year we fly there again

We were in Nessebar for a week from May 17th, it was almost always sunny with a pleasant 22-25 degrees. In the evening it was cooler, so that one had to put on a thin jacket. It rained once in the evening. By and large, the season can be recommended for long walks (it was still too cold for swimming).

One week Sunny Beach is just behind us and I booked directly for September again Everything was great from the beginning and I think we will come back very often.

The first two days it rained a little but the other days the weather was very pleasant between 20°C to 25°C, that one could already swim in the sea. In the evening it became a little fresher but with jacket well to endure. For all those who would like to have a pleasant holiday, I recommend to go to Bulgaria in May, it is not yet a high season, therefore even calmer and more relaxed, which we personally found very nice. We would fly to Bulgaria again and again in May, as we simply had a wonderful and relaxed holiday, just as we had wished.

We were at Sunny Beach for the first time in mid-August 2016 and were so enthusiastic that we booked again for this year two weeks after our holiday. The weather was excellent, we had consistently bright sunshine with pleasant temperatures between 25 and 30°. Also the mild evenings with 20-25° invited to long linger in the bars or on the terrace. The water temperature was also very pleasant the whole week, as far as one can say so overall, because everyone feels water temperatures differently. It was not a bathtub temperature, but also not too cold, just pleasant. I or we like to recommend the Sunny Beach, here you get a wonderful holiday with everything your heart desires, from bathing and beach holidays with the family, cultural offers and relaxation and wellness to party holidays, everything is possible. In short, Bulgaria is worth a visit?????????????????

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10 Things To Do In Cocoa Beach: Complete Guide To This Sunny Florida City

C ocoa Beach might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about places to visit in the Sunshine State, but this chic seaside location does have a lot to intrigue newcomers. It is sun, sand, and surf galore in this Space Coast beach town, famous for its surfing opportunities, which nurtured the highly decorated multiple world champion Kelly Slater .

Water-based activities highlight the main draws in Cocoa Beach, with kayaking tours, boating excursions, and fishing expeditions promising newcomers a remarkable holiday experience. The beaches, pristine and teeming with marine creatures, are perfect for lounging and soaking in the sun while watching some of the best surfers in the country perfect their craft.

Away from the water, Cocoa Beach is also a getaway to the Kennedy Space Center, a hub for space enthusiasts, and its beachfront dining, featuring fresh seafood and refreshing cocktails, will delight any foodie out there. Here’s what to expect from one of the most underrated beach towns in Florida .

Things To Do in Cocoa Beach

From surfing on its calm, consistent waves and enjoying sweeping views of the Atlantic from its pier to dreaming of space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center, travelers are in for a delightful experience. Below are the top things to do in this fascinating Florida summer destination .

Related: Scenic & Serene: 10 Prettiest Beaches In Florida

Stroll Through The Cocoa Beach Pier

Cocoa Beach Pier is an iconic landmark that embodies the upbeat vibe tourists can expect in this charming city. Family-friendly, with dramatic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, the pier is a bustling hub of activities, hosting a mix of shops, restaurants, and bars that make for the perfect fun day outside.

The pier stretches about 800 feet above the clear waters of the sea and is one of the most sought-after spots in the town, welcoming over one million visitors annually . Guests can jam to the live music on the pier, partake in a beach volleyball game, or jump into the water for fun activities like swimming or surfing.

• Admission : Free
• Hours : Sun to Thur (11 am – 9 pm), Fri & Sat (11 am – 1 0 pm)

Cocoa Beach Pier is an excellent fishing spot, hosting a wide variety of species, such as redfish, snapper, wahoo, bluefish, and whiting. For a small fee ($5), anglers can rent equipment ($20) and showcase their skills.

Discover The Area’s Past At The Historic Cocoa Village

History aficionados will have an exciting experience roaming the charming downtown Cocoa City. Located just under 10 miles inland, historic Cocoa Village welcomes visitors to explore its 19th-century heritage, highlighted by colorful historic buildings lining its peaceful alleys and artisanal stores with cute souvenirs.

The streets also host galleries, shopping venues, and several quaint restaurants worth stopping by. Don’t forget to catch a live show at the iconic Cocoa Village Playhouse or attend one of the many festivals at this scenic location overlooking the Indian River Lagoon.

Several buildings in Cocoa Village are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Porcher House and Cocoa Village Playhouse , making them a must-visit for history buffs.

Related: This Might Be The Best (Historic & Beachy) Small Town In Florida

Check Out The Florida Surf Museum

America’s East Coast is renowned for its surfing opportunities and Cocoa Beach has produced some of the best surfers in the world. At the Florida Surf Museum, housed in the Ron Jon Watersport building, vacationers get a glimpse into the history of the vibrant surfing culture on the East Coast.

The modest museum was established in 1999 with barely anything to showcase but has grown through the years and exhibits various artifacts and old surfboards today. Guests will also learn about the roots, evolution of the sport, and surfing legends from the area through old photographs, magazines, videos, and other interesting exhibits.

• Hours : 9 am – 5 pm, daily

Florida Surf Museum is located right next door the Ron Jon’s 24-hour surf shop, which is an excellent follow-up activity after going through the exhibits in the small museum.

Hang Out At The Lori Wilson Park

This sprawling 32-acre nature park on North Atlantic Avenue offers tourists an attractive outdoor space perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Lori Wilson Park is home to a forested area, scenic boardwalks, and isolated nature trails where travelers can take their canine companions for a refreshing walk.

The atmosphere is simply serene, with a cool sea breeze and panoramic views of the Atlantic. Guests can choose from several entertaining activities to keep busy at the park, including wading in the shallow beach waters, lounging on the soft sand dune area, or playing a game of beach volleyball on the shores.

• Hours : 7 am – 7 pm

Pet owners can bring their furry friends to the dog-friendly Lori Wilson Park for a fun time outdoors and let them interact with their own kind at the on-site dog park.

Get Intrigued At The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

NASA’s Kennedy Space Center is about a 40-minute drive from Cocoa Beach on Merritt Island and will be an excellent day trip for any space enthusiast in the city. The iconic facility hosts diverse educational and historical exhibits that chronicle the rich legacy of America’s space exploration pursuits.

Highlights include the Space Shuttle Atlantis, the real Gemini 9 and Sigma 7 capsules, and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, which honors the country’s space travel heroes. Visitors will also be in awe of the interactive simulations, which offer visitors the illusion of being in space, and the IMAX theater.

• Admission : Adults $75, Kids $65

There is much to see and do at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and guests can expect a full-day experience.

Learn To Surf At The Ron Jon Surf School & Shop

Travelers looking to polish up their surfing skills and take advantage of the incredible surf opportunities in Cocoa Beach can head to the Ron Jon Surf School & Shop , just off North Atlantic Avenue. Both are housed in the same building, and the expansive stores sell all kinds of surfing merchandise, including surfboards, swimsuits, water shoes, and more.

The school was launched in 1993 and guests can get quality lessons from top surfers in the state. Additionally, the school hosts a surf camp for kids between 7 and 17 years, where they learn about kiteboarding and stand-up paddleboarding.

• Hours : 9 am – 11 pm

Surf lessons cost $65 per person for a 1-hour session or $95 for a 2-hour session. Group lessons are priced at $50 or $75 per person for 1-hour or 2-hour sessions respectively.

Visit The Dinosaur Store And Museum

The Dinosaur Store and Museum is an excellent attraction for vacationing families in Cocoa Beach. It started in 1996 as a small shop but has expanded to feature a lovely museum and an exciting adventure zone. The facility hosts a vast collection of fossils and ancient minerals guaranteed to catch every eye in the building.

These include unique finds like Tyrannosaurid teeth dating 75 million years ago or Pachycephalosaur toes that have been around for 65 million years. The Adventure Zone is packed with awesome interactive showcases tailored to kid’s entertainment, offering the opportunity to enjoy boat rides, pan for minerals, play arcade games, and even see live animals.

• Admission : Museum (Adults $16, Kids $12), Adventure Zone ($12 per person), Combo (Adults $26, Kids $22)
• Hours : Mon to Sat (10 am – 5 pm), Sun (12 – 5 pm), closed on Tue

Don’t forget to stop by the on-site gift shop at the Dinosaur Store and Museum for a cute souvenir to take home.

Take In The Scenes From The Top Of Exploration Tower

Situated on Port Canaveral Jetty Park, Exploration Tower is not only an architectural marvel with gorgeous features but also an activity-filled attraction that will keep visitors preoccupied for the whole day. The seven-story structure was designed to resemble a ship’s sail waving in the wind, akin to the iconic Burj Al Arab in Dubai.

On its first floor, guests will find an information desk, souvenir shop, and small café, while the second floor features a discovery center with diverse exhibits focusing on European settlers, local wildlife, and indigenous tribes.

Climbing to the third floor, a world-class movie theater awaits, and at the very top of the building is an observation tower that spoils visitors with dramatic scenes of the surrounding region.

• Admission : $10
• Hours : 10 am – 5 pm

The Exploration Tower is closed due to maintenance as of September 2023.

Unwind At The Cocoa Beach Wellness Center

After a long day of touring the city and exploring its diverse adventures, the Cocoa Beach Wellness Center is the perfect spot to rest, recover, and rejuvenate. This tranquil facility, located smack dab in the middle of downtown, provides amazing healing therapies using natural laws.

Tourists can benefit from all manner of treatments, including massages, acupuncture, detox, facials, and hot stone therapy.

• Hours : Mon to Sat (10 am – 6 pm), Sun (1 pm – 6 pm)

The cost of services varies depending on the procedure or treatment offered. For instance, a deep tissue massage lasting half an hour costs $40. Visit the official website for more information.

Take A Day Trip To Melbourne

A sweet escape from Cocoa Beach, Melbourne offers a delightful day trip for travelers who want a change of scenery. The relaxed beach town sits about 30 minutes to the southwest of the city, boasting a picturesque shoreline and quaint cafes and shops worth exploring.

For beachgoers, Melbourne, which is just across the Indian River, is one of the best beaches on Florida’s East Coast .

Those who prefer isolated locations will fancy its laid-back vibe without rowdy crowds. Another highlight is the Sebastian Inlet, which beckons fishermen and surfers with its rich water-based activities.

Don’t forget to visit Brevard Zoo while in Melbourne. The property spans 75 acres and hosts over 900 animals representing species from all over the world.

Related: Sunshine State: 10 Best Beaches In Florida To Visit In The Summer

Best Time To Visit Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach enjoys sunny weather for a huge chunk of the year, making it pleasant a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit this charming coastal town is spring. The weather is warm, with temperatures ranging between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This period sees a sizable crowd visiting the town to make the most of the ideal beach weather.

Schedule accommodation arrangements well in advance to skip last-minute hassles.

For those looking to skip the crowds, fall presents a wonderful time and Cocoa Beach is among the best beach towns in Florida for a fall vacation . This is also a slow season for tourists, so great deals for accommodation and flights abound.

Warm-weather travelers looking for a festive atmosphere can join other beachgoers in summer, which is a pretty busy season in Cocoa Beach. The conditions are perfect for the diverse water-based fun in the town, with kayaking, swimming, surfing, and boating highlighting the top activities.

Finally, the not-so-cold season (in Cocoa Beach) lures a decent number of visitors, with winter birds perching in the town for the 70 to 75-degree weather. Additionally, the town hosts remarkable holiday events, including a Christmas parade and a Boat Parade.

How To Get Around Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a relatively small town, so travelers should have no issues getting from point A to B. Conveniently, there are many options to get around.

Those who fancy car-free vacations will find the modest town of Cocoa Beach quite pedestrian-friendly. The Cocoa Beach Pier and downtown district are perfect for exploring on foot. The same is true for the historic Cocoa Village, where visitors can uncover fascinating historical gems.

There are multiple car rental agencies right next to the beach, which guarantees first-timers quick access to a set of wheels. This is an excellent option for day-trippers who’d like to venture beyond the town limits and head to attractions like Exploration Tower and the town of Melbourne.

And with Orlando being just an hour’s drive away, it makes for one of the best road trips to O-Town and back .

Public transportation

For a cheaper way to traverse Cocoa Beach, visitors can try the public transit system, with Space Coast Area Transit operating bus routes to different parts of the town. The only thing is that the routes are circuitous and can be very time-consuming.

• Fares : Adults $1.25, Seniors & Student $.60

Alternatively, the Cocoa Beach Trolley runs up and down Florida’s scenic AIA highway , ferrying passengers between Shephard Park and Exploration Tower.

• Fares : Adults $1.50, Seniors & Students $.70
• Schedule : Mon to Sat (6 pm – 11 pm), Sun (7:45 am – 5:40 pm)

Related: 10 Amazing Florida Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive

Where To Stay In And Around Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach offers guests a wide variety of accommodation options. From some of the most luxurious beachside resorts in the state to more affordable B&Bs, there is something to cater to all budgets and preferences. These are spread out in different neighborhoods in the town, each with its own vibe and attraction:

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is perfect for tourists who like to be close to the beautiful shores of the town. It hosts numerous beachside hotels and vacation rentals, with the vibrant Cocoa Beach Pier highlighting the main attractions in the area.

Cape Canaveral

Situated a couple of miles north of Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral is an excellent option for space enthusiasts and prospective astronauts, as it puts vacationers within striking distance of the Kennedy Space Center. It also offers access to beautiful beaches and houses various beachfront hotels.

Satellite Beach

Satellite Beach is another gorgeous location just south of the Patrick Space Force Base and is a great alternative to Cocoa Beach for those who prefer secluded spaces. Day trippers will also like that it is close to other beautiful small towns in Florida like Melbourne and Indian Harbor Beach.

For a great night’s sleep, here are the best hotels to check out in Cocoa Beach:

Luxury options:

Hilton Garden Inn Cocoa Beach Oceanfront

• Address : 2080 North Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
• Rates per night: $290
• Amenities : Outdoor pool, Beachfront, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Business center

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Port Canaveral

• Address : 9009 Astronaut Boulevard, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
• Rates per night: $221
• Amenities : Outdoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV

Mid-range options:

Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites

• Address : 5600 North Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931-3920
• Rates per night: $208
• Amenities : Outdoor pool, Beachfront, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas

Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront

• Address : 1550 North Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931-3268
• Rates per night : $209
• Amenities : Private beach, Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Coffee shop, Valet parking

Budget options:

Anthony's on the Beach

• Address : 3499 South Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
• Rates per night : $148
• Amenities : Beachfront, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Free parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Cable or satellite TV, Internet

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach-Port Canaveral

• Address : 1275 North Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
• Rates per night : $139
• Amenities : Snorkeling, Outdoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Coffee machine, Free parking, Business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas

Related: 10 Best Places To Stay For Breakfast In Key West For a Heavenly Morning Experience

Where To Eat In Cocoa Beach

Numerous beachside cafes and restaurants around Cocoa Beach treat visitors to sumptuous servings of fresh seafood to tempt their taste buds. The nighttime brings even more vibrancy to the town as night owls gather at different bars and taverns to sample the local nightlife.

Breakfast :

The Sunrise Diner

• Address : 365 W Cocoa Beach Cswy, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931-3531
• Hours : 6 am – 9 pm

Lunch & dinner:

Long Doggers

• Address : Rt. 520 intersection, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931-3532
• Hours : Sun to Thur (10: 30 am – 9:30 pm), Fri & Sat (10:30 am – 10:30 pm)

Coconuts On The Beach

• Address : 25 S Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931-2713
• Hours : Sun to Thur (11 am – 11 pm), Fri & Sat (11 am – 2 am)

Florida’s Seafood Bar & Grill

• Address : 480 W Cocoa Beach Cswy, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931-3578
• Hours : 11 am – 10 pm, daily

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Cocoa Beach

Start the day at the beautiful shores of Cocoa Beach, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and taking the breathtaking scenery of the Atlantic. Enjoy a short swim or bask on the sand dunes before strolling through the vibrant Cocoa Beach Pier. Hunt for a souvenir at the different shops on the pier or pop into a café for a cup of coffee and snacks.

Later, head to downtown Cocoa Beach to explore the laid-back town, making sure to roam around the historic Cocoa Village. After admiring the hidden historical gems in the quaint neighborhood, grab a quick lunch in one of downtown’s restaurants.

Take a short while to relax in the serene atmosphere of Lori Wilson Park or walk along its isolated trails. Then, stop by the Florida Surf Museum to learn about Florida’s surfing culture. In the same building, move to Ron Jon Surf School & Shop to enroll for a brief surfing lesson and rent the necessary gear.

After the fun in the water, take a trip to Cape Canaveral, climbing up the Exploration Tower to check out the many attractions it houses and enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings. Dedicate the rest of the afternoon to exploring the Kennedy Space Center and get inspired by American heroes who led the way in space exploration.

Finally, head back to town for dinner at Coconuts On The Beach, and follow this up with cocktails till late before calling it a day.

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Bay Beach Amusement Park undergoes annual inspection, price increase

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – On a warm, sunny day with temperatures in the 60s, Green Bay’s 132-year-old Bay Beach Amusement Park had only a handful of people on the rides.

They were not kids; they were inspectors from Wisconsin’s Department of Safety and Professional Services making their annual visit.

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“Bay Beach is probably the best example of a well-run operation that we inspect all year. That’s not to say that rides across the state aren’t safe, but Bay Beach does a really marvelous job,” Department of Safety and Professional Services secretary Dan Hereth said. “Top to bottom, we’re always impressed with the work that they do.”

Bay Beach has 22 rides, and 21 are being inspected this week before the park opens on Saturday, May 4. The slide that is not operational is getting a new staircase.

“We had to replace the stairs on our slide; those were kind of getting to the end of their life, so they’re currently working on those,” Bay Beach Amusement Park superintendent Jason Arnoldi said. “So that won’t be open this weekend, unfortunately, but we’re hoping for next weekend on that.”

Inspectors look for a myriad of signs when checking the equipment. If it fails the inspection, the operator gives the piece of equipment a timeline to be fixed, at which point an inspector returns to check it again.

“Anything that really could wiggle loose. These rides are operating all year round, and they get a lot of wear and tear over the season, so you have to keep things tight,” Hereth said. “We let them know what the issue is, and they give us an estimate on when they can have that issue fixed.”

Once it passes inspection, the attraction’s license plate will have an updated sticker with the current year.

“Those will be on every ride, and then annually, they’ll get a little sticker just like our vehicle license plates,” Hereth said. “Most of our ride owners throughout the state are very good about quickly addressing any mechanical deficiencies we identify during the inspection because, for them, it’s all about creating a safe experience.”

The week is a packed one for park staff, but they see the light at the end of the tunnel.

“Things are going great. We’re just getting everything ready. This is kind of the last push because we reopen Saturday,” Arnoldi said. “It’s always great to get these rides back up and going, get them inspected, get them cleared, and then get people on them.”

Patrons will notice a change at the ticket booth: 10 of the rides will require an increase in tickets, meaning at least a 25-cent increase.

“Since the last time we had an increase, the amount we have to pay our ride operators has doubled,” Arnoldi said. “And the increase of the rides as we get newer rides, the Nebulaz and the Ferris wheel, a lot of them are computer driven, so that requires constant upgrades, and the cost of running those is a lot more.”

Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich was on hand for some of the inspections and explained that the park funds itself rather than using taxpayer dollars. Because of that, a slight boost in revenue was needed.

“It’s sort of its own enterprise fund if you will, it’s a municipally owned park operated by park employees here in the city of Green Bay,” he said. “It’s been over 20 years since prices have increased, so it makes some sense that there would be an adjustment.”

Genrich knows that people travel from around the state to visit historical and exciting locations, and he is a frequent visitor himself, and he has a favorite ride.

“It’s huge; we see a million visitors plus, oftentimes, throughout the course of the season. So it’s not just a city attraction. It really is a regional and statewide draw for us,” he said. “I refer to it as the happiest place on Earth. The Nebulaz is a great experience. I had a chance to hop on that at the end of last year, but honestly, I think the ride right behind me, the Ferris wheel, is one of the best rides we have here.”

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For Arnoldi, his favorite part of the park is watching others enjoy it.

“It’s always stressful this week, but it’s always worth it once everyone’s out here having fun, riding the rides and having fun; you see the smiles again and families making memories, and that’s why we do it.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.

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How to spend a weekend in the sunny Palm Beaches, America's favorite getaway.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Known as America's winter resort, the charming beach town is tucked away on the southeastern coast of Florida. Here, fame and fortune meet laid back luxury for a dreamy vacation. It's been that way since the town was incorporated in the early 1900s by the famous oil tycoon, Mr. Henry Flagler . Today, more beach bums and well-to-do travelers visit the area than ever before.

With more than a dozen beaches and nearly 50 miles to cover, there are plenty of options for a weekend getaway or an extended stay during high-season. Golf, relaxing by the water, shopping, history, and fancy feasting are some of the things you'll find Palm Beach does best. Country Living visited for a long weekend about town. Follow along to find the best spots for your next stay. Trust us when we say your dream destination awaits you.

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If you're looking for a resort that pretty much has it all, PGA National Resort is going to feel like paradise, especially if you have a golf lover with you. As you walk down the halls you'll slowly slip back in time with the style of vintage Palm Beach in every corner. When you get hungry, head to one of four restaurants on site for a meal that's quick and easy, or a night of fine dining that you'll never forget. For some rest and relaxation, take a dip in the pool with gorgeous views, or visit the renowned spa for a tranquil escape. And what the resort is most known for is the golf. There are six different courses on site , one of them which hosts the PGA National Tour each year. Plus, checkout The Sports and Racquet Club for a game of tennis or pickleball.

Enjoy Lunch at PGA's Honeybelle

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Swoon Over Your Supper at The Butcher's Club

A modern steakhouse with a touch of mid-century style, The Butcher's Club offers some of the finest dishes in all of Palm Beach. Each corner of the restaurant looks slightly different with nods to the area's history that almost makes you feel like you're in a museum. Leather booths and dark wood give it an elegant touch, while the knowledgable staff welcome you as if you're visiting an old friend. Make a reservation for dinner and start off with housemade rolls and PGA's famous whipped honey butter. You won't regret it. And if you want to really indulge, order the Wagyu Tomahawk Experience or the Beef Wellington Experience and watch as a chef brings the main course out and prepares it for you tableside.

Get The Beekeeping Experience

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Relax at The Ben West Palm

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Splash and Sip at The Ben's Rooftop Bar

The Ben is home to West Palm's only waterfront rooftop. Enjoy a poolside cocktail from Spruzzo and see where the night takes you.

Find Something New to Read From the Book Butler

Not everyone thinks of Palm Beach as a literary city but it's where bestselling author and columnist Byrd Spilman Dewey called home. The Ben was inspired by the author and now pays homage to her through the Book Butler Program . Guests are encouraged to ring the Book Butler on the in-room phone and soon, the butler will bring up a complimentary stack of books to flip through during their stay.

Enjoy Happy Hour at Proper Grit

Talk about a Bloody Mary! Proper Grit is one of West Palm's most loved dining spots located on the first floor of The Ben. Sit outside on the patio overlooking the water for a gorgeous and relaxing happy hour.

Where to Eat, Sip, Shop & Play

Enjoy a Meal or Two by The Water at Charlie & Joe's at Love Street

Jupiter is part of the Palm Beach area and a city you don't want to miss. Love Street is known as the Heart of Jupiter and started out as a popular fishing spot for locals in the 1960s. Now, it's where locals still like to hangout and tourists are more than welcome to join. Here, you'll find some of Jupiter's most sought-after restaurants, popular tiki boat tours, activities and everything in-between. If you're making the visit to Jupiter, Love Street is a must.

Shuck Some Oysters

Jupiter's best raw bar is Lucky Shuck , located right on the water along Love Street. It's known for its fresh seafood and craft beer for a fun night out.

Enjoy Some Sunset Sailing

Embark on a sunset tiki boat cruise with the Love Street Outdoor Center which hosts an array of fun cruises and outdoor activities. Coast along the blue waters and see the Jupiter Lighthouse, float along the Intracoastal, Indian River, or Fullerton Island. Watch for manatees, turtles and other wildlife while enjoying the beautiful Florida water. On my tour, the captain pointed out one of Olivia Newton John's former beach houses, which may have been my favorite sight to see along the tour.

Indulge in Dinner, Drinks, and a Dreamy Dessert at Beacon

Along Love Street is Beacon , a swanky chophouse located on the Jupiter Inlet waterfront with some of the best Ahi Tuna I've ever had. While it has fresh seafood that's to die for, it's also known for the bone-in pork chop and pasta dishes. Perhaps the most memorable part of the menu is the dessert options. Executive Pastry Chef Jenniffer Woo creates serious artwork out of her desserts. Whatever you order, whether it be the Dark Forest (pictured here) or the Meyer Lemon, each plate looks just like the name with a creative and tasty touch.

Mangroves & Mansions Kayak Tour

Want to get an up close look at some of Palm Beach's mega mansions? Hop aboard a kayak with Visit Palm Beach tours for an afternoon of activity. Glide beneath the Royal Palm Bridge, pass some of the area's noteworthy landmarks like the Society of the Four Arts Gardens, Worth Avenue, the Everglades Club, The Breakers Hotel, and the Flagler Museum. And don't forget your sunscreen!

Enjoy a Polo Match at the National Polo Center

Just down the road in Wellington is the esteemed National Polo Center , one of the largest polo centers in the world. Here, they're trying to make a rather traditional sport available to everyone. You'll find eight different championship fields including the iconic stadium on U.S. Polo Assn. Field One. On Sundays, you can buy tickets to the major matches and watch some of the top players in the world compete on Field One. Afterwards, enjoy some fine dining at 7th Chukker or enjoy a drink poolside at Mallet Grille . One step onto the lush property and you'll be ready to learn all about the world of Polo.

Dine at The House Before a Round of Golf

Located on the grounds of a community golf course is one of West Palm's hidden gems known as The House . Inside, the natural wood and white and green color hues make you feel like you're dining in a retro country club, and the floor to ceiling windows overlooking the golf course offer up some great views, too. If you want the feel of an upscale diner that's more approachable with food made fresh by locals, The House is going to be your favorite spot. The restaurant offers brunch and lunch with plenty of options under $20, and a dinner menu that has everything from steak and chicken to Lobster Corndogs and pizza.

Practice Your Swing at The Park

Located in West Palm, The Park is an open golf course for anyone and everyone. Palm Beach is Florida's Golf Capital, so you might as well try your shot at a game while you're visiting! After lunch at The House head over to The Park Shop for some clubs and practice your swing, or, play a full game of golf. Stop by The Cabana for a drink and enjoy the green.

A Shopping Trip and History Lesson All in One at Worth Avenue

Worth Avenue is one of the most popular spots in all of Palm Beach and arguably one of the most exclusive shopping districts in the world. Made famous in the 1930s for its luxurious clothing and tremendous spending, it helped launch some of the biggest names in fashion. It's as much of a piece of history as it is a nice place to stroll on a lazy afternoon. The premier shopping destination stretches four blocks from Lake Worth to the Atlantic Ocean. And if shopping doesn't sound like your ideal way to spend some time, you can take in some of the most gorgeous beach views just across the street, or marvel at the city's historical landmarks like the iconic clock tower, or the Four Arts Gardens just a few blocks down the way.

Create a Custom Shift Dress at Lilly Pulitzer's Flagship Store

While making your way down Worth Avenue, don't forget to stop at Lilly Pulitzer's Flagship Store ! The designer and Palm Beach socialite got her start selling dresses after the orange juice stand she ran wreaked havoc on her outfits. A shift dress that was comfortable enough to work in and colorful enough to hide the juice stains became her uniform. It didn't take long for the dresses to become the it girl outfit in just about every beach town in the country. Pop in the Flagship Store to browse the latest pieces and get a glimpse into the designer's history. The best part is the in-house print studio where you can design your own custom shift dress! This is an experience exclusive to the Worth Avenue location that any Lilly fan simply must check out. Pick out your style of dress, print, and lace detailing! A designer will then work their magic to create and deliver your one-of-a-kind dream dress.

Anna Mahan is the Associate Commerce Editor for Country Living. She finds and shares a variety of the best lifestyle products, from fashion and beauty to cast iron skillets.  

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"The View" host Sunny Hostin elevates the beach read with Black stories at the forefront

This summer, hostin invites you to "read a wonderful beach read and escape" in places that you didn't know existed, by alli joseph.

When Sunny Hostin isn't co-hosting " The View ," the attorney and three-time Emmy Award winner is often writing — typically into the early morning hours when everyone else in her house is asleep. She spoke to me about writing her novel, " Summer on Sag Harbor ," available now, and why its setting — the wealthy, historically Black community in Sag Harbor, N.Y. — has much to say about race, class and romance. 

Hostin told me on "Salon Talks" that her books have been described as "elevated"  beach reads . Hostin has embraced the term because, beyond an escape, she wants to provide a welcome to readers of color and an education to readers who don't know Black communities like this exist. In "Summer on Sag Harbor," the protagonist, Olivia Jones — who first appeared in Hostin's prior bestseller, " Summer on the Bluffs " — inherits a home in the Hamptons community of Sag Harbor.

Hostin, who has herself spent 20 summers there, said she "got the blessings" of the community's elders to tell readers about Sag Harbor, shedding more light on the complex history of racism in real estate. "Black folks were only allowed to buy in certain areas in this country, especially beachfront, and Sag Harbor was one of those areas," Hostin said. " And they started a group of investors with Black lawyers and doctors and teachers and nurses, then they bought this stretch of land in the late '40s, early '50s and basically built a community and they were welcomed."

At times, Hostin has dealt with bigotry outside of the sheltered community as a woman of color. "[Sag Harbor] is definitely different and it is a safe space. I've raised my kids going out there, and it's their happy place, or one of their happy places, as well. But when you leave that safe haven, you notice it right away," she said. "20 years ago, I wasn't on 'The View,' and I certainly noticed a bit of a difference like, 'What is she doing here?'"

Hostin, who has a Black father and Puerto Rican mother, writes with a nod to code-switching. "I do play with those things because I think it's important to mete out those biases that we have within ourselves that I think the majority of people don't realize they have," she said.

Watch or read the transcript of the "Salon Talks" episode with Sunny Hostin below to learn more about why readers prompted her to write this sequel, as well as her takes on  marriage , therapy and the firings of former Fox News and CNN hosts  Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon .

The following interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

"Summer on Sag Harbor" is a follow-up to your bestseller " Summer on the Bluffs. "   Tell me about Sag Harbor.

It's small and it's on a private beach. I've been summering there for 20 years, probably. It was first introduced to me by Barbara Smith, B. Smith, who used to own all the restaurants. She had a house right on the beach and invited me out, and I fell in love. It's been designated now a historically Black beach community, and that's an actual historic landmark designation. The community worked really hard to get that designation, and it's really important to the community because I don't think a lot of people know about this. I don't think they know it exists.

"I was ecstatic that it's been described as an elevated beach read."

They will know now because of the book, but I definitely got the blessings of the elders in the community to just tell people about the history, about the fact that Black folks were only allowed to buy in certain areas in this country, especially beachfront, and Sag Harbor was one of those areas. And they started a group of investors with Black lawyers and doctors and teachers and nurses, then they bought this stretch of land in the late '40s, early '50s and basically built a community and they were welcomed. I think that's a really cool story.

It is. And important to note that even though the Hamptons , as it's known, is a wealthy enclave, what you just described is that this was a place for regular folks.

Well, I will say that they were wealthy folks. That's the one thing. You had to have money to be able to buy there. So I think that's why it was a group of doctors and a group of lawyers. It was really founded by the Black elite. I think a lot of people don't know that either, that there is a Black elite. There's a Black elite that has been summering on Martha's Vineyard since the late 1800s. Highland Beach, which is where the next book is, is in Maryland, and Frederick Douglass had his summer home there. It's a world of history that I don't think people know about, which is why I wanted to write about it.

You say you got the blessing of the elders.

Too many people in this country don't consider the viewpoint of our wise and older folks.

I know. I do a lot of research for my books because they are historical fiction and I thought it was really important to get their blessing because I'm an outsider, because I've only been going there for 20 years. They settled this place a long time ago, and Mr. Pickens, his name's Bill Pickens, a real person, died recently, but I made sure that I had his blessing because he was the unofficial mayor of Sag Harbor. You had to have his blessing to hang out there, even. He was just a wonderful historian whose great-grandfather was one of the first Black students at Yale. So he had this wealth of knowledge, and I actually read him the first chapter of the book, and he gave me his blessings, and he said, "Well, you're telling a lot of people about our little place." I said, "Yeah, I think we should share it." And he agreed.

I was wondering why they would agree to it. Obviously, you've done it with respect, but it's like people don't want you to know.

"Black folks were only allowed to buy in certain areas in this country, especially beachfront, and Sag Harbor was one of those areas."

They don't want you to know, and that's why I always ask permission. I mean, even for Martha's Vineyard, it became such a phenom, and I was surprised. People started visiting that had never visited before and they printed out the book cover on T-shirts and started going all around to the places that I write about in the book. But it was a welcome thing because I had asked the elders, I had asked the store owners, and they were like, "Bring it on." And one of the store owners actually, he owns C'est La Vie, and he's an incredible man, and he said his sales went up 100% because people were not only buying the book, they were buying all these things in his little shop.

As a person who spent a lot of my life in that area on the Shinnecock Indian reservation, I had a good time recognizing some of the places and names that you wrote about. There's a safe space that you've written about, which is real. But, this is also a place where there are a lot of people not of color and people who are wealthy. When you step out of that as a woman of color, what has that experience been like for you?

It's definitely different. And it is a safe space . I've raised my kids going out there, and it's their happy place, or one of their happy places, as well. But when you leave that safe haven, you notice it right away. But it gives me great pleasure that that exists, that there is this safe place. Joy Behar does not live far from this community. I always visit her when I'm there, and she said, "Well, let me visit you." Our place is right on the beach, so I said, "Come on and visit." She was like, "I didn't even know this existed." And I said, "Yeah, you didn't." And she's like, "This is a beautiful beach. I should have bought here."

But you can't.

Well, the interesting thing is, I write about this in the book, there is gentrification going on now. I think a lot of it is welcome, and some of it isn't because some of it is predatory in the sense that if someone wants to just buy a home, like Joy because she loves the community, she is welcome. 

What we're seeing happening in Sag Harbor is that you have these big corporate, conglomerate backers that are buying up properties from families that are having some trouble paying for their property taxes or having some trouble paying the mortgage down the line in their families. That saddens me because that is true gentrification. And perhaps these homes are now being sold to people that don't understand how special this community is when they become a part of it, and that's disappointing. I write about that because that's a very real phenomenon. I was told that Sag Harbor initially was 100% Black ownership in this area, and now it's about 60/40. That's a very big change.

Do you experience racism in the broader community there as a woman of color who can afford to be there? 

"20 years ago, I wasn't on "The View" and I certainly noticed a bit of, 'what is she doing here?'"

I have. No question, I have. I think for me, certainly, it's different because I'm a public-facing person. I'm pretty recognizable everywhere I go, so people are a little more careful as I have seen that dynamic change as I've become more recognizable. But initially, 20 years ago, I wasn't on "The View," and I certainly noticed a bit of, "What is she doing here?" That kind of thing.

I recently read Toni Morrison 's " Recitatif ." She played with language and ideas about stereotypes and racism, and you're never told the race of the main characters in the story. It's really fascinating to read that and try to explore one's own biases. Whether you're a person of color, whether you're like me who passes as white but is not actually white, whose mother was brown and an American Indian, whose father is white. I noticed you do some of this play with words in your writing.

Is that a way to make people feel comfortable no matter where they're from, or is it code-switching that you put in there for certain people to appreciate?

The latter. I put in the code-switching because I, like you, am mixed race. My mother's family is primarily from Spain, so they're European and my father's African American. Growing up, I got the "What are you?" question often. I've even had people say, "Just say you're Latina. It's so much easier." Or, "Just say you're Hispanic. It's so much easier." I love Toni's work. I'm certainly not as talented a writer, but I do play with those things because I think it's important to mete out those biases that we have within ourselves that I think the majority of people don't realize they have. 

I don't think this country is a fundamentally racist country. That's just my belief. I don't think you go to people and you say, "Are you a racist?" And they raise their hands. I've never met anyone that has done that, but I think people have implicit bias that they don't even realize they have, and I like to toy with that.

When we talk about code-switching, I have found in my life that that happens in my own use of language, not just as a writer, but in my interactions with people. You have to be a chameleon.

I noticed it in myself that I speak differently when I'm around certain communities. It's not just an ethnic or racial code-switching. I feel like it's when you have this mixed ethnicity and you may appear one way or another, it's actually much bigger than that.

"I wanted to explore the notion of therapy because it's so stigmatized in the Black community."

It is much bigger than that. It's about who are you? What is your identity? How do you identify? And no one can really tell you or should really tell you how to identify. You get to determine that for yourself. Especially with women, we're told how to be so much, or what you should be, what you should look like, how much should you weigh, this entire thing. I wanted to explore those issues in the book because this book is really about Olivia's journey. It's a love letter to my readers, really, because a lot of my readers felt that Olivia got the short end of the stick. I got questions like, "Is it because she's the darkest-skinned sister?" And I was like, "No, but maybe I should explore that because she was written in a way that she didn't understand herself, and she definitely underappreciated her value."

I think as women, sometimes we do that. We don't talk about what we really need. We don't talk about what we want, our desires, what we deserve. And so this book is about her journey into finding out about herself. I also wanted to explore the notion of therapy because it's so stigmatized in the Black community. I don't know if people realize that, but there's a stigma. Taraji P. Henson, I've spoken to her a lot about a lot of the work she's doing to destigmatize it, so I wanted to insert that in the book after speaking with her, actually. I have Olivia going to see a therapist and just trying to normalize it because it's been hard the last couple years in this country. I think women are suffering, children certainly are suffering, but women are suffering, and they need help.

Let's get into the characters a little bit. I don't know about Olivia or you, but if I was engaged to Anderson, I wouldn't make it. This is Olivia's fiance. He is an annoying guy.

A lot of our guys are annoying though. Aren't they?

Yeah, they are, and you've talked about marriage on "The View." Recently, you described your own marriage compared to some of your co-hosts as "a hot mess."

It's hard. I've been married almost 25 years. It'll be 25 years in August. It's like, I think the first five were terrible. Michelle Obama just recently said 10 of her 30 years were terrible. That's just real talk about marriage and relationships, and I write to that. Anderson is flawed. There's no question he's flawed. A lot of our partners are, but he loves her. What do you do with that when you don't feel deserving of that love? Because Olivia struggles with deserving that kind of love and attention. Plus, he's annoying, but he loves her. So do you deserve to maybe be with someone that isn't as opposite as you are, or do you accept the love?

You accept the love, but the guy who listens to his podcast with no headphones . . .

Yes, my husband does that sometimes. I'm like, "No."

He could be hot. He's hot. She writes that he's got the chiseled face and blue eyes.

He's really hot.

He's smoking, but no amount of smoking would allow me to put up with the dirty shoes.

He's a tough one. And he hasn't been really truthful about who he really is, and she already has trust issues.

Anything else you want to say about the book and inspirations for it, other than your own experience? 

"I've been married almost 25 years. ... I think the first five were terrible."

Really, it was my own experience and also a response to my readers that said, "We want to know more about this character." It made it easy for me. I always knew the three places the trilogy would be set in. I knew the settings. For me, my home is my sanctuary. I live with 12 chickens and two big Newfoundlands and two kids and a husband and a cat, so I know that home is sanctuary for people. I knew that a home would be another character in the book, just like it was in "Summer on the Bluffs," but I didn't know that I was going to write to Olivia's journey. I thank the readers for telling me that they felt something was missing.

Well, that's great that you have such a great relationship with your readers and such an engaging one. Nowadays with social media, most authors do, but some more than others.

It makes it so easy. I will tell you one of the reasons why I'm so engaged with the readers is because my book came out during the pandemic, and it was a pandemic escape read for a lot of people. I did a virtual book tour and I met with book clubs, 50 of them. They all bought the book, they read the book, and they had really good questions, but the resounding theme was, "I want to know more about Olivia." And so I was thinking during the tour, "That's my next book."

I can't bury the lead anymore in news departures. I watched the clip from yesterday from your show and your take on Tucker Carlson , and then there was Don Lemon . 

"I can say my experience with Don was not an experience with a misogynist."

And the late night hosts had a massive party.

They did. They were calling it the "Monday Massacre."

Reacting to the news on " The View, " you said, "Karma doesn't lose anyone's address."

Doesn't ever. You get in this world what you put in. That's what you get in return. I am a firm believer in that. I mean, I'm Catholic, I'm a faithful person, but you have to look at what you put out in the world when you get something like that back. Now, I think there's a false equivalenc y that was drawn between Tucker and Don because the terminations happen on the same day. 

Tucker lied to his audience intentionally, and he did it for money, in my view. I worked at Fox News . I've been on air with Tucker. I don't think he believed most of what he was saying, but he did it anyway. He intentionally misled people. In the process of that, helped in dividing this country a great deal, and also in a sense helped with the degradation of our democracy. I think that's unforgivable as a so-called journalist. 

Don is an actual journalist. I worked with him at CNN for many years, and our offices were directly across from each other. I consider him a friend, and when I'm in Sag Harbor, he has a home there, and I often visit with my 20 friends. He allows everyone in, as does Joy, but I can say my experience with Don was not an experience with a misogynist. Don loves his mom. He loved his sister. When his sister died, he was devastated. And he loves me, and he treats me as a friend and a sounding board.

He's always respected the women that I've seen him around. So I know that he made some comments that were ageist for sure and were sexist, but he apologized. I've never heard Tucker Carlson apologize for anything. And Don also got training, formal training. And I wonder if we are in the world now, where I thought cancel culture had gone away. And how do you get canceled from your career of 17 years after you've apologized for something and put in the work of making yourself a better person? This is just Sunny. I was disappointed to see that. I don't think it was deserved.

It's like no one is safe.

No one is safe.

And there's no second chances anymore. Some don't deserve them.

"To be clear, Tucker should've been canceled because he destroyed our democracy."

To be clear, Tucker should've been canceled. Because he destroyed our democracy or helped destroy our democracy. He was very dangerous. He mentioned the Great Replacement theory 400 times on his shows. And that's a very divisive concept, and it's a racist concept. It's the notion that liberals or Democrats are bringing in immigrants to vote to replace white people. And it's a crazy thing to fearmonger in that way and tell people, "There won't be space for you because of these people." And that's what he did, and never apologized for the falsehoods. And he costs his employer $800 million, almost $800 million. So I don't think it's that Fox News is trying to be a better corporation. I think they made a business decision that it wasn't worth keeping him on air because it costs too much money. That's just my theory.

Well, I'm sure Don will land on his feet.

I hope so. Yeah.

I see you get a little emotional about that because I can feel it.

Yeah, he's my friend.

And the same when you were speaking about women in therapy. I think there is a message here: If you need help, get help.

Or read a wonderful beach read and escape.

You like the term beach read? Some authors are fussy about that.

I do. It's gotten great reviews, and I'm so blessed to be able to say that. One of the reviews compared me to Elin Hilderbrand, who is the queen of beach reads, and I read all of her books, so I was ecstatic that it's been described as an elevated beach read.

"Salon Talks" about TV hosts

• "The View" alum Sherri Shepherd doesn't want any more drama
• Samantha Bee on why she's on tour: "It is feeling treacherous out there to be a woman"
• How is the secret sauce made at "The View"?

Alli Joseph is a writer/producer and family historian; a Native New Yorker, she is a member of the Shinnecock Indian Nation.

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