Sunny Beach in Bulgaria Hailed as the 'New Benidorm' for UK Holidaymakers
For British tourists seeking a vibrant, sun-soaked getaway without the steep prices of traditional hotspots, a Bulgarian resort is rapidly emerging as a top alternative. Sunny Beach, often dubbed the 'new Benidorm', is drawing crowds with its affordable pints, round-the-clock clubs, and expansive sandy coastline, all just a 3.5-hour flight from the UK.
Striking Similarities to Benidorm's Heyday
Developed during the 1960s package holiday boom, Sunny Beach shares a remarkable resemblance to Benidorm's iconic Levante Beach area. Its promenade is lined with high-rise hotels, creating a familiar skyline for those accustomed to Spanish resorts. However, as some visitors grumble about rising costs in Benidorm, Sunny Beach presents a wallet-friendly option, with beers priced as low as £1.50 and cocktails available for just £4.60 for two, as highlighted in recent travel videos.
A Coastal Paradise with Non-Stop Entertainment
True to its name, Sunny Beach boasts a six-mile stretch of Blue Flag-certified sandy shore along the Black Sea. The gentle slope into calm, clear waters makes it ideal for swimming and snorkelling, while quieter spots cater to families seeking relaxation. At the heart of the action, Central Beach buzzes with beach bars and DJ sets by day, transforming into a nocturnal playground after dark. Clubs like Cacao Beach operate 24 hours a day, ensuring the party never ceases, with many venues pulsating until sunrise.
Inland Attractions and Easy Accessibility
Beyond the coast, the town thrives as a tourist hub, featuring shops selling beachwear, colourful market stalls, and inexpensive fast-food outlets. Dining options range from global cuisine to authentic Bulgarian dishes, while attractions like Sunny Beach Amusement Park and Action Aquapark provide family-friendly fun with rides and water slides. Most UK travellers arrive via Burgas Airport, which offers seasonal flights with carriers such as easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, TUI, and Wizz Air, followed by a short 30-minute transfer to the resort.
Exploring Beyond the Beach: Day Trips to Burgas
Venturing inland, a day trip to the historic city of Burgas reveals further delights. The Sea Garden, with its British-style pier, Dino Park's animatronic dinosaurs, and the expansive Mall Galleria offer diverse entertainment. For a unique experience, a boat trip to St. Anastasia Island allows exploration of a medieval monastery, museum, and lighthouse on this tiny 2.5-acre isle.
As Sunny Beach cements its reputation as a budget-friendly rival to Benidorm, it promises an enticing blend of sunshine, savings, and ceaseless revelry for British holidaymakers looking to stretch their pounds further.
