Many tourists who come to Sevastopol for the summer are attracted by the picturesqueness of Balaklava. Vasili Beach, located here, is one of the attractions of the area. It allows you to relax in sufficient comfort, without the seaside crowds typical of large southern cities.
Where is the beach in Balaklava?
It is located not exactly in Balaklava Bay, but one and a half kilometers from it, closer to. Previously, this place was called Vasilyevskaya Balka (this is how the name of the recreation area arose), but today relatively little remains of it. The reason is landslides and mining activity.
Vasili on the map of Crimea
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From the history of appearance
Inaccessibility is the main “minus”; getting to it is not easy. For this reason, it has not yet become a popular crowded place. You can get there by minibus that runs for the season, but it doesn’t go often. It is also easy to walk around the bay, but the walk will take almost an hour. In any case, you will have to overcome a long descent down the stairs. And after swimming - the same rise.
Reviews from travelers who decide to take a walk note the beauty of the views along the way. But for those who are not confident in their walking abilities or who are accompanied by small children, it is better to use water transport. Both boats and private carriers provide this type of transportation. Of course, you will have to pay extra, but after leaving the center of Sevastopol, in a few minutes you can be on the spot, 
admiring it along the way and not bothering your legs.
Comfort among beauty
For vacationers who come to Crimea for the first time, Vasili Beach is a good chance to understand the essence of this region. There are a lot of visitors here, but there is no crowd. The area is not wild, but it is not oversaturated with “signs of civilization” - there is only one cafe, there are no intrusive traders. However, awnings are installed, there are toilets and a rescue post on the waters, and various beach equipment can be rented.
The beach is spacious - more than 300 m long, about 40 m wide. But you need to take into account that rather large pebbles predominate along the edges, and it is better not to be located close to the rocks - landslides (although now mostly small) are not uncommon. It is all pebbles, but the pebbles are non-slip and mostly small; it will be comfortable for those who decide to do without a sun lounger. Those who like to hide from the heat in the shade will have it worse - they can only use canopies, there is no woody vegetation nearby. The entrance to the sea is convenient, gentle, safe for children and non-swimmers.
There are no real restaurants nearby, but vacationers are not in danger of starving to death. There is a cafe here where those who wish can get a portion of ice cream and cool down from the inside with kvass. It’s easy to see a rock nearby – a fragment of a nearby mountain that broke off in time immemorial. The stone serves as a tower for diving into the water - the depth near it is sufficient. A similar rock formation near the shore is also used for similar amusements. It is comfortable because rescuers usually set up right on it, so that if something happens they can quickly pull an awkward “jumper” out of the water.
There are still few fashionable water activities in Vasilyevskaya Bay. Bathers who have chosen the local beach appreciate relaxing on it for its freedom from a large metropolis and relative space. But civilization is moving here, and every year there are more modern beach “lures”.
How to get there (get there)?
The most convenient way to get to Vasili Beach, as mentioned above, is by boat. If you choose a route by land, then initially go all the way – from the “5th kilometer” stop, minibus No. 99 runs here. Coming out to "pl. May 1st", move in the direction of the Submarine Museum, along the Tavricheskaya embankment. The journey on foot takes about 1 hour.
It’s easier to get there by car, here’s the route you need to take:
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Note to tourists
- Address: Tavricheskaya embankment, Balaklava, Sevastopol, Crimea, Russia.
- Coordinates: 44.492059, 33.578391.
How beautiful and unusual is Balaclava?! Vasili Beach, located in her area, has long been considered among the best in Ukraine, and is now revered in Russia. Tourists are also gradually mastering it - they don’t have to regret their choice! In conclusion, watch a short video about this amazing place for passive recreation.
The Cape Aya landscape reserve is rich in excellent pebble beaches. One of these vacation spots is the cozy Vasili Beach, located next to Vasilieva Balka. This place is surrounded by a rock wall 150 meters high. Therefore, an additional protective barrier is created from the wind and unwanted views.
Now there is almost no vegetation on the beach, but previously there was a forest with various southern species: pistachio, pear, juniper and others. But due to the work carried out by the mining department, landslides began, and the entire forest ended up under stones. Nowadays there is also a periodic threat of landslides, so it is not recommended to stay close to the rocks.
The beach is pebble, with beautiful golden sand. The entrance to the sea is gentle, but after the first smooth descent the depth increases sharply. Therefore, vacationers with children are advised not to go far. The beach consists of two parts: the eastern part is wider, where most of the vacationers stop; the western one is located behind the rocks, you can walk to it along the sea; this area is often chosen by athletes on boats.
Reviews about Vasili beach
According to reviews from tourists, many people lie on their towels rather than use paid sun loungers with a canopy. Travelers often note the cleanliness of the beach; there are several trash cans located on the territory. Those who have visited the beach speak with delight about its picturesque surroundings.
Many vacationers write about the inaccessibility of the beach, the long road and the tedious descent down the stairs. Therefore, for families with children and those who are not ready for a long journey, they recommend choosing water transport to Vasili Beach. On the other hand, perhaps due to this location, the beach is never full. And those who decide to get there on their own will enjoy the breathtaking views as they descend the stairs to the sea.
Infrastructure
Entrance to Vasili is free. This beach is often called the cleanest and best in the Sevastopol area: clean, clear water, natural landscape and beautiful views of the mountains and sea. Due to such popularity among vacationers, in 2011 it was decided to equip this corner with sun loungers and canopies, and in 2018 comfortable family bungalows appeared here. The beach has paid toilets, changing cabins, and a lifeguard service. Behind the sun loungers there is a beach equipment rental point, where you can also rent a barbecue.
The length of Vasili beach is 290 meters, the width is approximately 40 meters.
Water activities include catamarans, an inflatable slide, and sometimes jumping off stones or from a cliff. There is a small tent bar on site with ice cream, drinks and light snacks. Another cafe with a wider selection is located on the top of the cliff - you need to climb a metal staircase equipped with railings (about 280 steps). In 2018, beach tenants reported plans to create an evening cinema and stage on Wasili Beach.
Information about water and air temperatures and wind strength is regularly updated at the beach information stand. Tourists also stop overnight with tents on Vasili Beach in Crimea.
Vacationers should note that in August the water is quite cold in the morning due to the current, but by lunchtime it warms up; if the sun sets behind the mountain, a shadow forms from the rock and it can even get cool.
How to get to Vasili Beach in Balaclava
In 2017, the road through the Tavricheskaya embankment to the Vasili beaches was closed due to the poor condition of the surface, heavy congestion, a risk to the safety of pedestrians and a number of other reasons. After this, the journey overland to the beach began to take much longer.
The fastest way to get to Vasili Beach is by boat (10-15 minutes). They run from the Nazukin embankment in Balaklava once an hour, from 09:30 to 19:30, but there are also private carriers that regularly drive up to the beach. The journey costs approximately 100-150 rubles per person.
You can walk if you have time and energy. From Balaklava, move to the side: walk past the underground museum complex of Balaklava and the Marble Beach to the boarding house of the Balaklava Mining Administration, go down the iron stairs. The road goes uphill all the time, the journey takes about 1 hour.
To get to Balaklava from Sevastopol, you need to take bus No. 12 or minibus No. 12 to the stop “5th kilometer of Balaklava Highway”, change to bus No. 33, 34, 35, 94 to the stop “Obolon”, from there the minibus “ Obolon - Beach" to Balaklava Bay, then you need to walk for about 30 minutes along the Tavricheskaya embankment. According to some reviews, a minibus runs to the beach in the summer season, but there is no exact information about its schedule.
You can get to the stairs to the beach by taxi: Taxi Vezet and Yandex services operate in Sevastopol. Taxi, Maxim.
How to get to Vasili Beach in Balaclava by car
The road by car after the closure of Tavricheskaya Embankment takes a detour: you need to go along the street. Vasily Zhukova, go to the street. Kizilovaya, go to the base of the boarding house of the mine management and leave the car in the parking lot. Then go down the stairs to the beach. The journey from the center of Balaclava to the stairs will take about 30 minutes by car.
Directions by car from Balaklava to Vasili Beach:
Panoramic view from the stairs leading to Vasili Beach:
Video about Vasili beach in Crimea:
Vasili Beach is located 1.5 kilometers west of Balaklava Bay in Vasilyevskaya Balka. The length of the beach is small - 200 meters, and the width depends on winter storms, which annually reduce the size of the coast.
Vasili is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Sevastopol coast, one of the ten best beaches on the peninsula. There are stunning views of Cape Ai-ya and Fiolent here. The coastline of the beach is sand and pebbles, surrounded by high 150-meter cliffs and chaotically scattered landslide boulders. One of the options to get to Vasili Beach is to go down the 278-step staircase. In 2011, the beach was equipped and regular sea transport was launched to it.
Why visit this place
Vasili is on the list of clean and comfortable beaches in Balaklava. On the territory there is a rescue station, changing rooms, shelters, a toilet, and a cafe with cool drinks and ice cream. You can also rent sun loungers and umbrellas. For lovers of active recreation, the beach offers kayaks, catamarans, sea excursions, exciting rides on inflatable rides and diving lessons.
Vasili is exactly the beach that combines all the necessary qualities for a harmonious holiday. There is turquoise water, fresh healthy air, wildlife and beautiful scenery. This place is ideal for nature lovers. Many people come to the beach with tents to stay here for several days.
The aesthetics of the place are mesmerizing - the outlines of a protruding cape, high cliffs, azure sea, clear water, the underwater world in full view. Even in the summer season it is relatively spacious. At night on the beach there is a quiet, soulful atmosphere and a particularly starry sky.
Note to tourists
Many consider this place as an opportunity to get acquainted with the underwater fauna of Crimea. On Vasili Beach near the rocks there are interesting places for snorkeling.
When going to the beach, don’t forget about a hat, sunscreen, beach kit and drinking water, if you don’t want to overpay for it at the beach outlet.
There are clear rules for camping enthusiasts: do not light fires and take with you all the garbage that can be thrown into containers after getting up from the beach.
How to get to Vasili Beach
In order to go down to the beach, you will need to overcome 278 steps. No special physical preparation is required, but it is important to pay close attention to the descent process, especially if you are traveling with children. For comfort and safety, it is recommended to wear sports shoes that fit well on your feet.
Vasili Beach consists of eastern and western parts. The most accessible and more crowded is the first one, since it occupies the largest part and a staircase leads down to it. The western part is hidden behind the rocks and can be reached along a small passage along the coast. This place is considered quieter and less crowded.
When traveling around Crimea, be sure to visit Vasili Beach in Balaklava in Vasilieva Balka. This is a cozy place among the rocks, located about 1.5 km west of the exit from Balaklava Bay. Local residents love it for its clean sea, convenient access to the water and landscaped territory.
Tourists come here all year round to take pictures of the surrounding area from the observation deck located above it - it’s good to take pictures of Cape Aya and Fiolent from here.
Vasili Beach in Balaclava
The pebble beach in Vasilyeva Balka, which is popularly called simply “Vasily”, is about 300 meters long and no more than 40 meters wide. It is also popular for its close location to the center of Balaklava - a few minutes by boat and you are already on the beach. It is also appreciated for its relative lack of crowds (this does not apply to July) and the beautiful pink rocks around.
In summer, there is a cafe on Vasili Beach where you can drink a cold cocktail or eat ice cream in the shade. Sun canopies are installed in the center, here you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, they offer various entertainment - banana boat rides, sea excursions, diving lessons, catamarans, kayaks, etc. There is also a lifeguard post on the shore, a toilet is equipped, and there are several changing rooms. The edge of the beach is designated for the approach of boats and boats with those who prefer to get here by water.
Here is a photo of Vasili Beach at the end of October - it is quiet and deserted here at this time:
There are still a lot of tourists in Balaklava itself at this time, because the Chembalo fortress, the submarine museum and the excellent fish cuisine of local restaurants attract tourists all year round.
How to get to Vasili Beach from Balaclava
Although Vasili seems to be very close to the center of Balaklava, the rugged landscape seriously lengthens the journey, so the most convenient way is by water - go to Nazukin Square, bargain with the boat captain and, having received a small discount, get the opportunity to rush through the bay with the breeze, admire the rocks and literally in a few minutes you will be on Vasili beach.
If you are traveling around Crimea by car, then look on the map for the Military Historical Museum of Fortifications (former submarine base) and drive from it towards the exit from the bay, and then up the serpentine road. You can leave the car at the observation deck, or you can drive a little closer to the shore, or rather to a rather steep staircase that serves as a descent to it.
Here is a red-haired local resident greeting guests at the observation deck. Judging by his fatness, it is never empty.
Balaklava is a wonderful corner of Crimea, located in the vicinity of Sevastopol. The history of the village goes back a couple of thousand years. Once upon a time, Tatars, Greeks, and Genoese lived in this place.
All this left an imprint on the history of the village. Balaklava has preserved many interesting sights that you can visit on your own or as part of an excursion.
Today Balaklava is a popular resort with many beautiful picturesque beaches.
One of the most beautiful places in Balaklava is Vasili Beach.
It got its name because of its location in Vasilyeva Balka, where there once was a chapel of St. Basil.
In the photo there is Vasili beach in Balaklava on the map:
This is a pebble beach consisting of two parts. Its total length is 300 meters, and the width of the beach is 40 meters.
The eastern part is quite spacious, there is a staircase leading to it, and, accordingly, it is almost always crowded. 
The western part is small and can only be reached through a narrow passage along the sea. Not everyone knows about this part of the beach, so there is a possibility of a secluded holiday.
The beach offers beautiful views of Capes Aya and Fiolent. It is surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs. But how to get to Fiolent from Sevastopol is described in detail in this
The modern appearance was formed not so long ago, under the influence of a landslide, as a result of which stone blocks of various sizes descended onto the beach. Now large boulders peeking out of the water have become a local attraction for diving enthusiasts.
The entrance to the sea is smooth and non-slip. The pebbles are round and pleasant to the touch. 
It is fully equipped for a comfortable stay. There are sun loungers, sunshades, changing rooms and toilets.
Specially trained rescuers monitor order and safety on Vasili. For those who are hungry there is a small cafe-bar on the shore. Although there is no entrance fee to the beach, the area is carefully monitored.
Therefore, it is very pleasant to be on the beach.
In the photo there is Vasili beach in Balaclava:
Location
Vasili Beach is located one and a half kilometers from the famous Balaklava Bay. You can find it by moving from the village towards Cape Fiolent.
Getting to the final point on foot will take about an hour, but the road is quite difficult, constantly going uphill. The route to the beach begins from the Obolon stop, from where you need to walk along the embankment to Marble Beach. 
From there, follow a paved road that goes into the mountains along a serpentine road. After the pass the road becomes dirt and leads to the sanatorium. To get to the edge of the sea, you need to go around the boarding house and go down the long wooden stairs.
You can also get to Vasili along this same road by car, then the road to the beach will take only 10-15 minutes. But it is described in detail in this article.
However, the beach infrastructure is developing every year. In the summer there are food and drink stalls here. Changing rooms are also installed.