Where can you escape the noise and bustle of the city? Where can you breathe clean, fresh air? Where can you have a picnic, sit in pleasant coolness, or maybe even go for a swim? Yes, there is such a place in the capital of Georgia, and that’s Tbilisi Sea.
Although it’s called a “sea,” it’s actually a reservoir built in the mid-20th century to supply the city with water. Previously, the area had several salty lakes, which were artificially filled with water from the Iori River. In spring, thanks to the rains, the reservoir fills up, and during the hot summer and the rest of the seasons, it recedes again. Nowadays, it mainly serves as a place for relaxation and entertainment.
Dimensions:
• Area — 11.6 sq. km
• Length — 9 km
• Width — up to 1.85 km
• Depth — 26–45 meters (can fluctuate by as much as 10 meters throughout the year).
Why Visit Tbilisi Sea?
• Swim and Sunbathe: During the summer, the water warms up nicely, and several beaches are cleaned and equipped with loungers.
• Enjoy Nature: Stroll through pine forests, pick wildflowers, and breathe in the fresh air.
• Explore Attractions: Visit the Chronicles of Georgia monument, the waterpark, or go sailing at the yacht club—there’s something for everyone.
Beaches at Tbilisi Sea
There are both free and paid beaches. For instance, Tbilisi Sea Club offers a well-maintained beach, water sports, and jet skiing—but it comes with a hefty price tag.
But the most popular option is Temka Beach in Grmagele, which is free. You’ll find the “sea,” a small forest area, and special zones equipped for grilling shashlik (available for rent). Meanwhile, at the beach near the Chronicles of Georgia monument, there are plenty of “No Swimming” signs because of frequent sudden drops in depth. Be attentive and careful!
How do you know which beach is where? Check the screenshot of the map below. The very top one is the beach by the monument.
Water Temperature: In summer, the water temperature is a comfortable 21–25°C—perfect for a refreshing dip, especially when temperatures soar to +40°C in July and August.
Chronicles of Georgia Monument
A must-see attraction near Tbilisi Sea is the Chronicles of Georgia, a colossal 35-meter-tall monument designed by renowned architect Zurab Tsereteli. Known for works like the Freedom Square column, Friendship Arch, sculptures “Mimino” in Avlabari district and Peter the Great statue in Moscow, Tsereteli’s Chronicles of Georgia is often referred to as the “Georgian Stonehenge.”
You can often find it referred to online as the Chronicle of Georgia, The History of Georgia, or even the Chronicles of Georgia.
The History of Georgia, sometimes called the “Georgian Stonehenge,” consists of 16 copper-bronze columns. From a bird’s-eye view, their tops form the outline of a cross. The monument as a whole is divided into three levels. The lower level focuses on biblical themes and stories from Scripture. The middle level depicts kings, rulers, political figures, artists, and priests from the past—all those who made Georgia a great country. The upper level is dedicated to ordinary people, folk traditions, harvest scenes, and celebrations.
The monument, though constructed in 1985, remains unfinished. Like a true great artist, Zurab Tsereteli keeps refining the final compositional touches. However, this doesn’t lessen the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Chronicles in any way.
Located on a hill overlooking the reservoir, the Chronicles of Georgia monument offers a beautiful view of Tbilisi Sea, with pine trees and steppe grasses covering the surrounding area. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic—there’s plenty of fresh air, and the trees provide shade from the scorching sun. The shoreline beneath the monument is Tbilisi’s central beach. In summer, it’s packed with people, and you’ll find beach chairs for rent—just like at any popular beach worldwide.
Choose a day that isn’t too hot, as the metal monument heats up under the sun and becomes like a sizzling pan. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Here’s a photo of the History of Georgia from my Instagram. A small brag: Zurab Tsereteli shared the picture on his official account.
Gino Paradise Waterpark
Gino Paradise Waterpark is the largest waterpark in the capital. During the summer season, it attracts huge crowds of water activity and adventure enthusiasts. It’s like a small city with countless attractions and well-developed infrastructure.
• Address: 9 Beshenova St.
• Hours: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
• Tickets: 69₾ per person; 39₾ after 5:00 PM. Kids under 5 enter for free.
• Website: ginoaquapark.ge
La Cote Yacht Club
Another spot for water activities where the whole family can relax. The yacht club offers water skiing, boat rides, sailing, yachting, diving, and parasailing. There are also pools, playgrounds, and a restaurant, “La Cote,” on the premises, capable of hosting up to 1,000 people. Live music adds to the overall experience.
This venue is perfect for weddings and birthday parties, with a variety of daytime and nighttime celebration programs already in place.
• Address: 1 Alley of Love
• Hours: 10:00 AM–12:00 AM
• Instagram: La Cote Tbilisi
Nearby Hotels
• Aphra Hotel: Offers stunning views of the sea and mountains, a pool, and a Georgian restaurant—just 100 m from the reservoir.
• Gamarjoba Hotel: Located in Saburtalo, a 9-minute drive from the sea. Cozy rooms with city and mountain views.
• Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi: A five-star luxury hotel located on the shores of Tbilisi Sea. Rooms feature an elegant design, and there’s a gym, a conference hall, a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a separate spa area. By the way, even if you aren’t staying at the hotel, you can use the pool for 50 GEL.
Important information about Tbilisi Reservoir
Even though swimming in Tbilisi Sea is officially allowed (except in areas with “No Swimming” signs), you must exercise extreme caution. Some parts of the lakebed are scattered with sharp rocks that can injure your feet, and the reservoir’s average depth is 26 meters. Between 10 and 30 people drown here each year. Don’t swim too far from the shore, don’t swim under the influence, and never let children swim alone. Safety first!
According to a recently adopted law, it’s forbidden to light fires in forested areas. So if you plan to visit the “Chronicles of Georgia” and grill some shashlik, you might end up without your barbecue and with a fine of 100–200 GEL. Fortunately, there are designated areas with grills you can rent in advance, or you can choose a flat area without forest nearby.
Getting There
Tbilisi Sea is elongated, which means it’s close to many parts of the city. Naturally, the easiest way to get there is by personal or rented car.
For alternative options, you can reach Temka Beach by taking the metro to Grmagele Station, then transferring to bus 360. If you notice everyone getting off at one stop, that’s your signal you’re close to the beach.
A third, more comfortable option is a taxi. From Freedom Square to Tbilisi Sea Club or Temka Beach costs about 10–13 GEL and takes around 30 minutes. Both are the same distance from the city center, even though they’re on opposite sides of the reservoir.
More about Tbilisi and Georgia:
Best hotels in the mountains of Georgia
Souvenirs – what to bring from Georgia as a gift
Top 6 Restaurants for the Best Khinkali in Tbilisi
Best Hotels in the Center of Tbilisi
My name is Vitaly Kibitlevsky, I am a tour guide and creator of unique quests in Batumi. If you want to walk around the city with a fascinating storyteller or plunge into an exciting adventure, write to the mail: vitkibit@gmail.com
Find out more about me and my projects here