Costinești 2026 — the young people's guide to a dream holiday

If the Romanian coast had a capital of youth, it would without doubt be Costinești. You don't come here for refined luxury or perfect quiet, but for the energy that doesn't fade even at dawn, for friendships forged on the sand and for the feeling that summer will never end. In 2026, Costinești remains the resort that promises you the lowest prices and the greatest freedom on the Black Sea coast.

Why Costinești and not Mamaia

Unlike the elegant clubs of Mamaia, Costinești bets on affordability. Here, accommodation in small guesthouses and campsites stays friendly to student budgets, and the atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious. Young people come in groups, pitch their tents or rent modest rooms and turn every evening into a little festival.

The resort sits between Eforie Sud and 23 August, halfway between Constanța and Mangalia, which makes it an excellent base for exploring the rest of the coast.

The Evangelia shipwreck, the resort's symbol

No guide to Costinești is complete without the Epava Evangelia (Evangelia shipwreck). The Greek vessel that ran aground in the 1960s has become the resort's unofficial emblem, rusting majestically right by the shore. At sunrise or sunset, its silhouette makes for the most spectacular photos on the coast. Many young people swim out to it, but be careful: the structure is old and unstable, so admire it from a safe distance.

Nightlife

Costinești means, above all, nightlife. On the promenade and in the central area you'll find terraces, bars and clubs that run until morning. The atmosphere is informal: varied music, reasonable prices and a young, open crowd.

A few tips for the evenings here:

• Start late. The real fun only begins after midnight.
• Go in a group. You'll fit in more easily and save on transport.
• Stay hydrated. The daytime sun plus the long evenings call for water, not just cocktails.

The beach and daytime activities

The beach at Costinești is wide and sandy, perfect for beach sports. You'll see improvised volleyball courts, jet skis and surf schools. Lacul Costinești, right behind the resort, offers a quiet alternative for walks or pedalos.

For those who want to explore, a day trip to Constanța puts the restored Cazino, the Delfinariu and the Acvariu in front of you — a pleasant contrast with the resort's buzz.

How to save to the max

Costinești is the smart choice for a small budget, but a few tricks help even more:

1. Book your accommodation early. In July and August the cheap spots fill up fast.
2. Cook some of your meals. Many guesthouses have a shared kitchen or a barbecue spot.
3. Buy from the local shops, not from the promenade, where prices climb.
4. Use public transport to the neighbouring resorts instead of a taxi.

In closing

Costinești in 2026 hasn't changed in essence, and that's exactly where its charm lies. It's the place where youth is celebrated without filters, where the Epava Evangelia watches over a shore full of stories, and where every evening turns into a memory. If you want sun, sea, new friends and freedom at a student's price, you've found the right resort.