tourist beaches in turkey

The best beaches in Turkey for sunsets, windsurfing, partying and more

Nov 4, 2021 • 5 min read

The brisk winds off the beaches in Alaçatı appeal to windsurfers and kitesurfers © FGorgun / Getty Images

From the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to the rugged, rocky shores of the Black Sea, Turkey abounds in beaches ( plajlar ) along its coasts, which border four different seas. 

The Mediterranean Sea is the warmest for swimming and the most popular with sun seekers, while the Aegean coast is mostly lower-key and less developed. The often rough Black Sea isn’t as inviting, but the scenery can be striking. Beaches around the highly urbanized Marmara Sea can provide a quick getaway from Istanbul . 

Whether you’re looking for water sports or family fun, peace and quiet, or party time, here are our dozen top picks for beaches to visit in Turkey.

Patara Beach

Best beach for long walks.

Near the town of Gelemiş, the beautiful 11-mile-long Patara Beach on the Mediterranean is one of Turkey’s finest, with white sand and soft dunes. (Sea turtles like it too: when they’re nesting here, parts of the beach are off limits.) The beach backs onto the scattered, evocative ruins of ancient Patara , which include a 5000-seat theater. The Lycian Way long-distance hiking trail passes through here as well.

Best beach for windsurfing and kitesurfing

A sheltered bay with steady winds and flat water give the Aegean beaches of Alaçatı top appeal for windsurfers and kitesurfers of all levels. An assortment of laid-back surf clubs and schools offers lessons and equipment rentals. The town itself is known for old stone houses that have been converted into boutique hotels and chic restaurants.

İztuzu Beach

Best beach for swimming.

This long sandy beach near Dalyan remains unspoiled thanks to its status as a protected natural reserve. The water is clean, generally placid and free from boats, jet skis and the like. At one end of the beach is a sea turtle rescue center that’s open to visitors. You can drive to İztuzu , but the best way to arrive is via a boat trip on the reed-lined river that wends its way to the sea from the center of town.

Güzelcehisar Beach

Best beach for natural beauty.

The backdrop to this Black Sea beach in Bartın province could hardly be more dramatic: massive basalt columns formed by a volcanic explosion some 80 million years ago. Wooden walkways wind below the columns, and the sandy beach itself is clean and welcoming.

Ayayorgi Bay

Best beach for partying.

The beaches of the Çeşme Peninsula are hugely popular with city dwellers from nearby İzmir as well as Istanbul, and Ayayorgi Koyu (Ayayorgi Bay) is one of the top spots for the svelte set to see and be seen. Chic beach clubs around the tranquil turquoise cove get the crowds dancing with live music and DJ sets after nightfall.

Cleopatra Beach

Best beach for city access.

This popular beach stretches right along the coast of Alanya , one of Turkey’s largest resort towns. Both the sand and sea get high marks from travelers for cleanliness, and there’s an extensive array of hotels, restaurants, cafes and other facilities right at hand. If you get tired of sunbathing, wander over to the stalactite-laden Damlataş Cave or explore Alanya’s impressive 13th-century waterfront fortress .

Kaputaş Beach

Best beach for that perfect instagram shot.

With white rocky cliffs tumbling down to clear turquoise waters, the small Kaputaş Beach , just off the winding road between Kalkan and Kaş, is picture-perfect – and much photographed. Get there early to beat the crowds.

Best beach for backpackers

It’s a steep walk down to the seaside at Kabak , where the beach sits picturesquely at the end of a small bay with verdant cliffs rising up on either side. This secluded spot along the Mediterranean is popular with backpackers, who pass through while hiking the Lycian Way or settle in for a few days of laid-back revelry at one of the campsites or simple cabins near the beach.

Best beach for diving and snorkeling

Sunken ships, half-buried amphorae, caves, tunnels and rock formations draw divers to the waters around Kaş , a relaxed seaside town on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast with good underwater visibility and mostly pebble beaches. Boats tour around the area’s nearly three dozen dive sites, many open to snorkelers as well. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of an endangered loggerhead turtle or Mediterranean monk seal.

Best beach for sunsets

People drive from all over the area to watch the sunset from Gümüşlük, a tiny village at the western edge of the Bodrum Peninsula . The beach here isn’t anything special, but it’s lined with a bevy of charming (and mostly pricey) waterfront fish restaurants with romantic seating areas and camera-ready views.

Best beach for family-friendly resorts

Close to the Antalya airport and city center, this nine-mile-long sand beach is lined with all-inclusive resorts that cater to families with kids’ clubs and other activities and entertainment for all ages. The water here is warm, shallow and calm. You can take a banana boat ride or visit Sandland, an open-air display of sand sculptures.

Ovabükü Beach

Best beach for peace and quiet.

At the end of winding roads on the already relaxed and remote Datça Peninsula , the pebbly Ovabükü Beach sits on a small bay surrounded by olive and almond groves. The water is clean, if a bit wavy, and small restaurants and cafes offer sun-lounger and umbrella rentals along with food and drink.

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• 20 Beaches in Turkey

Turkey Beaches

Here is the list of best beaches in turkey:, quick navigation.

Kabak Beach

Kleopatra Beach

Iztuzu Beach

Blue Lagoon - Oludeniz Beach

Konyaalti Beach

Patara Beach

Cirali Beach

Best of Greece

Kaputas Beach

Best of Switzerland

Butterfly Valley Beach

Best of Spain

Ovabuku Beach

Best of Paris

Icmeler Beach

Best of Italy

Alacati Beach

Best of London

Ortakent Beach

Best of Amsterdam

Best of Rome

Altinkum Beach

Best of Venice

Kalkan Beach

Best of Netherlands

Mermerli Beach

Karasu Beach

Sile Aqua Beach

Ilica Beach

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Attractions in Turkey

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This Monastery is an architectural marvel which features intricate architectural details and is home to well-preserved frescoes. A tour of the Gumusler Monastery will give you insights into the Byzantine Empire’s art and culture. On your tour of the Gumusler Monastery, get ready to embrace the exquisite craftsmanship and spiritual ambience, making this hidden gem a must-visit travel destination. It is also one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, selecting charm from all sides. If you are an adventure enthusiast or a history lover, mark your visit to this soul-striking destination.

Nestled on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey, the Ari Burnu Cemetery stands as a poignant testament to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. Enhanced by exploring Europe trip packages, this hallowed ground offers a solemn and reflective atmosphere, serving as the final resting place for those who fought valiantly on this historic battleground.As you enter the cemetery, you are immediately struck by the rows upon rows of pristine gravestones, each one representing a life cut short in the pursuit of duty. The quiet serenity that envelops the cemetery invites contemplation and remembrance. Here, visitors have the opportunity to pay their respects, honoring the bravery and resilience of the fallen soldiers.Walking along the paths, you'll notice the meticulously maintained graves, adorned with flowers, wreaths, and personal mementos left by visitors from around the world. These offerings stand as gestures of gratitude and serve as a reminder that the sacrifices made in the name of freedom will never be forgotten.The cemetery also features poignant memorials and plaques that recount the stories of the soldiers and the battles fought in this historic campaign. These tributes offer a glimpse into the human experiences and hardships faced by the soldiers, further deepening the significance of this sacred ground.

Curetes Street, one of Ephesus' primary thoroughfares, extends from the Hercules Gate to the Celsus Library. It is the primary pathway that leads to other historical areas of the city. The grandeur of the street and its glorious times can be seen through its marble ruins, intricate facades, fountains, monuments, and temples that run along the way. This bustling street was once the heart of the city, teeming with merchants, shops, and residences. Additionally, serving as an ancient processional route to the Temple of Artemis, it derives its name from the priests who traversed it during religious observances.

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The 10 Best Beaches in Turkey

If you’re thinking about jetting off to the Aegean Sea, you’re probably curious about where to find the best beaches in Turkey . The country has many allures, but it is no secret that the hundreds of beaches that cover its 7000-kilometre coastline are some of the most popular things to do. Many of the most beautiful Turkish landscapes can be spotted along its shores, and there is a variety of local culture to experience right on the sand.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a Turkish beach that doesn’t hit the spot, but we’ve still done the groundwork for you and selected our personal favourites. From family hotspots to off-the-beaten-track gems , these sandy highlights will have you booking tickets in no time.

1. Kabak Beach, Fethiye

On the pebbles and white sands of Kabak Beach, you’ll mostly be in the company of locals and backpackers travelling along the Lycian Way. You won’t find many amenities, any water sports or beach chairs for hire. The vibe is distinctively laid back, and people come here mainly to appreciate the natural beauty and undisturbed stillness during their villa holiday in Turkey. There are some shaded areas to escape from the sun with a juice or a beer from one of the beach bars. Other than that, it’s just you, the Mediterranean, and a few friendly loggerhead turtles to keep you company.

2. Mermerli Beach, Antalya

No more than a stone’s throw from the city centre, Mermerli Beach is a small city beach tucked away next to the old port. Since Antalya is a pedestrian-only zone, Mermerli can only be reached on foot, but there is nothing better than a spot of relaxing, sunbathing and swimming after a morning spent walking in town.

To access the beach, you pay a small fee at the entrance of Mermerli Restaurant and descend a wooden staircase from there. Included in the price are a sun lounger and parasol, and you’ll be able to have drinks, ice creams and food brought right to your seat from the restaurant. A stone plateau and wooden terraces have extended the small natural beach of brown sand and pebbles, but keep in mind that there is very limited space. There is plenty of room in the water, though, and the sea is clear with beautiful views of the opposite coast.

3. Blue Lagoon, Ölüdeniz 

The Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon is probably the most famous beach in all of Turkey and for a good reason. Few places in the world match up to its natural beauty, and as such, tourists are drawn to the vibrant blue waters for a few hours of unwinding by the sea.

This wide bay is located just where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet, inside a protected natural park , with the Babadag mountains in the background. The sands are relatively gritty, but most visitors love lounging in the shallows of the waters, which is warm and perfect for children to play safely.

Until the early 80s, the Blue Lagoon was a fairly hidden gem, only known to hippies and backpackers. These days, it is well-developed with bars, restaurants, and plenty of activities. One of the most popular pastimes is enjoying the scenery from above while paragliding from the nearby mountains. Or, if you prefer to stay at sea level, you could hire a paddleboard for your explorations. Either way, you’ll soon see why the Blue Lagoon is one of the most photographed beaches in Europe and a perfect place to visit during your luxury villa holiday in Turkey.

4. Icmeler Beach, Marmaris  

The golden sands of Icmeler Beach can be found in the resort town with the same name, just 8 kilometres from Marmaris. What was once a small fishing village is now one of Turkey’s most popular seaside getaways for families and groups of adults alike.

Iclemer has a surprisingly Caribbean feel for a beach surrounded by pine forests and backed by the Taurus Mountains . It probably has something to do with the 6km long stretch of sand that never feels too crowded and is cleaned every night so that it’s spotless when you arrive in the morning.

Whether you’re after excitement or total relaxation, you’ll be able to find it all here, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants. The beach is calm with small waves , perfect for lounging in the sun and going on long swims. However, if water sports are your thing, everything from parasailing to jet skiing and scuba diving is on offer. There are also great hiking trails in the hills nearby, which offer up some pretty views of the beach from above.

Where to stay : Villa Gulseren

5. Patara Beach, Gelemiş 

At 18 kilometres, Patara is the longest beach in all of Turkey , and with minimal development, you’ll easily find a lovely spot to enjoy it in private. Perfect for long walks in the sand, sunbathing and swimming, the waters here are warm and shallow, ideal for kids and great for snorkelling during your villa holiday in Turkey.

This unspoilt paradise made up of limestone peaks and rolling white dunes is also part of a national park. The local birdlife is vibrant, and the beach itself is a protected breeding ground for loggerhead turtles . Due to this, the beach has little to no development, save a small community-run café where you can also rent parasols and the like. After sunset, Patara is off limits for humans, giving the turtles free range of the sand.

6. Cirali Beach, Cirali

This unspoilt shingle beach is a dream spot for everyone from history buffs to nature lovers. On one end of the beach, you’ll find the epic ruins of Olympos , and on the other, the eternal flames of Chimaera . On the sandy stretch between these two iconic sites, the endangered loggerhead turtles return to nest in a WWF-protected conservation area.

Visitors can delight in the crystal-clear waters , and in having lots of space to themselves. Cirali isn’t the most accessible place to reach unless you know where it is, but that means there are rarely any crowds. And as it is a protected area, development is kept to a minimum. You won’t be bothered by loud beach bars of water sports (save some sea kayaks) – just a handful of restaurants, sun loungers and a picnic area.

7. Kaputaş Beach, Kas

The stunning beach is set beneath two forested cliffs , at the mouth of Kaputas Canyon. To reach it, you have to make your way down a staircase of 187 steps, but don’t forget to stop and marvel at the view from above and join many others in memorialising it on camera.

Once you’ve made your descent; you can sprawl out on a sunbed atop the pale pebbled sands and enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the clear turquoise waters. If you’re visiting with children, you can calmly let them play in the shallows, and take full advantage of the modern amenities that are a recent addition to Kaputas Beach. While popular with both locals and tourists, you don’t need to worry about too many crowds here during your luxury villa holiday in Turkey. There tend to be just enough visitors to keep the beach cafés running (including our favourite Turkish pancake shack).

Where to stay : Villa Tobias

8. Cleopatra Beach, Alanya

This 2.5-kilometre stretch of fine sand got its name from Queen Cleopatra herself, who is said to have fallen in love with the beautiful bay on a journey of the Mediterranean. After seeing the deep blue waters for yourself, you’re sure to understand why.

This spotlessly clean beach is lined by a picturesque walkway and all the shops, cafés and restaurants you need to spend all day on the beach. With over two million visitors every year (not to mention all the boat trips that stop off here daily), there are certain amenities to match, and families may relax knowing that there is even childcare on offer. The waters at Cleopatra Beach are warm and perfect for swimming. With some pretty large waves, water sports are always a good option, including surfing and paragliding.

9. Butterfly Valley, Ölüdeniz

But don’t shy away from Butterfly Valley even if you’re not interested in spending the night in a tent or eating communal meals at the campground. Anyone who wants to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of this beach should do so.

Accessible by boat from Ölüdeniz, or a very steep hike best left to veteran climbers, Butterfly Valley is located a bit off the beaten track. It is a picture-postcard cove of turquoise water , and white sand backed by the Babadag Mountains. There are plenty of great hiking trails around to enjoy during your villa holiday in Turkey, some of which lead to hidden waterfalls in the hills. The valley was named after its native 100-some species of butterflies, but the little critters are shy of noise and not so easily spotted these days.

Where to stay : Villa Gunes 

10. İztuzu Beach, Dalyan

There is very minimal construction on this beach, much to conserve its natural beauty and the important turtle habitats here. Iztuzu Beach is one of the most prominent nesting spots for loggerhead turtles in Turkey, which is why it’s also sometimes referred to as Turtle Beach. For this reason, it’s only open from 8 am to 8 pm during summer, leaving nights to four-legged visitors.

Visitors love Iztutu for its soft golden sands and pine-covered, hilly surroundings . The water is excellent for swimming and surfing, and there is plenty of room for privacy on the sand. Not many tourist crowds have made their way to this beach, but there are a handful of cafés serving tea and pancakes. If you’re curious to explore more of the area, you can also take a short boat trip across the river mouth, to a small shady beach on the other side.

Where to stay : Yuksel Evi

With all this talk of the best beaches in Turkey, you’re probably wondering where to find the best home base for all your explorations of the Turkish coast.  Well, taking a look through our expansive list  of villas to rent in Turkey is a great place to start. If you have any questions or need some help with your search, our friendly concierge team is always on hand as well.

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The 20 best beaches in Turkey

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Beach holidays in Turkey are often synonymous with (mostly) British tourists occupying row after row of sun loungers, rowdy club nights and all-inclusive resorts. However, using public transport, or your own car, you can get to some of the best beaches in Turkey in no time.

1. Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan

2. patara beach, xanthos valley, 3. kabak beach, the lycian way, 4. cirali beach, the turquoise coast, 5. phaselis beach, the turquoise coast, 6. bozcaada beach, 7. belediye plaji beach, kıyıköy, 8. aydıncık beach, gökçeada, 9. gizli liman beach, gökçeada, 10. foça beach, 11. akliman beach, sinop, 12. karasu beach, dilek national park, 13. alaçatı beach, the çeşme peninsula – one of the best beaches in turkey for surfing, 14. pamucak beach, kuşadasi, 15. palamut bükü beach, datça, 16. kaputaş beach, kalkan, 17. butterfly valley beach, ölüdeniz, 18. antalya beaches, 19. kleopatra beach, alanya, 20. kargı beach, bodrum.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget , your essential guide for visiting Europe.

Meet the loggerhead turtles who bury their eggs in the protected sands of Ciralı. Or, escape the tourist haven of Bodrum, one of the best beach destinations in Turkey. Find secluded coves just down the coast.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Turkey, created by local experts

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5 days  / from 1100 USD

City & culture - Istanbul and Cappadocia

Explore two absolute highlights in Turkey - Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.

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Visit Gobekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut in Southeastern Anatolia before proceeding to Cappadocia with its volcanic scenery. After a few days in the valleys, continue to Pamukkale and the ancient city of Ephesus. Your tour starts and ends in Istanbul.

Turtles and tourism coexist on the protected 4.5km of hard-packed sands of Iztuzu beach, which is considered one of the best beaches in Turkey. Tracks emerging from the sea are visible on the sand in June and July. These are formed when turtles have dragged themselves ashore to lay their eggs, and the marshes behind the beach are often alive with other wildlife too.

While lack of shade is often a problem on this beach, the gently shelving seabed calms the choppy waters, making Iztuzu excellent for children.

This tailor-made trip to Delightful Turkey is for those who want to discover as much as of Turkey as possible in under one week. Highlights include the Old Town of Istanbul, the valleys of Cappadocia, the birth of Sufism and the historical city of Ephesus.

Where to stay near Iztuzu Beach:

• Best for river views: Midas Pension
• Best for comfort: Dalyan Hotel Nish Caria

Find more accommodation options to stay near Iztuzu Beach

Iztuzu Beach and Dalyan © Nejdet Duzen/Shutterstock

Patara’s fine white-sand beach ranks as one of the longest continuous beach in the Mediterranean. It measures 9km from the access road to the mouth of the Eşen Çayı, and then another 6km to the end.

In peak season the immediate vicinity of the beach entrance gets crowded, but walking northwest past the dunes brings you to plenty of solitary spots. Spring and autumn swimming is delightful, but in summer the exposed shoreline can be battered by body-surfable waves.

Where to stay near Patara Beach:

• Best for relaxation: Dardanos Hotel
• Best for friendly vibes: Flower Hotel Patara

Find more accommodation options to stay near Patara Beach

Aerial view of an untouched Patara Beach in Antalya, Turkey © proslgn/Shutterstock

The small village of Kabak is the perfect place to escape package holiday groups. Most visitors come here to chill out in one of the many wooden huts and bungalows, set in the pine-forested valley behind the sand-and-pebble beach. Wear mosquito repellent in the summer though, as these pesky insects are everywhere.

Find more inspiration for visiting Turkey with our guide to the best things to do in Turkey .

Beautiful beach view of Kabak Valley near Fethiye, Turkey. © Shutterstock

The laidback resort, shrouded in citrus groves, is situated on a narrow plain between the mountains and a long, curving 3km-long shingle beach, considered one of the best beaches in Turkey. It is possible to walk along the beach to the ruins of ancient Olympos, as well as longer hikes on the Lycian Way, which blazes its way through the settlement.

Çiralı is safeguarded by various Turkish bodies for its unique ecology. This has enabled threatened loggerhead and green sea turtles to continue laying their eggs here. Be careful not to so dig up, litter or nocturnally illuminate the beach during the summer nesting season.

Where to stay near Cirali Beach:

• Best for boutique stays: Kimera Lounge Boutique Hotel & Spa
• Best for couples: Secret Garden Hotel & Bungalows

Find more accommodation options to stay near Cirali Beach

Cirali Olympos beach at Mediterranean sea, Antalya Province, Turkey © Shutterstock

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Heading north from Olympos, there’s scant pretext to stop before Antalya. Yet ancient Phaselis, with its superb swimming opportunities, will certainly tempt you off the main road.

The ruins of Phaselis flank three small bays, providing ample opportunity to contemplate antique monuments while lying on the beach. The natural beauty of the clear sea makes for a rewarding half-day outing. Bring a picnic if you don’t fancy the car-park snack caravans.

The scenic view of the beach of Phaselis ancient city, Antalya © Shutterstock

Sitting beneath the gently undulating countryside of Bozcaada there are a few good beaches, the most developed being Ayazma, which offers watersports and sunbeds. The next bay west, Sulubahçe, has good broad sand but no parking. For the best beaches head to the secluded, sandy Beylik cove or Aqvaryum bay, tucked scenically to one side of the Mermer Burnu cape.

Ayazma Beach, Bozcaada, Turkey © Kemal Mardin/Shutterstock

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Belediye Plaji is a long stretch of sandy beach that’s backed by low cliffs packed with fossils. Sadly, in summer, campers’ rubbish and semi-permanent tents can blight this beautiful landscape. But with your own transport, head north to find several more almost empty beaches – some of the most stunning and undeveloped in Turkey.

Empty beach in the Black Sea town of Kiyikoy © Shutterstock

Arguably one of the best beaches in Turkey, just 10km from the town, this beach is 1500m of sugary blonde sand, lapped by warm, pristine water.

The salt lake just inland is a major habitat for migratory birds, especially flamingos. The entire area is supposedly a protected reserve. However this has neither prevented tourist development nor deterred Balkan tourists from wallowing in the shoreline’s black mud, said to have healing properties.

Aydincik, Turkey © Shutterstock

This is the final beach along the Gökçeada coastline, 3km west of little Uğurlu fishing port. It has no facilities but fine sand and a pine-grove backdrop make this a worthwhile and relaxing stop.

Gizli Liman beach, Turkey © Shutterstock

Some excellent beaches are dotted along the scenic 20km road that separates Foça from Yeni Foça. However, they’re only accessible by foot or by paying fees to the campsites that own them. The best sand is at Acar Kamping (after 10km), but 700m before that, paths from the roadside lead down beneath some high voltage power lines to a succession of idyllic coves opposite an islet.

Foca beach, Izmir province, Turkey © Shutterstock

On the Black Sea coast in northern Turkey, this beach is a fine stretch of white sand. It's backed by pine forests and picnic areas and is less frequented than the other beaches. However, unpredictable currents can make swimming dangerous here.

Akliman is located 8 kilometers from Sinop city center © Shutterstock

The most visited portion of the unrestricted zone of Dilek National Park has four good, but often windswept, beaches. The prettiest of them all is Karasu, a 700m stretch of gravel, perfect for swimming. Stand in the sea for long enough and the fish will nibble on your toes.

Dilek Peninsula National Park in Turkey © Shutterstock

For unique windsurfing and kiteboarding conditions, head to a 300m-long sandy beach. Just 4km south of Alaçatı, it's one of the most upmarket locales on the Aegean coast. The strong, reliable “Meltemi” wind, combined with shallow water and lack of waves, makes this bay ideal for learners.

Where to stay near Alaçatı Beach:

• Best for location: Alacatı Port Ladera Hotel
• Best for families: Biblos Resort Alaçatı

Find more accommodation options to stay near Alaçatı Beach

Windsurfing in Alacati, Cesme, Turkey © Shutterstock

The main appeal of this area of the Aegean coast is the posse of beaches that fringe the city of Kuşadasi. One of the best beaches in Turkey, 15km north of the city and accessible by minibus, is Pamucak beach. Note the sea can be rough on windy days.

Pamucak Beach view from mountain in Kusadasi © Shutterstock

The 9km of rough coast road that links Medusiye Bükü with Palamut Bükü makes a tricky prospect without your own transportation. It’s worth the effort though, as this stark setting is balanced by a kilometre-long beach of tiny pebbles, lapped by brisk clear water, with an islet offshore.

Palamut Buku bay in Datca, Turkey © Shutterstock

The deep canyon known as Kaputaş Gorge slashes back into the cliffs on the beautiful coastal road to Kaş, just under 6km out of Kalkan. Steps from the roadside parking lead down to Kaputaş beach, a 150m expanse of pebble and blonde sand. Kaputaş has served as the backdrop for innumerable TV advert shoots, and, unless there’s been a southerly storm, the water is crystalline.

Where to stay near Kaputaş Beach:

• Best for sea view: Kalkan Beach Park Hotel
• Best for modern stays: Payava Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay near Kaputaş Beach

Sandy Kaputas beach - one of the best beaches in Turkey © Ale_Koziura/Shutterstock

Butterfly Valley beach is named after the many species that flutter about during the right seasons. The beach is accessible by boat from Ölüdeniz or a rocky path leading down from the road. The golden sands are backed by a beautiful limestone canyon just inland.

There is a lot more to Turkey than meets the eye. Between the beaches and bustling markets lies a wealth of interesting history filled with religious and literary figures, civil war and a multitude of languages. Learn a little more about Turkey with these facts about Turkey you never knew .

Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, Turkey © Shutterstock

Antalya’s western beach, Konyaatı, now spruced up, is finally beginning to live up to its dramatic situation between Antalya’s cliffs and the Beydağları mountains. Shingle, rather than sand, it’s clean and well maintained. However, for fine sand head to Lara beach, 10km southeast of Antalya by bus. The long, gentle waves make for some great swimming spots.

Lara beach near Antalya in Turkey © Shutterstock

Offering watersports and activities from parasailing and banana-boating to go-karting, it's no wonder Kleopatra Beach is one of the best beaches in Turkey. This is the most popular beach in the local area, lined with a multitude of bars, restaurants and souvenir shops as well as tattoo parlours.

Alanya. Turkey. View of the city from fortress © Shutterstock

Explore two Turkish highlights on our tailor-made trip to Istanbul and Cappadocia . Visit Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.

Where to stay near Kleopatra Beach:

• Best for location: Aria Riva Apart Hotel
• Best for design: Anjeliq Downtown Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay near Kleopatra Beach

It’s fair to say that the coastal resort of Bodrum has a certain reputation. However its southern flank holds some fantastic beaches. Many of the area's beaches are crowded by (mostly) British tourists and lined with rowdy clubs and bars. However, Kargı beach is somewhat quieter. It's sandy and gently sloping, overlooked by the ubiquitous villas and a handful of fish restaurants.

The next cove on, Bağla, seems initially off-putting. But persevere and you’ll find some of the softest sand on the peninsula.

Spend your day on a boat tour visiting Bodrum's hidden bays. Swim in the turquoise waters surrounding Black Island and relax with lunch at Aquarius Bay.

Bagla in Bodrum province of Turkey © Shutterstock

Turkey is one of the best places to travel with kids. Check out our guide to the best places to go with kids and find some more inspirational ideas for the family holidays.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the Turkey without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Visiting Turkey is a trully unforgetable expirience. For more inspirational travel tips check our Rough Guide books . If you travel further in Turkey , read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in Turkey. For inspiration use the itineraries and our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: Iztuzu Beach and Dalyan © Nejdet Duzen/Shutterstock

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17 Best Beach Towns in Turkey

From the turquoise waters of Marmaris and Fethiye, to historic Alanya, magical Bozcaada and Kusadasi, these are the best beach towns in Turkey.

Ready to transport yourself to a sunshine-filled paradise? Turkey’s glittering Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines offer such a great variety of holiday options. You’ll find everything from world-class resorts to basic beach hideaways.

Coastal towns in Turkey tend to offer a fascinating mix of history, adventure and colourful local culture. You can unwind in luxury on a beach beside the sparkling ocean in the morning, explore ancient ruins in the afternoon, and then party until the early hours. Some of the most popular towns in the Turkish Riviera , such as Bodrum and Antalya, offer the perfect mix of daytime buzz and nighttime fun. 

Holidays on the Turkish coast work for all budgets. You really will find everything from upmarket resort towns ideal for honeymooners, to tiny villages with cheaper family accommodation.

So, pack your sunnies and your swimming cozzy and come along with me as I take you on a tour of some of the best beach towns in Turkey.

The Most Beautiful Beach Towns in Turkey

This bustling resort suburb near Fethiye is famous for the blue lagoon of Ölüdeniz Tabiat Parki and the wide sandy sweep of Belceniz Beach. Overlooking the beach, Babadağ mountain’s peak is where thrill-seekers can take off in a tandem paraglider. 

While the town can seem quite expensive, there are plenty of cheap dining and entertainment options on the back streets. Summer can be really busy here but if you go in the off-season (September is one of the best months) it’s much less hectic. 

If you feel like combining some history with your Turkish beach holiday, I can really recommend this town. Watched over by the battlements and spires of the medieval Alanya Castle, this pretty manages to walk the fine line between being a tourist hotspot and traditional Turkish town life. I had a great trip here a few years ago and have vivid memories of the gorgeous turquoise ocean.

How do you fancy spending an afternoon exploring backstreet bazaars where shops selling baklava, Turkish delight and dolma will tempt you to snack? You can burn off a few of those holiday pounds with a swim… followed by an afternoon cocktail!

Alanya’s Seljuk-era castle on the hill is now an open-air museum where you can see exhibits of ancient weapons, sultan’s clothing and everyday items of medieval Turkish life. I’d also recommend looking out from the battlements across the red-tiled roofs of the town to Cleopatra Beach, where the fabled Egyptian queen is said to have swum.  

This charming, laid-back town on the Mediterranean coast near Fethiye is one of my favourite Turkish beach towns. Dalyan was once a Roman health spa and the mud baths and ancient ruins near the town are really fun to explore. The long curving sweep of Iztuzu Beach is perfect for swimming. You can sometimes be able to spot loggerhead turtles (known as caretta caretta turtles) basking in the warm water here too!

If you’re a lover of history and adventure, I’d recommend taking a day trip up the nearby Dalyan Çaya River to see the ornate 400 BC Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs. After a fun day out, you can return to Dalyan and get stuck into generous plates of Turkish and western food in one of the town’s many restaurants.

With its tranquil, reflective waters and colourful seafront, Marmaris is definitely one of the most beautiful places on the Turkish coastline. The gorgeous backdrop of mountains clad with deep green pine forests gives Marmaris the feeling of a glamorous European resort such as Monaco (well, this is the Turkish Riveriera after all!)

The cobbled streets of the Old Town are a fascinating place to wander. Plus, you could easily spend hours exploring the restored castle of Süleyman the Magnificent , the greatest of all the Ottoman rulers.

The coves and bays of the nearby Datça Peninsula are great for day trips, especially when cruise ships are in the port and you want to escape the crowds. Plus, if you’re wondering how to reach the town, flight connections to nearby Dalaman Airport make getting to this part of the Turkish coast nice and simple.

Close your eyes and imagine a perfect Turkish coastal town, with an old castle, crystal blue waters, Roman ruins and whitewashed houses. You’ve just imagined Bodrum! With accommodation options ranging from cheap “pensions” (the Turkish version of a B&B) to boutique hotels and ritzy beach resorts, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect place to stay in Bodrum.

The ruins of the 4th century BC Greco-Roman Amphitheatre overlooking the town are a great place to get a feel for the many civilisations which have occupied Bodrum. For a fun day out, hop on a boat tour and visit Orak Island. With its warm waters, colourful fish and rocky coves, it’s a beautiful place to visit.

Alternatively, you can simply sprawl beside your hotel pool (or on the sand at Kumbahçe Sahili Beach) without a care in the world. Both options sound pretty appealing right now!

Ayvalik and Assos

For a change of pace, these two towns north of Izmir offer a more authentic Turkish experience.

Ayvalik is a working fishing town. Foodies will love the local agricultural produce here, especially its olive oil. This part of the Aegean Coast can be very popular with local holidaymakers. You’ll also encounter visitors from the nearby Greek island of Lesvos sunning themselves on the beaches at Cunda and Alibey.

The old town dates from Byzantine times and has some superb restaurants. One of the best is Iyimis Meyhane , which is tucked away in a narrow, flower-decked lane a few streets from the main beach.

You can take a day trip to Assos, just up the coast, where you’ll find brightly-painted fishing boats resting on the pebbly beach and lots of cool little eateries in the stone buildings along the waterfront.

This is the main beach resort of nearby Izmir and sits out on the end of a peninsula south of the city. While there are quite a few five-star luxury beach resorts here, you can also find quaint boutique hotels and family-run pensions in the town’s quieter, flower-filled back lanes. 

You can fritter away whole afternoons going from café to café in the up-market Alaçati area, hire a scooter to explore further inland, or if you’re like me, just relax on one of the town’s beaches. Try Ilica Plaji which is reputed to have the warmest waters on the Turkish coast due to the hot springs in the nearby hills. 

Imagine stepping off a ferry from the Greek Islands onto the ancient shore of Ephesus, where Mark Antony and Cleopatra once hung out! Kusadasi is the closest city to the ruins of Ephesus and you can combine your Turkish beach days with excursions to some of Turkey’s most famous ruins.

The town itself has some of the liveliest nightlife on the coast. However, you can easily escape from the hubbub of the seafront promenade to the narrow and evocative streets of the Old Town’s bazaar. If you feel like a day trip to a Greek island, Samos is just a short boat ride away.   

Are you needing a bit of a slower pace? Perhaps life at home has been hectic and it’s time to hit the pause button? Akyaka is the best town on the Turkish coast to visit. The small black sand beach, hemmed by towering cliffs, is fairly unknown to the tourist crowds, but it’s a favourite among locals as a retreat for the hot months of July and August.

The traditional wooden architecture is the setting for lots of cute, basic hotels. Plus, the richly-wooded hills have hiking trails to hidden beaches and secluded coves. My favourite part of travel is being able to disappear for a while, and Akyaka is one of those places where you can really escape the rat race and appreciate each moment.

It’s hard to imagine a more picture-perfect beach than the long curve of sand at Içmeler. With the backdrop of lush green mountains, this was one of the first beach resorts established on the Turquoise Coast.

Transfers from nearby Dalaman Airport make this a popular place for package holidays, so if you fancy a pint of ale and scampi and chips you’re in luck!

But you can also find plenty of authentically Turkish life in the local area, especially just along the coast in the smaller resort village of Turunc. You can grab a water taxi to take you from Içmeler to Marmaris and the Greek island of Rhodes, or do nothing more than just soak up the sun on Içmeler Beach. It’s your holiday after all!   

Gallipoli Peninsula

For a different Turkish beach experience, you could head to the historic town of Çanakkale on the Gallipoli Peninsula. 

More famous for its WW1 history than sparkling beach resorts, the Gallipoli Peninsula also has some superb stretches of coastline. From Çannakkale, you can take local buses to local villages, where you’ll find campsites, bed and breakfasts and empty beaches washed by azure Agean waters. 

Buses run regularly from Istanbul to Çanakkale too, and you can do day trips to see the famous battlefield of Troy. Over on the Aegean Coast, you can visit ANZAC Cove, Suvla Bay and the melancholy memorials and graveyards (maintained lovingly by the Turks to this day) of the fateful Gallipoli Campaign.  

How about a holiday on the pretty island of Bozcaada? This island in the Aegean Sea is a beautiful place to escape to. It’s home to several picturesque hiking trails which lead through vineyards and orchards, where you’ll see olives, pomegranates and figs growing in abundance.

Spend an evening sitting outside at a wooden table on Lale Street enjoying the local wine (it’s been produced here for 3,000 years) and snacking on fresh seafood and mezze. There are lots of cute boutique hotels in Bozcaada and it’s a popular weekend destination for Istanbul residents. 

Sunsets here are amazing too. Take time to join the locals on one of the island’s secluded beaches to watch the day end over a roaring bonfire and a glass or two of vino. Perfect!

With its palm tree-lined waterfront, super yachts and smart shops, Göcek could be described as the Monaco of the Turkish Riviera. But the posh yachts and bougie boutiques are where the comparison ends. In fact, this is a quiet, laid-back town with a small beach at one end and rugged hills at the other.

The many inlets and bays near Göcek are popular with scuba divers. Plus, day trips to local eco-sanctuaries will introduce you to the unique natural landscapes of this part of the Turkish coast.

A special place to visit is Cleopatra Baths Bay. Here, you’ll see the ruins of sunken hot water baths used by the Egyptian queen when she too was on holiday! If Göcek is good enough for Cleopatra, I’d say it’s definitely good enough for us!

Faralya Butterfly Valley 

Of all the beaches in Turkey this has to be my favourites. Even the name is magical! Butterfly Valley is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey and I have to agree!

Backed by dramatic cliffs that you can hike up, the beach takes its name from the 100 species of butterflies that live in the forests here. A stream cascades over a waterfall into the valley from the cliffs and then ambles through scented groves of lavender-coloured chaste trees.

Butterfly Valley can get pretty busy during the day. My top tip would be to book accommodation in the area. You’ll find the place lovely and tranquil after all the day trip boats depart. The waters of the cove are wonderfully warm and so calm that you can skip stones into the sunset. If you are visiting on a day trip, take a picnic to avoid paying for expensive restaurant food. 

This once-sleepy fishing village on the Turquoise Coast has become a haven for yachties and holidaymakers looking for a less “beachy” retreat. Rows of timber houses hung with bougainvillaea step down steeply to the waterfront from the Old Town area. There’s also a row of inviting restaurants lining the promenade, each with its own exciting buzz and ambience.

There’s a pebbly beach at the western end, and an interesting marina where chic yachts are moored close to colourful local fishing boats. Inland, the area has lots of Lycian ruins to explore. Head out on one of the hiking trails for a few hours, then loop back to the coast to refresh yourself with traditional Turkish food, cold drinks or a cup of local apple tea.

Cirali and Olympos

Now we’re getting really wild! These two isolated beach towns are separated by a set of rugged hills that run right down to the water’s edge. In fact, if you want to go from one village to another other you either have to walk along the narrow beach under the cliffs — quite an adventure! — or drive up to the main road and back down. 

What I love most about these Turkish beach towns is their location within the Olympus Coastal National Park. The scenery here is untouched by development. Most of the accommodation is in simple wooden buildings with low-key outdoor restaurants. 

This is a great place to come and free your inner 70s hippie and enjoy the sound of gentle waves. Lots of locals come here for their holidays so it has a cool Turkish vibe too!

With one of the longest beaches of all the coastal towns in Turkey, Antalya is famous for its crystal clear water and lush vegetation. The town began life as a Roman port in 133 BC. Back in the day the citizens of Rome used to flock here for their summer holidays, just as people do today.

With its backdrop of rugged (sometimes snow-capped!) ranges and oodles of lush green spaces, Antalya manages to combine the buzz of a resort destination without feeling too overcrowded. Nearby Antalya airport brings in tourists from the Middle East and Eastern Europe so you can guarantee an eclectic mix of visitors and food.

Check out the grey-sand Konyaalti Beach (west of town) for great cafes during the day and epic sunsets. Plus, the nearby Taurus Mountains provide a spectacular scene as you laze in the tepid water! 

Whether you’re looking to simply lie in the sun and relax, take boat trips to hidden coves and super cool islands, or get to grips with history there’s a Turkish beach town for you! They vary so much, I’m sure you’ll find one you love.

I hope this guide to the best beach towns in Turkey helps you plan your trip. If you’re looking for more inspiration to plan your holiday in Turkey, don’t miss my other guides:

• Historical Wanderlust In Alanya, Turkey
• 15 Best Museums in Istanbul, Turkey
• The Perfect 24 Hours In Istanbul, Turkey
• The Colourful Revolution of Istanbul’s Rainbow Steps
• A Food Tour of Istanbul, Turkey
• Top Things To Do In Cappadocia, Turkey
• 21 Things To Know Before A Hot Air Balloon Flight In Cappadocia: Travel Tips For A Hassle Free Adventure
• 17 Best Cave Hotels In Cappadocia
• How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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The 10 Best Beaches in Turkey

See recent posts by Kevin Brouillard

Spanning the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Black Seas, Turkey is gifted with an ample selection of beaches. A handful of spots have succumbed to overtourism, but much of Turkey’s 4,400-plus miles of coastline is still manageable. Choices vary considerably between lively urban locales, all-inclusive resorts, and remote nature reserves. To help narrow your search, we’ve compiled a breakdown of the 10 best beaches in Turkey.

1. Iztuzu Beach

Steve Wilde/Flickr

Located along Turkey’s southwestern coast, Iztuzu’s natural beauty and unique topography are truly wonderful to behold. Lush mountains and the marshy Dalyan River delta provide a scenic backdrop to the four-and-a-half-kilometer sandbar. Iztuzu’s shoreline has calm swimming conditions with minimal waves and plenty of shallow water due to a gently sloping seabed.

Though Iztuzu can receive daily visitors in the thousands during the sunny months of May through September, the crowds are concentrated on the northern and southern tips of the beach, where lounge chairs, umbrellas, and cafés can be found. Development has been restricted on the central portion of the beach to protect loggerhead turtle nesting grounds. Venturing out to this section promises more solitude — just be mindful of the nesting sites, which are rather conspicuous due to protective cages positioned by a dedicated team of university students. Visiting hours are also constrained from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., as the turtles arrive on the sandy shores during nighttime to lay their eggs. To reach the beach from downtown Dalyan, opt for a stunning boat trip along the river or public minibus.

Our Pick for a Hotel Near Iztuzu Beach: The Dalyan Resort Spa offers a palm-fringed pool and scenic location on the banks of the Dalyan River. The property is also within short walking distance of the town center.

Pricing for Dalyan Resort Spa

2. Patara Beach

Harry Luff/Flickr

Despite boasting Turkey’s longest stretch of uninterrupted beach, Patara remains in pristine condition. Patara’s southeastern end is accessible via a road from the neighboring village of Gelemis. Most visitors choose to park themselves here for the day to enjoy the reliably sunny weather and swim in the azure sea. The facilities are limited, but adequate, including a small café run by the local government to raise funds for beach maintenance. It’s worth trekking northwest from here to admire the rising dunes and gain some privacy. Tread carefully, though, as loggerhead turtles arrive in droves in the summer months to nest. Visitation is limited to the daylight hours to allow the turtles to nest without disturbance. The beach has additional protective status for its adjacent ruins — the former city of Patara. The partially restored Roman-style theater, council chamber, temples, and other sites are conveniently located just off the access road between Gelemis and the beach. Furthermore, the Lycian Way — a 316-mile hiking trail that meanders through Patara to connect Fethiye and Antalya — affords ample hiking opportunities to explore the idyllic Mediterranean coastline.

3. Ölüdeniz Beach

Dilek Durgun/unsplash

This magnificent beach spans both the shimmering Mediterranean Sea and a tranquil blue lagoon. The sheltered lagoon is perfect for leisurely swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, while the Mediterranean side is a popular anchoring point for sailboats and yachts. During fair weather conditions, keep an eye out for paragliders cruising overhead. Aside from the small village of Ölüdeniz, the lagoon and a sizable section of the adjacent Taurus Mountains are protected as part of Ölüdeniz Tabiat reserve. Within the reserve, a well-marked hiking trail leads to the abandoned town of Kayaköy. Approximately 20,000 Greek Orthodox residents left the town in 1923 as part of a population exchange agreement between Greece and Turkey following the land grabs of the Greco-Turkish war. It takes about two-and-a-half hours to reach the town, where numerous homes, fountains, and two Greek Orthodox churches remain largely untouched since their abandonment.

Our Pick for a Hotel Near Ölüdeniz Beach:   Flora Palm Resort is a budget-friendly all-inclusive option that offers mountain views and easy access to bustling Hisarönü. Also, free shuttles whisk guests to and from the beach throughout the day.

Pricing for Flora Palm Resort

4. Çirali Beach

s_wh/Flickr

This charming village in southern Turkey draws visitors with its laid-back family-run resorts, expansive beach, natural wonders, and historic attractions. Çirali grants superb hiking and walking opportunities through its lush citrus orchards, valleys, and steep mountains. For starters, the ancient ruins at Olympos can be reached in 15 minutes on foot. Dating back to around the fourth-century B.C., the former city is picturesque despite its dilapidated state. The ruin site includes a Roman theater, temple, tombs, and crumbling ramparts. A more strenuous hike leads up the mountains to Yanartas, where flames rise from natural gas pockets in the rock face. Longer hikes are possible on the Lycian Way, which passes through Çirali on its lengthy coastal journey. Like Iztuzu and Patara, Çirali is an important nesting site for loggerhead turtles between May and August. Nighttime visitation and campfires are restricted during hatching season, so as not to disturb or disorient the nesting turtles. To appreciate this natural phenomenon responsibly, arrive at the beach in the early morning during July and August, then sit back and watch hatchlings make the epic journey to the sea.

Our Pick for a Hotel Near Çirali Beach: For easy beach access, the Odile Hotel should be your top choice. Their bungalow-style accommodations are perfect for families and groups.

Pricing for Odile Hotel

5. Ovabükü Beach

View this post on Instagram Keyifli birgün geçirmeniz dileğiyle???? ———————————————————- ???? Paylaşmamızı istediğiniz fotoğraflarınızı @datca.yasam olarak etiketleyebilirsiniz. ———————————————————- Fotoğraf ????: ⭐️⭐️ @adapansiyondatca ⭐️⭐️ Teşekkürler???? ———————————————————- #datça #likeforfollow #Palamutbükü #ovabükü #takip #kargı #knidos #follow #beach #eskidatça #tatil #ege #deniz #manzara #mugla #marmaris #bodrum #holiday #likeforlikes #seaview #sahil #huzur #follow #takip #deepblue #landscape #drone #dronephotography #travel #dronestagram A post shared by ???? Datça Yaşam ???? (@datca.yasam) on Aug 9, 2019 at 12:19am PDT

Ovabükü’s location on the jutting Datça Peninsula requires a bit more effort to reach than other beaches on this list. However, this keeps the summer crowds at bay, so you won’t have to compete for a lounge chair on the beach or space to swim in the sheltered waters. The beach is nestled between a forested hillside and rocky outcrops, which further adds to the secluded atmosphere. There are plenty of umbrellas and a handful of local eateries offering fresh seafood and traditional Turkish fare, so it’s easy to spend the entire day beachside. Be sure to allocate some time to explore the surrounding landscape of olive groves and pine trees, as well as the neighboring bays — Hayitbükü to the east, and Kurubük to the west. Further west, at the tip of the peninsula, the ancient ruins of Knidos grant dramatic views of the Aegean Sea.

Our Pick for a Hotel Near Ovabükü Beach: Located just west of Ovabüku, the Mavi Beyaz Hotel is well-situated for beach hopping along the Datça Peninsula.

Pricing for Mavi Beyaz Hotel

6. Kaputaş Beach

Alexander van Loon/Flickr

While Kaputaş is by far the smallest beach on this list, its 500 feet of sand and surf make quite the lasting impression. Located right off the main coastal road between Antayla and Fethiye, Kaputas is hidden from view by steep, rocky cliffs, which shield the sandy enclave from the world above. Visitors must descend 186 steps to reach the picturesque beach, where the inlet’s calm, turquoise waters provide excellent swimming conditions. Be sure to arrive early to claim a lounge chair and umbrella, as the tiny beach fills up quickly in the summer months.

Our Pick for a Hotel Near Kaputaş Beach: Located in the nearby town of Kalkan, the Likya Residence Hotel & Spa grants stellar views of the bay and is in close proximity to local cafés and restaurants.

Pricing for Likya Residence Hotel & Spa

7. Kleopatra Beach

Beach at the Savk Hotel/Oyster

This bustling stretch of sand can be found in Alanya, a resort town in southwestern Turkey. Kleopatra Beach extends a considerable length on the town’s west end, featuring lounge rentals and a promenade. The Mediterranean Sea here is well-suited for swimming and water sports alike. Numerous beachside cafes and bars line the coastal road, though Alanya’s historic section promises far more authentic charm. Beachgoers can enjoy views of the looming Alanya Castle, though trekking up to the well-preserved fortification is worth the effort for expansive vistas over the surrounding sea and town below.

Our Pick for a Hotel Near Kleopatra Beach: For prime beach access, pool lounging, and proximity to nightlife, you can’t go wrong with the modern Savk Hotel .

Pricing for Savk Hotel

8. Karasu 

View this post on Instagram Bir gün daha…#karasu #riyets #objektifimden #picoftheday #my_dream_turkey #instagramturkey #nikon #awesome_earthpix #travelphoto #teamtravelers #fotozamani #fotografheryerde #objektifimdenyansiyanlar #insta_anadolu #istgoodshot #turkinstagram #tagsforlikes #instagram_turkey #anadolufotograf #instalike #travelworld #travel #instamood #ig_sakarya #zamanidurdur #zamanakarsi #ig_worldclub #ig_turkey #hayatakarken #ig_adapazarı A post shared by Çiğdem Şenoğlu (@cigdemsenoglu) on Jul 20, 2019 at 11:10am PDT

This half-mile of rocky coast can be found on the northern edges of the Dilek Peninsula within Dilek National Park. Though Karasu’s large stones aren’t ideal for lounging, this corner of the Aegean Sea is incredibly clear and alluring after hiking the forest trails. Furthermore, it grants views of the Greek island of Samos, located just a few miles away across the Mycale Strait. The peninsula is teeming with biodiversity, including wild boar, monk seals, jackals, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species. Other attractions in and around the park include the extensive ruins at Didyma, Priene, and Miletus.

Our Hotel Pick Near Karasu: The Hotel Akbulut & Spa is conveniently located just outside Dilek National Park in Güzelçamli, plus it has its own beach access.

Pricing for Hotel Akbulut & Spa

9. Alaçati

sunriseOdyssey/Flickr

Charming, cobblestone-laden Alaçati is situated west of Izmir on the Çesme peninsula. There are several beaches surrounding Alaçati in all directions, but the most notable one is located about four kilometers south of town. Though the beach is modest in size, the sand is powdery and the water is clear and offers ideal swimming conditions. Further offshore, strong winds have made the region popular with water-sports enthusiasts. Given the lack of waves and reliable winds, the bay is advantageous for beginner kiteboarding and windsurfing. Several schools offer rentals and lessons for all skill levels. Aside from the surf and adrenaline, Alaçati’s downtown is bustling with boutiques and restaurants serving cutting-edge Aegean cuisine.

Our Pick for a Hotel Near Alaçati: Set back from Alaçati’s surfing beach, the Kairaba Alacati Beach Resort & Spa is ideal for a romantic beach getaway.

Pricing for KAIRABA Alacati Beach Resort & SPA

10. Şile

mrt cick/Flickr

Turkey’s Black Sea coast is largely overlooked by international visitors for its Aegean and Mediterranean beaches. However, those who explore this region will find more secluded beaches and budget-friendly accommodations. The seaside town of Şile is just a one-hour drive east from Istanbul, making it a popular weekend retreat in the summer. Visiting during the week guarantees fewer crowds, especially compared to Turkey’s more trafficked beaches to the south. Other highlights include the view from the historic lighthouse and visiting the 14th-century Şile Castle. Much of the Black Sea coast experiences strong undertow and currents, so be sure to adhere to any posted warnings before diving in.

You’ll Also Like:

• The Coolest Cave Rooms in Cappadocia
• How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days in Istanbul
• What to Eat in Istanbul: 5 Dishes You ’ ve Got to Try

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16 Best Beaches in Turkey You Should Visit this Summer

Turkey is an ancient patchwork of cultures, peoples and landscapes. With Eastern Europe to one side and Asia to the other, Turkey has been shaped and influenced by empires, cultural connections and trading routes throughout its long history.

Its natural landscapes and coastline have long played an important role in the country’s fortunes, and today it’s these same beautiful beaches in Turkey that magnetize people to visit this historic nation.

Surrounded by seas on three sides, Turkey’s shores offer the chance to swim in the clear waters of the Aegean Sea, the inland waters of the Black Sea, and the pure dazzling blues of the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re in search of unforgettable, fascinating and remarkably diverse beaches, then you should take a trip to Turkey.

16. Cleopatra Island, Marmaris

With its warm turquoise waters, scenic seashell beach and interesting archaeological sites, Cleopatra Island is a wonderful place to spend some time. Also known as Sedir Island, it lies just a short boat trip from Akyaka or Camli, surrounded by the glittering Gulf of Gokova.

As the legend goes, Cleopatra and Mark Antony once swam here in its sparkling waters. The queen was so enamored by its beauty that the Roman general created its idyllic beach for her, made out of perfectly spherical sand brought over from North Africa.

Aside from sunbathing, swimming and enjoying its scenery, you can explore the ancient city ruins of Kedrai. While its well-preserved amphitheater is its main attraction, there are also crumbling walls and a sanctuary to Apollo to see.

15. Bitez Beach, Bodrum

A firm favorite with families, Bitez Beach is located right in the west of Bodrum, alongside the Gulf of Gokova. Backed by dozens of upmarket cafes and restaurants, it has tons of sun loungers and parasols for holidaymakers to make use of.

Besides strolling along its sun-kissed sands, you can swim, splash about and windsurf about its crystal-clear waters. Horseback riding trips and scuba diving excursions are also available along its captivating coastline.

With Bodrum’s lively nightlife and impressive historic sites not too far away, Bitez is a great spot to base yourself for a relaxing beach holiday. While it can get quite crowded, the rolling green hills about its beautiful bay make for some fabulous views.

14. Ortakent

Just ten minutes’ drive further west is the even quieter Ortakent which curves its way gently alongside a ginormous bay. Quite long and narrow with clear, clean waters, the pretty beach is lined by lots of hotels, restaurants and bars.

A mix of both sand and pebbles, it is dotted with countless sunbeds and umbrellas, provided by cafes free of charge if you consume a certain amount of food and drink. Although rather cold, its shallow waters are perfect for cooling off on a hot summer’s day with showers and changing rooms also available.

After sunbathing or swimming with its colourful little fishes, you can amble along its jetty or peruse all the craft stalls hugging its harborfront. There are also delicious seafood dishes to try and sightseeing cruises to take about the bay.

13. Olympos Beach

Set right at the southern end of the stunning Cirali Beach is the equally attractive Olympos Beach. Lying alongside the ancient, ruined city of the same name, its shimmering sands and waters are overlooked by colossal green mountains.

Now protected as part of a national park, the beach’s long, wide reaches are actually only accessed through the archaeological site. Amazing to explore, its extensive, overgrown ruins include millennia-old basilicas, baths and theaters.

Once you’ve ambled about Olympos til your heart’s content, carry on to the two-kilometre-long beach. Here you can lounge on its sands and small pebbles while drinking in divine views of the sparkling Aegean Sea and soaring mountains around it. Many people also go snorkelling and kayaking here while turtles’ nest here in summer.

12. Marmaris Beach

With phenomenal views, sands and water sports all on offer, it is no wonder Marmaris Beach is one of the most popular in all of Turkey. Located just a stone’s throw from the city center, it has lots of fun activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Stretching roughly 4 kilometers in total, it is backed by a long palm tree-fringed boulevard, lined by restaurants and cafes. Many of these have sun loungers and parasols to rent with a kids’ playground also found at one end.

Other than strolling along its dark sands, you can jet ski, kitesurf or paddleboard around its gigantic, gorgeous bay. There are also lively nightlife spots to hit up and exciting boat trips to take to the nearby Phosphorus Cave.

11. Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz

An absolutely enchanting place, Butterfly Valley’s scenic beach is wedged between hulking great cliffs along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. A must for nature lovers, it is only accessible by boat or by hiking through its huge, lush canyon.

So named due to all its diverse butterfly species, the vast valley lies just south of the much more famous Oludeniz and its incredible Blue Lagoon. While the massive mountains around it already look dramatic, its bright white sands and twinkling turquoise waters are every bit as alluring.

Asides from hiking through the canyon to see its waterfall or swimming in the sea, you can canoe, scuba dive and camp. After all the loud pirate boats full of tourists leave, peace and quiet once again fall upon the idyllic spot. The beach also has a bar to chill at while basking in its breathtaking scenery and views.

10. Kabak Beach

To get to this pretty little beach in Lycia you are going to have to be prepared to do some hiking – and when we say hiking, we mean hiking. The descent from the top of the rocky cliffs might seem a little daunting, but the views from up high of Kabak beach far below will take your breath away.

Captivating vistas over the top of shady pines, across the sandy enclave and out towards the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea – you won’t be able to stop taking pictures, it’s that beautiful!

After a rather long stumble down over sharp stones and down steep drops, your efforts will be more than paid-off. Kick back and relax on the soft warmth of the pure sand on Kabak beach, and splash in the shallows of the serene sea. Sailboats bob gracefully on the top of gentle waves and there’s a shaded area to take a break from the sun and have a much-earned refreshing drink.

9. Kaputas Beach

Sandwiched between steep forested cliffs are the clear and calm waters of Kaputas beach. The perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling, Kaputas is a great beach for families with children. There are a wide range of amenities, including showers and toilets.

Once you have managed to traverse the 170 steps down to the beach itself, hire a sun-lounger and parasol and enjoy a few hours snoozing in the shade. Nearby, Kalkan harbor is lined with small restaurants and bars. Stay long enough for the sun to set, and enjoy dinner in the early evening as the yachts and boats return to the dock after days spent out at sea.

8. Cleopatra Beach, Alanya

Down in the rolling foothills of the magical, medieval Alanya castle is the charming Cleopatra Beach. This alluring beach boasts soft sands that are said to have been brought there by Cleopatra herself, after she enjoyed swimming in the sea here.

Whether or not you believe the tale, an afternoon spent on the beach in the shadow of the old castle can feel like stepping back in time – there’s even a Pirates of the Caribbean-style boat docked here for even more historical atmosphere.

This part of the Mediterranean is calm enough for swimming, but there are enough big waves to make trying out water sports extra fun. If you fancy something a little more relaxing, grab yourself a drink and have a leisurely lunch at one of the many beach-side cafes. This is the kind of classic holiday beach that has everything you need to make your beach day as relaxed as possible.

7. Konyaalti Beach, Antalya

One of the two best stretches of sand in Antalya, Konyaalti Beach is situated to the west side of the ancient port city and stretches on for seven-kilometers. Known for its entertainment and nightlife, this slice of resort-quality beach comes complete with a tree-lined beach park populated by Turkish pine and hibiscus, plus a waterpark, nightclubs, bars, restaurants – and all of that overlooked by the magnificent Beydağları mountains.

Because of its position as one of the most popular beaches in the city of Antalya, there are life guards stationed at the beach, plus there are changing rooms, toilets and showers available free-of-charge to all visitors, making it an easy place to visit with a family.

6. Patara Beach

Patara beach is a slice of secluded seaside for you to spend some time tanning and swimming in the warmth of the ocean. Located in a small, quaint village that makes up a section of the famous Lycian Way trekking route, Patara is Turkey’s longest beach. The lack of development in this area – especially along the seafront – makes this beach stand out from other Turkish seasides.

Urban sprawl hasn’t made it to this area due to the protected Loggerhead turtles that have been returning for 40-million years to lay their eggs. This special beach isn’t about sun-loungers and beach bars, but about appreciating the unique beauty of this part of Turkey, and understanding the historical and ecological importance of the beach and surrounding area.

5. Cirali Beach

This unspoiled beach where turtles return to nest is ideal for travelers looking for some peace and quiet. Enclosed on both sides by lush mountains that tumble into the curve of the pebbly beach and the crystal clear waters, Çıralı isn’t the easiest place to reach – but that does make it uncrowded. Without the normal beach backdrop of bars, blaring loud music and water sports, Çıralı is a charming cove of serenity.

The mellow atmosphere is infectious – take a sleepy stroll to the sea to enjoy a swim and then return to your sun lounger for a little more chilling-out. It’s almost hard to believe that further along the coast from here, booming holiday resorts sprawl along developed sea fronts.

To the west of the beach, further along the stony sand, are the crumbling ruins of Olympus. And, if you’re really feeling enthusiastic, you can choose to hike up Mount Olympus.

Cobalt blue seas, beautiful natural scenery and soft sandy shingle – lovely little Ovabükü bay on the Datça peninsula really has it all. Packed full of gobsmackingly beautiful charm, the beach is home to a handful of locally-owned restaurants that serve up breads, fresh fish and salads under the shade of the surrounding pines. There are also some sweet little pensions here, so you can spend a night or two enjoying the authentic allure of Ovabükü beach.

The beach itself may be fairly small, but – surrounded by the freshness of the forested hillside and hidden inside this rocky enclave – Ovabükü offers the chance for a real slice of solitude, away from the obligations of modern life.

If you’re in need of some time out, a few days exploring this part of the peninsula and the neighboring bays of Hayıtbükü and Kızılcık will be just the escape you need.

3. Icmeler Beach

The well-known holiday resort of Icmeler near Marmaris attracts thousands of holidaymakers a year; people flock to this area in search of blissful beaches, fun times and great food, and Icmeler Beach offers just that. A magnet for families who want to spend holidays together by the sea, this is one of Turkey’s most popular seaside resorts – and it’s not hard to see why.

What was once a humble fishing village has grown exponentially into a thriving tourist destination, with beach bars, restaurants and water sports – everything that you could need for your holiday is available to you at this fun and vibrant beach.

When you’ve had enough of splashing in the shallows and tanning, the nearby hills are great for hiking and can reveal some pleasant views of the beach from high above.

2. Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz

There may be a fair few places around the world that claim to be a blue lagoon, but this place might just be the real deal. Ölüdeniz Beach, otherwise known as Blue Lagoon, is a wide bay where people come to unwind in the tranquil waters.

The beach itself is fairly gritty, but once you’re in the water it’s easy to spend hours simply lounging around in the shallows. Or hire a paddleboard and make the trip across the gentle waters to the small island in the bay and watch as the yachts arrive from out at sea.

The beauty of Ölüdeniz Beach means it attracts a lot of visitors from the surrounding areas, especially during high season, so make sure to arrive early so you can truly enjoy the beauty of the scenery – you might even be fortunate enough to spot a turtle.

1. Iztuzu Beach

An elongated 4.5 kilometers of sand makes up the inviting stretch of beach that is İztuzu. Nicknamed Turtle Beach, İztuzu is one of the most important beaches in Turkey for turtle conservation. The beach is a visually stunning natural landscape – it’s predominantly a long jut of sand that works as a barrier between the intricateness of the freshwater of the Dalyan river and the bold beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.

This idyllic slice of the Turkish coast reveals Turkey’s captivating natural scenery, which is best appreciated on a boat trip down the river delta. Cutting along the reeds, past ancient archaeological sites, the boat takes you all the way from the town of Daylan to the open coast of İztuzu beach.

Spend the day swimming in the shallows of the superbly clean and warm shallow waters, then dry off on one of the sun-loungers dotted along the beach.

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Sun, sand and turquoise waters await you

Best Beaches in Turkey

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It's going to be hard to resist the  best   beaches in Turkey . After reading this ranking of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey , you will have only one desire: pack your suitcase, dig up your sunglasses, your sunscreen and your flip flops, ready to bask on the most incredible beaches in Turkey .

Kaputaş beach, Ölüdeniz beach, Kleopatra beach, Butterfly valley beach, the most beautiful beaches in Turkey have names that make you dream. Sun, sand and turquoise waters await you. Did you know that the word "turquoise" comes from "Turkey"?

Book your flights at the best price as well as your accommodation , tourist apartment, resort, villa or youth hostel and your tours and activities for an unforgettable stay on one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey .

1. Kleopatra Beach

Kleopatra beach is the golden sand beach of your dreams. Very well maintained and clean, it is a perfect beach for a day out with family, lovers or friends. You can bring your towel and enjoy a lazy day on this dream beach or rent a deckchair (around 10 euros per day).

On its crystalline blue waters, you will occasionally spot a pirate galleon that seems to come from another era. Make your children happy and board this funny boat .

During your stay, visit the  Best Hidden Gems in Turkey ,  Best Places to Visit in Turkey ,  Best Things to do in Turkey ,  Best Castles in Turkey  as well as the  Best Ski Resorts in Turkey  and discover the  best of Turkey .

Book your flights to Antalya and your accommodation at the best price in Alanya as well as your tours and activities , such as a boat trip or a scuba diving tour .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Antalya Airport and drive to Alanya (1h50)

  Where to stay:  “ Labranda Alantur ” is a 5-star resort with direct access to the beach.

2. Gocek Beach

Göcek beach is located just a 40-minute drive from the amazing Ölüdeniz beach, which is also ranked among the best beaches in Turkey . This magnificent seaside resort is a popular destination for boat enthusiasts since Göcek has six marinas. You will therefore see the amazing beaches but also the most beautiful yachts in Turkey.

Need more inspiration? Visit the  Best Hidden Gems in Turkey ,  Best Places to Visit in Turkey ,  Best Things to do in Turkey ,  Best Castles in Turkey  as well as the  Best Ski Resorts in Turkey  and discover the  best of Turkey .

Book your flights to Dalaman Airport (30 min by car) as well as your accommodation at the best price in Göcek.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Dalaman Airport (30 min by car or book your transfer online).

  Where to stay:   “ Renka Hotel & Spa ” features a Spa & Wellness Centre. Couples particularly like the location.

3. Butterfly Valley Beach - Kelebekler Vadisi beach  

Faralya - Fethiye

This incredible beach of rare beauty is located in the Butterfly Valley, where butterflies come to lay their eggs. Be sure to climb the hill at the top of this beach to take a picture of it. Be careful though, as the hiking trail is not secure. The beach is not very easy to access from the hills.

The easiest way is to book a boat from Ölüdeniz beach to discover Kelebekler Vadisi beach and stop there for a few moments or a few hours. During your stay, be sure to visit Ölüdeniz Beach, a 15-minute drive from Kelebekler Vadisi beach.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights   to Dalaman Airport (1 hour by car) or Antalya Airport (3 hours). Book a boat in Ölüdeniz to explore this beautiful beach that is difficult to access by land.

  Where to stay:  “ Seaview Faralya ” is located a few metres from this beach, in the Butterfly Valley.

4. Icmeler Beach

Icmeler - Marmaris

As you will have noticed, the best beaches in Turkey are almost all found in the province of Muğla in west-central Turkey. From Dalaman Airport you will be spoiled for choice and can explore the beaches of Ölüdeniz, Kabak, Göcek or Içmeler.

İçmeler beach is a sandy beach surrounded by nice restaurants offering food at low prices. The beach is very clean and it is possible to come with your towel or rent a deckchair for the day. If you want to discover other beautiful beaches and coves, board a small boat and sail around the area. İçmeler is located a 15-minute drive from Marmaris , one of the most beautiful and largest resorts in Turkey .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights   to Dalaman Airport (1h40) and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  “ Grand Aquarium ” is a perfect hotel for families with its beautiful swimming pool and water slides.

5. Kaputas beach

Considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey , Kaputaş beach should be at the top of your to do list during your stay in Turkey . In addition to being beautiful, the beach is easy to access and you can spend the day there at small cost. A snack bar restaurant offers small snacks at affordable prices and the rental of a deckchair is less than 3 euros per day).

Kaputaş beach is located on the D400 road which leads to Kas. During your stay, be sure to visit Ölüdeniz beach, located 1 hour by car from Kaputaş beach.

Book your flights and your accommodation in Kas or Antalya .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Dalaman Airport (1h50 min by car) or Antalya Airport (3h by car).

  Where to stay:  “ Kalkan Park Hotel ” surrounded by the natural beauty of Kalkan’s lush forest and exotic flowers.

6. Kabak Beach

This magnificent beach is a little less touristy than some other Turkish beaches . Here you will mostly come across Turkish families who have come to enjoy a little corner of paradise. It may seem surprising but there also seems to be, at any time of the year, a small group of hippies who also like to meet on this paradisiacal beach. This beach attracts different people who all share a love for nature and beautiful landscapes.

Access to this beach is not easy and requires a bit of agility, so we do not recommend it to travellers with motor difficulties or families with small children.

During your stay, be sure to visit Ölüdeniz Beach. Located 30 minutes by car, it is also ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Turkey .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Dalaman Airport (1h30) as well as your transfer .

  Where to stay:  “ Seaview Faralya ” located 2km from Kaback beach.

7. Cirali Beach

Cirali - Antalya

Çıralı beach is one of the best beaches in Turkey . Less frequented than some other beaches, it is popular with travellers looking for calm and serenity. Even during the high season (July and August) this beach is a haven of peace for those looking for relaxation, idleness or simply recharging their batteries in the middle of nature. Çıralı is a small village located in the middle of a natural park, which explains why there are no big hotels and big buildings. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers, yoga and…. calm….

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Antalya (1h30) and your transfer online.

  Where to stay:  “ Kimera Hotel - Yoga & Spa ”, 50 metres from Çıralı beach.

8. Olympos beach

This beach is so beautiful that we could not fail to mention it even though… it is located 200 metres on foot from " Çıralı beach" which is also classified among the most beautiful beaches in Turkey . Olympos beach benefits from the same assets as its neighbour: crystal clear waters, calm and a protected environment since this beach is located in a nature reserve.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Antalya (1h30) and your  transfer  online.

  Where to stay:  “ Azur Hotel ” set among citrus trees and aromatic plants.

9. Olüdeniz Beach

The blue waters of Ölüdeniz await you this summer. You will find everything you need on site. Many restaurants and shops are located around this world-famous beach. It is a perfect place for a day out with family or friends. If you have young children with you, swim in the blue lagoon, especially if the waves are strong on that day.

Book your flights to Dalaman Airport as well as your accommodation in Ölüdeniz, your tours and activities in Turkey, such as a “ Paragliding tour over the blue lagoon of Oludeniz ”.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Dalaman Airport (1 hour by car) or Antalya Airport (3 hours by car). 

  Where to stay:  “ Ünsal Hotel ” just a 2-minute walk from the beach.

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Top beaches in turkey — 17+ most beautiful & best beaches in turkey.

Turkey boasts countless attractions but it is no surprise that its 7,000 km long coastline (More than double that of Vietnam, when we have 3,260km of coastline) is one of the most popular tourist attractions. So, let’s check out our top rated 17+ top beaches in Turkey which including best beaches in Turkey, most beautiful beaches in Turkey, best beach to visit in Turkey, best beaches in Turkey for families, best beaches in Turkey for snorkeling as follows!

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Many of Türkiye’s most beautiful landscapes can be found along the coast, offering rich local culture to experience right on the sandy shore. So if you’re thinking of flying to the Aegean Sea, you might be curious about where the best beaches in Turkey can be found.

The truth is that it’s hard to find a beach in Türkiye that doesn’t impress, but we’ve still done some basic steps for you and picked out our personal favorites.

With a coastline of 7,200 km, millions of people flock to Türkiye each year to enjoy a wonderful combination of culture, history and beachside experiences. Along the sun-drenched coast, calm, clear waters lap against pristine sands and hidden emerald coves protected by the ruins of ancient civilizations.

From family-friendly beaches to rare gems, these outstanding stretches of sand will have you booking your tickets immediately.

Kabak Beach, Fethiye (# best beaches in turkey)

About 25 kilometers from the resort town of Ölüdeniz, you’ll find the free-style village of Kabak, a popular retreat for backpackers, yogis and nature enthusiasts. Another 30-minute walk will take you down the steep path to Kabak Beach, the jewel of Fethiye.

Located about 25 kilometers south of Ölüdeniz, Kabak beach is a splendid little pocket of white sand and pebbles with clear turquoise waters and nothing to disturb the sense of tranquility. Surrounded on three sides by lush pine forests, the pristine semicircular bay is mainly frequented by backpackers and hikers following the Lycian Way.

The beach is a 30-minute walk from the village of the same name, down a steep path, but its dreamy views and laid-back atmosphere make the effort worth it when you see it in person The most beautiful in Turkey.

This crescent-shaped bay, surrounded by pine forests and mountains, can only be reached by hiking along this trail, but the quiet and tranquil beach below is worth the effort (and the views from above is also stunning).

If you like quiet and pristine beaches, Kabak is the perfect choice. Located at the end of the Kabak valley, on the southwest coast where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean, this stunning little area of shingle beach is surrounded by lush pine forests. Kabak is an exciting adventure with paths located along the tops of large cliffs.

On the pebbles and white sands of Kabak Beach, you’ll mostly walk with locals and backpackers along the Lycian road. You won’t find many amenities, water sports or beach chairs for rent.

The relaxed atmosphere is palpable and people come here mainly to admire the natural beauty and undisturbed peace during their stay at their villa in Turkey.

Several shaded areas are available to avoid the sun’s rays with a fruit juice or beer from one of the beach bars. Other than that, it’s just you, the Mediterranean Sea, and a few friendly turtles.

Mermerli Beach, Antalya (# turkey top beaches)

In the midst of a bustling city like Antalya, you might not expect to find one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, but you actually can.

Not far from the city center, Mermerli beach is a small city beach located next to the old port. Since Antalya is a pedestrian-only area, Mermerli is within walking distance, but there’s nothing better than a place to relax, sunbathe, and swim after a long morning strolling around town.

To enter the beach, you will have to pay a small fee at the entrance to Mermerli Restaurant and then go down the wooden stairs. This fee includes sunbeds and umbrellas, and you can enjoy drinks, ice cream and food delivered right to your seat by the restaurant.

Stone plateaus and wooden terraces extend the small natural beach with brown sand and pebbles, but remember that space here is limited. However, there is plenty of water and a clear view of the ahead coast.

Blue Lagoon, Ölüdeniz (# top beaches in turkey)

Blue Lagoon Ölüdeniz is perhaps the most famous beach in Türkiye, and for good reason. Few places in the world can match its natural beauty, attracting tourists to revel in the vivid turquoise waters for a few relaxing hours on shore.

Sparkling with every shade of blue, the sea here is so vibrant it’s almost surreal. Oludeniz is a popular paragliding destination, attracting experts and first-time paragliders like us from all over the world. From Mount Babadag, you soar into the sky from one of the highest commercial paragliding take-off locations in the entire world!

This lagoon is a much-photographed gem on Turkey’s southern coast, famous for its varying shades of turquoise and blue as well as its soft sand

This vast bay lies at the meeting point of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, in a protected natural park with the Babadag Mountains as its backdrop. The relatively rough sandy beach is where most visitors like to lounge, warm and perfect for safe play for children.

Until the early 1980s, the Blue Lagoon remained a hidden gem, known only to hippies and backpackers. Today, it has flourished with bars, restaurants and many activities.

One of the most popular pastimes is enjoying the view from above while paragliding from the nearby mountains. Or if you prefer to stay at sea level, you can rent a paddleboard to explore.

Whichever you choose, you’ll soon understand why Blue Lagoon is one of the most photographed beaches in Europe and the perfect place to visit during your luxury holiday in Turkey.

Icmeler Beach, Marmaris (# most beautiful beaches in turkey)

Nestled just 5 miles from Marmaris, the golden sands of Icmeler Beach grace the resort town of the same name. Once a modest fishing village, Icmeler has transformed into one of Turkey’s most popular seaside getaways, catering to both families and large groups of people.

Despite being surrounded by pine forests and flanked by the Taurus Mountains, Icmeler Beach has a surprisingly Caribbean feel. The 6km stretch of sand never feels overcrowded thanks to a nightly cleaning operation that leaves visitors spotless the next day.

Whether you seek excitement or total relaxation, Icmeler Beach has it all, along with plenty of bars and restaurants. The calm waters with small waves are ideal for lounging in the sun and taking long swims.

For water sports enthusiasts, there are activities ranging from paragliding to jet skiing and scuba diving. The nearby hills have great hiking trails with panoramic views of the beach.

Patara Beach, Gelemiş (# best beach to visit in turkey)

Stretching along the Turkish Riviera – one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines, close to the ancient Lycian city of Patara, the stunning 18km long Patara beach is a nature lover’s paradise, with peaks Towering limestone mountains, undulating sand dunes and well-preserved archaeological ruins provide a stunning backdrop to the dazzling turquoise sea.

Part of a national park, the area is rich in bird species and is a breeding ground for endangered turtles. In addition to being the country’s longest beach, Patara is also one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches along the Mediterranean.

Named after the nearby ancient Lycian city of Patara, this beach requires a walk through the ruins (for a small entrance fee), making for a stunning vista of ruins of temples, roads Ancient streets and domes above the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Stretching 18km, Patara is Türkiye’s longest beach, with minimal development, ensuring you can easily find a private spot. Patara is one of the best beaches in Türkiye. It is located in a national park where Loggerhead turtles are protected. From May and October, the beach will be closed after sunset to allow turtles to lay and incubate their eggs.

Ideal for long walks, sunbathing and swimming, the warm, shallow waters are perfect for children and great for snorkeling during your vacation in Turkey.

This pristine paradise of limestone peaks and rolling white sand dunes is part of a national park. Vibrant local birdlife and protected breeding grounds for loggerhead turtles add to the natural beauty.

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Turkey Travel Guide

From the postcard-perfect beaches and mountain ranges, to its charming cobblestone streets that are perfect for sipping tea and having baklava.

Best time to visit Turkey

How to travel on a budget 11 tips, best places to visit in turkey, best things to do in cappadocia: a guide to the hot air balloons, best things to do in fethiye: turkey’s turquoise coast, istanbul’s must-see: the colorful houses of balat, 7 best things to do in kas, turkey, map of turkey, weather in turkey.

Turkey boasts diverse weather! Coastal areas enjoy a Mediterranean climate with hot summers, perfect for beach lovers. The inland areas experience continental weather, with cold winters and hot summers. Spring and fall are generally ideal nationwide, offering pleasant temperatures for sightseeing. So there's a perfect season for every Turkish adventure!

All destinations

11 best things to do in istanbul, turkey, best things to do in antalya, turkey (old town), best travel insurances, how to plan a trip.

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• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Turkey worth visiting?

From the lively city of Istanbul to the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia , there are countless reasons to visit Turkey. With breathtaking scenery, rich history, intricate architecture, pristine beaches, and exceptional shopping, Turkey offers diverse experiences catering to every type of traveler.

Is Turkey cheap to visit?

Turkey boasts affordability that’s hard to match. Because it’s straddling both Asia and Europe, it’s much cheaper than many other nearby destinations. With free sightseeing opportunities, budget-friendly stays, and delectable street food, Turkey is a great European destination for those wanting to save some pennies!

Can I drink tap water in Turkey?

In major cities in Turkey, tap water is safe and refreshing to drink. However, sticking to drinking filtered water in more remote areas is advisable. Bring a reusable water bottle to keep hydrated on the go while being environmentally friendly.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Turkey?

Entry regulations vary by nationality; some countries, like the UK, France, and the Netherlands, enjoy visa-free stays for 90 days. However, citizens from countries such as Australia, Canada, South Africa, and the USA require an e-visa for a 90-day visit. Make sure to check your entry requirements in advance.

What language do they speak in Turkey?

Turkish is the primary language spoken throughout Turkey. While English is commonly used in tourist areas, having a grasp of basic Turkish phrases can enhance your cultural experience and foster connections with locals during your travels.

Do I need travel insurance for Turkey?

A vital necessity for every journey, travel insurance safeguards against medical emergencies and unforeseen travel disruptions, granting you the freedom to explore Vietnam with peace of mind. Discover the optimal travel insurance for a worry-free adventure.

Is Turkey safe?

Turkey is generally safe for travelers, but as always, take standard precautions. While some areas are best avoided, these are typically off the tourist path. Exercise common sense, and you’ll find warmth and hospitality in this captivating nation.

What power plug type does Turkey have?

Turkey predominantly uses the Type F plug with two round pins. Pack or buy an adapter at the airport to keep your devices charged as you explore the enchanting landscapes and historical wonders.

Why do people love Turkey?

It’s the allure of contrasts, from bustling markets to serene beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant bazaars. Turkey is a country that has it all: mouth-watering food, mesmerizing landscapes, rich history, and crazy adventures.

Travel to Turkey 

A vast country straddling two continents, Europe and Asia, Turkey is a captivating blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the sun-kissed turquoise coastline home to beautiful boutique hotels to Istanbul’s lively bazaars selling everything you could ever think of and more, traveling Turkey promises to be full of adventure!

How to plan your trip to Turkey

To plan the ultimate adventure, check out our Turkey travel guides ! Whether you’re looking for a beach break along the Turkish Riviera or backpacking around the country, our guides have you covered with everything you need to know for an unforgettable holiday in Turkey . 

To discover the best places in Turkey , we’d recommend staying for at least 2 weeks to experience a mix of fantastic beaches and to see the breathtaking balloons over Capadoccia . But if you have longer, make sure to visit Istanbul to explore the beautiful, colorful houses of Balat and enjoy lots of delicious street food. 

Planning an extraordinary vacation in Turkey ? Discover more about Turkey’s weather to choose the ideal time to explore this unique country! 

Spring & Autumn: For those seeking pleasant weather and fewer crowds, April to May and September to October would be the perfect time to visit for your Turkey holiday . During these months, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, providing a comfortable environment to explore Turkey’s rich array of ancient sites. Additionally, this period brings festivals, with the International Istanbul Film Festival in April and the International Wine Festival in Cappadocia at the end of October, among others. 

Summer: If you’re a beach lover looking for sun and sand, the summer is the best time to visit Turkey , with the Turquoise Coast offering a haven for relaxation and swimming. However, avoid these peak summer months if you plan to explore historical sites, as the temperatures can soar, making it less enjoyable for outdoor activities. 

Winter: If you prefer a more serene experience, consider visiting during the winter months from November to March. While coastal areas may be closed due to the cold weather, it’s an excellent time to explore areas like Cappadocia , adorned with a snowy landscape creating breathtaking panoramas. January to March is particularly quiet, providing a unique opportunity to have destinations to yourself, although make sure to wrap up warm! 

In essence, the best time to visit Turkey depends on your interests. Whether you prefer spring’s lively colors, summer’s warmth, or winter’s tranquility, Turkey has something to offer year-round.

Coastlines and beaches in Turkey

Turkey’s 7,200 km coast unfolds with a diverse array of pristine shores and picturesque landscapes, the most prominent being the Turquoise Coast in southwest Turkey. 

Starting at Bodrum, a hotspot for holidaymakers, catering to a diverse range of beachgoers. Whether it’s the lively atmosphere of Gumbet Beach, the upscale vibes of Yalikavak, or the historic charm mixed with the modern allure of Bitez Beach, Bodrum has something for everyone.

Further along the coast is the enchanting town of Fethiye , arguably the hidden gem of the Turquoise Coast and one of the best places to visit in Turkey . Make sure to stop by Ölüdeniz nearby, renowned for its iconic destinations, Butterfly Valley, a natural marvel with a crazy drop to a white-sand beach, mainly visited by boat, and the Blue Lagoon, a hotspot for paragliders and water sports. 

If you’re a wildlife lover, Patara Beach near Gelemiş is the perfect stretch of coastline for bird watching and the chance to see the protected loggerhead turtles. As one of the longest sandy beaches in the Mediterranean, Patara Beach is backed by giant sand dunes and ancient ruins, offering a serene and historically rich environment.

For those seeking a beach with dramatic scenery, Kaputaş Beach near Kas is a must-visit. Hemmed in by steep cliffs, the beach features dazzling emerald waters and fine golden sand, creating a postcard-worthy setting for sunbathing and relaxation.

Near the end of the Turquoise Coast is Antalya , with many beaches to choose from. Nestled in the heart of the old town, Mermerli Beach offers a blend of history and relaxation. Konyaaltı Beach provides a lively atmosphere with cafes, shops, and stunning views of the Taurus Mountains. For a unique coastal spectacle, visit Lower Duden Waterfall (yes, there are two parts to this waterfall!) and watch it cascade into the ocean, creating a captivating natural display.

Food, culture and religion in Turkey 

Turkey, a country bridging continents, promises breathtaking landscapes and a delightful blend of flavors, religious influence, and cultural spectacles ready to be explored!

Cuisine: Prepare your taste buds for a Turkish feast that’s nothing short of a flavor fiesta! Turkish cuisine is a delightful mishmash of Ottoman, Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Mediterranean influences, with each region having its own specialties. Dive into juicy kebabs, tempting mezes, and flaky baklava. Wander through vibrant bazaars, a sensory overload of spices, fruits, and sweets. And, of course, don’t miss out on the iconic Turkish breakfast – a feast of olives, cheeses, tomatoes, and more, ensuring you start your day on a delicious note.

Religion: With the majority of the population being Muslim, Turkey’s landscape is dotted with mosques that are not just places of worship but architectural wonders. The Blue Mosque in Istanbul is a showstopper, standing tall against the skyline. Despite being a secular state, the Islamic religion weaves seamlessly into daily life, with the soothing calls to prayer echoing through the streets. 

Culture: Turkey’s culture is shaped by its vast history. Areas like Istanbul , Ankara, and Cappadocia are living museums, showcasing architectural marvels such as Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Beyond architecture, traditional Turkish arts like calligraphy and miniature painting tell stories, and vibrant ceramics add creativity to the cultural landscape. 

Why You Should Travel to Turkey

Turkey has an irresistible blend of diverse things to do in Turkey, making it a must-visit destination for any type of traveler! 

Picture yourself soaring high on a scenic hot air balloon flight over the mesmerizing landscapes of Cappadocia, where fairy-tale-like rock formations and ancient cave dwellings create a surreal panorama—or relaxing in mineral-rich thermal waters at the cotton candy castle of Pamukkale. Turkey’s one-of-a-kind scenery is unmatched! 

For those seeking sun-soaked relaxation, Turkey boasts beautiful beaches along its stunning coastline, the perfect place to unwind with crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Or, if you’re more of a foodie, the country’s culinary scene is out of this world! With delicious cuisine that reflects its rich cultural heritage, from kebabs to baklava and huge breakfast spreads, eating local is a must! 

Venture into the heart of bustling markets and bazaars, and you’ll discover why Turkey is hailed for having the best shopping in Europe – make sure to leave enough space in your suitcase for the flight home! And once you’re all shopped out, head to a traditional Hamam, an unusual yet rejuvenating spa experience involving several cleansing rituals. 

Safety and travel advice in Turkey 

A vacation in Turkey promises to be full of amazing sights and experiences, but it’s essential to be prepared and aware to ensure a safe trip. The information below will help travelers get the most out of their adventure. 

Crime and Safety in Turkey : Turkey is generally safe for travelers, but petty theft can occur, especially in major cities and tourist hotspots, so exercise caution by securing your valuables and leaving non-essential items at home. Avoid isolated areas at night and prioritize well-lit, populated spots. There is a risk of terrorism, but mainly in areas that travelers don’t tend to visit. Make sure to follow the advice of local authorities and always stay vigilant. 

Find out more about travel safety.

Natural Disasters: While natural disasters are infrequent, Turkey can experience flooding, forest fires, and earthquakes. Stay informed by registering with your embassy and following directions of local authorities should a natural disaster occur. 

Driving in Turkey: Turkey’s roads can be busy and chaotic in populated areas and poorly maintained in remote, rural areas. Whether navigating through city traffic or taking in landscapes on quiet rural roads, always drive carefully, focus on the road, and stop if you get tired. 

Tip: Make sure to carry cash for toll roads, as many still don’t accept cards and will make you turn back. 

Travel Insurance: Prioritize your safety for all your travels by purchasing travel insurance. While Turkey is generally safe, unexpected events like accidents, flight disruptions, or baggage loss can occur. Having suitable travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection, ensuring you have a worry-free trip. Check out the best travel insurance for you.

9 Postcard-Perfect Beaches in Turkey

Home to 7,200 km of coastline, it’s no wonder millions of people flock to Turkey each year for the ultimate mix of culture, history, and beach bliss. Along its sun-blessed shores, calm, crystalline waters lap against pristine sweeps of sand, and hidden jade coves are guarded by ruins from ancient civilizations.

The Lycian Way, one of the world’s greatest hiking trails, winds along its famously blue Turquoise Coast, and over 450 Blue Flag beaches – whose backdrop changes from lavish 5-star resorts to idyllic villages to marvelous pine-clad mountains – promise endless fun in the sun.

Kabak Beach, Fethiye

Located about 25 km south of Ölüdeniz, Kabak is a splendid little pocket of white sand and pebbles with crystal turquoise waters and nothing else to disturb the sense of peace. Surrounded on three sides by luxuriant pine forest, the pristine half-moon bay is mainly frequented by backpackers and hikers following the Lycian Way.

The beach is a 30-minute walk from the village with the same name, down a steep path, but its picturesque setting and laidback atmosphere make the effort worthwhile.

Blue Lagoon, Ölüdeniz

Tucked inside a protected national park, where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean, the Blue Lagoon of Ölüdeniz is undoubtedly the most famous stretch of sand in Turkey and perhaps one of the most beautiful in the entire world.

Sparkling with all shades of blue, the sea here is so vibrant it almost seems surreal, while the Babadag mountain beyond provides the perfect launch pad for hundreds of thousands of paragliding enthusiasts who visit the resort each year. In other words, say hello to one of the most fabulous beaches in the Eastern Mediterranean!

Cleopatra’s Beach, Alanya

An enviable mix of natural beauty and excellent facilities make the Blue Flagged Cleopatra’s Beach in Alanya one of the best in Turkey. Flanking the 2.5 km long stretch of fine white sand are a variety of shops, cafés, and restaurants, and its shallow, translucent Mediterranean waters are ideal for swimming and watersports.

Patara Beach, Gelemiş

Stretching along the Turkish Riviera – one of Europe’s most stunning coastlines , near the ancient Lycian city of Patara, this superb 18 km long beach is a nature lover’s paradise, with towering limestone peaks, rolling sand dunes, and well-preserved archaeological remains providing a scenic backdrop to the dazzling turquoise sea.

Part of a national park, the area is rich in birdlife and serves as breeding ground for the endangered loggerhead turtles. As well as being the country’s longest, Patara is one of the most picturesque and unspoiled beaches along the Mediterranean.

İztuzu Beach, Dalyan

Another important turtle nesting habitat, İztuzu Beach boasts soft golden sands, shallow translucent waters, and a handful of kiosks serving Turkish tea and pancakes ( gözleme ).

Washed by the Dalyan River delta on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other, this is one of Turkey’s greatest eco-beaches – an idyllic place to swim and just relax in the sun, away from the madding tourist crowds. The lack of development only adds to the area’s untainted natural charm and peaceful atmosphere.

Konyaaltı Beach, Antalya

One of Antalya’s main beaches, Konyaaltı has all the ingredients for a perfect sun-soaked day. Stretching between the city’s limestone cliffs and the imposing Beydağları mountains, this sweep of fine pebbles abounds in water fun, splendid views, and world-class facilities. The surrounding area is full of shops, cafés, and restaurants, and the adjacent seafront promenade makes for a breezy and delightful evening stroll.

Cirali Beach, Kemer

About an hour’s drive from Antalya, Cirali is a jewel of a beach, lapped by glistening blue waters and surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. With the ruins of Olympos (Tahtalı Dağı) at one end and the eternal flames of Chimaera towering above, this idyllic shingle beach along the Turquoise Coast should delight both nature lovers and history buffs, let alone sun worshippers looking to unwind in gorgeous, pristine surroundings.

Butterfly Valley Beach, Fethiye

Turkey is a treasure trove of beautiful beaches, but few are as stunning as this postcard-perfect white-sand cove in the majestic Butterfly Valley.

Kissed by clear sapphire seas and framed by steep rocks, it truly is a sight to behold. If you do manage to tear away from it, the 86,000 sqm Butterfly Valley (Kelebek Vadisi) nearby is home to marvelous flora, outstanding hiking trails, and more than 80 species of butterflies. The beach is accessible by boat from Ölüdeniz.

Kaputaş Beach, Kaş

Just off the coastal road connecting the towns of Kaş and Kalkan, Kaputaş Beach beguiles with its blonde sands and brilliant turquoise waters. Located at the mouth of a canyon, it’s no wonder this little slice of paradise often makes the cover of travel brochures.

To reach the beach, you need to walk down a long stairway (187 steps), but former visitors swear the place is totally worth every step down and up. Otherwise, the view from above is breathtaking and not to be missed.

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Best Beaches in Turkey

Best Beaches in Turkey. When you’re a country with coastlines along the Aegean and Mediterranean seas you’re bound to be spoilt for choice when it comes to decent beaches and that’s certainly the case with Turkey. Some, like those around Marmaris, are well-known to foreign visitors and come with all the amenities a holiday-maker could ask for. Less developed options also abound, like those on the Datça Peninsula, while some, like those on the islands of Bozcaada and Gökçeada, are hugely popular with Turks but only slowly gaining a reputation with visiting holiday-makers.

Travelers looking for a beach vacation may want to consider the Turkish Riviera. Guests are surrounded by luxury, not to mention a wide variety of water activities from waterslides to windsurfing to just lounging on the beach. Or they can relax with a spa treatment or traditional Turkish bath. In addition these resorts offer many international cuisines along with fitness centers to work off those calories. Most of the best beach resorts in Turkey can be found between Antalya and Alanya, with a few near Bodrum and Oludeniz.

Travellers’ Choice Awards. Find out what the best Beaches in Turkey are as awarded by real travellers.

1- Kaputas Beach, Kas

Kaputas Beach Kas; The beach is situated at a distance of 20 km from Kaş and 7 from Kalkan, at a point where an extremely narrow valley towered by steep cliffs and forests joins the sea shore in the cove of the same name as the beach (Kaputaş). The beach is quite popular among visitors to the region due to its untouched natural beauty commanded by a view from the heights traversed by the State road D400 between Kaş and Kalkan.

2- Iztuzu Beach (Dalyan)

Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan; Good beach, with or w/o logger-head turtles. The town, 8 km (5 miles) NW of Dalaman Airport, the river, cliff tombs and Caunos ruins are a nice bonus.

Iztuzu Beach is backed by the Dalyan Delta. Iztuzu’s six kilometres of golden sands are just a fifteen-minute drive from Dalyan Town. Perhaps for this reason, the beach is rarely crowded.

The beach is a fine strip of white sand that juts into the water. Backed by Dalyan Delta, it is a stunning and natural place.

If you are seeking complete isolation, turn left on your way to Iztuzu and follow the off-road tracks into the mountains. You’ll travel through lush forests and isolated mountain villages, and eventually you’ll find a number of isolated, stunningly beautiful beaches.

3- Kleopatra Beach, Alanya

Kleopatra Beach, Alanya; The town (115 km/72 miles east of Antalya) is busy and crowded, but the beaches are so long (22 km/14 miles to the east) that there’s plenty of sand for everyone. Great Seljuk castle, too

4- Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz Beach), Fethiye

Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz Beach), Fethiye; Ölüdeniz (Fethiye) Very fine, with good hotels, restaurants and bars, but because it’s Turkey’s most famous, it can get crowded.

Oludeniz Blue Lagoon Turkey is a wondrous place famous for its beautiful beaches and historical sights. It should be mentioned that Oludeniz beach resort is a rather quiet and peaceful place, so you won’t find some noisy disco-bars and shows. In fact, tourists come here for other reasons.

So where is Oludeniz in Turkey located and how to get to Oludeniz beach? Oludeniz resort (Olu Deniz) is located near town of Fethiye in the province of Mugla in Turkey. You can easiliy get from Fethiye to Oludeniz by dolmus – mini bus. So how far is Fethiye from Oludeniz? The distance from from Oludeniz to Fethiye is 13 km and road goes through Ovacik and Hisaronu. Olludeniz dolmus timetable will not make you to wait for bus to go for more than 30 minutes or you always can take Oludeniz taxi. Sometimes holidaymakers from Marmaris, Bodrum, Antalya is comeing for a day to Oludeniz Blue Lagoon Turkey. Abswering the question how far is Oludeniz from Marmaris we must admit that Oludeniz to Marmaris is 137 km.Aas for the distances to other resorts: Antalya to Oludeniz is 201 km, Bodrum to Oludeniz – 244 km, Icmeler to Oludeniz – 145 km. The closest to Blue Lagoon Oludeniz airport is Dalaman which is located in 63 km from the resort.

5- Patara Beach, Patara (Fethiye)

Patara Beach, Patara (Fethiye); 50 meters/yards wide and 20 km (12.5 miles) long, this beach 75 km (47 miles) south of Fethiye is Turkey’s finest. Accommodations—and shade—are limited, though.

Patara was founded in the V century BC and soon became the largest port of Lycia.The Temple of Apollo with oracle, that was considered the second most important temple after the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, was attracting pilgrims from all the Greek cities of Asia Minor.

So where is Patara in Turkey located? The Patara ruins and Patara beach are located approximately in 10 kilometers west of the modern Turkish town of Kalkan in province of Antalya (actually Patara is much closer to Fethiye than Antalya – there are 225 km from Patara beach to Antalya). The distance from Fethiye to Patara Turkey is 75 km.

During the wars between the successors of Alexander the Great the Patara city was the major naval port and shipyard. In 42 BC Brutus gave an ultimatum to residents of Patara – he promised to spare all citizens of Patara and even release previously captured captives for the surrender of the city otherwise he would arrange a similar to Xanthos massacre. Patara chose to give up.

The Roman emperor Hadrian used to live in Patara for some time. The Apostle Paul and the Luke the Evangelist stayed here and on the way to Rome. In 138 BC the population of the Patara city was about 20,000 and Patara was the second most important city after Ephesus. Patara is also the birthplace of St. Nicholas (270 AD) – Archbishop of Myra and the prototype of Santa Claus.

Today Patara Turkey is mostly known for its beautiful white sand beach. Patara Beach Turkey is a strip of white sand of 500m width stretching along the Mediterranean coast for 20 km. There are sunbeds, changing rooms, several places to eat and have fun on the beach. It is a place where tourists can relax in a quiet secluded atmosphere amid the stunning seascapes. Beach and the sea is maintained in perfect cleanliness as Patara is the National Park and protected by the government. Patara Beach in Turkey was recognized as the best beach in Europe by British weekly journal The Sunday Times. You can get to Patara beach from Fethiye by car on D400 – coastal road to Antalya.

6- Ilica Beach, Cesme

Ilica Beach, Cesme;

Ilıca is a large resort area near Çeşme in the extreme western tip of Turkey, in İzmir Province. A township apart in practically all its aspects, Ilıca administratively depends the municipality of the district center of Çeşme, at a distance of 5 km to the west.

Ilıca started out as a settlement towards the end of the 19th century, initially as a retreat for wealthy people, especially from İzmir, during summer holidays. Today, it is a popular destination for many. Its name makes reference to its famed thermal springs, some of which are in the sea. As the thermal waters come out of the sea bed and mix with the sea water adding minerals very close to the Ilica Beach, swimming at Ilica Beach is ideal for the skin. Ilica is also home to mud baths which is known to cure many illnesses such as rheumatism, metabolism illnesses and gynaecological diseases.

Mentioned by Pausanias and Charles Texier, Ilıca thermal springs are also notable in Turkey for having been the subject of the first scientifically based analysis in Turkish language of a thermal spring, published in 1909 by Yusuf Cemal. By his time the thermal springs were well-known both internationally, scientific and journalistic literature having been published in French and in Greek, and across Ottoman lands, since the construction here of a still-standing yalı associated with Muhammad Ali of Egypt’s son Tosun Pasha who had sought a cure in Ilıca before his premature death.

Ilıca also has a fine beach, about 1.5 km long, as well as favorable wind conditions which make Ilıca, together with the neighboring Alaçatı, an internationally prized location for windsurfing.

7- Calis Beach, Fethiye

Calis Beach, Fethiye;

8- Konyaaltı & Lara Beach (Antalya)

Konyaaltı & Lara Beach (Antalya); Big, l-o-n-g pebble/coarse sand beach using the Blue Flag System to certify cleanliness

Konyaalti Beach Park

Walk on the multicolored pebbles and feel the warm waves tickle your feet in this scenic beach park with views of distant mountains. Konyaalti Beach Park is a vast stretch of pebbles with a stunning backdrop of mountains. Showers, restaurants and the sea offer sunbathers respite from the sweltering heat. Make this your favorite spot for watersports, swimming and relaxing by the Mediterranean Sea just outside the city center. Sunbathe on deck chairs while the kids play on the beach. Rent umbrellas to shade you from the sun while you lounge on a beach chair. Dip your toes in the water or go for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea. Look for the blue flag indicating the water is clean and safe for swimmers. The Beydaglari Mountains loom powerfully over the horizon as a reminder of the country’s scenic and varied landscape. Capture photos of the rocky giants hanging over the sea. Stay at one of the hotels with a view of the beach. Take part in watersports, such as Jet Skiing and parasailing, for a small price. Choose snacks at the many vendors’ stands along the beach. Buy nuts, ice cream and sodas to share with family and friends. Sit at a restaurant for a meal accompanied by the soothing sound of crashing waves. Behind the beach you will find a park with paths, trees and vast grassy area where you can play games. The Antalya Aqualand Water Park next to the beach is packed with thrilling slides and waterfalls. You do not have to pay to enter the beach and park, which is always open to the public. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the pebbles can get quite hot on summer afternoons. Konyaalti Beach Park is about 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) west of the central area of Antalya. You can drive to the beach, which has a large parking lot for visitors, in less than 15 minutes. The beach is next to the Miniature Culture Park, Antalya Aquarium and Antalya Museum. Ride the tram to the stop next to the museum and walk for 2 minutes to reach the beach. Buses also take passengers to the popular beach.

9- Olimpos (Antalya)

Olimpos (Antalya); The opposite of the others: small, secluded, atmospheric, backed by a forest filled with Roman ruins. 79 km (49 miles) southwest of Antalya

Laid on the Mediterranean coast in Antalya province, Olympus beach is famous as the place to see Chimera – natural flames issuing from the rocky mountains.

Getting there

To get to the beach from Antalya you can use a rented car. In this case, the trip is possible using a narrow road off the D400 highway. Also, there is a public transport service, although not direct.

Hotels and pensions are available in the villages of Cirali and Olympus, and getting to the beach from these villages is just a matter of a 15 min walk.

10- Side (Antalya)

Side (Antalya); The once-idyllic village 65 km (40 miles) east of Antalya is now crowded and noisy, but the beaches are still fine and unspoiled. Roman ruins abound

11- Bodrum Peninsula

Bodrum Peninsula; Beaches in the towns are not great, but good smaller ones abound: Ortakent Yalısı (coarse sand & pebble), Turgutreis (surfy), and gem-like Gümüşlük

BODRUM PENINSULA BEACHES & COVESBODRUM PENINSULA BEACHES & COVES ADA BOGAZI (AQUARIUM) On the Bodrum peninsula between Gumbet and Bitez is the Akvaryum Cove, stretching for three kilometres towards the south. In front of it is Gorecik Island, which is also called ic Island. Between the Bodrum Peninsula and the island there is an area forming a strait and the cove, It is called Aquarium because of its crystal clear waters.In the open waters the sea floor 30 m. below can be seen with the naked eye. Throughout the day it get hoards of Daily Boat Trips and at night boats that anchor there. AKYARLAR COVE This cove with its wonderful beach and crystal clear waters is 13 km from Bodrum. It is one of the best places in the world to surf. Its ancient name is Arhialla. ASPAT BEACH Rising out of the shores of the Aegean and mentioned often in Turkish folk music, the real name of Aspat is Aspartos. Evliya celebi writes of Aspat in his Chronicles. Built upon a barren rock, the perimeter of Aspat Castle measures 700 paces. Here one may see the remains of a civilizations dating back to the Classic Age and continuing up until the present day. BAGLA BEACH With one of the best coves and beaches on the peninsula, it is an excellent place to camp and is 14 km from Bodrum. BARDAKCI BEACH Bardakçi is 500 m. from Bodrum. One can reach to Bardakci most of the time by sea. Its crystal clear sea is well-known for its springs. BITEZ BEACH One of the most beautiful coves on the peninsula, it is 10 km from Bodrum and has warm waters and sandy beaches. It is a beautiful quiet corner where blue and green reach out to touch each other in the tangerine orchards which stretch from the village to the sea. GOLKOY Located 13 km north of Bodrum, this beautiful cove blends the green of olive, tangerine and pine trees with that of palms. Because it faces the north, it is always lush and the water in the cove is cooler than that in the other coves. GUMBET BEACH About 3 km west of Bodrum, its waters are very shallow. It is an excellent place for beach surfing. Bardakci is a mere 1000 m. from Bodrum. Most people go there by Boat. It is known for its beach and the water, which is as clear as glass, as well as the fresh water spring there. GUNDOGAN Located 18 km from Bodrum, Gundogan cove is one of the coves that has been least changed by man and which still preserves its beauty in the most natural way. Its tangerine orchards are famous. GUMUSLUK It is one of the oldest settlements on the peninsula. It is still possible to see in places the underwater remains of the old harbor wall which connected Tavsan Island to the mainland. The sea and fish here are famous. Watching the sun set here amidst the lush green vegetation will be a life-long memory. GUVERCINLIK BEACH  A cove of unusual beauty with every conceivable tone green and blue, it is located 25 km from Bodrum. Salih Island, located right across the water, only serves to enhance the natural appeal of this beautiful cove. KADIKALESI The sandy beaches of this crystal clear sea are surround with citrus orchards. Situated 23 km from Bodrum, it gets its name from the remains of a nearby castle belonging to the Hellenistic era. KARAINCIR Situated 16 km out of Bodrum, its 500 m. beach is one of the best in the area. ORTAKENT – YAHSI BEACH Located 14 km from Bodrum, its waters are warm and it has sandy beaches. Its tangerine orchards are quite famous. It is one of the best vantage points from which to view village life in Bodrum.

TORBA BEACH  peaceful little village just 5 km from Bodrum, it is a charming yet lively place where the shining sea melds with the green pines and olive trees. There are boats going to Didim, Milet and Priene from here. TURGUTREIS BEACH Situated 20 km from Bodrum, the town is famous for its tangerine orchards. It is named for the famous Turkish admiral, Turgut Reis. In terms of population, it is the second most populous area after Bodrum. It is known for its unforgettable sunsets. TURKBUKU BEACH Situated beside Golkoy, at a distance from Bodrum of 15 km, it resembles Golkoy in almost every way. It is one of the places preferred by people looking for peace and quiet. YALIKAVAK BEACH Yalikavak impresses with its combination of alluring traditional charm and a sense of recognition of the importance of contemporary comforts desired by today’s discerning visitor. This is what makes Yalikavak attractive to those who care for both, the old and the new.

About Bodrum Peninsula

The ancient Bodrum peninsula is a beautiful port city on the Turkish Aegean Sea and is one of the most enchanting places in the region. It’s an attractive destination for wealthy Turkish families, jet-setters and European vacationers. The busy harbor is always littered with yachts and the area is bordered by white villas and palm trees

12- Kemer (Antalya)

Kemer (Antalya); Very mod-resorty, but near a lot of interesting day-trip possibilities

13- Pamucak (Ephesus)

Pamucak (Ephesus); Big, broad, dark sand, only 7 km (4 miles) west of Ephesus, relatively clean with a few cig butts and bottlecaps

14- Sarıgerme (Dalaman)

Sarıgerme (Dalaman); Very near busy Dalaman Airport, this well-kept beach is somewhat undiscovered, quieter, great for families and those interested mostly in beach time.

15- Kızkalesi (Silifke)

Kızkalesi (Silifke); Known only to Turks and savvy foreigners, this beach 25 km (16 miles) east of Silifke is sort of small but the castle out at sea makes up for it.

Sinop; Sinop Nice beaches, never crowded, because the Black Sea water is usually pretty chilly.

17- Kuşadası (Ephesus)

Kuşadası (Ephesus); Nice enough Aegean beaches, but small and very crowded

18- Samandağ (Antakya)

Samandağ (Antakya); W-a-y down near Syria (26 km/16 miles) southwest of Antakya, but has a trash problem.

19- Anamur (Alanya)

Anamur (Alanya); Good beach that only Turks seem to know about, 127 km (79 miles) southeast of Alanya. Interesting Byzantine ghost town nearby.

20- Çalış (Fethiye)

Çalış (Fethiye); Long beach near the city cradling yacht-happy Fethiye Bay, good but somehow un-charming, and famous Ölüdeniz is just 10 km (6 miles) away over the hills.

21- Blue Flag Beaches

Blue Flag Beaches; The Blue Flag beach hygeine system has been adopted by some Turkish beaches. You should know about it to protect your health.

22- Icmeler Beach, Marmaris

Icmeler Beach, Marmaris;

23- Cirali Beach, Cirali

Cirali Beach, Cirali;

Antalya, Turkish Riviera

The Turkish Riviera is the most stunning part of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast with its perfect sun, clean beaches, ultra luxury resorts, nature and history. Antalya is the largest city on the Mediterranean with its charming harbour. It is typical of Turkey, a thriving modern city, with a historic heart in the centre of Kaleici, within the old city walls. This area has seen something of a renaissance in recent years, with many of the wooden Ottoman mansions being restored and turned into boutique hotels. The symbol of Antalya is the Yivli Minare built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in the 13th century. Culture lovers will find plenty of interest in the Archaeological Museum which has artefacts fro m the Paleolithic Age right through to Ottoman times.

Antalya has a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery, and the city is set high on cliffs, with many of its grandest hotels overlooking the sea on the outskirts of the town. The beach area of Lara, approximately 12 km to the east is home to the best beach in the area, known for its golden sand, which is rapidly becoming a resort in its own right. To the west, the long pebble beach of Konyaalti is also popular. Heading up into the mountains, you can make the most of the beautiful scenery by visiting the spectacular Duden or Kursunlu Waterfalls to see a completely different side to the Turkish landscape. Antalya has a large number of five star hotels, many of which have meetings facilities, and this, together with the Pyramid Congress Centre which can hold up to 3000 delegates make it a popular venue for conferences.

Patara Another must see for any summer traveler to Turkey is Patara Beach. Located in Antalya, the Patara is one of the Mediterranean’s longest beaches at 18km in length, and under protection by the Turkish government for nesting sea turtles. Curvy, sweeping sand dunes, surrounded by ancient ruins along with stiff coastal breezes for excellent wind surfing takes Patara Beach to the top of lists of World’s Best Beaches for both natural beauty and great value.

Belek Belek is Turkey’s premier golf resort with its spectacular long, golden sandy beaches, and a backdrop of mountains. Belek has won awards for environmentally friendly development and there are many rare species of plant and wildlife indigenous to the area. Accommodation is mostly of the five star variety with all facilities laid on including sporting and other activities, spa treatments and entertainment. Many of the hotels are also set up to cater for children with kids clubs and other facilities.

Kemer Kemer is one of Turkey’s first multipurpose resorts, carefully planned to blend in with the surrounding scenery. At its heart is the attractive marina, a stopping off point for gulets on the blue cruise. Around it are sophisticated shops, bars and restaurants catering for the resort’s well-heeled clientele. Kemer has a clean pebble beach, but the main resort areas are on the beaches located a little further out, namely Kiziltepe, Goynuk, Beldibi, Camyuva and Tekirova. Surrounded by pine forests, they offer a range of accommodation including five star hotels, all designed to blend in to the natural environment.

Alanya Alanya is a modern resort, famed for its beautiful sandy beaches. Its harbour is dominated by the Red Tower, which protected the dockyards in Seljuk times, the remains of which can still be seen in the waters. High on a promontory is the old fortress with its well preserved walls, towers and Byzantine church. It takes about an hour to walk up but it is well worth it for the views alone. Alanya itself has lots of blue flag beaches and has a full range of accommodation with plenty of good shops and restaurants, together with lively nightlife.

Side The old town of Side is set on a peninsula with sandy beaches to either side, surrounded still by the ancient city walls. It boasts an impressive ancient Hellenistic theatre, the largest in the area, with seating for 17.000, overlooking the sea; a charming museum and the stunning Temple of Apollo, a romantic spot at sunset. Side has something for everyone: great beaches, history, an abundance of shops, lively nightlife and a good choice of restaurants.

Olympos – Cirali (Çıralı) Olympos is in a charming spot set on a 5 km long beach amidst unspoilt nature, and the ruins include baths, a temple, Roman theatre and necropolis. To the north of Olympos, past the attractive beach front hamlet of Cirali, high on the hillside is the legendary burning flame of Chimera, literally burning stone.

Olympos Bey Mountains Coast National Park Koprulu Canyon National Park

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Where to Stay on the Turkish Coast: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

Heading to the Turkish Coast this year? Here’s a complete rundown on where to stay in Turkey on the coast (also referred to as the Turkish Riviera); which part of the coastline to head for, the best beach resorts -whether you’re booking DIY accommodation or looking for a package vacation – and standout beach hotels. This resort guide will cover:

• which part of Turkey to stay in – we’ll be covering the Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines from Canakkale around to Alanya ( but not the Black Sea, Sea of Marmara, and Eastern Med ) including the beautiful Turquoise Coast ,
• where to stay in the cities of Izmir , Kusadasi , Bodrum , Fethiye , and Antalya
• Turkey’s main beach resorts ; the best places to stay for nightlife, cheap packages and a younger crowd
• a rundown of Turkey’s  quieter resorts and villages; the best places to stay for couples, families and nature

THE BEST PLACES TO STAY ON THE TURKISH COAST

• BEST LUXURY HOTELS :  Six Senses Kaplankaya , Bodrum Edition , Amanruya , Maçakizi
• BEST HOTELS ON THE BEACH :   D Maris Bay Resort , Maxx Royal Kemer
• BEST FAMILY BEACH HOTEL : Akra Fethiye TUI Blue Sensatori
• BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS : Costa Maya Bodrum , Ölüdeniz Blu Luxury Unique Hotel
• SWANKY VILLAS : Club Prive
• BEST INFINITY POOL : D Maris Bay Resort ,  Hotel Villa Mahal
• CHIC ROMANTIC ESCAPES : Golden Key Bordubet , Layla Gocek
• BEST PLACE FOR NIGHTLIFE : Bodrum
• PRETTIEST COASTAL VILLAGES : Kaş, Kalkan, Alaçatı
• BEST QUIET BEACH RESORTS : Assos, Foca, Çıralı, Side 

Turkish Coast Overview

The Turkish Riviera encompasses a huge stretch of coast, basically the entire SW coast – plus some. The section commonly known as the Turquoise Coast is the part between Fethiye and Antalya.

Generally speaking, Turkey (officially now Türkiye ) has some incredible beaches but they’re not the best if you’re looking for soft white sand. But Turkey offers great value – especially in comparison with similar properties in Greece or elsewhere in the Mediterranean. The food is fantastic, the scenery is often jaw-dropping, and there are adventure activities and ancient sites aplenty.

Beach tourism here is a healthy mix of purpose-built areas with all-inclusive resort hotels, charming harbour towns popular with sailors, and small back-to-nature villages with wooden bungalows.

A quick note on booking sites – I’ve provided hotel links for Booking.com as it’s the most popular booking engine however its use is restricted in Turkey (due to a tax spat). The restriction means that you can only book hotels in Turkey from outside the country, not whilst you’re there (although you could use a VPN).

If you would prefer not to use Booking.com or you’re already in Turkey then you’ll find most of the hotels listed here on Agoda too.

Getting Around

Airports : There are four airports along the coast which are served by both international (both charter and scheduled) and domestic flights: Izmir , Bodrum , Dalaman , and Antalya.

Bus : If you’ve never caught the bus in Turkey before then it’s a joy. Bus travel is very common in Turkey, for both long and short distances. Most towns and cities have a bus station (called an otogar ) outside the centre for catching long-distance buses. These are usually in comfortable and well-equipped coaches with reclining chairs.

Local buses tend to be small minivans known as dolmuş. These are essentially shared taxis that run set routes. There isn’t usually a schedule but they run frequently with plenty of stops. For less popular routes you have the option of paying for the whole van or waiting for more passengers.

Ferry : If you’re arriving from Greece then there are several options for ferry connections:

• Lesvos – Ayvalik
• Chios – Cesme
• Samos – Kusadasi
• Kos – Bodrum / Turgatreis
• Rhodes – Fethiye / Bodrum / Marmaris
• Symi – Bodrum 
• Kastellorizo – Kas 

Which Part of the Turkish Coast to Choose?

• NORTH AEGEAN : Not as touristy as the other parts of the coast, but you will find dark sand beaches and handsome Byzantine architecture. Good for hidden gems though the beaches themselves do get busy. Due to the winds, it’s the most comfortable part of the coast, temperature-wise, in the summer.
• BODRUM AREA : Of the cities, Bodrum is by far the prettiest and most pleasant – and is also Turkey’s summer nightlife capital. The surrounding area is devastatingly pretty and chic, sometimes with prices to match. Explore by boat if you can.
• MARMARIS AREA : Rugged and green coastline with some of Turkey’s most popular beach resorts but also nature parks and small islands. 
• TURQUOISE COAST : The section of coastline from Fethiye round to Antalya is particularly mountainous and beautiful. There aren’t many sandy beaches so for a long time this area was under the radar, but gulet sailors and posh Brits have discovered the scenery and plentiful historic sites. The heat can be stifling in July and August. 
• ANTALYA AREA :  The coastline gets busy at Antalya, a large coastal city with a developed resort coastline although less upmarket hotels.

East of Antalya the coastline is known as Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast. The resorts here are less popular with Western tourists but if you’re feeling adventurous then I recommend buying the Rough Guide to Turkey .

The town of Çanakkale is most well-known for its WWI history – it was the site of a year-long battle with heavy casualties. It guards the entrance to the Dardanelles Strait and therefore to Istanbul and the Black Sea. It’s the first real tourist destination along the coast but it’s a lengthy drive from any airport and not really a beach destination. Çanakkale is mainly popular with visiting Australians visiting the battlefields, particularly around ANZAC Day.

South of town, you’ll find the ruins of Ancient Troy, hence the large wooden horse in the harbour, but there’s not really much to see compared (in comparison to some of Turkey’s other archaeological sites at least).

There is a small domestic airport at Çanakkale, or else it’s a 4 hour + drive from Istanbul or Izmir.

Where to Stay in Canakkale 

Hotels in Çanakkale are excellent value – have a look at the quirky Hotel des Etrangers for historic charm with harbour views, and Hotel Cura and the Set Ozer Hotel for excellent value boutique rooms.

Backpackers can find cheap dorms at the basic Anzac House Youth Hostel . 

If you’re looking for a cool and under-the-radar summer destination in Turkey then the island of Bozcaada is right up your street. It’s one of the few Aegean islands that belong to Turkey rather than Greece, and is loved by weekending hipsters and couples from Istanbul. Its charming streets are filled with bougainvillaea, colourful woodwork, and cute cafes. Bozcaada also has fantastic vineyards and some of the best sandy beaches in the Northern Aegean area.

To get there take the passenger ferry from Çanakkale (high season only) or the car ferry from Geyikli.

Where to Stay in Bozcaada

There are endless cute guesthouses in Bozcaada, the difficulty is in choosing. Watch out for places with no AC if that’s important to you. Start with the white-and-teal rooms at Posthane Guesthouse .

Ayvalık and Assos

Ayvalık is a working harbour town famous for its fishing and agricultural industries – foodies will love it here. The olive oil and fresh produce is some of the best in Turkey.

It’s more popular with local tourists than foreign, except those visiting on a day trip from neighbouring Greek island Lesvos (which is easy to reach). But it has several wide sandy beaches and islands ( Cunda and Alibey are the main ones) around its meandering coastline, as well as a Byzantine old town with superb restaurants and converted mansions.

To the north of Ayvalık is the small picturesque seaside village of Assos (pictured above), which is also known as Behram or Behramkale. It has a Greek feel with a small row of brightly painted fishing boats, a pebble beach , and smart stone buildings along the waterfront . A short drive uphill is the main village where you’ll find a wider range of accommodation, most in historic buildings.

Transfer time : Ayvalik is a 2-hour drive from Izmir airport.

Where to Stay in Ayvalık

5-star Hotel Murat Reis is directly on the beach, as is the sleek 4-star spa resort Ortunc (adults-only) on Cunda Island.

For rooms in town, CundAda Hotel is a cosy converted mansion with a good price.

Where to Stay in Assos

Assos Behram Hotel (adults-only) is right on the waterfront. Further up the coast is the smart Ida Costa Hotel which has a rural feel and a private section of beach.

Along with Çeşme, Foça is one of the most popular resorts in the wider Izmir area. It’s popular with the yachting crowd and upmarket Brits thanks to its winding waterfront filled with fishing boats and yachts, restaurants and bars. 

Transfer time : 1 hour from Izmir airport.

Where to Stay in Foça  

Hanedan Hotel Foca Izmir has a waterfront location and a good breakfast.

Izmir is one of Turkey’s biggest cities and one of its most young and liberal. It’s a modern city that doesn’t have too much in the way of tourist sights – there’s a small bazaar, but most of its old buildings were destroyed by fire nearly a century ago.

But if you enjoy an urban vibe and cosmopolitan waterfront area then it makes a decent base for exploring the area’s blockbuster historic attractions such as Pergamum , Selcuk , and Ephesus . Most visitors staying in the area will choose to head to the nearby resorts of Çeşme or Foça though.

Transfer time : 25 minutes from Izmir airport

Where to Stay in Izmir

The big chain and resort hotels are well represented in Izmir town. There’s a Hilton Garden Inn and a Hilton Doubletree , a Movenpick , and the Swissotel Grand Efes .

Key Hotel is on the waterfront and has a wine cellar.

For comfort on a budget check out the Met Boutique Hotel .

There are a few hostels in town but there are cheaper (and more secure) guesthouses for not much more. Try the Olimpiyat Otel .

Çeşme and Alaçatı

Izmir is tucked into a bay whereas Çeşme sits out on the end of the peninsula to the south of the city. It’s the main beach resort area around Izmir and is also a working port town with ferries across to the nearby Greek island of Chios (just 8km across the water).

Çeşme has an engaging harbour area and, like many of Turkey’s coastal towns, beach resort hotels stretch out in either direction along the coast. The peninsula is home to some of the region’s most popular beaches.

Slighty inland of Çeşme is the trendy area of Alaçatı , one of Turkey’s best boutique destinations with its flower-filled streets and lovely B&Bs.

Transfer time : 1 hour from Izmir airport

Where to Stay in Çeşme

There are some great 5-star luxury hostels in the Çeşme peninsula including:

• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa – has a private beach and Turkish bath
• Boyalık Beach Hotel & Spa – beachfront location
• Reges Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – beachfront location

Where to Stay in Alaçatı

On a mid-range budget, Casa Bella has boutique appeal, as does Morisi Konak .

Sleek adults-only The Stay Warehouse has private beach transfers and impressive communal areas.

Kuşadası is a large, modern port town – similar to Izmir though with slightly more of a vacation vibe. It’s surrounded by resort beaches and in close proximity to the ancient site of Ephesus. Fun boat trips and cruises run from the city’s harbour, and cruise ships call here too.

The city has a lively waterfront area with a promenade and its nightlife attracts visitors from the surrounding area. There’s a small old town with city walls, a bazaar and narrow streets. 

The Greek island of Samos is a short ferry ride away and the beautiful Dilek National Park is to the south of the city. There are lots of large beaches in the area, the busiest are Ladies Beach and Long Beach ., as well as several large waterparks. It’s a popular package tourism destination.

Transfer time : 1 hour 30 minutes from Izmir airport

Where to Stay in Kuşadası  

Kuşadası has a wide range of accommodation options with something for every budget.

In town, the DoubleTree by Hilton offers convenient 5-star rooms on the waterfront.

Check out Villa Konak for simple rooms in a family-run guesthouse with a pool in the historic quarter.

Want to be by the beach? Charisma De Luxe Hotel has a private beach/sunbathing platform and infinity pool.

Bringing the kids? Check out the 5-star Pine Bay Holiday Resort or Aqua Fantasy Aquapark Hotel & Spa . 

The sparkling coastal city of Bodrum is without a doubt Turkey’s swankiest resort town. The picturesque city with its castle and pretty Aegean-whitewashed buildings is home to the best nightlife this side of Mykonos. It’s cheaper and more under-the-radar than St Tropez and Ibiza – but just as glam and its boho credentials go back to the 70s. The waterfront is lined with beach clubs and upmarket restaurants, and the coastline with beach clubs and infinity pools overlooking the Aegean. 

It’s also one of the Aegean’s major yachting and sailing hubs. It’s the spiritual home of gulet boats – the ‘ Blue Cruise ‘ was born in this area and it’s still one of the best places to pick up a boat. By sunset, the bay is filled with party boats and superyachts gleaming in the last rays of sunlight.

There are several smaller beach outposts along the coast which make for a more low-key vacation but with easy access to the city – Ortakent and Bitez have the nicest beaches and high prices to match. For something more low-key try Gümüşlük . The surrounding coastline and peninsula is one of the prettiest parts of the Turkish Coast with endless coves to discover.

Ferries connect with the Greek island of Kos from both Bodrum and the nearby port of Turgutreis.

Transfer time : 35 minutes from Bodrum airport.

Where to Stay in Bodrum

The Bodrum area is unsurprisingly a top destination for luxury hotels. There’s a full showing of luxury brands here including:

• Six Senses Kaplankaya
• Bodrum Edition
• Mandarin Oriental
• Susona Bodrum LHR (formerly Nikki Beach)

Maçakizi Hotel is a local luxe fave.

Boutique Costa Maya Bodrum has minimalist boho interiors, pool, and is located right by the port.

El Vino Hotel & Suites is an oasis within the city.

For beachfront in Bodrum start with:

• METT Hotel & Beach Resort
• Kaya Palazzo
• Prive Hotel Bodrum (adults-only)

Akyaka, Datça and Bozburun

Akyaka is making a name for itself as one of Turkey’s premier slow travel destinations. There is a small beach of dark gritty sand but the main reason to come is the nature , the food, and the traditional wooden architecture . It’s not well known by foreign tourists but is loved by locals as a peaceful retreat in the hot months. 

South of Aykaka you’ll find the Datça and Bozburun peninsulas. This is one of the greenest and most tranquil parts of the Turkish coast. It’s a great sailing area but there’s not too much in the way of development, perfect for those looking for an authentic vacation. There are many superb hotels tucked away in its sleepy hills and quaint villages with stunning sea views across to the Greek island of Symi .

Transfer time : Akyaka is 1 hour 30 minutes from Bodrum airport. Add an extra hour for destinations on the peninsula from Bodrum or Dalaman – roads are slow.

Where to stay in Akyaka

Boutique guesthouses abound in Akyaka – the Elif Hanim Hotel is a good example. Just outside town, the Ikselem Hotel has a waterfront location but be warned the water is cold!

Where to Stay in Datça

Secluded luxury spa resort D Maris Bay spans 5 private beaches (some sandy) in Datca, you’ll hardly need to leave the resort as it has everything you’ll ever need.

For something different try, the romantic adults-only Sabrina’s Haus , the historic Mehmet Ali Aga Mansion , or the agritourism vibe at The Olive Farm .

The Golden Key Bordubet is a hidden 5-star gem located between the two peninsulas and an emphasis on nature. It has a serene location with wooden river platforms, a pool, and a small play area for children. To reach the beach it’s a 10-minute walk through the forest or take a short boat ride down the river.

Golden Key have another location at nearby Hisarönü – not to be confused with the village near Oludeniz – which is directly on a private beach. The sand is a dark red colour.

İçmeler and Turunç

İçmeler is the first proper beach resort in the Marmaris region and has been an established tour operator offering for decades. It has a long organised beach (a mix of dark sand and shingle) in a lovely setting backed by big green mountains. There are some great walks and activities in the area, but also a lively nightlife and easy day trip access to Marmaris and Rhodes. Restaurants and cafes cater to the British tastes.

Around the coast is the smaller resort village of Turunç , in an equally picturesque setting. It has a narrow sand-and-shingle beach and is one of the best resorts for older couples and families looking for a quiet vibe with a selection of bars and restaurants for the evening. It has easy water taxi access to larger resorts.

Transfer time : Around 1 hour 40 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in İçmeler

There are several big resort hotels on the beachfront, the best-rated is Aqua Hotel .

At the back of the village is the tranquil Petunya Konak Boutique Hotel .

Where to Stay in Turunç

Perios Beach House is right on the beach and has an infinity pool and whitewashed boho decor.

Turunç Resort Hotel occupies its own bay and has two private beaches.

Marmaris is one of the biggest and most popular resorts on the Turkish coast. It’s a large resort city but the name tends to refer to the wider area too, as you’ll find plenty of big resort hotels along the coast in either direction.

Marmaris lacks the aesthetic appeal of Bodrum but is well known for its shopping (particularly the fake designer goods in the Grand Bazaar) and lively nightlife. There are also some excellent food markets around, handy if you’re going self-catered. If you enjoy the hustle and bustle of the larger resorts in Spain and the Canary Islands then you’ll find a similar appeal here. It’s loud and boisterous but somehow manages to retain a traditional Turkish beach town atmosphere. The nightlife around Bar Street is infamous.

The city is surrounded by the vast Marmaris National Park which provides a playground for boat trips and adventure activities. Day trips and ferry connections to the Greek island of Rhodes are available.

Transfer time : 1 hour 30 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Marmaris

There are many big hotels right on the main beach such as TUI Blue Grand Azur .

But some of the best hotels are out of town along the coast:

•   Joya del Mar Boutique Hotel – relaxing, has a private beach
• Cook’s Club Adakoy (adults-only) – stylish, has a private beach

The friendly town of Dalyan is not on the coast but slightly upriver. It has an incredible natural setting but still plenty of restaurants and bars for the evening. The crowd here is a mix of domestic tourists and Europeans looking for a lack-back nature escape. It has some impressive rock tombs and ancient remains, and you can take boats to the protected Iztuzu Beach (one of the main turtle nesting beaches) and mud baths near Lake Köyceğiz.

Transfer time : 35 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Dalyan

Despite its lack of beach, Dalyan is a popular package holiday destination. There are lots of friendly hotels with simple rooms, a pool, and bargain prices, such as the Darian Hotel Nish Caria .

Göcek is sometimes referred to as ‘the Monaco of Turkey’ but don’t take that comparison that at face value, Göcek is nothing like Monaco. There are no high-rise buildings, casinos, or polished streets here. It’s a small and pleasant harbour town with an unusually high concentration of superyachts in the marina (and a well-organised laundry system to service them). There’s a small beach at the end of town.

Restaurant and shop prices are slightly higher than average, and there are some smart places to stay, but otherwise it doesn’t feel dramatically different to other resorts in the area.

It gets entertainingly busy on a Saturday which is changover day for the charter boats.

Transfer time : 30 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Gocek

Rixos Premium is a luxury adults-only with a private beach. The same group also offer high-end villas (Club Prive) in a quiet location further around the coast.

If you don’t mind being slightly out of town then the Layla Gocek is lovely and has a large pool and boutique feel.

Fethiye manages to somehow be two things at once: a reasonable-sized working city and a pleasant place for tourists. The town itself has no beach, the nearest is Calis Beach a few kilometres from the main part of town but served by regular minibus and water taxis.

The promenade-lined harbour, which is packed to the gills with boats plying day trips and longer gulet cruises, is the centre of all the action here. There’s also a small bazaar in the streets behind, and a fish market where you can choose a fish and take it to one of the nearby restaurants to be grilled. And the hill behind the city sports some impressive rock tombs. 

There’s a year-round expat crowd and you will find a few English bars and cafes, but the flavour is mainly Turkish. It attracts more independent travellers than Marmaris and has a great range of accommodation options.

Transfer time : 50 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Fethiye

There are plenty of great beach club hotels in the Fethiye Bay area including one of Turkey’s finest – Hillside Beach Club , which has its own private Blue Flag beach, a spa, and plenty of Instagrammable details. 

5-star Club & Hotel Letoonia is one of the best family hotels in the area. It occupies its own peninsula with several small private beaches and pools, charming wooden buildings tucked away in the pines, and plenty of entertainment options for all ages. Town is a taxi away though.

The best boutique hotels in town are the Yacht Classic and Yacht Boheme , close to the marina. The former has a design pool, and boat trips can be arranged on their fleet of yachts.

Hotel Unique has a pleasant pool and good views. 

Akra Fethiye TUI Blue Sensatori is a sleek beachfront resort with excellent facilities just outside the main town. It has an adults-only section too.

Backpackers can find pod beds and fierce A/C at the well-run Sakura Hostel is one of the best along the coast. For a home-style guesthouse try Ferah Pension with its shady courtyard.

Ah Ölüdeniz – the most famous beach in Turkey. You’ll no doubt have seen it gracing brochures and adverts. But what’s it like?

The first thing to know is that Ölüdeniz is a small development directly behind the beach, which is Blue Flag and busy but not quite as sandy as it can appear in photos. Towards the south end, where it forms the ‘Blue Lagoon’, is a protected zone that requires a ticket to enter. Even this section is crowded with sunloungers and cafes.

A short drive up in the hills behind the beach are two busy resort villages of Hisaronu and Ovacik , purpose-built to absorb the package tourists who flock to the area. If you like your holidays cheap and loud, with sports bars and steakhouses, then you’ll like it here. Otherwise, avoid.

Down by the beach, Oludeniz is busy but development is limited by its location. It attracts a mix of British, German, Russian, and Turkish tourists. There are some good Turkish restaurants here, and an increasingly good standard of beach bar where you can watch the paragliders land.

There are regular minibuses connecting Fethiye with Oludeniz, Hisaronu and Ovacik.

Transfer time : 1 hour from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in  Oludeniz

If you’re looking for accommodation in Oludeniz then be sure to double-check the location as Hisarnou/Ovacik hotels are often passed off as Oludeniz.

The best resort hotels are on the other side of the lagoon – Sugar Beach Club and Club Hotel Meri , both have private beach access. 

Ölüdeniz Blu Luxury Unique Hotel is a 4-star within the main part of Oludeniz, towards the back of the resort. It has modern boho decor and a focus on food (including vegetarian and vegan options).

Butterfly Valley and Faralya

Butterfly Valley is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey . The beach is located at the end of a steep gorge and is usually reached by boat. It’s a protected zone thanks to the butterflies which inhabit the area (June is the best time to see them). The only way to stay in Butterfly 

At the top of the surrounding cliffs is the small and scenic village of Faralya . The viewpoint attracts selfie-hunters (be careful), but there’s a cluster of wonderful accommodations and it’s worth staying a while if you enjoy peace and nature. 

Where to Stay in Faralya

Faralya Botanica captures up the spirit of the village and you can choose from stone house or timber bungalow.

Beautiful little Kabak is a hidden gem, loved by hippies and nature lovers. The small sand-and-stone beach is nestled in a majestic valley – and the bus ride to get here is a bit of an experience. Traditionally the accommodation was camp-style in simple wooden huts but there are an increasing number of boutique hotels, mainly up at the top of the village to take advantage of the amazing views. It’s a further hike down to the beach or you can hail one of the cheap and bumpy shuttle cars.

Transfer time : 1 hour 45 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Kabak  

The Olive Garden is worth visiting for its pool alone (pictured above) – and people do, it’s a popular weekend escape for those living in the Fethiye area.

There are numerous budget backpacker options in basic huts. For the true hippie spirit try Reflections Camp .

Kalkan has gone from a sleepy fishing village to one of the most popular resort towns on the Turquoise Coast. As is common on this part of the coast, the heart of the town is the harbour which is lined with bars and restaurants. There’s a small (and steep) old town area with wooden Ottoman houses draped in bougainvillaea. It attracts a variety of people including posh Brits and yachties looking for somewhere with a bit of buzz and ambience – as such it’s not the cheapest resort on the coast.

There is a small pebbly town beach that’s nothing to write home about. Plenty of the waterside resort hotels have beach club areas though, some with decking areas for sunbathing.

The area is best suited to those prepared to do some exploring – there are some spectacular historic sites and beaches in the wider area.

Where to Stay in Kalkan

Kalkan is packed with fine boutique guesthouses such as:

• Hotel Villa Mahal
• Elixir Hotel
• True Blue Boutique Hotel

The wider area is home to some standout villas, many of which have an infinity pool – check VRBO .

Kaş is like Kalkan’s cute and charming little sister. It’s a similar harbour town but a bit smaller, a bit sleepier, and a bit more boho. It’s one of the most laid-back resorts along the coast yet still has plenty to do. The scenery is divine and it’s a short boat ride across to the stunning small Greek island of Kastellorizo which is a popular day trip. 

In fact, it’s a great place to stay if you like exploring independently thanks to the frequent bus and minibus services. There are also lots of adventure activities and excursions in the area which make it ideal for young couples as well as families with older children. Sea kayaking is a particular highlight.

There are a few pebbly but scenic coves on the outskirts of town, some with beach bars attached.

Transfer time : 2 hours + from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Kas

It’s hard to go wrong in Kas there are so many great value mid-range hotels. The Gardenia Boutique Hotel is a classic.

As with Kalkan, there are many excellent villas around – see VRBO for choices. For example, the Sundown Villa sleeps 8 and has an infinity pool with amazing views.

Olympos and Çıralı

Olympos and Çıralı are two villages joined by a long beach but divided by some hills – to go between them you have to drive uphill to the main road and down again, or walk along the beach.

They are both located in the Olympos Coastal National Park hence the incredible untouched scenery and lack of concrete hotels. Planning restrictions mean that most accommodation is in wooden structures of varying quality.

For many years Olympos was a stop on the hippie trail and it became well-known for its treehouse dwellings. In reality, there are only a few actual treehouses (mainly at Kadirs). Eventually backpacking Aussies replaced the hippies, and these days the Aussies have been mostly replaced by holidaying Turkish families and hipsters who come for the cheap camping vibe. The reggae soundtrack remains though. Note that to reach the beach you have to walk through an ancient site that requires a ticket.

Cirali is more family-friendly. It keeps the back-to-nature appeal but has more facilities, shops, and space, less reggae, and better road access. The beach is an important turtle nesting zone so access at night is not permitted.

Most accommodation (even at the budget end) is half board and the food is generally excellent. The are plenty of activities on offer, from boat trips to rock climbing and diving, and visits to the nearby natural flames. The beach is a mix of course sand and small pebbles.

Transfer time : 1 hour 40 minutes from Antalya airport.

Where to Stay in Olympos

Kadirs is the original hippie treehouse location and still going strong but is a long walk from the village. Turkmen is good if you’re in a group, Bayrams for the solo travellers.

Where to Stay in Cirali

Cirali has a wider range of accommodation options. The Olympos Lodge is the closest thing to luxury here and is directly behind the beach, whereas the Azur Hotel is somewhere in between – it’s ideal for the kids with its big pool and buffet meals.

There are also many lovely river hotels (and restaurants) in Adrasan, the next village south, and you can also find more pools here.

Kemer and Tekirova

As you leave the mountains and drive towards Antalya, you’ll find a complete change of scene at Kemer . This is one of Antalya’s premier resort areas and its wide pebble/sand beaches are backed by large (in some cases, colossal) all-inclusive resort hotels which are particularly popular with Russian package tourists.

The town has plenty of amenities though lacks the atmosphere of other resorts. It’s by no means dead though, there’s a busy marina and a few nightclubs, but most people choose Kemer for a particular hotel rather than the resort itself. Tekirova is similar.

Transfer time : 1 hour from Antalya airport.

Where to Stay in Kemer

The nicest of the many luxury resort hotels is the swanky Maxx Royal Kemer which has everything you can think of – several beaches decked out in daybeds, a waterpark with impressive flumes, and villas with private pools.

Antalya is one of Turkey’s largest coastal cities. It’s sprawling and modern with an attractive historic centre (called Kaleici ), a lively harbour area, and excellent transport connections/day trip options. Mix in some ancient sites (Hadrian’s Gate, the nearby Aspendos Theatre), great food, and some of Turkey’s better nightlife, and you have somewhere that ticks all the boxes for city break fans.

Flanking each side of the city are two extensive beaches – Lara and Konyaalti – which are surrounded by blingy all-inclusive hotels. The Russians love it, and there are an increasing number of halal resorts catering for Muslim tourists. Of the two, Lara is sandier and is home to more upmarket all-inclusive hotels. It’s closer to the airport and to the impressive Duden Waterfalls .

Konyaalti has a more interesting local vibe with good food and better budget hotel options, but the beach is small pebbles.

Transfer time : 15 minutes to 30 minutes from Antalya airport depending on location.

Where to Stay in Antalya

We can’t not mention the Titanic-themed Titanic Beach Lara Hotel .

If that doesn’t float your boat (sorry), there are plenty of traditional hotels in historic buildings in the old town – try Palm House 17 and Ruin Adalia (adults-only).

There are plenty of bargain rooms in old town guesthouses such as Sabah Pension which cater to solo travellers.

Perge Hotels (adults-only) sports stylish modern design and has its own swimming platform.

Side (pronounced see-day ) is a small seaside resort which is notable for its beachside ruins. The fantastic history, attractive harbour, and sandy beaches here have made it a magnet for tourists for decades. West Beach has some of the softest sand in the area.

It can feel a bit crowded though,  on summer weekends in particular. It has less of a British feel than resorts to its west and is particularly loved by Germans and Scandinavians. It gets many return visitors and the average age skews towards the older, and so the nightlife here is more genteel bar than throbbing nightclub. There are resort hotels with family facilities.

Boat trips to the many waterfalls in the area are a good way to escape the intense summer heat.

Where to Stay in Side

5-star Acanthus & Cennet Barut Collection Luxury All-Inclusive is the best of the beachfront picks.

Halfway between Antalya and Side is the flash 5-star Maxx Royal Belek Golf Resort .

The coastal city of Alanya has a similar appeal to Side – minus the ruins but plus extra beach space. There’s much more room to spread out on the excellent beaches here. The better sand is at Cleopatra Beach .

It’s a medium-sized resort city with a long promenade and lots of shopping and nightlife, an old town, and an impressive castle. It attracts an young international crowd with relatively few Brits and a large number of domestic tourists. It’s a more chilled out and family-friendly alternative to Marmaris, and prices are extremely competitive.

Transfer time : 2 hours from Antalya airport.

Where to Stay in Alanya

En Vie Boutique Beach Hotel (adults-only) is directly on the beach, as is Anjeli House Boutique Hotel .

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Image credits:

Marmaris: © den-belitsky / Adobe Stock

Kaputas: © fotopanorama360 / Shutterstock

Alanya beach: © muratart / Adobe Stock

Kabak beach: © Kotangens / Adobe Stock

Map of Turkish beach resorts: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Canakkale: © Sergii Figurnyi / Adobe Stock

Bozcaada: © Nejdet Duzen / Shutterstock

Assos: © muratart / Adobe Stock

Foca: © melihcan / Adobe Stock

Izmir: © casfotoarda / Adobe Stock

Cesme: © Nejdet Duzen / Adobe Stock

Kusadasi: © Sergii Figurnyi / Adobe Stock

Bodrum: © ColorMaker / Shutterstock

Bodrum Ortakent beach: © Neonyn / Adobe Stock

Datca Peninsula: © muratani / Adobe Stock

Icmeler: © Konstantin Gushcha / Adobe Stock

Dalyan Iztuzu Beach: © sedan504 / Adobe Stock

 Gocek: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Fethiye: © Olena Rublenko / Adobe Stock

Oludeniz: © Dudarev Mikhail / Adobe Stock

Oludeniz sunloungers: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Butterfly Valley: © NiglayNik / Shutterstock

Kabak: © Kotangens / Adobe Stock

Olive Garden Pool: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Kalkan: © Youngj / Adobe Stock

Kas: © Nejdet Duzen / Shutterstock

Olympos: © Clayton / Adobe Stock

Cirali parasols: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Tekirova: © Patryk Kosmider / Adobe Stock

Antalya: © muratart / Shutterstock

Konyaalti beach: © Andrey Prokhorov / Adobe Stock

Side: © Nikolai Sorokin / Adobe Stock

Alanya: © Damla Karacabay / Shutterstock

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13 Breathtaking Beaches in Antalya, Turkey

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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If you are looking for a tropical vacation in Turkey, there is no better place to be than the incredible beaches in Antalya.

This southern Mediterranean region of Turkey is nicknamed the Turquoise Coast, hugely due to its clear turquoise waters and long stretches of sandy beaches.

This region has the highest concentration of blue-flag beaches in the country, a total of 213 . 

Visitors will find plenty of water sports on Antalya’s beaches, as well as some of the most luxurious beach resorts in Turkey that are incredible and fun!

For that reason, we have decided to write this guide on the best beaches in Antalya and share with you some of our favorite attractions in Antalya!

Planning a trip to Antalya last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Antalya:

• Airport Shuttle From Antalya Airport To City Center (Best way to get into town!)

Here are our recommended tours in Antalya:

• City Tour w/ Cable Car, Boat Trip and Waterfall (A must-do In Antalya!)
• Suluada Island Boat Trip (Secluded island for swimming and snorkeling)
• Traditional Turkish Bath with Massages
• Taurus Mountains Full-Day Jeep Safari (Great for exploring off the beaten path)

Here are our recommended places to stay in Antalya:

• Sky Kamer Hotel Antalya (Has seaview rooms in the historic center!)
• Megasaray Westbeach Antalya (All-inclusive resort right on the beach!)
• Hostel Vauge (Most famous hostel in Antalya!)

Are There Sandy Beaches in Antalya?

Luckily for all beach lovers, there are plenty of sandy beaches in Antalya. Many of which are within a short drive or a short public transport ride from Antalya city center. Whether you are searching for beautiful beaches or crystal-clear water, Turkey’s Mediterranean coast will provide that and more.

Though there are plenty of sandy beaches, there are also numerous pebbly beaches in Antalya.

To avoid some of the beaches with pebbles, here are some of the best sandy beaches on the Turquoise Coast of Turkey:

• Cleopatra Beach
• Kaputas Beach
• Cirali Beach
• Patara Beach

Blue Flag Beaches In Antalya

If you are from somewhere else besides Europe, you might not know what a blue flag beach is. Simply put, blue flag beaches are pretty much the gold standard for beaches. The award is given out by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

In order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained. -Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE)

For tourists, these beaches are guaranteed to have some of the cleanest waters you can find for swimming.

What Are the Best Antalya Beaches?

In no particular order, here are some of the best Antalya Beaches!

1. Lara Beach

Lara Beach is perhaps the most popular blue flag beach in not just Antalya, but the entire Turkish Riviera. Boasting a long, sandy stretch of beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters, it is no wonder why Lara Beach in Antalya is so popular with visitors.

Lined with sun loungers and umbrellas that are available to rent for a low fee, this soft-sand beach is perfect for sunbathing and a must-visit on your trip to Antalya . You will be spoilt for choice with beach clubs and nice dining options to enjoy lunch overlooking the beach. 

Located east of the city center, you can easily reach Lara Beach within 40 minutes using public transport or by car in 30 minutes. There are many facilities nearby, such as showers, bathrooms, and places for you to change. 

Many holiday goers choose to stay in one of the many 5-star hotels and resorts that are situated at Lara Beach.

If you are searching for a high-end, cost-effective beach holiday, then staying at one of the Lara Beach resorts may be ideal as you will be only a stone’s throw away from one of the best sandy beaches in Antalya. 

Delphin BE Grand Resort is one of the best hotels in Antalya near Lara Beach.

2. Konyaalti Beach

If you are searching for a stunning beach close to the center of Antalya then look no further than Konyaalti Beach. Just a short ride on public transportation, you will find 13 km of clear turquoise water that is perfect for swimming as well as several eateries and beach clubs close by, making it a popular choice for families.

The most magical part of swimming at Konyaalti Beach is having the dramatic Beydağları Mountains as you take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

At certain times throughout the year the mountains are snow-peaked, making your experience that much more unique as you swim or relax on the shores to work on your tan under the Turkish sun.  

Konyaalti Beach is a pebble-covered beach, meaning the water stays clear and clean. Adjacent to the beach is a green park with plenty of shade to escape the heat or relax with friends and family. You’ll find parts of the park situated on cliffs that give stunning views of the beach and the mountains behind.

Guests will find plenty of bathrooms, changing rooms, and showers available to use on Konyaalti Beach in Antalya.

3. Kaputas Beach

The blue flag Kaputas Beach is known as one of the most Instagrammable beaches in the Turkish Rivera and for obvious reasons, as its vibrant turquoise water will have you in awe at its natural beauty.

Kaputas Beach is reachable by car or taxi within 10 minutes from Kalkan or only 25 minutes from the center of Kaş. There is no entrance fee, however the use of the sun loungers and umbrellas will come at a small cost. 

This golden sand beach is the number one summer destination thanks to its incredible turquoise waters for swimming and fine sand for sunbathing all day long.

The beach is surrounded by beautiful cliffs, meaning visitors can overlook the beautiful bay to take amazing pictures. It will be worth your while to stay until sunset to enjoy the incredible views over one of the best beaches in Antalya, Turkey!

4. Olympos Beach

The Turkish Rivera is often referred to as the Turquoise Coast, with Olympos Beach being one of many to prove that this is a well-suited name. Serene, calm waters in a beautiful, secluded area make Olympos Beach a popular place to visit for many travelers from around the world.

This hidden gem is in a protected nature reserve and is surrounded by untouched greenery, allowing beach goers a taste of the best of what Turkey has to offer. If you are lucky, you might even encounter sea turtles.  

At this beach there is no entrance fee, however you will not find any facilities like bathrooms, showers, or places to change, meaning you will need to go prepared. However, there are several eateries and cafes along the beach. 

Nearby, you can also find Çirali Beach, a beautiful sandy beach that is only a 20 minute walk from Olympos.

Located next to the beach is the Ancient City of Olympos Archeological site, meaning history fanatics will be treated to seeing classical Roman ruins during their visit to this incredible beach. 

5. Cleopatra Beach

Named after the Egyptian queen herself, Cleopatra Beach is renowned for incredible blue waters, swimming, water sports, and great facilities. This famous blue-flag beach in Antalya District is situated in the small town of Alanya, a popular destination for families and international travelers alike.

The main characteristic of Cleopatra Beach is that it is a white sand beach. Tourists will easily find great hotels, restaurants, and bars along the promenade, all of which are located nearby the beach to maximize the summer holiday experience.

The main beach is around two kilometers from the center of Alanya and is reachable by public transport.

If you are looking to partake in some water sports on your summer holiday then head to Cleopatra Beach and try your hand at sailing, kite surfing, or scuba diving.

If you fancy taking a boat tour in Antalya , Cleopatra Beach is a great place to do just that. Book in advance to secure yourself a great deal and enjoy seeing the coastline from a different viewpoint. 

6. Patara Beach

After a visit to the historical Patara Ruins, you can cool off at the beautiful, long, white sand Patara Beach. This beach is a must-visit during your time in Antalya if you are searching for a clean, quiet place to swim and enjoy the beauty of the natural area.

The sand dunes and surrounding areas are protected to enable the sea turtles to have a safe place to rest. One key thing to know is that, due to this, the beach closes at 8 PM. 

This is one of the few beaches in Antalya with an entrance fee. The ticket can be bought in conjunction with the Patara Ruins ticket or separately from the ticket office on-site. Hiring a sun lounger will have an additional cost, however the shower and bathroom facilities are free.

Patara Beach takes the title as the longest beach in Turkey sitting at 18 kilometers long. It is easy to reach, by local minibuses or by car, and is only a 30-minute drive from the well renowned Kaputas Beach.

The nearest village is Gelemis, but you could plan to visit Patara easily if you were staying in either Fethiye or Kaş.

📚Read more: Best beaches in Fethiye!

7. Mermerli Beach

If you are looking for a beach around Antalya Old Town, then check out Mermerli Beach. In terms of location, this beach is the most convenient and is likely to be a walkable distance from your accommodation if you are staying near the center.

This is one of the smallest beaches in Antalya, so if you are visiting Antalya during peak season you should get there early to secure a great spot with an umbrella.

From your sun lounger, you will be able to look out across the Old Port and Marina of Antalya so you can watch as the boats head out for the day. One of the perks of going to Mermerli Beach is the number of great restaurants and cafes in close proximity. 

The facilities at Mermerli Beach are free to use and include showers, changing rooms, and restrooms. Spend your time snorkeling, diving into the blue waters from the rocks, or relaxing on your rented sun lounger.

📚 Read more: The Best Restaurants in Antalya

8. Adrasan Beach

Adrasan Beach is ideal for swimming and for soaking up the Turkish sun while working on your tan.

Framed with hills on either side, this sheltered bay is perfect for all ages. Along the beach are restaurants and bars, which can provide beach-goers with something to eat and drink during their visit. These beach bars and restaurants also provide sun loungers for rent.

Make the most of the tranquility of the area by walking along the pebble beach or set yourself up at one of the beach clubs nearby.

If you are looking to take a day trip from Adrasan Beach, there are two boat tours that you can choose from. One to the popular island of Suluada or to Cenevis Bay, a hidden gem in the Antalya region.

9. Suluada Beach

Want to have an island getaway without leaving Turkey’s Turquoise Coast? Then Suluada Island should be on your radar.

Reachable only by boat from Olympos Beach or Adrasan Beach, this island is the perfect day trip from Antalya . Its Maldives-like blue water and small white pebbles will take your breath away.

Make sure to check out the natural spring (with drinkable water) that sits on Suluada Island. As this island is small and secluded there is no building infrastructure, meaning no restaurants or cafes.

The good thing is, if you travel here with an organized tour then food will be provided by the company. On your way to the island, you will pass by Suluada Coves and the many stunning bays of the surrounding beaches. 

With some luck you will encounter some natural wildlife and marine life, such as turtles or fish. For many, this trip is a highlight of their visit to Antalya so be sure to book ahead if you are planning to visit this stunning island. 

📚 Read more: Which is better; Antalya or Marmaris?

10. Phaselis Beach

Separated into three bays—North Bay, Ancient Bay, and South Bay—Phaselis Beach is a unique beach in Antalya, with the ancient city Phaselis Ruins nestled right near the beach. After you meander through the ruins, you can choose between the three bays to relax or go for a dip in the beautiful clear water.

Kemer is the closest town and the best place to take the local minibuses from, as the journey is only 30 minutes. The beach has many trees in the area, meaning you will find plenty of shade to escape the hot sun. There are a few stalls that offer drinks and snacks but there are no restaurants so prepare accordingly if you plan to stay for the day.

Rich with Roman history, stories of pirates, and remnants of ancient civilization, this beach will offer you more than just a beautiful place to swim.

Some ruins remain underwater, so if you are a keen diver or have a snorkel with you, then you will enhance your experience that much more by seeing this underwater marvel.

11. Kiriş Beach

Just a one-hour drive from Antalya city center is Kiriş Beach and town. The water here is very clear so beach goers can enjoy snorkeling and swimming anywhere along the 2.1-kilometer stretch of paradise. 

Pebbles cover this beach, as well as plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas, which you can rent for a fee. If you are wanting to upgrade your holiday experience, you could opt to stay in one of the high-end resorts along Kiriş Beach. 

Kiriş Beach is another one of the incredible blue flag beaches in Antalya, thanks to its superb water quality. For your convenience, there are showers, bathrooms, and changing rooms here. To access the beach, you will find a wooden wharf with ladders leading into the sea. 

Should you want to taste the local cuisine, there are many nice eateries and cafes in the area or in the town nearby.

12. Akçagerme Beach

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Boya 🎨 Foto 🏞 Tuval 🖼 (@boyafototuval)

One of Kaş’s best-kept secrets is the blue-flag Akcagerme Beach. This pebble covered beach is favored by tourists and locals alike. Beach goers can expect to find sun loungers or cabanas for rent and free showers and toilets with a few restaurants nearby.

The beach itself is only 200 meters long and is framed with rocks at both ends, offering a gorgeous and unique scenery for all visitors.

This beach is located only 10 minutes drive from Kaş’s center and is reachable by minibus from the Kaş Bus Station. Akçagerme Beach is great for families, as the beach comes equipped with an inflatable aqua park and calm waters that are perfect for swimming with young children. 

There is a nice area that has picnic tables and even a barbeque if you want to cook your own lunch under the trees. Spend the day here with your family to experience an authentic Turkish summer feeling.

13. Tekirova Beach

If you are looking for a long stretch of clean beach with a mountain view, consider the beautiful blue flag Tekirova Beach. It is only a 15 minute drive from Kemer and five minutes from Phaselis Ruins/ Beach, so it is very convenient to visit Tekirova Beach if you are in the area.

From Antalya, it takes about an hour to get to by car.

Showers, bathrooms, and changing rooms are available at no cost, however, to use the sun loungers and umbrellas there is a small charge.

Tekirova Beach also comes equipped with a wooden wharf reaching out across the water. Along the beach itself, there are a few restaurants and plenty more traditional cafes and restaurants after a short walk into Tekirova town.

If you have a sporty side then this might be the beach for you, as water sports such as parasailing, diving, ocean swimming, and jet skiing are very popular here.

If relaxing is also on your agenda, then you can find a nice, secluded space on Tekirova Beach to sunbathe for the day. 

Best Beaches in Antalya Map

Above is a map of all the best beaches in Antalya we have mentioned. Because the district of Antalya is so massive, some of the beaches are situated far from Antalya city.

Luckily, there are plenty of small towns along the southern coast that travelers can use as a base for exploring the beaches in the area. If you click the small start next to the title of the map, you can save it to your personal device and use it for your trip.

Using this map, hopefully you can properly plan your visit and decide where to stay in Antalya when exploring some of the most amazing beaches in the region!

Antalya Beaches FAQs

Does antalya have nice beaches.

The beaches in Antalya are incredible with turquoise waters and a mix of sand and pebbles, depending on which beach you go to. There are over 200 blue-flag beaches in the region, earning it the nickname “Turquoise Coast”.

What is the best beach in Antalya for families?

The best beach in Antalya for families is arguably Konyaalti Beach. Though travelers will find that most of the beaches in Antalya are incredible for families.

What is the best beach in Antalya for water sports?

Cleopatra Beach is the best beach in Antalya for water sports, but Tekirova Beach is very nice as well.

Before You Go

With numerous beaches in Antalya, picking the perfect one cannot be more difficult.

Hopefully, our guide gives you a good idea of where you’ll be dipping your toes in the sand!

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

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12 Best Beaches near Istanbul

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 11, 2023

Author Jess Lee has been visiting Istanbul for twenty years and writing about the city for a decade. She lives in Turkey.

Beach time may not be your first thought when you're booking an Istanbul stay, but this megacity, with its center divided by the Bosphorus Strait and suburbs sprawling along the shore of the Marmara Sea, can offer up some sun-and-sea time.

For most Istanbul residents, and travelers to Turkey, proper beach time means a week or two of lazy days at the resorts of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. But when the heat hits in Istanbul on summer weekends, city siders beeline to shores closer to home.

The beaches of the Marmara Sea and Black Sea obviously can't offer up the Mediterranean vibes and stunning coastal panoramas of Turkey's famed coastline farther south. But for a dose of swimming, sea breezes, and sunbathing, they're a welcome escape from the city.

When you need a break from the city and sightseeing , plan an excursion with our list of the best beaches near Istanbul.

1. Kilyos Beach

2. burç beach, 3. burgaz adası, 4. ağva & kilimli cove, 5. büyük ada, 6. caddebostan beach, 7. heybeli ada, 8. çilingöz nature park beach, 9. kınalı ada, 10. anadolu feneri beach, 11. büyükçekmeçe, 12. florya güneş beach, map of beaches near istanbul, istanbul, turkey - climate chart.

Highlight: A sandy Black Sea getaway for an easy beach break from the city

The little village of Kilyos, backing a fringe of sandy shore that laps the Black Sea, is still officially a district of the greater Istanbul metropolitan area despite being 41 kilometers to the north of the central city. For Istanbul residents, Kilyos is one of the best places to visit for a day trip focused on sun and sea during the summer months.

In July and August, try to plan your Kilyos trip for a weekday, rather than a weekend, or prepare for the sand to be packed with fellow beachgoers.

Kilyos Beach is a decently long stretch of yellow sand backed with plenty of cafés and restaurants for dining choices, as well as small hotels and guesthouses if you want to stay the night.

There's an entrance fee for beach access, and good facilities on the shore, including on-duty lifeguards during peak season and sun shades and loungers available for rent.

As well as the main beach, there is a variety of private beach clubs here, offering a more luxurious beach experience for a day access fee. The clubs offer their own restaurants and cafés on their strips of sand, water sports facilities, and usually a regular program of entertainment in the summer months.

Tirmata Beach is one of the most popular private beach clubs thanks to its great facilities, which include a high-class seafood restaurant and a more casual beachfront café and plenty of sun loungers in an area that extends back from the sand, onto the lawns. Do note, though, that the loungers are squeezed very close together here, so if you prefer more space, this isn't the place to head on a busy mid-August weekend.

Public transport here from central Istanbul takes a while but is straightforward. In the northern Istanbul suburb of Hacıosman, you can swap from the metro line to a direct bus to Kilyos.

Highlight: Chic sandy summer haunt for Istanbul's fashionable crowd

Just a nine-kilometer drive west along the Black Sea coast from central Kilyos, and 42 kilometers north of Istanbul, Burç Beach is a private beach club known for its kite surfing and wide strip of groomed yellow sand.

Due to its excellent facilities and the water sports on offer, it's a great option for both travelers looking for more things to do at the beach than sun slothing and swimming and those seeking a resort-style day on the beach with everything at your fingertips.

It's a favorite with chic Istanbul locals due to its stylish vibe that's all about chilled-out and sleek seaside living.

The beach club has a range of restaurants and cafés directly backing the sand, plentiful platform and terrace areas set up with beanbags and hammocks, lifeguards on-duty, and a kitesurfing operator where you can learn or rent gear.

During August weekends there's often live music and other entertainment here as well.

Note that the entrance fee for day access here is more expensive than at most other pay-for Black Sea beaches.

Highlight: Hop on the ferry to head to this island's chilled-out coves and bays in the Marmara Sea

Little Burgaz Adası (Burgaz Island) sits between Kinali and Heybeli islands in the Marmara Sea's Princes Islands group. Burgaz is the second island the ferry stops at on the Princes Islands ferry route. There are small beaches dotted all around the island's coast.

For many Princes Islands beach fans, Burgaz's beaches rate the best out of all this island group's sun-and-sea opportunities thanks to their laid-back vibes.

Two recommended public beaches (no entrance fees) are Burgaz Halk Beach on the eastern shore, just a 500-meter stroll south from the ferry terminal, and quieter Madam Marta Cove near the northwest tip of the island (a 1.5-kilometer walk west from the ferry).

Both have shingle and pebble shores, rather than sand, with sun loungers and shades for rent, as well as cafés and bathrooms on hand.

Highlights: Add some easy hikes to a beach weekend along this scenic section of the Black Sea coast

The little Black Sea village of Ağva sits 106 kilometers northeast of Istanbul. It's a favorite destination for nature seekers and hikers, as well as beachgoers, thanks to the tourist attractions of Kilimli Cove, with its dramatic coastal scenery sitting right on the doorstep of town.

Ağva itself is a top choice for a weekend break from the city, and there are plenty of small boutique hotels and guesthouses if you are tempted to stay for more than a day. The village backs a wide, sandy swoop of public beach with no entrance fee. There's a café-restaurant right on the shore, and loungers and sunshades can be rented.

The sea here is known for strong waves and riptides, so swimmers should always listen to the on-duty lifeguards and only swim where they recommend.

Just to the east, Kilimli Cove is a coastal nature park with camping available on its two beaches, which are connected by a hiking trail over and across the rocky cliffs.

You can get a bus to Ağva from the Istanbul district of Üsküdar but note that this bus is a local service with multiple stops along the way, making for a very long journey.

Highlight: Some of the Princes Islands' most popular shorelines for city-siders needing a dose of sea and sun

Büyük Ada (Büyük Island) is the largest of the Princes Islands and has a few different sandy strips for day trippers to choose from if they've chiefly arrived here to enjoy a day on the beach.

All of the beaches on the island have entrance fees. The main beaches all have shuttle boats, which wait at Büyük Ada's ferry terminal to whizz disembarking beachgoers direct to the sand.

The most popular choice is Nakıbey Beach, which has a narrow strip of yellow sand beside a large sunbathing platform packed with sun loungers and sun shades built on top of the rocks with direct access to the sea.

There's a restaurant and bathrooms on-site, too. The sea at the shore edge is shallow here and great for families with little ones in tow.

This island is the farthest east of the group and the last stop on the Princes Islands ferry route.

Highlight: Popular family-friendly beach within easy city reach for an afternoon beside the sea

The closest stretch of sand to central Istanbul, Caddebostan Beach rims the shore of the Marmara Sea on the city's Asian coast. The beach areas are connected and surrounded by the long shorefront swath of Dalyan Park, with its cycling and walking trails through the gardens and great kids' playground areas.

There's a fee for entry to the central curvy bay of grey sand, and sun loungers and sun shades are rented at very reasonable rates. A couple of cafés are on-site for snacks, drinks, and lunch.

Don't expect a peaceful beach experience. Caddebostan Beach is a lively place on hot and sunny weekends from June to September, and the holiday vibe continues with Turkish pop music being blasted across the shore.

The water here is shallow, making this a safe choice for families with kids who want a day of splashing around in the sea.

By public transport, there are direct ferries to Bostancı (next to the very eastern edge of the park) from Kabataş and Kadıköy ferry terminals.

Highlight: The Princes Islands' top summer hot spot for beach life

Heybeli Ada (Heybeli Island) in the Marmara Sea is the most popular of the Princes Islands to visit on day trips from Istanbul . In summer, the tiny coves, dotted around the island's shore with their patches of sand, get crammed with sunbathing day-trippers.

Some of the coves are easily accessed by shuttle boats, which transport beachgoers between Heybeli Ada's main ferry port and the beaches. The return boat ride price usually includes entrance to the beach.

There are a few beaches to choose from, but Ada Beach is the most popular patch of sand. Like all Heybeli Ada's bays, be aware that the sand area at Ada Beach is tiny (there's more sunbathing space on wooden platforms built along the shore).

It's best to avoid heading here on the weekend unless you don't mind the sardine-squeeze of crowds. Facilities at Ada Beach are kept decently clean and well-maintained, and there's a restaurant on-site.

Heybeli Ada is the third stop on the Princes Islands ferry route from the central city.

Highlights: Beach life stripped back to the basics for campers and nature-lovers

This swath of white sand, backed by a rugged, forested coastline and fronted by the Black Sea, is one of the nicest strips of actual sand beach within day-trip driving distance of Istanbul. It's a 118-kilometer drive northwest from the central city.

Çilingöz doesn't have as good a swag of amenities as many other beaches, so it's more suitable for travelers not looking for a full-service beach experience.

There are cafés open during summer, and some basic bathrooms. Your best bet is to bring along all the supplies you're going to need for a day on the beach, including a picnic lunch.

It's a popular spot for overnight camping and stargazing with Istanbul nature lovers who need a break from big city life, and the nature park has walking trails through the forest and across the cliffs for those who want to explore more than the shore.

Highlights: Enjoy the fashionable local Marmara Sea scene on the private beaches of this island

Kınalı Ada (Kınalı Island) is the most northerly of the Marmara Sea's Princes Islands group, and the first stop on the Princes Islands ferry.

It's much less popular as a day trip for foreign visitors than the bigger and more famous islands of Heybeli and Büyük. That doesn't mean this island's beaches will be quieter on summer weekends, though, as plenty of Istanbul locals beeline here for a day of sand and sea.

There are beaches on both the western and eastern shores of the island.

The seabed off Kınalı Ada is very rocky just offshore, so aqua shoes are very useful when wading in to swim. You can buy them at all the beaches here.

On the eastern shore, near the ferry port (350 meters to the south) and facing the hilly coast of Istanbul in the distance, is the narrow shingle strip of Onur Beach. There's an entrance fee for this area, which has sun loungers with shades to rent and a restaurant and bathrooms on-site.

About 100 meters to the south is Teos Beach, another hugely popular private beach that is particularly well known for its restaurant, which serves up Aegean flavors. Facilities are well-maintained here, and the sea is shallow and calm. The entrance fee to the narrow strip of sand and the wooden sunbathing platforms directly over the sea includes sun lounger and shade rental.

On the island's western coast is the bigger, public (free entry) Kınalı Halk Beach, with its shoreline of shingle and pebble. It's a 1.6-kilometer walk from the ferry, or take the regular shuttle bus, which runs between the ferry terminal and the beach. Sun loungers and sun shades can be rented, and there's a good café backing the beach.

Highlights: A Bosphorus shoreline for a dip, and seafood feasting at the village along the strait

The little village of Anadolu Feneri sits on the Asian shore, right at the northern end of the Bosphorus, just before the strait meets the Black Sea. It is 50 kilometers north of central Istanbul.

The village is fronted by a narrow strip of shingle and rock public beach from where swimmers cool off in the waters of the Bosphorus.

Those with delicate feet may want to bring aqua shoes as it's very stony offshore.

The beach itself isn't set up for sunbathing in comfort. Instead, when you've had your swim and want to chill out, head up the cliff path to one of the fish restaurants and sit outside on their terraces admiring the stunning coastal views while you have a meal or drink.

Highlights: An outer suburb beachfront with family-friendly facilities

Istanbul's suburb of Büyükçekmeçe (40 kilometers west of the central city, on the European side of the shore) wraps around a bay along the Marmara Sea coast. The yellow-sand beach here is an easygoing option for a day at the seaside, particularly for those with families.

There is a multitude of cafés and restaurants offering up plenty of refreshment opportunities and shady places to sit on the long coastal road that backs the entire beach length.

For when the kids get itchy feet and want some activities, there are boat trips offered, and you can rent bikes to ride along the shore.

The public beach has no entrance fee, but you do need to pay if you want to rent a sun lounger and sun shade.

Getting here from the central historic district of Sultanahmet by public transport requires first taking the tram and then two bus changes, so it's not the most straightforward of routes.

Highlights: An easy-to-reach stretch of sand for a few hours of beach time

This beach rims the Sea of Marmara, in Istanbul's western suburb of Florya, 20 kilometers west of Istanbul's historic central district. Entrance fees to the sand include use of a sun lounger with sun shade, and there are decent facilities, including lifeguards, bathrooms, and a couple of cafés and restaurants on-site.

Because of the easy access to this beach — you can reach Florya from the center on Istanbul's Marmaray metro line — it's a popular pit stop if you're desperate for a slice of sand and a swim but can't get out of the city.

Be aware, the water isn't the cleanest here, and the beach area sometimes smells, though on a summer weekend that doesn't seem to dissuade the beachgoers.

The best time to visit the beaches within day-tripping distance of Istanbul is in the months of July and August, when the average daytime temperatures hover between 26 and 27 degrees Celsius and the hot, sunny weather tempts even the keenest city sightseers to the nearby shores for a break from the historic monuments. Unsurprisingly, you'll find the shorelines packed during these two months (particularly on the weekends), as Istanbul locals take a break from the inner-city humidity for seafront breezes.

In the months of June and September, you'll find a less-crowded scene along the Black Sea coast and on the Marmara Sea's Princes' Islands, but the weather is still pleasant enough for a day beside the sea. The average daytime temperature during these two tail-end months hovers between 23 and 24 degrees, though rainfall can scupper beach travel plans at the last minute, with June hosting an average six days of rain, and September having an average eight days of rain.

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Home > 18 Epic Beaches In Antalya – Turkey Beach Guide

18 Epic Beaches In Antalya – Turkey Beach Guide

Written by our local expert Mehmet

Mehmet is digital nomad who was born in Istanbul, Türkiye and now calls the Balkans region his home-office.

Whether you know a lot or a little about Antalya, you’re sure to have heard that the city is home to some of the best beaches in Turkey. Located along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, there are plenty of stunning spots to enjoy the gorgeous scenery and have a refreshing dip.

Most of the beaches boast plush, sandy shores and crystal-clear waters – a few beaches in the region are pebbly, but that really shouldn’t put you off.

Antalya covers roughly 1,400 square kilometers, and because of the city’s prime location in the so-called “Turkish Riviera,” there are plenty of beaches to choose from during your stay.

Not only are there several choices, but they also differ from each other quite a lot – whether we’re considering sand versus a pebble beach, free versus paid, big versus small, or whatever else may be important to you. So, one thing’s for sure – there really is a perfect beach for everybody in Antalya!

So, let’s dive right into our list of the best beaches in Antalya!

As we mentioned earlier, when it comes to Antalya beaches, you really do have a lot of choices. And it all depends on you – what kind of traveler you are and what you look for in the ideal beach.

For some people, there may be several specific things they need to tick off a list, while for others, it could just be about which beach is closest. Either way, with so many different options, you’re sure to find a beach (most likely many beaches ) that you’ll love.

Here are the 18 best beaches in Antalya!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Family-Friendly Beaches In Antalya

1. konyaaltı beach.

Konyaalti Beach, Antalya, is easily one of the most popular beaches in all of Antalya if not one of the best beaches in Turkey . Honestly, it’s not difficult to see why – it has everything going for it. All you need is to see a photograph of it, and I guarantee you’ll already be on your way out the door!

One of the main features of Konyaalti Beach is that it’s super long – eight miles long, to be precise – and it’s located on the western side of the city.

In addition to being a fantastic beach, it’s super popular because of its convenient location – it’s about two miles from the Old Town district (a very popular place for tourists to stay), and it’s a pleasant walk from there to the beach. Or, you can hop on the tram from the Old Town (or elsewhere in the city) and head there directly. Alternatively, there are always taxis around if you want to get there quickly.

When you reach Konyaaltı, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the view from above before you make your way down to the beach, which, as you’ll be able to tell from the pictures, is absolutely mesmerizing, with views of the Taurus Mountains and the vast Mediterranean Ocean looming in the background.

Konyaalti Beach is famous for its pristine, blue waters and mostly pebbly beach. However, don’t let that put you off. When I visited, I was told that the beach was mostly “fine pebbles,” but actually, much of the beach is just coarse sand, which is still comfortable.

The beach has a long boardwalk that’s perfect if you want to go for a run or a walk or if you want to hop on a bicycle or hire a scooter! The beach park has loads of open green space, ideal for a picnic, and there are plenty of restaurants, beach bars, and shops along the beachfront.

If you’re one for adrenaline-pumping activities, this is a great beach to get involved in some water sports, including things like stand-up paddleboarding, parasailing, and speed boat riding, making it one of the best Antalya beaches.

2. Incekum Beach

Incekum Beach is located near Alanya , just over 100 kilometers away, and there are several resorts and hotel complexes nearby, making it a great place to go for a swim if you’re staying nearby. It’s a small, quiet beach, and the sand is soft, and the water is beautifully blue.

3. Lara Beach

Lara Beach is the top recommended beach in Antalya, probably more so than Konyaalti, but it’s a bit further away from the Old Town, so getting there is a little less convenient. It’s about 26 kilometers if you drive, but you could, technically, walk there via a more direct route over about 16 kilometers – but that’s a long walk!

The beach is lined with several luxury hotels , and the Lara area (“Lara” translates to “sand” in Luwein) is a super popular holiday destination – it really is the place to go for the best beach resorts in Antalya. The beach is about 15 kilometers long – but only two kilometers are public; various inclusive hotels privately own the rest.

The public section of the beach can get pretty crowded in the summertime, but entry is free, and you have access to showers, changing rooms, restrooms, sun beds, and umbrellas. The beach is known for its lovely soft sand and crystal-clear water.

There are also plenty of watersports to keep you busy – waterskiing, jet skiing, windsurfing, paragliding, and banana boat or paddle boat rides (and more!). If you have kids, there are several playgrounds, and there are also several restaurants and bars for dinner and some vibrant nightlife.

4. Evrenseki Beach

About 60 kilometers along the Antalya coast from Kaleici, Evrenseki Beach is a family and dog-friendly beach near the town of Berek. It stretches for several kilometers, and there are lifeguards on duty during busy periods.

Part of the beach offers free access, while other sections make up the popular Evrekseki hotel complex. If you opt for the latter, you’ll have to pay for entrance, but you’ll have access to really nice toilets, showers, loungers, and more – overall, the experience is more of a luxurious one if that’s what you’re looking for!

There are also a few different bars and restaurants nearby, both inside the hotel complex as well as in and around the public section.

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Historical and cultural beaches in antalya, 5. patara beach.

Patara Beach isn’t just another stop on the tourist trail; it’s a real gem on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, especially if you’re into nature and history. This beach stretches for a whopping 18 kilometers – yeah, that’s huge – and is backed by some pretty impressive ancient ruins, giving you a mix of sunbathing and time travel all in one go. But here’s the coolest part: Patara is also a key nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles.

These guys are pretty special and, sadly, endangered. So, while you’re there, you might spot some marked-off nesting areas on the sand – that’s to protect the turtle eggs.

Visiting Patara isn’t just a chance to get a tan; it’s an opportunity to see conservation in action. The best time to visit is between May and October if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of these marine visitors. Just remember, these loggerhead turtles need their space, so it’s all about watching from a distance – no touching or disturbing the nests. Aside from turtle spotting, Patara offers a pretty laid-back vibe, with a few low-key cafes and plenty of space to unwind. It’s not overrun with resorts, which is a plus if you’re after some peace and quiet.

6. Phaselis Beach

About 40 kilometers from the center of Antalya, Phaselis Beach is a picturesque coastal location boasting gorgeous views and plenty of greenery, providing much-needed shade on hot summer days. It’s about eight kilometers from the center of Kemer, and the beach has black sand and pebbles.

While Phaselis Beach does tend to get a bit busier during peak season, it’s not one of the most crowded beaches in the area. Note, however, that it’s located in nature, so to speak, so there aren’t any toilets around. It’s a great, quiet place to relax and enjoy some time outdoors – and the entrance is free!

7. Olympos Beach

Olympos Beach, not to be confused with the city of Olympos further to the west, is about 80 kilometers from Antalya, near Cirali Beach. It’s an excellent beach for nature lovers, surrounded by lush vegetation – in fact, for this reason, it’s often compared to the many beautiful and scenic beaches in Thailand.

Lycian Olympos Beach (“Lycian” refers to the Lycian coast in Antalya) is an excellent option for those looking for a quiet and relaxed beach day away from crowds, resorts, and nightlife.

Scenic and Natural Beaches In Antalya

8. mermerli beach.

Mermerli Beach is the easiest beach to access from the Antalya Old Town (Kaleici), so if you’re looking for a convenient spot to have a swim and hang out in the sun, this is probably the best beach in Antalya to do just that without having to travel far.

The only catch is that you have to pay for entrance – however, I felt like it was totally worth it to be able to go for a swim somewhere near the Old Town, have access to loungers and umbrellas, and be able to leave my things safely while I swam.

One of the nice things about paid beaches is that the number of people on the beach is limited, and it keeps out the riff-raff (so to speak)! Although it does still get pretty busy. It costs about 140 Lira per person, and if you want to rent a towel, you can pay another 50 Lira.

The entrance to the beach is via Mermerli Restaurant, and you can order food and drinks from the beach – they have staff wandering around.

The beach itself is pretty small, but there are loungers all around the beach and some on the rocks above. Get there early if you want a more private spot or if you’re looking for several loungers together! Mermerli Beach is about a kilometer from Hadrian’s Gate – a 10-minute walk through the bustling alleyways.

9. Adrasan Beach

Adrasan is a beautiful, pebbled beach with pristine, sparkling blue water. The beach is lined with loads of loungers and umbrellas, and it’s an ideal beach for families with kids. With views of the mountains all around, it’s a stunning spot that really gives you a remote Mediterranean feel. It’s located near Beykonak, about 90 kilometers from the center of Antalya.

10. Cleopatra Beach

Right next to Damlataş Beach in Alanya (about a kilometer from the center of the city), Cleopatra Beach is renowned for its beauty – the water is crystal-clear, and the sand is wonderfully soft.

It boasts Blue Flag status and was named after the Egyptian princess Cleopatra, who is said to have bathed here – so if you’re looking for beaches in Antalya with a historical edge, Cleopatra Beach is a great option. Entrance to the beach is free – as well as access to restrooms, changing rooms, and showers – and you can hire umbrellas and sun loungers for a small fee.

If you want to keep busy, you can do some parasailing, kite surfing, parasailing, surfing, scuba diving , and sailing. It’s also an excellent spot for some beach volleyball, and about 100 meters from the beach is a popular promenade with lots of busy bars and restaurants.

11. Crystal Beach

If you’re interested in a beach resort type of atmosphere, Crystal Beach, Antalya, is a great option, only 25 kilometers from the city center. Crystal Beach Resort is the main establishment, and you’ll obviously need to pay to access the area and use their facilities, but it’s totally worth it if you want to spend the whole day there.

The beach is pristine, and you’ll have access to not only the beach (with sun loungers and umbrellas) but restaurants, bars, and the swimming pools, too, with slides and other fun activities for the kids. Crystal Beach is the perfect place to relax and spend the day with your family.

12. Cirali Beach

If you’re looking for a quiet beach with gorgeous natural scenery all around, Cirali Beach is a great option. About an hour and a half from the center of Antalya, Cirali is surrounded by mountains and plenty of greenery.

It’s part sand, part pebbles, and it’s situated in a peaceful spot away from the business of the all-inclusive resorts . There are still some restaurants and bars there, though, so you can enjoy a relaxed day on the beach and still grab a bite and a drink.

13. Suluada Beach

Suluada Beach is actually a small island about two kilometers off the coast of Adrasan, but all there really is to it is the beach – but it’s not just an average beach. Suluada Beach is 1.2 kilometers of soft sand and clear turquoise waters. In fact, the water is so blue that it’s regularly referred to as the Maldives of Turkey – unsurprisingly, it’s often referred to as the most Instagrammable Antalya Beach.

Adrasan is about 90 kilometers from Antalya, and to get to the beach, you’ll have to hop on a boat tour, but it’s totally worth it. Because it’s challenging to get to, the beach is pretty relaxed and isn’t surrounded by restaurants and resorts. It’s a great place to spend the day relaxing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Spending the day at Suluada Beach was probably one of the highlights of my time in Antalya because it was just so beautiful and peaceful – but make sure you take your own water and snacks because you can’t buy anything there!

Trendy and Popular Beaches In Antalya

14. damlataş beach.

Damlatas Beach is a fair way away from the city of Antalya. However, it is still very much within the Antalya region – it’s about 120 kilometers from Keleici (Antalya city’s Old Town), located within Alanya , just over a kilometer from Alanya’s center. It’s not convenient for a quick beach visit, but it’s totally doable as a day trip from Antalya – unless you’re staying in Alanya.

It’s a beautiful big beach boasting turquoise water and soft, bright sand. Access to the beach is free, and you’ll have access to restrooms, changing rooms, umbrellas, and sun loungers.

15. Kemer Moonlight Beach

Kemer Beach is known for its gorgeous views and location within nature – unlike many other beaches in Antalya, it’s not surrounded by plenty of hotels and busy restaurants and bars.

Instead, it’s surrounded by scenic hills and mountains, and for this reason, it’s easily the most popular beach in all of Kemer. Some people even argue that it’s the most beautiful beach in Antalya! It’s about 40 meters long and 20 meters wide, and it boasts golden sand and pristine blue water.

16. Zuga Beach

If you’re looking for something a little quieter than the likes of Konyaalti and Lara, Zuga Beach is the one for you – it’s just a half-hour bus ride away!

It’s a lovely sandy beach with beautiful blue water – one of the best sandy beaches in Antalya – and it’s the perfect beach for swimming safely in the calm waters. There are plenty of beach clubs in the area, and loungers, umbrellas, and towels are for hire if you need them.

Unique and Specialized Beaches In Antalya

17. side beach.

Side Beach, Antalya, has become known as a popular seaside resort area in the area, although it’s about 70 kilometers away from the city. It’s a great beach for both sunbathing and swimming, and you can easily hire loungers and umbrellas from one of the many establishments on the beach.

It’s also located in an interesting area, as it was once an ancient Greek settlement – thus, there are fascinating ancient ruins within walking distance of the beach.

18. Sarısu Kadınlar Plajı

If you’re looking for lovely beaches in Antalya, Sarısu Kadınlaris about 12 kilometers away from the city center. The beach is covered in fine pebbles, but don’t let that put you off – it’s still pretty comfortable to walk and lie on them, but perhaps if you plan on doing lots of walking, it may be a good idea to pack some shoes.

The beach is pretty long, with resorts in some areas, while other areas are a little quieter, so you can decide what kind of atmosphere you’re in the mood for. A few bonuses of using the resort’s beach areas include the fact that there are bars and restaurants inside, and you’ll have access to umbrellas and plenty of sun loungers.

Overall, it’s a pretty calm and quiet beach, making it a great option if you don’t want too much noise or too many people.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Beaches In Antalya

Are there any private beaches in antalya.

Yes, there are many private beaches in Antalya, many of which are connected to beach resorts or restaurants – or both. Some beaches are partially private and partially public, so you can decide where you want to be. Usually, you’ll need to pay an entry fee to the resort, and that’ll give you access to loungers, umbrellas, and more. You’ll also be able to order food and drinks.

A few of the best private beaches in Antalya include Lara Beach, Mermerli Beach, Evrenseki Beach, and Crystal Beach.

Which Antalya Beaches are Family-Friendly?

There aren’t really many beaches that are inappropriate for children or families (other than, perhaps, the pebbly beaches), but there certainly are a few that are particularly suitable for little ones. Some beaches have playgrounds or resort-like facilities (with slides, pools, and other fun things, like Crystal Beach).

Meanwhile, other beaches are just convenient for parents because there are shops and restaurants around if you need snacks or anything else during the day.

Our top recommended family beaches are Konyaalti – because it has changing rooms, bathrooms, play areas for kids, large grassy areas, and more – as well as Evrenseki because it’s relaxed, there are lifeguards on duty, and it’s dog friendly too.

Cleopatra and Lara are also both great options because there are lots of establishments around and many watersport activities if you want to keep the kids busy. Best of all, these beaches are all lovely and sandy.

Where Can I Find Beach Resorts in Antalya?

Antalya is full of beach resorts – in fact, it’s more difficult to find beaches without beach resorts. A few of the best beach resorts in Antalya include Crystal Beach Resort, the Concorde Deluxe Resort (Lara Beach), Megasaray Westbeach Antalya (Konyaalti Beach), Swandor Hotels and Resorts (Lara Beach), and Land of LegendsKingdom (Belek).

How do you reach beaches from Antalya City Center?

It all depends on where you’re going, but generally speaking, the bus system in Antalya is pretty efficient and reliable, and you can get to most places by bus – especially if you’re leaving from the city center or Old Town. Otherwise, if you’re traveling to nearby beaches, like Konyaalti, you can use the city tram. Alternatively, you can always use taxis, but they’ll be way more expensive.

Which Antalya Beach is Best for Swimming?

All of Antalya’s beaches are pretty great for swimming, but the top options would be Lara, Konyaalti, Damlatas, Kleopatra, Phaselis, or Evrenseki. Some of these options, like Evrenseki, have lifeguards on duty during the Antalya summer.

Where are the Sandy Beaches in Antalya?

Many of Antalya’s beaches are sandy, and they’re dotted all along the coast rather than being restricted to one area. But if you’re looking for the beaches with the best – soft, pristine – sand, you should visit Lara, Cleopatra, Damlatus, or Kemer Moonlight Beach.

What Water Sports are Available on Antalya Beaches?

It depends on which beaches you go to, but a few watersports on Antalya beaches include stand-up paddleboarding, speed boat racing, jet skiing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, paragliding, banana boat riding, and more!

Can I Rent a Sunbed and Umbrella on the Beaches in Antalya?

Most beaches in Antalya have loungers and umbrellas for hire, and some even have them there for you to use for free. Or, if you are at a resort or a restaurant’s private beach, umbrellas and loungers may be included in the deal.

If you specifically need these things, though, check out the specific descriptions above – we’ve specified which beaches don’t offer umbrellas and loungers.

Which Beaches in Antalya Have Vibrant Nightlife?

Most of the beaches that have resorts will offer at least some kind of nightlife, but the best Antalya beaches for nightlife are probably Lara and Konyaalti.

Are There Any Quiet and Secluded Beaches in Antalya?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a beach that’s not full of resorts and crowds, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are several beaches in the area that boast pretty nature and lovely scenic views. A few of these include Olympos, Phaselis, and Kemer Moonlight Beach. Or, if you really want a quiet and secluded beach, make sure you visit Suluada Beach – it’s literally on an island that you can only reach by boat!

Which Antalya Beach is Famous for its Sunset Views?

The best beaches in Antalya for watching the sunset are Adrasan Beach, Kemer Moonlight Beach, Phaselis, Olympos, and Lara.

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Antalya for a Beach Holiday?

For most people traveling to Antalya, summer tends to be their season of choice, but you’re actually better off visiting in the shoulder seasons – it’s slightly cooler, less busy, and a bit cheaper. So, my advice is to go from April to June or September to October.

Exploring Antalya’s beaches reveals why this region is a paradise for beach enthusiasts. With many shores proudly flaunting the Blue Flag status, they promise not only stunning beauty but also a commitment to environmental excellence.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Damlataş Cave beach, where golden sands meet the mesmerizing allure of the nearby geological marvel. Whether you’re in search of the lively atmosphere of popular spots or the tranquil retreats of secluded white sand beaches, Antalya has it all.

Each beach location offers its own unique appeal, making it clear why this area is a favored destination for those who love the sun, sand, and sea. The golden sands underfoot and the inviting Mediterranean waters make Antalya’s beaches some of the most enchanting places to connect with nature.

• Where To Stay In Antalya
• The Best Day Trips From Antalya
• Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Antalya
• Is Antalya Worth Visiting? Yes – Here’s Why!
• How To Enjoy Antalya In Winter
• What To See In Antalya
• How To Get From Antalya To Cappadocia
• Best Beaches In Marmaris
• Guide To The Beaches In Kusadasi

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