100 best beaches in Russia

Golden Sands is a picturesque stretch of beach that extends from the northern outskirts of Feodosia to the village of Beregovoye. Spanning six kilometers along the Gulf of Feodosia, it encompasses the pristine shores of several resorts, including "Golden Beach," "Scarlet Sails," "Ukraine," and 117 Beach, as well as Sunrise Beach. Beyond these, the beach of Beregovoye village and the secluded wild beaches near Lake Ashchigol offer tranquil retreats for those seeking serenity by the sea. This diverse coastline promises an unforgettable beach vacation in Russia, with something for everyone to enjoy.

In the picturesque village of Yantarny, you'll find a pristine beach graced with the prestigious Blue Flag award. This accolade is a testament to the impeccable cleanliness of the coastline, the crystal-clear waters, the excellent ecological conditions, and the comfortable amenities that make for an idyllic vacation spot. Additionally, Yantarny is renowned for its abundant greenery, convenient transport links, and the historical architectural monuments that hark back to the era of the Prussian kingdom.

One of the most sought-after beaches in the Far East is Livadia Beach, named after the adjacent village that shares its name and lies beside the serene Livadia Lake. Reminiscent of its Crimean counterpart, Livadia Beach is renowned for its pristine white sands and sheltered, intimate bays. The beach boasts well-developed infrastructure, breathtaking panoramic vistas, and a plethora of options for an engaging beach holiday experience.

Mayak Beach stands as a beloved jewel among Sochi's coastal retreats, embodying the very essence of the city. For more than a century, its iconic lighthouse has proudly towered over the pebbled shore, serving as a timeless beacon. Conveniently located within a stone's throw from the Marine Station, and just a short jaunt to the heart of Sochi, Mayak Beach is a favored destination for both locals and tourists alike, offering easy access to urban amenities while providing a serene seaside escape.

The Central Beach of Gelendzhik is a unique coastal gem where smooth pebbles give way to soft sands. This well-maintained area is a favorite among tourists. In close proximity, you'll find docks for ships and boats, a plethora of entertainment options, and a wide array of dining establishments to suit every taste. Indeed, all roads lead to this bustling seaside haven.

Regarded as one of the finest beaches in Yalta, Massandrovsky Beach has been honored with the prestigious Blue Flag, signifying its exceptional cleanliness and outstanding service standards. In 2016, the beach underwent a comprehensive reconstruction that revitalized the coastline, enhanced the beach infrastructure, and beautified the adjacent area with contemporary restaurants, diverse food zones, and areas for sports and play. This transformation has made Massandrovsky Beach an even more enticing destination for those planning a beach vacation in Russia.

On Fiolent, and indeed throughout Crimea, lies one of the most comfortable and picturesque beaches. A shallow strip of the coast is strewn with small pebbles, flecked with colorful splashes. In the past, these were often collected, and even now, vacationers sometimes discover fragments of jasper and other minerals, giving the beach its name. The crystal-clear sea, stunning scenery, enchanting sunsets, and air so fresh you can never get enough, all draw crowds of tourists during the summer months.

Located on the picturesque Tarhankut Peninsula in the western part of Crimea, Olenevka Beach beckons travelers with its serene beauty. Adjacent to the beach lies the quaint village of Olenevka, once known as Karadzha, named after the bay it overlooks. In recent years, Olenevka has blossomed into a burgeoning resort destination. The area has seen a surge in development, with new infrastructure facilities enhancing the visitor experience. Notably, in 2019, a state-of-the-art car camping site was inaugurated, offering accommodations for up to 1000 guests along the scenic shoreline.

Shamora, renowned as the largest, cleanest, and most popular beach in the vicinity of Vladivostok, was christened in the 1970s. Despite its official name, Lazurnaya Bay, it did not gain widespread recognition among the residents of the Primorsky Region until later. By numerous measures, this local gem ranks among the top ten beaches in Russia. The unique landscape of Ussuri Bay beckons vacationers not only from the Far East but also from beyond, promising an unforgettable seaside retreat.

The beach in Pionerski is a modern, cozy, and prosperous resort nestled on the shores of the Baltic Sea. In 2011, one of the residences of the President of the Russian Federation was constructed on the outskirts of the coast, a development that had a positive impact on the resort's formation. By 2012, the beach in Pionerski had already earned the title of the cleanest and most well-groomed coast of the Baltic. Furthermore, the infrastructure of this resort began to flourish, drawing an increasing number of tourists from neighboring regions.

Golubaya Buhta, a resort area of Gelendzhik nestled near the Tuapse ridge, lies approximately 13 km from the city center. The beach, sharing its name with the resort, stands out among the many in the Krasnodar Territory for its exceptionally clear waters and tranquil ambiance, which persists despite its significant popularity among vacationers. Families with children and those seeking a romantic retreat are particularly drawn to this beach for its convenient amenities and stunning picturesque views.

Barracuda Beach is one of the most visited in Adler, where during peak season, there's scarcely room to drop an apple. However, its convenient location, accessibility from any corner of Sochi, and excellent infrastructure do not diminish the number of visitors eager to unwind on its shores. The beach buzzes with numerous recreational activities that draw both the young and families with children. It's never dull here; a swim can always be complemented by a variety of engaging leisure pursuits.

The walls of Kush-Kaya and Kokiya-Kala shield the tract from cold winds, making Batiliman Bay the warmest spot on the South Coast. The beaches, nestled against the clear Black Sea and flanked by picturesque cliffs, maintain temperatures above 0°C even in winter. A landscape reserve, home to ancient pines and junipers, has long been a cherished retreat for both Sevastopol locals and visitors alike.

Mojito Beach, nestled on the Crimean peninsula near Sudak, is renowned as an elite beach complex along the Black Sea. The coast is meticulously maintained, ensuring pristine cleanliness, and is continuously enhanced to meet the highest standards. This idyllic destination is perfect for those seeking the allure of natural beauty without straying far from the conveniences of the city. Moreover, Mojito Beach is affectionately known as the haven for romantics; numerous solitary travelers have found their soulmates along this enchanting shoreline.

Olympic Park is the southernmost beach in Russia, spanning 6 km of pebble banks from the Fisht Stadium to the very edge of the state border, where it meets Abkhazia. The stunning embankment serves as the focal point of the region, flanked by an array of local attractions. Following the 2014 Olympics, the bay underwent significant development, boasting a picturesque park, numerous sports facilities, hotels, and recreation areas.