The resort complex of Golden Sands (known by its authentic name Uzun Kum or "Long Sand" until 1942) stands as the most famous and prestigious marine destination along the northern Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. Located just 16 km from the downtown of the maritime capital Varna, it is the second-largest and most visited beach resort in the country. Its ultimate signature feature is a stunning 3.5 km long and up to 100 meters wide beach strip, covered in fine golden sand, which seamlessly merges into the refreshing shade of a legally protected nature park. Nature Park, Eco-Trails, and Biodiversity - Unique Coastal Landscape: The resort is nestled at the foot of the Golden Sands Nature Park. The territory is highly renowned for its unique plant species and dense coastal vegetation, providing a safe habitat for endangered flora and fauna. - Hiking Routes: The park features five well-designed tourist trails. These scenic paths wind past ancient water fountains, equipped picnic areas, and panoramic viewpoints offering charming outlooks over the blue sea horizon. - Historical Horizons: The cultural and historical heritage protected within the park boundaries spans a vast period—stretching from deep Antiquity to the Late Middle Ages. Health, Balneology, and Business Tourism - Year-Round Balneotherapy: Beyond its reputation as a classic summer holiday destination, Golden Sands is an established center for year-round medical and wellness tourism. Four natural mineral springs surge within the resort with an impressive total discharge, highly beneficial for medical treatments and rehabilitation. - MICE and Business Travel: Thanks to its high-end hotel infrastructure and close proximity to Varna, the resort is a premier choice for hosting international symposia, business seminars, corporate trainings, and institutional workshops throughout the entire year. Transportation Accessibility and Public Bus Lines - Direct Connections: Golden Sands boasts an exceptionally developed transport network. Regular shuttle services run from downtown Varna, alongside a direct public line linking the resort straight to the Varna International Airport. Long-distance buses also travel directly from the capital Sofia. - Public Transportation Bus Lines: Visitors can easily reach the resort and its inner districts via the following Varna city bus lines: - Buses No. 9 and No. 409 – terminating at the Riviera Holiday Club section. - Buses No. 109 and No. 209B – carrying passengers to the "Panorama" terminal at the northern end of the resort.
Varna
2.5 km away
Varna
4.6 km away
Varna
6.4 km away
Varna
13.5 km away
Golden Sands is located in Varna, Bulgaria.
Golden Sands is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Golden Sands can be visited year-round, but late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Summer is the busiest season; winter is the quietest, with shorter daylight and possible cold weather.
Bulgarian settlements typically reward unhurried walking — historic centres, churches and monasteries, local markets, and family-run restaurants serving regional dishes. Larger towns often have museums and seasonal cultural events. The local tourist information centre is a good first stop for current opening hours and what's on.
