Things to do in Sunny Beach

Must-see Sunny Beach sights

Lively Sunny Beach is the largest resort on the Black Sea, stretching along a narrow 7km (4-mile) coastline. It may be a little rough around the edges, but it is one of the cheaper resorts in the region and there’s still plenty of things to do in Sunny Beach – the best of both worlds! Here you will find one of the most lively seaside resorts that Bulgaria has to offer. Of course, you can lounge on the beach and watch the white-capped waves if you want, but if it’s adrenaline you’re after, then all you need to ask yourself is: ‘where do I start?’.

Drink at the beach club
Skim the waves
Take a picnic on the waves
Zip around a go-karting track
Go on a Balkan safari
Spend an evening in Khan’s Tent
Dive into a water theme park
Pretend you’re an Olympian

1. Drink at the beach club

As you walk along the seafront, there’s no missing the sound of the waves splashing against the sandy Sunny Beach. The beach strip is lined with bars, restaurants and beach clubs - grab an outside table and soak up the views while getting in the party atmosphere.

Best for: Trying new cocktails with a view

While you’re there: Don’t forget to pause for a scoop of ice cream at the gelateria!

2. Skim the waves

Wondering what to do in Sunny Beach? Well, once you’ve made the most of the beachside fun, it’s time to delve into the waters! Try your hand at loads of different watersports, including waterskiing, windsurfing and the longtime-favourite banana boat. Your hotel can usually arrange these for you - sometimes the activities are part of your resort - otherwise you can find reps on the beach.

Best for: Water babies

While you’re there: Recharge your batteries afterwards with a meal at a beachfront restaurant.

3. Take a picnic on the waves

To ramp your trip up a notch, book onto a boat trip - this is one of the unmissable things to do in Sunny Beach. You can choose from glamorous sailing yachts and spacious catamaran, where the captains will sail you out to sea for a spot of quiet - and seclusiveness. Better yet, they’ll serve up a tasty lunch including colourful salads, fresh fish and a sizzling barbeque - we can smell it already.

Best for: VIP-wannabes

While you’re there: Once you’re anchored up, dive in for a swim, try your hand at fishing or simply soak up the sunrays.

4. Zip around a go-karting track

Another Sunny Beach classic is go-karting, perfect for families and friends alike. The grid is loosely styled on classic F1 shapes - such as the hairpin of Monaco - and night lighting means it isn’t just a daytime activity. Adults can zoom up to 80mph while kids can go up to 30mph, and a wide-berthed grid makes it safe for overtaking (and amateurs).

Best for: getting onto a different kind of strip.

While you’re there: Once you’ve finished riling up your mates, you can check out your best laps and times.

5. Go on a Balkan safari

Bundle into a 4x4 jeep and go on a day trip that you won’t forget! As part of this organised itinerary, over the course of the day you’ll get to visit a local Bulgarian village, taste local food and try on local folk clothing. You’ll also visit a rakia (grape wine) distillery, go off-road in the neighbouring mountains and round it all off with a donkey ride, before returning to Sunny Beach.

Best for: Discovering more about local Balkan culture.

While you’re there: There’s also the opportunity to try your hand at archery - a whole lotta fun.

6. Spend an evening in Khan’s Tent

Tucked away in the hills overlooking Sunny Beach is Khan’s Tent, a restaurant that is undeservedly underrated. Feast on a three- or four-course meal, drink wine or beer and enjoy the evening cabaret performances which include tight-rope walkers and dancers in traditional dress. Some companies can arrange the tickets for you with return transport included.

Best for: An unmissable Bulgarian experience that’s fun for all.

While you’re there: Step outside and look out towards Sunny Beach, then turn around and realise you are, in fact, dining in a ginormous tent.

7. Dive into a water theme park

With over 30 slides, chutes and wave pools, Action Aquapark is a sprawling water park – there’s no chance of boredom here. You can peter down the lazy river, zoom down the multi-slide or take the free-fall slide; it’s easy to spend the best part of a day here. Aside from exploring the best the beachfront has to offer, the water park is one of the best things to do in Sunny Beach.

Best for: Large groups of friends

While you’re there: There’s also a Mini Zoo (separate wristband required), with goats, birds and other animals that you can pet.

8. Pretend you’re an Olympian

Away from the party scene, Sunny Beach has plenty of other things to do. Dotted along the beach are volleyball nets – get involved, make some new friends and let off some steam. Or if you fancy doubling up, a few hotels provide their own tennis courts - if you’re looking for cheap holidays to Sunny Beach, just shop around for the best deal.

Best for: Those whose mates judged them for (almost) bringing a frisbee.

While you’re there: If you want to stay active but explore more of the area, book onto a horse-riding trip in the nearby countryside.

Holidays Sunny Beach