Abstract
<jats:p>This article examines the existing legal framework and the methods of management and control of beach areas in leading tourist destinations across Europe. Each country has its own approach to beach management, which, although partly constrained by European legislation, reflects its national priorities and governance model. Since beaches in Bulgaria are considered national assets and public state property, it is crucial for Bulgarian tourism to achieve an optimal price–quality ratio of beach-related services, to reduce incidents of water-related injuries, and to increase funding for maintenance and investment in the sustainable use of this natural resource. The methodological foundation of this research is based on a systems analysis—both system-structural and system-functional. The study explores the existing legislative and administrative regulations in Bulgaria as well as in countries with leading marine tourism sectors. Keywords: beaches, management, legal and regulatory changes</jats:p>