There are a few scrappy beaches around the coast of the old town, which are popular with some locals and visitors, but they’re small and rocky and the water is often choked with seaweed. Around 1.5km west of the old town is South Beach, a long and well managed stretch of sand that has seen some major developments over the last few years. All the usual water sports are available, including jet-skiing. The beach is lined with several giant hotel complexes, although the officially protected sand dunes at the far end should, hopefully, prevent further construction. The longer sandy shores of Sunny Beach (Slânchev Bryag), just a few kilometres up the coast, are an alternative option.