Ureki, Georgia’s Essential Black Sand, Magnetic Therapy & Rustic Charm (2026)
While crowds flock to the pebble beaches of Batumi, just 60 kilometers north, Ureki, Georgia delivers a unique coastal experience with its 4 kilometers of jet-black, magnetic sand. This isn’t just a color; the sand contains magnetite, and locals have long believed in its therapeutic properties for cardiovascular and joint health. Here’s why savvy travelers choose this serene, family-friendly alternative to the bustling city resorts.
Why Ureki, Georgia Stands Out

A serene landscape featuring a historic church against the backdrop of the …, Ureki, Georgia
- Historic Architecture: The 19th-century Ureki Railway Station, built in 1872, is a charming example of Tsarist-era infrastructure that still serves as the town’s gateway.
- Cultural Scene: The annual Ureki Summer Festival in July features local folk music, traditional Georgian dance (Sukhishvilebi), and impromptu supra feasts on the beach.
- Local Specialties: You must try fresh, wood-fired Lobiani (bean-filled bread) from the small bakeries near the central market, a perfect beach snack.
Pro Tip: Visit in late May or early September. You’ll avoid the peak Georgian holiday crowds of July and August, enjoy pleasantly warm water (around 22-24°C), and find accommodation prices nearly 40% lower. The beach is most peaceful before 11 AM.
Map of Ureki, Georgia
Use these interactive maps to explore Ureki, Georgia and plan your route:
📍 View Ureki, Georgia on OpenStreetMap
🗺️ Open Ureki, Georgia in Google Maps
Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: Fly into Batumi International Airport (BUS), 55km away. Georgian Airways and Wizz Air offer connections. A pre-booked taxi costs ~80-100 GEL. Book flights at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: Direct trains run from Tbilisi to Ureki (5-6 hours). The overnight train is a classic experience. Reserve tickets at Trainline or the national railway website.
- By Car: The E70 highway connects Batumi to Ureki (1 hour). Parking is generally free near guesthouses. Compare car rentals at RentalCars.com.
- Local Transport: The town is walkable. Marshrutkas (minibuses) to nearby Kobuleti or Batumi cost 3-5 GEL and depart from the main road. Taxis within town are 5-10 GEL.
Best Time to Visit
The beach season runs from late May to late September, with a distinct peak in July-August when Georgian families descend. Shoulder seasons offer the best balance of good weather and local atmosphere.
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 25-30°C, sunny, humid. Sea is warmest. | Vibrant beach life, festivals, all amenities open. Very crowded. |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 5-10°C, rainy, quiet. Sea is cold. | Atmospheric, misty walks on empty beaches. Many hotels closed. |
| Shoulder (Apr–May/Sep–Oct) | 18-24°C, pleasant, fewer rains. | Ideal for relaxation, lower prices, peaceful exploration. |
Budgeting for Ureki, Georgia

A woman sits at the Chronicle of Georgia monument in Tbilisi with a blue sk…, Ureki, Georgia
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Guesthouse: 80-120 GEL/night | Beachfront Hotel: 150-250 GEL/night | Premium Villa: 400+ GEL/night |
| Meals | Market/L bakery: 15-25 GEL | Local restaurant: 30-50 GEL | Fine dining in Batumi: 80+ GEL |
| Transport | Marshrutka/Walking: 5 GEL | Local Taxis: 20 GEL | Private Driver: 150+ GEL/day |
| Activities | Beach, hiking (Free) | Boat trip: 40 GEL | Spa treatment: 120+ GEL |
| Daily Total | 100-150 GEL | 250-350 GEL | 600+ GEL |
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ureki Black Sand Beach | The main draw: 4km of fine, magnetic sand perfect for leisurely walks and believed therapeutic sessions. | 24/7 | Free |
| Shekvetili Dendrological Park | A stunning 80-hectare park 10km north, home to exotic plants, a mini-zoo, and a towering 140m Ferris wheel. | 10:00-20:00 | Park: 5 GEL, Rides extra |
| Green Cape (Mtsvane Kontskhi) | A beautiful, forested peninsula near Kobuleti (15min drive) with lighthouse views and pristine coastline. | 24/7 | Free |
| Ureki Central Market | Immerse in local life; find fresh fruit, churchkhela (walnut candy), and homemade Adjarian spices. | 08:00-18:00 | Free |
3-Day Itinerary: Ureki, Georgia’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Day 1: Sands & Seaside Immersion
- Morning (7-9 AM): Experience the beach at its most magical with a sunrise walk. Feel the unique, fine texture of the magnetic black sand underfoot. Your best bet is to start near the central beach access.
- Afternoon (12-3 PM): Rent a sunbed (10 GEL) and relax. For lunch, head to Family Cafe Ureki for superb Khachapuri Adjarian (the boat-shaped cheese bread with an egg) and a view of the sea.
- Evening (6-8 PM): Stroll the beach promenade as locals do. Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Guria, a family-run spot known for its Ostri (spicy beef stew) and homemade wine.
Day 2: Nature & Culture Excursion
- Morning (9 AM): Take a marshrutka to Shekvetili Dendrological Park (15 min, 3 GEL). Explore the botanical gardens and for a thrill, ride the Ferris wheel (20 GEL) for panoramic Black Sea views.
- Afternoon (1 PM): Return to Ureki for a late lunch at Kafe Lile, famous for its fresh fish and simple, grilled vegetables.
- Evening (7 PM): Explore the Ureki Central Market before it closes, then enjoy a casual evening at a beachside chacha bar, sampling Georgia’s potent grape spirit.
Day 3: Coastal Exploration & Farewell
- Morning (10 AM): Hire a taxi to Green Cape (25 GEL one-way). Hike through the lush, subtropical forest to the historic lighthouse for breathtaking cliffs and sea vistas.
- Afternoon (1 PM): Have a picnic lunch on Green Cape or return to Ureki for a final feast at Mimino, trying their Kupati (Georgian sausages).
- Evening (6 PM): Your final evening calls for a sunset session on the black sand, followed by a relaxed supra-style meal at your guesthouse, enjoying the hospitality Ureki is known for.
Cultural Insights & Etiquette
- Language: Georgian is the official language. Learn “Gamarjoba” (Hello), “Madloba” (Thank you), and “Arapris” (You’re welcome). Russian is widely understood; English is limited but growing in tourist areas.
- Customs: Hospitality is sacred. If invited for a meal, expect a supra (feast) with many toasts led by a tamada (toastmaster). It’s polite to wait for the toast before drinking.
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is becoming common, especially in tourist spots.
- Dress Code: Beachwear is for the beach. When entering shops, cafes, or churches, cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
- Business Hours: Shops typically open 10:00-19:00. Many close for a mid-afternoon break. Restaurants serve lunch 13:00-16:00 and dinner from 19:00-late.
Where to Eat: Ureki, Georgia’s Best Bites
Dining in Ureki is a homely, rustic affair focused on fresh ingredients from the Adjara region. You’ll find family-run cafes serving hearty portions rather than fine-dining establishments. Seafood is a highlight, but the classic Georgian staples are done exceptionally well here.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Khachapuri Adjarian: The iconic cheese-filled bread boat with a raw egg and butter yolk in the center. Mix it in before eating. Best at any local “dukani” (cafe).
- Sinori: A regional Adjarian dish of thin dough layers with cheese and butter, similar to lasagna. A rich, must-try comfort food.
- Fresh Black Sea Fish: Often simply grilled with local spices. Red mullet (Barbuni) and Black Sea trout are common and delicious.
Restaurant Recommendations by Budget
| Type | Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Lile, near the market | Fresh grilled fish & seasonal salads | 20-35 GEL |
| Mid-range | Restaurant Guria, Central Street | Authentic Georgian meat stews & homemade wine | 35-60 GEL |
| Fine dining | Adjara Wine House (in nearby Kobuleti) | Gourmet Georgian tasting menus with wine pairing | 100+ GEL |
Where to Stay
Accommodation is dominated by family guesthouses and small hotels. Beachfront properties command a premium, but staying a block back can offer better value and quiet. For a more local feel, consider a room in a family home. Compare prices and book at Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments.
Best Neighborhoods for Accommodation
- Central Beach Area: Direct beach access, all amenities within walking distance. Can be noisy in peak season. Best for first-time visitors and families.
- Northern Ureki (towards Shekvetili): Quieter, with newer guesthouses and villas, often with gardens. Requires a short walk or taxi to the main beach. Ideal for couples and relaxation seekers.
- Southern Residential Streets: The most local experience, staying with Georgian families. Offers deep cultural immersion and incredible home cooking. Best for adventurous travelers.

Svan towers in Ushguli, Georgia, set against the scenic Caucasus Mountains., Ureki, Georgia
FAQs: Your Ureki, Georgia Questions Answered
1. Is Ureki, Georgia safe at night?
Yes, Ureki is generally very safe. Violent crime is rare. Standard precautions apply: avoid poorly lit, isolated areas of the beach late at night and keep valuables secure. The community is tight-knit and looks out for visitors.
2. What currency is used and are credit cards accepted?
The Georgian Lari (GEL) is the currency. As of late 2023, 1 USD ≈ 2.65 GEL. While larger hotels and some restaurants accept cards (Visa/Mastercard), cash is king in Ureki, especially in markets, small guesthouses, and local cafes. Always carry some lari.
3. How do I get from the airport to Ureki?
From Batumi Airport (BUS), the most convenient option is a pre-booked taxi (~80-100 GEL, 50 min). You can also take a taxi to Batumi bus station (15 GEL) and then a marshrutka to Ureki (5 GEL). Book airport transfers at GetYourGuide for convenience.
4. Do I need to speak the local language?
No, but it helps. Basic English is understood in tourist areas. Learning a few Georgian phrases will earn you warm smiles. A translation app is useful for menus in smaller cafes. Russian phrases can also be a practical bridge.
5. What’s the appropriate dress code?
Beachwear is fine on the sand. When away from the beach, modest casual wear is recommended. Pack a light cover-up for moving between your accommodation and the sea. If visiting churches (in nearby towns), women should cover their hair, shoulders, and knees; men should avoid shorts.
Final Thoughts: Ureki, Georgia Awaits
Ureki offers a distinct and restorative slice of Georgian coastal life. It’s not about flashy attractions, but about the simple, profound pleasure of walking on unique magnetic sand, enjoying genuine hospitality, and stepping back into a slower pace. Travelers often discover that its greatest luxury is its unpretentious authenticity. For a beach holiday that combines natural curiosity with rustic charm, Ureki delivers. Your best bet is to come with an open mind, ready to embrace the local rhythm—start your day with the sun, feast on hearty food, and let the legendary Black Sea breeze wash over you. Don’t leave without burying your feet deep in that warm, black sand and feeling the pull of this special place.



