Surfing in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a Balkan country with diversified terrain encompassing Black Sea coastline, a mountainous interior and rivers, including the Danube. The country is a cultural mix of Greek, Slavic, Ottoman, and Persian influences and has a rich heritage of traditional dance, music, costumes, and crafts. The Black Sea has a limited area, but still produces some delightful waves. Most of the swell produced in this sea are wind swells with short periods. Although the surf conditions are inconsistent in summer and cold in winter, there is still a small local crew that doesn’t let any chance to surf pass by. There are not many reasons to surf in this region unless you are passing by.
Climate in Bulgaria
The climate in Bulgaria is temperate-continental climate with moderate features which is characteristic for Central Europe, with hot summers, long, cold winters and very distinct seasons. Snow is abundant from December to mid-March, especially if you are in the mountainous areas of Bulgaria. Rainfall is more constant in the mountains and less on the coast. It can rain throughout the year and usually winter is the driest season. In summer rainfall is plenty and usually happens in the form of thunderstorms. The best time to surf is during the winter when winter storms in the north of the Black Sea send inconsistent windswells to the shores of Bulgaria.
Best surf spots in Bulgaria
The best surf spots in Bulgaria are Harmani, Kabakum Beach, Obzor and Sunny Day.
Budget Planning
Meal price range
Simple meals start at $3 USD. Mid-range meals start at $11 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $30-70 USD.
Equipment rental
There are a couple places where you can rent gear. Boards start at $30 USD for the day.
Prepaid SIM cards
A1 Bulgaria is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from shops of the providers and in big supermarkets.
Prepaid packages start at $4 USD.
Public transport
There are public buses, trams and trains in most cities.
Sofia has a metro to help get you around.
Taxis are easy to find. OK Supertrans are a licensed taxi with reasonable rates, usually $0.45 USD per km.
Travelling in Bulgaria by train is very easy and convenient.
You can easily hire a local English speaking driver to get you around as well.
Gas prices
$0.91 USD a liter.
Types of risks
Rips and undertows.
How to prepare
Visa
Citizens from 62 countries, including the US, and Australia, can enter Bulgaria without a visa for up to 90 days.
Vaccines
Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella.
Things to know
Language & Currency
Bulgarian is the official language. You’ll find some English speakers in major cities.
The currency is the Bulgarian lev (лв).
Best time to go
The best time to surf is during the winter when winter storms in the north of the Black Sea send inconsistent windswells to the shores of Bulgaria.
Checking Surf forecast
Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.
Do I need pack a pharmacy kit
You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.
Travel/Surf Insurance
World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.
Emergency
Dial 112
Check surf pictures of Bulgaria at #surfbulgaria.
