Turkey, washed by four seas, is famous for its coast stretching for thousands of kilometers. From the sand dunes of the Aegean Sea to the pebbly coves of the Mediterranean, this country offers an incredible variety of beaches to suit every taste. In this review, we will look at the most picturesque and relaxing Turkish beaches, where you can enjoy spending a significant part of your vacation or weekend.
Criteria for choosing the best
When determining which sandy or pebble beaches in Turkey are the best, the following points are taken into account:
- Cleanliness, environmental friendliness;
- Infrastructure (availability of umbrellas, sun loungers, changing cabins, catering points);
- Entertainment;
- Environment (nature, species);
- Transport accessibility, proximity to cities and attractions;
- The presence of the “Blue Flag” award.
“Blue Flag” is a prestigious international award, awarded annually since 1987 to beaches and marinas that meet strict criteria of water quality, safety, environmental friendliness and landscaping. The Republic of Turkey ranks 3rd in the world in terms of the number of such places awarded this award, second only to Spain and Greece.
The best sandy beaches in Turkey
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Iztuz
A 4.5-kilometer golden sandy strip separates freshwater backwaters from the Mediterranean Sea. Iztuzu is famous for its exceptionally clean water and unique ecosystem, being a nesting place for loggerheads – loggerhead sea turtles. From May to October, access is restricted at night to protect turtles, and tourists should follow special rules of conduct during the day.
You can get here by boat from the village of Dalyan (a picturesque 40-minute journey through the canals) or by minibus on the way through the mountainous area. The resort area has everything you need: accessory rental points, restaurants and cafes. The recommended time to visit is from June to September.
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Cleopatra Beach
It is located in the central part of Alanya and is one of the most popular places. The beach acquired its name due to a legend according to which the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra loved to swim here. The convenient shallow entrance to the water makes it attractive for families with children. Here you can find all the necessary infrastructure:
- sun beds and umbrellas (for a fee);
- showers;
- changing cabins;
- toilets.
There are a considerable number of shops and catering establishments along the embankment. There is a volleyball court, and water skiing, banana riding and parasailing are available for active water activities. The optimal time to visit is from May to October. Twelve beaches are covered with the most beautiful sand: from Kleopatra Beach No:0 to Kleopatra Beach No: 12. At the height of the season (July-August), like all popular beaches in Turkey, the coast can be crowded, so it’s worth considering early morning visits.
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Blue Lagoon
is located in the resort village of Oludeniz near Fethiye. It is a picturesque bay with clear turquoise sea water and light sand with a small admixture of pebbles. The territory is divided into two parts: public (free) and private (paid). Both areas are equipped with sun beds, umbrellas, showers, changing rooms.
The Blue Lagoon is suitable for outdoor activities. Here you can go snorkeling, rent a kayak or catamaran. Paragliding from Mount Babadag is particularly popular, offering spectacular views of the lagoon. It is better to visit from May to October. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and cash, as not all establishments accept cards.
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Patara
It is one of the longest resort areas in the country, stretching for 18 km along the coast. It is part of the national park, which ensures its ecological purity and the untouchability of nature. It is known not only for its natural beauty, but also for its rich history – the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Patara are located here. Local attractions include:
- Ruins of the ancient city of Patara, the birthplace of St. Nicholas;
- The sacred Lake of Apollo;
- The Roman Road;
- Lycian tombs;
- The Patara Museum.
Basic conditions have been created for tourists: there are cafes, toilets, rental points for umbrellas and sun loungers. It is better to choose the period from June to September for the trip – at this time the weather is favorable for swimming and sunbathing. It is worth considering that the sand here can get very hot, so it is recommended to have suitable shoes with you.
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Kaputash
It is located between the resort towns of Kash and Kalkan on the Mediterranean coast. This small cozy beach surrounded by picturesque cliffs is often called one of the most photogenic in the country. You can get here by a winding coastal road by bus or car, after which you will need to overcome a long staircase of about 200 steps. It is important to take into account that the climb back can be tedious, especially in hot weather.
Since the infrastructure here is not the most developed, it is recommended to take everything you need with you, including water, food and supplies. The preferred time for a trip is from June to September, when it is already warm enough for swimming, and sun beds and umbrellas are placed. Due to the open location near the shore, high waves can occur, which can be used for outdoor activities.
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Lara
One of the most well-maintained and sought-after beaches of the Turkish Riviera, 12 km east of the center of Antalya. Most of the territory belongs to hotels, but there are public areas. The infrastructure is well developed: various catering establishments, water equipment rental points, sun beds, umbrellas (usually for a fee). For those who prefer a dynamic vacation, various water activities are available: parasailing, jet skiing and jet skiing.
The most suitable time to visit the resort is from May to October. At the same time, the peak season falls during the summer months, when it can be quite crowded here. You can get to Lara by public transport from the center of Antalya, or by taxi. It is important to remember about sun protection, as it can be very hot here in the summer months.
The best pebble and sand-pebble beaches
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Konyaalti
This paradise is located in the western part of Antalya and is a pebble-sand strip about 7 km long. Thanks to this coating, the purity of the water is ensured even in windy weather. Konyaalti is well equipped with everything necessary for a pleasant stay. At the service of tourists:
- Cafes, bars and restaurants;
- Shops;
- Accessory rental points;
- Changing rooms, showers and toilets;
- Sports fields and bike paths.
A variety of water sports are also available. It is important to note that due to the stones, it is recommended to use special bathing shoes. The best time to visit is from May to October. Konyaalti is less crowded compared to a number of other resorts in Antalya, which makes this sandy and pebble beach in Turkey attractive for those who want a relaxing holiday.
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Chalysh
It is known for its gray sand mixed with small pebbles. The peculiarity of this mass is that it does not heat up as much as the light one, which makes walking along the beach space comfortable even on the hottest day. Chalysh is famous for its picturesque sunsets and peaceful atmosphere.
It is quite well equipped: there are sun beds, umbrellas, showers and changing cabins. There are a number of catering establishments along the coast offering local and international cuisine. From May to October, there are certain restrictions on lighting at night and the installation of beach equipment due to the nesting of sea turtles.
The best time to visit is from June to September. You can get to it by dolmusha (local minibus) from the center of Fethiye or on foot along the picturesque embankment.
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Chirals
A quiet and secluded area in a picturesque bay on the Mediterranean coast, about 80 km southwest of Antalya. The sand is mixed here. Large pebbles predominate at the water’s edge. The further away from the sea, the more sand there is.
One of the features of Chirala is its untouched nature and the absence of mass development. There are no large hotels here, which allows you to maintain an authentic atmosphere and tranquility. However, you can still find a suitable hotel nearby.
A unique attraction nearby are the natural “eternal lights” Chimeras – a natural phenomenon where gas comes out of the ground. There is a basic infrastructure here: several cafes, rental of sun loungers and umbrellas, but in general the atmosphere remains quite simple and natural. The most suitable time to visit is from May to the middle of autumn.
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Gainyuk
You can find it in the eponymous area of the resort town of Kemer. The territory is covered with dense gray-brown sand mixed with medium pebbles. The area is surrounded by the majestic Tavros Mountains, which creates impressive landscapes. There are plenty of places for a comfortable stay:
- Sun beds and umbrellas (usually available for a fee);
- Showers and changing rooms;
- Cafes and restaurants with local and international cuisine;
- Water equipment rental points;
- Opportunities for practicing various sports.
Nearby there is the Goynuk Canyon, where you can go trekking or rafting. Beautiful waves can often be seen near the shore, which attracts surfers here, especially in the off-season. Some areas of the beach area belong to hotels and can only be accessed by their guests, but most of them remain publicly accessible.
It is preferable to travel here from the last spring month to October.
Additional tips for travelers
1. The best time to visit
The swimming season in Turkey lasts from May to October, but the optimal time to relax depends on your preferences. If you like hot weather and warm sea, it is best to plan a trip in July or August. During these months, the air temperature reaches 30-35 °C, and the water warms up to a comfortable 25-27 °C. However, keep in mind that this is the peak of the tourist season, when vacation spots are most crowded.
Milder weather, as well as fewer tourists, in May-June or September-October. During these months, the air temperature fluctuates around 25-28 °C, the water is still warm enough for swimming in comfortable conditions, and it is much freer on the shore. In addition, there are more favorable offers for accommodation and excursions in the off-season.
2. Leisure features
The sandy beaches of Turkey are optimal for families with children, as it is convenient to play and build castles on them. In addition, the entrance to the water in such places is usually more gentle. However, the sand sticks to the skin and gets into the clothes.
Pebbles, in turn, are distinguished by crystal clear water, since pebbles do not rise from the bottom when the sea is rough. They are also less crowded and are considered more “clean”. However, walking on pebbles can be less comfortable, especially on hot days. Special swimming shoes will help.
3. Rules of conduct
Although Turks are known for their hospitality, it is important to keep in mind local customs and rules of conduct. In most tourist areas, it is acceptable to wear regular swimsuits and swimming trunks, but away from resorts, it is better to dress more modestly. Topless sunbathing is allowed only in some areas of private hotels.
Do not forget about sun protection – use sunscreen, hats and glasses. Keep clean, do not leave any garbage behind. If you plan to visit a place in the national park, specify the rules in advance – in some protected areas there may be restrictions on swimming or staying in certain areas.
