From today, May 11th, Lake Lupa is welcoming sunseekers for the summer season. Launched a year ago, this freshwater facility, referred to as Budapest’s beach, features soft white sand, comfy loungers, cocktails, parties, palm trees and plenty of aquatic attractions, including multiple sites for swimming, a wakeboard and diving centre. Located at Budakalász, just beyond Buda’s northern border, this unmatched urban splash zone is only an hour from the city centre.

Previously marked as a prohibited zone for swimming, a Budapest pit lake is now the city’s most coveted summertime destination. This clear-water haven is divided into two revamped areas: Bay Beach for bathers on a budget, Premium Beach for more exclusive visitors. This well-equipped facility with the lake comprises Lupa Beach where, at any one time, 10,000 people enjoy a real seaside experience along a shore stretching over two kilometres.

Having received yet another makeover for the season ahead, Lupa Beach now welcomes guests not only with water and sand. Two dozen restaurants sell barbecued delights, burger and wine – even Costes is here with fine food inspired by Michelin-awarded Costes Downtown. The extensive spit jutting out into the water, aka ‘long island’, features themed bars along the waterfront.

Elegant and spacious four-poster beds set the Premium Beach area apart, but you can also book separated sections along the beach with private catering from 40,000 forints per day.

Like in a real seaside destination, there are sports facilities a-plenty, including beach volleyball and handball, but you’ll also find a street-workout park and teqball. Kayaks and canoes are available for hire. Those who like extreme sports can look forward to the biggest wakeboard centre in the region, for flyboarding and diving. Thai massage and SUP yoga are also available.

Meanwhile, a playground, kids’ pool, aquatic adventure park, a trampoline, water dodgems and a bouncy castle entertain younger guests.

A campsite and wooden chalets may be added in the future.

Standard admission to Bay Beach costs 1,000 forints during the week and 1,500 forints at weekends. Premium Beach is 2,500 forints from Mondays to Fridays and 3,500 forints on Saturdays and Sundays. Cheaper sunset tickets are available after 5pm. In May, a 50% discount is applicable on admission, while tickets valid during the first week after the opening are fully redeemable for food and drinks purchased on-site.

Renting a four-poster bed will set you back 4,000 forints and a deckchair is yours for 1,000 forints a day.

To get there, take the HÉV train from Batthyány tér to Budakalász. From there, it’s a 20-minute walk to the beach – or come summer, look out for the beach-bound electric bus service (200 HUF). There are also four on-site car parks at 200 HUF/hr.