Seaside holidays in the Kherson region — sea, beaches, entertainment

Kherson region is where the sea, sun and steppe weave into a harmonious travel ensemble. Here you can truly savour a beach holiday, as the area is washed by two seas at once — the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. That’s why the resorts of Kherson Oblast are among the most diverse in Ukraine: from lively, youth-friendly spots to cosy, family-oriented shores.

Many popular travel locations in Kherson are directly tied to the sea. Dozens of resorts stretch along the coastline, including the Arabat Spit, the picturesque village of Lazurne, the snug Henichesk and the legendary Dzharylhach Island. Each has its own vibe, story and distinctive charm.

Why choose a holiday in Kherson region?

This area is not only a great alternative to the Crimean coast but also a place where nature has preserved its pristine purity. Kherson’s white-sand beaches, warm sea water, fresh air rich in iodine and salts, together with the hospitality of locals, create ideal conditions for family breaks, romantic getaways and active seaside adventures.

• A wide choice of resorts — from quiet coves to bustling promenades packed with entertainment;
• Wellness benefits of the sea, sunshine and therapeutic mud;
• Plenty of affordable accommodation options — from private guesthouses to modern hotels;
• Unforgettable sea sunsets and an incredible number of excursion routes.

For anyone planning a trip across Ukraine this summer, the resorts of Kherson are a chance to discover a new level of relaxation. You’ll enjoy not only gentle seas and sun-kissed beaches but also a sea of positive emotions, vivid impressions and new friends. A holiday in Kherson Oblast is a story you’ll want to relive.

Traveller’s tip

If you’re looking to combine swimming, excursions and foodie discoveries, plan an itinerary that covers several resorts. Distances are short, and each town has its own highlights — from seaside markets and festivals to nature reserves and historic lighthouses.

Domestic tourism in Ukraine has been booming in recent years, and Kherson Oblast has a special place in this rise. Not long ago, many Ukrainians associated a beach holiday only with Crimea or Odesa, yet today it’s the resorts of Kherson that have become the heart of national seaside travel. Unique nature, a warm climate, broad beaches and fair prices have made this region one of the most visited in summer.

This trend is driven not only by geopolitics but also by the growing awareness that Ukraine’s coastlines have huge potential for modern holidays. New hotels, holiday centres in Kherson Oblast and guesthouses are springing up, offering comfort and service on a par with Europe. You’ll find spa complexes, pools, children’s areas and sports courts — everything to make visitors feel comfortable and safe.

How seaside holidays in Ukraine are changing

Modern-day Kherson is actively upgrading its tourist infrastructure. Quality roads are being laid along the Black and Azov coasts, transport links are improving, and local communities are opening new recreation areas. Eco-tourism is growing fast, especially visits to protected areas such as Askania-Nova and the Tendrivska Spit.

• Coastal roads and tourist routes between resorts are being restored;
• The network of private guesthouses and family-run hotels is expanding;
• More local festivals, sea fairs and events every year;
• Gastro-tourism is on the rise — tastings of Kherson watermelons, wines and seafood.

Today, a seaside holiday in Kherson Oblast is not just about beaches and waves. It’s also about discovering local traditions, cuisine, crafts and nature. Tourism development in Kherson is boosting small business: private hotels, campsites, boat rentals and guided tours are creating new opportunities for both locals and visitors.

Most popular holiday spots

Among the many resorts, these destinations stand out:

• Skadovsk — a cosy town on the Black Sea, known for children’s health resorts;
• Zaliznyi Port — a vibrant village with buzzing nightlife and modern hotels;
• Lazurne — ideal for a laid-back family break near Dzharylhach Island;
• Henichesk — a town by the Sea of Azov, gateway to the Arabat Spit;
• Khoryly (Khoryly) — a wellness resort on a peninsula with therapeutic muds;
• Chervone — a snug village on the Dzharylhach Bay, perfect for a quiet break with children.

Each of these resorts has its own history, natural features and audience. Some are perfect for families with little ones, others for young travellers or those seeking peace and privacy. All share the same hallmark — hospitality and the natural beauty of Kherson.

Travel tips

Before choosing a resort, decide what kind of holiday suits you best. For active travellers, Zaliznyi Port and the Arabat Spit offer entertainment and waterparks. If you seek calm and a close-to-nature vibe, pick Lazurne, Khoryly or Chervone. Many visitors opt for a “sea tour” format, visiting several resorts in a week — a great way to see the different faces of Kherson.

In short, the resorts of Kherson Oblast form a true travel mosaic where everyone can find their ideal seaside spot. In the next sections, we’ll dive into the best-known ones to help you choose a destination you’ll remember for a long time.

Skadovsk resort is one of the best-known destinations on the Black Sea coast and a true calling card of the Kherson region. Its gentle waves, shallow sea and warm climate make this town an ideal place for a family holiday with children. It has the calm atmosphere of a small seaside town, where life moves slowly and the sea begins just a few steps from the central promenade.

History and highlights of the resort

The town of Skadovsk was founded in 1894 by the philanthropist and landowner Serhii Skadovskyi, who dreamed of creating a seaport and a wellness centre in southern Ukraine. Thanks to his efforts, Skadovsk became not only a trading hub but also a popular holiday spot. From the early 20th century it drew Kyiv’s and Odesa’s intelligentsia, and later thousands of families from across Ukraine.

Skadovsk’s main advantage is its geography. The shallow Dzharylhach Bay is protected from winds by Dzharylhach Island, so the water warms up as early as June. The salty seawater is rich in beneficial microelements, and the sandy seabed with no sudden drop-offs makes swimming safe even for little ones.

Wellness potential

This town is known not only for the Skadovsk beach but also for its natural healing resources. Sanatoria and guesthouses in Skadovsk offer wellness programmes that include:

• sun and air baths that improve the metabolism;
• mud therapy using local healing silt;
• iodine–bromine inhalations to strengthen the respiratory system;
• sea bathing that benefits the heart and immunity.

Thanks to these qualities, Skadovsk is often called Ukraine’s “number one children’s resort”. There are over 80 wellness facilities, including sanatoria, camps, holiday bases in Skadovsk and private guesthouses. Most are tailored to family stays — with their own playgrounds, pools and medical support.

Photos: Skadovsk & Dzharylhach

What to see and do

Despite its relaxed character, Skadovsk has plenty to enjoy. The central promenade is lined with cafés, amusement rides, small seafood and souvenir markets. From here you can take boat trips to Dzharylhach Island — a place often called the “Ukrainian Maldives”. This slice of nature stuns with crystal-clear water and white sands reminiscent of the Vinnytsia Maldives — another of Ukraine’s scenic gems. On Dzharylhach Island you can spot wild deer, swim in the pristine sea, or snap a photo by the famous Dzharylhach Lighthouse.

• Town beach — broad, with soft sand and an easy entry to the water;
• Children’s rides and festivals — each summer hosts the “Skadovsk Open Fest” celebration;
• Eco-excursions — trips to Dzharylhach Island, local limans and protected areas;
• Fishing — popular with visitors in the calm bays and from the piers.

Traveller tips

If you’re planning a summer trip, the best time is June to September, when the sea reaches +25°C and the air +28–30°C. It’s worth booking accommodation in advance, as demand for guesthouses and hotels in Skadovsk rises in high season. If you prefer peace and quiet, consider staying in the private sector or on the outskirts — there’s more greenery and fewer tourists.

Skadovsk is a place you’ll want to return to. The quickly warming sea, fresh air and the welcoming resort vibe create the sense that time slows down here. That’s why a holiday in Skadovsk remains one of the best choices for those dreaming of calm, wellbeing and the real sea.

Zaliznyi Port is one of the most famous Black Sea resorts, deservedly dubbed the “Kherson Las Vegas”. It’s a place that buzzes day and night, where the scent of the sea mingles with music, laughter and the aroma of freshly cooked seafood. A village that just a few decades ago was a typical fishing settlement has today become one of the most popular summer getaway destinations in southern Ukraine.

History and resort features

The name “Zaliznyi Port” (Iron Port) appeared in the 19th century, when a small pier for exporting grain and metal stood here. Gradually, fishermen’s cottages and traders’ houses sprang up around it, and after the 1950s holidaymakers began to arrive. Thanks to its clean air, warm sea and long sandy beaches, Zaliznyi Port quickly became a favourite holiday spot for residents across Kherson region and central Ukraine.

Today there are over 500 tourism facilities — hotels, holiday bases, guesthouses, private stays and even campgrounds. Many properties have their own pools, restaurants and children’s play areas, so everyone can find an option to suit their taste and budget.

Sea, beaches and nature

Zaliznyi Port’s beaches are wide, with soft golden sand and a gentle entry to the sea. The shoreline is well maintained, with shade canopies, showers, changing rooms and relaxation zones. Thanks to the open coast there are often light sea breezes, which take the edge off the heat and bring pleasantly cool evenings.

Nearby lies the unique Tendrivska Spit — part of the Black Sea Biosphere reserve. It’s a true haven for diving enthusiasts and wildlife watchers: you can spot dolphins, pelicans and dozens of seabird species here.

Entertainment and nightlife

Zaliznyi Port is known for its energetic vibe. In the evenings the promenade turns into a real celebration — nightclubs in Zaliznyi Port, karaoke bars, restaurants and open-air discos all come alive. Young travellers come for the buzz, music and new friends, while families can enjoy seafront strolls, wine tastings or seafood dinners at the cafés of Zaliznyi Port.

• The popular “Tropic” club — the centre of the resort’s nightlife;
• Regular sea festivals and themed parties;
• A waterpark and funfair — entertainment for the whole family;
• Beach sports — windsurfing, banana boat rides, SUP boards and jet skis.

Photos: Zaliznyi Port Beaches

How to get to Zaliznyi Port

The village is easy to reach by car or by scheduled bus from Kherson. It’s about 100 km away, with a journey of one and a half to two hours. In season there are regular coach routes from Kyiv, Dnipro, Odesa and Kropyvnytskyi. The nearest railway station is in Kherson, from where you can reach the resort by minibus or taxi.

Tips from travellers

The best time for a holiday in Zaliznyi Port is from June to mid-September. If you love a lively scene, pick July or August when most festivals take place. For those who value peace and comfort, early June or late August is ideal — there are fewer tourists and the sea remains warm and gentle.

The mix of warm sea, vibrant nightlife and varied entertainment makes Zaliznyi Port one of the most popular seaside resorts in Ukraine. It’s a place to recharge, relax body and soul, and once again be convinced that the Kherson region is a true summer hub on the Black Sea.

Lazurne is a picturesque settlement on the Black Sea, located in the south of the Kherson region, between the well-known resorts of Skadovsk and Zaliznyi Port. Its special position makes it a kind of “golden mean” for those seeking a peaceful yet experience-rich seaside holiday. The name “Lazurne” says it all — the sea really does have a deep azure–turquoise hue reminiscent of the Mediterranean.

History and geography of the resort

The settlement was founded at the end of the 19th century as a small fishing village called Novooleksiivka. It later became an attractive summer getaway, and in the 1970s it received its current name — Lazurne. The resort’s uniqueness lies in the fact that on one side it is washed by the Black Sea, and on the other by a calm bay formed by natural spits and islands. This geography creates a special microclimate: the air is rich in iodine and marine salts, which benefit the respiratory system and nerves.

Beaches and sea

Lazurne’s beaches are among the cleanest on the coast. The sand is fine and light, and the sea is clear even close to the shore. The gentle seabed makes it safe for children, and the warm water allows swimming from early June. Along the shore you’ll find cafés, summer bars and places to rent sunloungers and parasols. Some beaches are wild for those who cherish quiet; others are well equipped, with convenient access to the water and amusements.

Near the settlement lies a unique natural site — Dzharylhach Island, which you can reach by boat. This uninhabited island is often called the “Ukrainian Maldives” for its white sand and turquoise water. Also close by is the Tendrivska Spit, part of a biosphere reserve, where you can spot dolphins and nesting birds on the shallows.

Photos: Lazurne Resort (Kherson region)

Leisure and activities

Lazurne is perfect for a quiet family break. There are no loud discos or nightclubs — instead you’ll find peace, fresh air, gentle sea and cosy hotels. In the centre there are small markets selling local fruit, homemade wine and souvenirs, as well as cafés serving fresh seafood. For children there are trampoline parks, water slides and play areas.

• Pedalos, banana boats and jet skis;
• Boat trips to Dzharylhach Island;
• Excursions to Skadovsk and trips to the Askania-Nova reserve;
• Coastal walks to quiet beaches and spits.

Infrastructure and accommodation

Lazurne offers dozens of places to stay — from budget private guesthouses to modern hotels and holiday bases. Many are located right by the sea, with views of the coast or the bay. For convenience there are grocery shops, pharmacies, bank branches and bicycle hire and scooter rentals. In summer, scheduled buses to Kherson, Skadovsk and Zaliznyi Port make getting around easy and affordable.

Traveller tips

If you’re after a quiet Black Sea holiday without crowds and noise, Lazurne is an ideal choice. The best time to visit is July and August, when the sea is at its warmest and the weather is settled. Evening strolls along the promenade are perfect for couples — the sunsets over the sea are spectacular. Families with children will love the sheltered, shallow beaches and warm waves.

Come once and it’s hard not to fall for the harmony of sea, sky and steppe. Lazurne Resort blends natural beauty, affordability and a deep sense of tranquillity so many travellers seek today.

Henichesk is a cosy resort town on the shore of the Sea of Azov, in the north-east of the Kherson region. It’s a true jewel of the Azov coast, attracting visitors with warm waters, gently shelving beaches, friendly locals and its proximity to the famous Arabat Spit.

History and location

Henichesk has a long history — once a small Tatar settlement, it later became an important port and trading centre. Today the town has preserved part of its old architecture, with narrow streets and snug courtyards that create a southern resort feel. It sits by the strait connecting the Syvash with the Sea of Azov, so the sea is always warm and the water shallow and clear.

A road bridge runs through the town connecting the mainland with the Arabat Spit — a narrow sandy bar over 100 km long. Many holidaymakers begin their journey along this unique natural area from Henichesk.

Beaches and sea

Henichesk’s beaches are sandy and wide, with a gentle entry to the sea — ideal for a family holiday with children. The depth is small and summer water temperatures reach +26–28°C. Along the shore you’ll find Henichesk hotels, holiday bases, cafés and rental points. For children there are plenty of trampolines, slides and water fun.

This stretch of the Azov is considered the warmest in Ukraine. Low salinity and many sunny days create ideal swimming conditions. Visitors often note you can swim even in September, when the season elsewhere is winding down.

What to see and do

Despite its modest size, Henichesk offers plenty to do. The promenade has numerous cafés, summer terraces, rides and souvenir stalls. From here you can book a boat trip or go fishing in the bay. The town also makes a great base for exploring nearby natural attractions.

• Biryuchyi Island — part of the Azov–Syvash reserve, where you can see wildlife in its natural habitat;
• Askania-Nova — a world-famous biosphere reserve a few hours’ drive away;
• Salt lakes and thermal springs near Shchaslyvtseve — perfect for health treatments;
• Walks and sunset photo tours by the sea bridge.

Photos: Henichesk Resort

Wellness break and nature

Henichesk’s climate is mild and dry, with plenty of sunshine. The air is rich in microelements, sea salt and breeze. Not far from town are mud limans long famed for their healing properties. Local Henichesk guesthouses offer mud therapy, iodine–bromine baths, massage and boat trips.

Traveller tips

Henichesk is easy to reach from Kherson or Melitopol by car, bus or train. The distance from Kherson is about 200 km. The best time to visit is June to September, when the sea is at its warmest and the weather stable. For a quieter stay, choose early June or September when there are fewer visitors.

Thanks to the combination of a warm, shallow sea, natural riches and a health-giving microclimate, Henichesk remains one of the best places for a summer holiday on the Azov coast. The town offers tranquillity, clear waters and warm hospitality remembered by everyone who has been here at least once.

Arabat Spit is a unique sandy spit stretching for over 100 kilometres along the Sea of Azov. On one side it is washed by the salty Syvash, on the other by the gentle sea. This narrow yet picturesque peninsula is a real pride of the Kherson region and one of the most popular summer holiday destinations in Ukraine.

Geographical uniqueness and origin

The Arabat Spit formed naturally — through the accumulation of sand and marine sediments that connected the mainland with Crimea. It’s considered the longest sandy beach in Europe: over 100 km long and between 270 metres and 8 kilometres wide. This natural phenomenon combines a marine climate with salty lakes, thermal springs and healing muds, making the region especially attractive for wellness breaks.

Today several resort villages here are actively developing domestic tourism in Ukraine: Henicheska Hirka, Pryozerne, Shchaslyvtseve, Strilkove. Each has its own character, but all share the same traits — calm seas, wide beaches and air rich in marine salts.

Resorts of the Arabat Spit

• Henicheska Hirka — the village closest to the mainland, known for its handy location, mid-range hotels and waterpark. A comfortable choice for families with children.
• Shchaslyvtseve — the most popular resort on the spit, combining well-kept beaches, modern guesthouses, thermal springs and lively nightlife.
• Pryozerne — a quiet retreat for solitude with nature, a great camping and fishing spot.
• Strilkove — the farthest village from Henichesk, known for hydrogen sulphide springs and mud lakes often compared with the healing resorts of Truskavets.

Healing resources and thermal springs

The Arabat Spit is not only about beach holidays — it’s also a powerful wellness centre. Along the spit are dozens of natural springs with mineral-, hydrogen sulphide- and bromine-rich waters. The best-known thermal spring is in Shchaslyvtseve: its temperature reaches +40°C even in winter. Locals and visitors bathe year-round to help with joint, skin and respiratory conditions.

In addition, the Syvash bay yields healing muds used in cosmetology and physiotherapy. Many holiday bases and spa complexes offer treatments using these natural resources, so a holiday on the Arabat Spit is often combined with preventative health care.

Photos: Arabat Spit

Nature, sea and activities

The sea by the Arabat Spit is shallow, warms quickly and has gentle waves — perfect for children. The coastline offers countless beaches, from fully serviced to wild spots where you can pitch a tent and gaze at a starry sky far from city noise. Popular activities include kitesurfing, windsurfing, fishing and diving. For kids there are rides, water slides, mini-zoos and pony rides.

Transport and accommodation

The most convenient way to reach the Arabat Spit is via the town of Henichesk. Buses and taxis run from there to the resort villages. In summer there are seasonal connections with Kherson, Dnipro, Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia. Accommodation on the Arabat Spit suits every taste — from private stays to modern hotels with pools, saunas, children’s areas and direct beach access.

Tips for visitors

The best time to visit the Arabat Spit is June to September. Water temperatures hold at +25–28°C, and the climate is dry and mild. For peace and quiet, come in September — the sea is still warm but there are far fewer people. Those who want to combine a beach holiday with ecotourism should visit the Syvash protected areas or take a boat and cruise along the coast.

The Arabat Spit is more than a resort — it’s a whole world where you can feel the energy of the sea, the calm of the steppe and the healing power of nature all at once. Many travellers find the perfect balance here between active pursuits and complete relaxation.

Khorly Resort is a small yet very picturesque settlement located on the namesake peninsula in the southern part of the Kherson region. Its unique geography makes it feel like an island: Khorly is connected to the mainland by only a narrow isthmus with a road. This natural isolation creates a special microclimate and a tranquil atmosphere that appeals to anyone seeking seclusion and recovery.

History and natural features

According to one version, the village’s name comes from the Turkic word “khorlu”, meaning “windy”. Indeed, a light sea breeze is a constant companion here. The settlement was founded in the second half of the 19th century as the estate of the Markevych landowners, who appreciated the mild climate and the beneficial properties of local waters. Over time, people from Kherson, Mykolaiv and even Kyiv began coming here to holiday.

The Khorly Peninsula is washed by the sea on three sides, ensuring a constant flow of fresh air saturated with iodine and sea salts. The sun shines for over 270 days a year, and the gentle sea warms up as early as May. This makes the resort one of the warmest and cosiest on the entire Black Sea coast.

Khorly’s wellness potential

Khorly’s greatest asset is its healing resources. The local mud and iodine–bromine springs are considered among the most effective in the region. Many visitors come specifically for health treatments — to help with musculoskeletal, skin and respiratory issues, and for recovery after stress and physical fatigue.

• Seawater rich in microelements improves skin and vascular tone;
• Air saturated with iodine and bromine helps strengthen the immune system;
• Mud from local limans is used for therapeutic and cosmetic procedures;
• Silence, a clean shoreline and no industry create ideal conditions for relaxation.

Photos: Khorly settlement

Sea, beaches and infrastructure

Beaches in Khorly are sandy and well kept, with a gentle entry to the sea. The water is clean and the seabed even, with no stones. Thanks to the shallows, the sea warms quickly, so the swimming season lasts from May to the end of September. In the centre are small hotels, holiday bases in Khorly and private guesthouses. Many have their own beach areas, gazebos, barbecue spots and children’s playgrounds.

Despite its calm vibe, the Khorly resort offers everything needed for a comfortable stay: shops, a market, cafés serving home-style food, and bicycle hire and boat rentals. You can book a boat trip or head out on an excursion to Kherson’s protected sites — for instance to Askania-Nova.

Climate and the best time to visit

Khorly’s climate is moderately continental with mild summers and short winters. In summer, average air temperatures hover around +27°C and the water stays near +24–26°C. The best period to visit is June to September. Thanks to the natural microclimate, it’s comfortable even in the heat — the air is fresh and not stuffy.

Tips for visitors

Khorly is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, nature-focused and health-oriented seaside break. Families with children, older travellers and anyone wanting to recharge after city life come here. For the best experience, visit the local thermal springs, try mud wraps and take a sunset walk along the shore — a true therapy for the soul.

A holiday in Khorly is a chance to enjoy the sea and nature without crowds or hassle. Each day is filled with harmony: a gentle sea, the scent of steppe herbs and the soft sound of waves create a feeling of complete reset.

Chervone is a small yet wonderfully cosy settlement on the shore of Dzharylhach Bay, just ten kilometres from the popular Skadovsk resort. It’s ideal for those who value peace, nature and an unhurried break. The Chervone resort is often called Skadovsk’s “quiet alternative” — there are fewer tourists, cleaner air and a sense of complete harmony with the sea.

Location highlights

The settlement sits right on the Dzharylhach Bay, famed for its calm sea and warm waters. Naturally sheltered from strong winds, the sea here is always gentle and the water crystal clear. It’s perfect for a family holiday with children or anyone seeking quiet and solitude. In summer the air is filled with the scents of steppe herbs and sea salt, creating a genuine relaxation effect.

Beaches and sea

Beaches in Chervone are sandy and wide, with a gentle entry to the water. The sea warms quickly, so the swimming season lasts almost half the year — from May to October. There aren’t many entertainment venues along the shore, but that’s exactly what creates the unique calm. This is the place for meditation, reading, yoga or simply recharging in nature.

A unique natural feature of the area is its healing blue clay, found not far from the settlement. Rich in minerals, it’s used for therapeutic and cosmetic treatments. Locals jokingly call it the “blue gold of the Kherson region”.

Active and eco-tourism

Even with its tranquil mood, Chervone has plenty for active travellers. Windsurfing, kayaking and boating, and birdwatching are all popular. In the evenings take a stroll along the shore or enjoy the starry sky — with virtually no urban light, the heavens are exceptionally clear.

• A trip to Dzharylhach Island — the most popular excursion among visitors;
• Walks to protected areas around the bay;
• Birdwatching — herons, swans and terns all nest here;
• Eco photo tours and peaceful shoreline fishing.

Infrastructure and accommodation

Despite its compact size, the settlement has everything for a comfortable stay: grocery shops, a market, home-style cafés, private guesthouses and several holiday bases. Many are on the first line — the sea is just a few minutes’ walk away. The homely atmosphere stands out: hosts welcome guests like old friends and are always ready to offer advice or fresh fish from the morning catch.

Traveller tips

The best time for a holiday in Chervone is from June to mid-September, when the water reaches +26°C. It’s a great option for those seeking a peaceful seaside break in a natural setting without loud entertainment. If you fancy more activity, lively Skadovsk — with its promenade, markets and boats to Dzharylhach Island — is just a 10-minute drive away.

The resort settlement of Chervone is a corner of true harmony. Here the sea feels closer than ever, and the quiet heals no worse than any sanatorium. That’s why those who have felt this peace and the carefree spirit of the Kherson coast come back year after year.