Black Sea Arena
Oval concert arena for 9,000 at Shekvetili, launched by Christina Aguilera in 2016 and now Georgia's biggest summer stage.
Black Sea ArenaPhoto: Temoabc, CC BY-SA 4.0The Black Sea Arena stands close to the beach at Shekvetili, about 45 km north of Batumi, and has become the biggest summer stage in Georgia. The German firm Drei Architekten designed it as an oval auditorium wrapped in circular grandstands for about 9,000 people, with a roof that can open or close and facade panels that rotate. It presents itself as the largest open concert hall in the Caucasus. Work started in 2008, and the venue opened at the end of July 2016 with a concert by Christina Aguilera.
Since then the line-up has included Aerosmith, Scorpions, Elton John, The Black Eyed Peas, Thirty Seconds to Mars, Ennio Morricone and The Killers. Most big shows fall in late July and August, so look at the programme before planning a beach week around one. On concert nights the coast road fills up and taxis are scarce afterwards, so arrange a ride back to Ureki, Kobuleti or Batumi in advance. By day the arena is quiet, and Shekvetili's beach and parks are a short distance away.
What to see and do
- A summer concert under the open roof
- Oval design by Drei Architekten with rotating facade panels
- Circular grandstands for 9,000 people
- The beach and pine forest of Shekvetili nearby
How to visit
Getting there
The arena is in Shekvetili, about 45 km (45 to 50 minutes) north of Batumi, about 8 km south of Ureki and about 300 km from Tbilisi. Marshrutkas on the coast road pass nearby, but after concerts a booked taxi or transfer is easier.
When to go
Late July and August. Plan an evening here.
- Buy tickets as soon as a show is announced
- Book your transfer back before the concert
- Bring a light jacket for the sea breeze after dark
- Stay in Shekvetili or Ureki to avoid the late drive to Batumi
Black Sea Arena: FAQ
How many people does the Black Sea Arena hold?
About 9,000, in circular grandstands around an oval auditorium. The roof can be opened or closed.
How do I get to the Black Sea Arena from Batumi?
Drive or take a taxi about 45 km north along the coast road, roughly 45 to 50 minutes. Marshrutkas towards Ureki pass close by, but plan your return ride before the show.
Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Black Sea Arena.
