Turkey is known for its gorgeous beaches, but some stand out. Here are the top five best beaches in Turkey that are worth visiting on your next vacation:
- Iztuzu Beach: This remarkable beach is located on the Dalyan River Delta and is a nesting site for loggerhead turtles. The crystal-clear waters and soft sands make it a picture-perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Kaputas Beach: Hidden between towering cliffs, Kaputas Beach, is a breathtaking cove with turquoise waters and pristine sands. The beach is accessible via a steep staircase, but the views are worth the effort.
- Blue Lagoon: Located in the Ölüdeniz Nature Reserve, this stunning bay boasts calm, sparkling blue waters perfect for swimming or kayaking. The surrounding mountains offer a dramatic backdrop to the tranquil beach.
- Patara Beach: Stretching for 18 kilometers, Patara Beach is one of Turkey’s longest and most beautiful beaches. A national park home to ancient ruins protects the sandy dunes and warm waters.
- Olympos Beach: Nestled in a valley full of pine trees, Olympos Beach is a secluded and unspoiled beach with crystal-clear waters. The nearby ruins of the ancient city of Olympos add an extra layer of intrigue to the tranquil setting.
Turkey has many other stunning beaches, but these five stand out for their natural beauty, accessibility, and unique features.
The Mediterranean Coast
Regarding beaches in Turkey, the Mediterranean Coast is one of the best destinations. This part of the country boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and stunning coastal towns.
So whether you are looking for a secluded beach or a lively spot to spend your summer days, you can find it on the Mediterranean Coast. So let’s explore the best of what this area has to offer.
Oludeniz Beach
Oludeniz Beach is one of the most breathtaking and iconic beaches on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. It is located in the Fethiye district of Mugla province, and its stunning turquoise waters and powdery white sand have made it a popular destination among tourists worldwide.
The beach is fringed by the Babadag mountain range, which provides a stunning backdrop for its crystal-clear waters. In addition to swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach, Oludeniz is also a popular spot for paragliding. The surrounding mountains provide an ideal launching point for paragliders to launch themselves over the beach and the Aegean Sea.
Other nearby attractions include:
- The Butterfly Valley.
- The Lycian Way hiking trail.
- The ancient city of Telmessos.
With its natural beauty, welcoming atmosphere, and numerous recreational opportunities, Oludeniz Beach is a must-visit destination in Turkey.
Konyaalti Beach
Konyaalti Beach is a beautiful stretch of pebbly Mediterranean coastline that offers crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the Taurus Mountains in Turkey. Located in Antalya, Konyaalti Beach is a popular tourist destination offering various water sports and beach activities, including jet skiing, windsurfing, parasailing, and banana boating.
Apart from the beach and water activities, Konyaalti Beach offers a long promenade for strolling, restaurants, and cafes serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine. The beach is easily accessible from the center of Antalya by bus, tram, or taxi.
A visit to Konyaalti Beach is a must for anyone looking to enjoy the best Mediterranean coastline in Turkey.
Cleopatra Beach
Cleopatra Beach is a stunning Mediterranean beach in the Alanya district of Turkey. This beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and remarkable beauty. The sand is fine and white, and the sea is turquoise, making it a perfect destination for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing.
Besides, the beach has sunbeds, umbrellas, changing rooms, and showers, making it comfortable for tourists to visit. Additionally, there are various bars and restaurants near the beach where you can grab a drink or a meal.
If you visit Alanya, Cleopatra Beach is a must-experience tourist destination.
The Aegean Coast
The Aegean Coast of Turkey is renowned for its stunning beaches and captivating scenery. From the Turquoise Coast’s bustling resorts to the Gokova Riviera’s unspoiled beaches, the long stretch of coastline along the Aegean Sea offers something for everyone.
So whether you’re looking for a beach holiday with a relaxing atmosphere or more action, the Aegean Coast of Turkey has you covered.
Iztuzu Beach
Located on Turkey’s Aegean coast, Iztuzu Beach is known for its pristine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and world-famous Caretta sea turtles.
Iztuzu Beach stretches over three miles from the Dalyan River estuary to the Mediterranean Sea and offers a variety of activities for visitors, including sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
The beach’s shallow waters are ideal for families with children, and several beachfront cafes and restaurants serve fresh seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine.
Iztuzu Beach is also a protected area where Caretta sea turtles come to lay their eggs, making it an important conservation site. Visitors can learn about these majestic creatures at the nearby sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation center.
Pro Tip: Avoid visiting the beach from May to October, as it’s the turtle nesting season.
Ölüdeniz Beach
Located on the Aegean Coast of Turkey, Ölüdeniz Beach is one of the region’s most idyllic and picturesque locations. It is often listed among the best beaches in Turkey. The beach boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, a long sandy strip bordered by rocky terrain, and an impressive mountain backdrop that never fails to wow visitors.
In addition to panoramic views, Ölüdeniz Beach offers activities like paragliding over the bay, taking a dip in the refreshing sea, and exploring the lush surroundings. However, visiting during the shoulder or off-season is recommended to avoid large crowds and high prices.
Pro Tip: To experience the true beauty of Ölüdeniz Beach, consider taking a boat trip to admire the scenery from the water.
Altınkum Beach
Altınkum Beach, located on the Aegean Coast of Turkey, is one of the country’s most popular and beautiful beaches.
The beach is known for its golden sand, clear turquoise waters, and lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect destination for families and solo travelers, offering a range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Altınkum Beach is also conveniently located near the town’s center and a host of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Pro tip: to enjoy the beach at its best, visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the mid-day crowds and heat.
The Black Sea Coast
The Black Sea Coast of Turkey is one of the world’s most beautiful and underrated beach destinations. The beaches here are lined with turquoise waters and stunning landscapes.
Visitors can find various activities here, from swimming and sunbathing to water sports and sightseeing. Here, we explore the best beaches of the Black Sea Coast.
Ayder Plateau’s Beach
The Ayder Plateau in Turkey offers an unparalleled beach experience along the Black Sea Coast. Unlike traditional beaches with sand and waves, Ayder Plateau offers a gorgeous backdrop with lush greenery and a picturesque mountainous landscape.
You can dip in the cool, refreshing waters of the Firtina River, which flows through the plateau, and soak up the sun on the large boulders that line the riverbank.
The beach is perfect for adventurous souls exploring the rugged natural beauty of Turkey’s countryside. You can also indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine at nearby restaurants and cafes, which offer a wide range of local delicacies.
Don’t forget to capture the stunning views of the beach and the mountains around it to preserve memories of this unique and breathtaking experience.
Uzungol Lake’s Beach
Uzungol Lake’s beach is a hidden gem tucked away in the lush forested mountains of Turkey’s Black Sea coast. It’s a freshwater lake surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, offering visitors a serene and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The beaches surrounding Uzungol Lake are clean and well-maintained, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can also rent paddle boats, explore the lake’s tranquil waters, or relax on the sandy beach and soak up the sun.
The surrounding hills and forests offer plenty of hiking opportunities for those who wish to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Don’t forget to check out the nearby waterfalls and traditional Turkish villages for a truly authentic experience of the Black Sea coast.
Rize’s Beaches
Rize, located on Turkey’s Black Sea coast, boasts numerous pristine beaches that provide visitors with some of the most beautiful landscapes and clear waters.
Here are some of the best beaches worth visiting when in Rize:
- Firtina Deresi: Firtina Deresi is a popular beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The gentle, crystal-clear waters of the creek that meets the sea provide a unique swimming experience.
- Çamlıhemşin Ayder Beach: Çamlıhemşin Ayder Beach is situated near a popular tourist resort of Ayder. The beach is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking secluded swimming spots.
- Çamlıhemşin Zil Castle Beach: Çamlıhemşin Zil Castle Beach is an ideal location for tourists who enjoy hiking and exploring the wild. The beach is at the end of a mountainous path providing stunning views of the Black Sea.
- Iyidere Kafkasör Beach: Iyidere Kafkasör Beach is in the beautiful Kafkasör village. The beach allows visitors to swim and sunbathe amidst beautiful greenery.
These beautiful beaches in Rize are perfect for anyone seeking a relaxing and peaceful getaway to enjoy the beautiful Black Sea coastline.
Lesser Known Beaches
If you are looking for an offbeat and uncrowded beach experience in Turkey, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’ll review some lesser-known but amazing beaches worth visiting.
From the vast beaches of the Black Sea to the secluded crystal clear bays of Izmir, you can find whatever you are looking for. So let’s get into it!
Patara Beach
Patara Beach is a hidden gem on the southwestern coast of Turkey and is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, ancient ruins, and nesting sites for endangered loggerhead turtles.
This 11-mile stretch of golden dunes is the longest beach in Turkey, featuring turquoise waters, spectacular sunsets, and views of the Taurus Mountains.
One of the highlights of this beach is the ancient Roman ruins surrounding the site, including a theater, bathhouses, and a lighthouse.
Visitors can also dip in the warm waters or hike in the adjacent hills.
Due to its remote location, Patara Beach is not crowded, making it the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy peace.
Pro tip: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as shade is limited on the beach.
Kaputaş Beach
Nestled on the Aegean coast of southwestern Turkey, Kaputaş Beach is a hidden gem often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations. Yet, its sparkling clear blue water and pristine white sandy beaches make it one of the best beaches in Turkey.
Kaputaş Beach is situated in a small cove between Kaş and Kalkan and can only be accessed by descending 187 steps down a narrow winding staircase.
This secluded location provides visitors with a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for lounging in the sun or refreshingly swimming in the sea.
The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the turquoise water.
Pro Tip: It is recommended to bring your food and drinks as there are limited facilities at the beach.
Butterfly Valley Beach
Butterfly Valley Beach is a secluded gem located on the Turquoise Coast of Turkey, accessible only by boat or a strenuous hike through the mountains.
The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs covered in lush vegetation, and the sea is crystal-clear turquoise. The valley takes its name from the many species of butterflies that call it home, including the Jersey Tiger and the Oleander Hawk Moth.
Visitors can dip in the sea, hike along the surrounding cliffs, or relax on the beach with a refreshing drink from one of the small beachside cafes. Butterfly Valley Beach is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and beautiful escape from the crowds.
Pro tip: Bring your snacks and drinks, as the prices at the beachside cafes can be pretty high.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which are the best beaches to visit in Turkey?
A: Turkey has a fantastic coastline with plenty of beautiful beaches. Some of the best include Ölüdeniz, Iztuzu, Patara, Kaputas, Antalya Lara, and Konyaalti Beach.
Q: Is it safe to swim on the beaches of Turkey?
A: Yes, swimming on Turkey’s beaches is completely safe. The beaches are monitored regularly by authorities to ensure the water quality is good and safe for swimming.
Q: What activities can be enjoyed on the beaches of Turkey?
A: The beaches of Turkey offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, parasailing, jet skiing, and beach volleyball. Some beaches also offer scuba diving and snorkeling, while others have cafes and restaurants right on the beach.
Q: When is the best time to visit the beaches of Turkey?
A: The best time to visit the beaches of Turkey is during the summer months between June and September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, it is also a popular destination during off-season months for those who want to avoid the crowds.
Q: What are the accommodations available near the beaches of Turkey?
A: Many accommodations are available near Turkey’s beaches, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and hostels. Some beaches even offer camping facilities, allowing visitors to stay close to nature.
Q: Are the beaches of Turkey suitable for families with children?
A: Many beaches in Turkey are suitable for families with children. The beaches have soft sand, shallow waters, and clear visibility, making it safe for children to swim and play. Some beaches also have playgrounds, water parks, and other kid-friendly activities.