Tendra Spit: The Pearl of the Black Sea Between Beauty and War

As of November 2026, Tendra Spit (Tendra), located in Ukraine's Kherson region, remains under temporary Russian occupation. Once, its endless sandy shores, crystal-clear seawater, and famous Tendra Lighthouse captivated travelers with their wild, almost untouched beauty. The sound of the Black Sea, the cries of seabirds, and the boundless open spaces created an atmosphere where visitors could experience the true grandeur of nature. Today, however, this unique territory is inaccessible to tourists, and its tranquility has been disrupted by the consequences of war and the military activities of the occupying forces.

Particularly devastating have been the environmental losses affecting Tendra Bay and the surrounding protected natural areas. According to a satellite-based study conducted by the Black Sea Biosphere Reserve of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, between 2022 and 2026, wildfires affected 5,021 hectares, or 37.51% of the land area of the Tendra Bay wetland, at least once. These are far more than just numbers in scientific reports. Behind them lie damaged natural habitats, scorched vegetation, and serious threats to the habitats of numerous bird species and other wildlife. It is important to note that these figures refer to the entire wetland area, not exclusively to Tendra Spit itself.

Tendra Spit has also become a site of military confrontation. In August 2024 and July 2025, Ukrainian military intelligence reported carrying out special operations against Russian occupation forces that had been using the area to establish military positions and deploy equipment. Despite these operations, the spit remained occupied. It is particularly heartbreaking to realize that a place once ruled by the sea, the wind, and seabirds has become a zone of military danger.

At present, Tendra Spit is not accessible for safe tourist visits. Due to the occupation, the threat of landmines, and the lack of unrestricted access, it is impossible to reliably assess the full extent of damage to its natural ecosystems. The exact current condition of the famous Tendra Lighthouse also remains unknown. A comprehensive survey of the area, an assessment of environmental damage, and restoration efforts will only become possible after the territory is liberated and safe access is secured.

Yet despite all these hardships, Tendra has always been and remains an inseparable part of Ukraine and its unique natural heritage. We can only hope that one day peace will return to its sandy shores, that the tracks of seabirds will once again replace military vehicles, and that the waves of the Black Sea will welcome visitors who come to admire nature rather than destroy it. After all, Tendra Spit is far more than a narrow strip of sand surrounded by the sea. It is a precious part of Ukraine's Kherson region, its history, natural wealth, and beauty — a heritage that must be preserved for future generations.