A boutique-hotelier’s guide to Costinești, Romania — where to swim, eat, dance, and where the locals actually go. Written by the team at Luna Marina, who live here year-round.
Why Costinești?
Costinești sits on Romania’s Black Sea coast, halfway between Constanța and Mangalia. In summer it transforms from a sleepy fishing village into the country’s most beloved party town — yet most travel guides barely mention it. We think that’s a missed opportunity.
The beach: what nobody tells you
Costinești has three distinct beaches. The Main Beach in front of the village is busy and lively. The Tineretului beach south is younger and louder. But the locals’ secret is the Schitu sand-bar 3 km north — quieter, with cleaner water and incredible sunsets.
Where to eat (local-approved)
- La Mihai — the best mici on the coast, grilled over wood fire since 1987.
- Plaja Bambus — beach restaurant, fresh fish, no reservations needed before 19:00.
- Crama Vlăsia — Romanian wines and slow-cooked lamb, 5 km inland.
Beach Please Festival
Every July, Costinești hosts Beach Please Festival — the biggest hip-hop festival in Eastern Europe. The 2026 edition runs 8–12 July. We’ve written a separate guide for festival-goers.
Day-trips from Costinești
- Constanța old town — 25 km north, Roman mosaics + Art Nouveau casino.
- Histria — Romania’s oldest urban settlement, 65 km north, ruins on a lake.
- Murfatlar vineyards — 40 km inland, tastings at the historic cellars.
- 2 Mai & Vama Veche — bohemian beach villages 35 km south.
When to come
June and early September are quietest and cheapest. Mid-July to mid-August is peak — book 2-3 months ahead. Festival week (8–12 July 2026) sells out 6+ months in advance — join our waitlist to get first access.
How to get here
Drive 2.5 hours from Bucharest on the A2. Trains run to Constanța in 2h45m; from there it’s a 25 km taxi or local bus. The nearest airport is Constanța (CND), 35 km away.
About Luna Marina
We’re a 27-room boutique hotel opening August 2026, run by a small team who’s lived in Costinești for decades. Reserve direct on our site for the best rate — never on the OTAs. Join the waitlist to be first.