Turkey’s coastline stretches over 7,000 kilometers across the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Black Seas, offering a range of beaches from bustling tourist hubs to secluded gems. Here’s our take on the 10 best beaches in Turkey, based on natural beauty, accessibility, and unique appeal.

1. Ölüdeniz Beach (Blue Lagoon), Fethiye, Muğla

Why It’s Great: Ölüdeniz is Turkey’s postcard star—a crescent of white sand and pebbles framing a turquoise lagoon, backed by the Babadağ Mountains. It’s part of a protected national park, so development is limited, preserving its stunning natural vibe.
Highlights: The calm, shallow lagoon is perfect for swimming, and paragliding off Babadağ Mountain offers unreal views (it’s one of the world’s top paragliding spots). Nearby Butterfly Valley, accessible by boat, adds a wilder escape.
Practical Tip: About 600 km south of Istanbul, it’s best reached via Dalaman Airport (1-hour drive). Summer gets crowded—visit in late spring or early autumn for fewer people.

2. Patara Beach, Antalya

Why It’s Great: Stretching 18 km, Patara is Turkey’s longest beach, with soft golden sand and rolling dunes in a national park. It’s unspoiled—no big resorts here—and doubles as a nesting ground for loggerhead turtles.
Highlights: The beach is near the ancient ruins of Patara, a Lycian city with a theater and Roman baths, so you can mix history with relaxation. The shallow waters are great for swimming, though there can be waves.
Practical Tip: About 220 km southeast of Fethiye, it’s a bit remote—drive or take a dolmuş (minibus) from Kalkan or Kaş. Bring your own shade; facilities are minimal to protect the turtles.

3. Kaputaş Beach, near Kaş, Antalya

Why It’s Great: A small, dramatic cove between Kaş and Kalkan, Kaputaş is nestled at the base of a steep canyon with vivid turquoise water and golden sand. It’s less commercialized, giving it a raw, untouched feel.
Highlights: The water’s clarity makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It’s accessed via 187 steps down from the coastal highway, adding a sense of adventure.
Practical Tip: Roughly 700 km south of Gallipoli, it’s a trek but worth it if you’re on the Turquoise Coast. Go early to avoid crowds; parking is limited, and there’s just a small café for refreshments.

4. İztuzu Beach (Turtle Beach), Dalyan, Muğla

Why It’s Great: This 4.5 km stretch of golden sand is a protected nesting site for loggerhead turtles, separating the Dalyan River delta from the Mediterranean. It’s serene, with no major development.
Highlights: Boat trips down the reed-lined Dalyan River to the beach pass ancient rock tombs. You can swim in the warm, shallow waters, and the marshes behind are a haven for birdwatching.
Practical Tip: About 280 km southeast of Izmir, it’s accessible via Dalyan town. Visit between May and September for turtle season, but note restrictions—no access from 8 PM to 8 AM to protect nests.

5. Konyaaltı Beach, Antalya

Why It’s Great: A 7 km stretch of pebbly beach right in Antalya, backed by the Beydağları Mountains and the city skyline. It’s lively but not overdone, blending urban access with natural beauty.
Highlights: Plenty of amenities—sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars—plus water sports like jet-skiing. The promenade is great for evening walks, and you’re steps from Antalya’s old town (Kaleiçi).
Practical Tip: Around 700 km south of Gallipoli, it’s easily reached by tram or taxi from Antalya’s center. Summer is hot but busy; spring offers milder weather and fewer crowds.

6. Cleopatra Beach, Alanya, Antalya

Why It’s Great: A 2.5 km stretch of fine white sand and turquoise water in Alanya, named after Cleopatra, who supposedly swam here. It’s Blue Flag-certified, meaning clean and well-maintained.
Highlights: Shallow, clear waters are great for families, with lots of activities—water sports, beach bars, and a promenade with restaurants. The Alanya Castle overlooking the beach adds a historical touch.
Practical Tip: About 130 km east of Antalya, it’s a popular spot, so expect crowds in summer. Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter; nearby Damlataş Cave is worth a visit for a break from the sun.

7. Kabak Beach, near Fethiye, Muğla

Why It’s Great: A secluded half-moon bay surrounded by pine forests and cliffs, Kabak is a bohemian haven along the Lycian Way trail. It’s less developed, attracting backpackers and nature lovers.
Highlights: The vibe is laid-back—think beach bars with hammocks and loggerhead turtles in the water. You can hike to nearby waterfalls or just soak in the stillness.
Practical Tip: About 25 km south of Ölüdeniz, it’s reachable by dolmuş then a short hike or tractor ride down a steep path. Bring essentials; amenities are basic, but that’s the charm.

8. Cirali Beach, near Olympos, Antalya

Why It’s Great: A 3 km pebbly beach backed by citrus groves and mountains, Cirali feels like a secret escape. It’s another turtle nesting site, keeping it low-key and eco-friendly.
Highlights: The nearby Chimaera flames—natural gas fires burning on the hillside since antiquity—are a unique evening hike. The ancient ruins of Olympos are a short walk away.
Practical Tip: Around 80 km southwest of Antalya, it’s off the main highway and quieter than nearby Kemer. Stay in a local pansiyon (guesthouse) for a more authentic experience.

9. Akyaka Beach, Gökova Bay, Muğla

Why It’s Great: A sandy beach in the laid-back town of Akyaka, known for its wooden Ottoman houses and the calm, shallow waters of Gökova Bay. It’s less touristy than the Riviera hotspots.
Highlights: Kite-surfing and windsurfing are big here due to steady winds. The Azmak River nearby offers cool, clear water for a refreshing dip or boat tour.
Practical Tip: About 30 km from Marmaris, it’s a good day trip or overnight stop. Summer weekends can get busy with locals; midweek is calmer.

10. Şile Beach, Black Sea Coast, Istanbul

Why It’s Great: A long, sandy beach on the Black Sea, Şile is a surprising gem just 70 km from Istanbul. It’s popular with city-dwellers escaping for a weekend but retains a small-town feel.
Highlights: The beach is wide, with waves good for surfing or bodyboarding. Şile’s lighthouse and Ottoman castle add charm, and there are plenty of seafood restaurants nearby.
Practical Tip: Closer to Safranbolu and Gallipoli than southern beaches (about 250 km from Safranbolu), it’s ideal for a quick getaway from Istanbul. The Black Sea season is shorter—June to September is best.

Why These Beaches?

I picked these for their diversity—some, like Ölüdeniz and Patara, are iconic for their beauty; others, like Kabak and Cirali, offer a quieter escape with natural and historical draws. Konyaaltı and Cleopatra bring urban accessibility, while Şile ties in nicely if you’re exploring nearer to Istanbul or Gallipoli.

General Tips

• Best Time: Late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for milder weather and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is peak season—hot and busy.
• Getting Around: Domestic flights to Dalaman, Antalya, or Izmir are quick from Istanbul. Buses and dolmuş are budget-friendly for shorter hops. Rent a car for remote spots like Kaputaş or Cirali.
• What to Bring: Sun protection (shade can be scarce), water shoes for pebbly beaches, and cash for small vendors. Some beaches have basic facilities, so pack snacks if needed.