Which Part of Turkey Has the Best Beaches?
The answer to which part of Turkey has the best beaches will vary depending on who you ask. Let us not forget Turkey has 7200 kilometres of coastline bordering four seas that feature hundreds of tourist resorts. Every year, hundreds of beach destinations attract thousands of tourists who enjoy the coastal ambience, cool water, and picturesque seaside views. Whether you want secluded coves, white sand, or a family-friendly beach resort, you will find it in Turkey.
Some people say the Aegean-sea areas are great for beach getaways. Featuring beach town destinations like idyllic Bodrum, Kusadasi holiday resort and unspoiled Alacati in the Izmir province, holidaymakers enjoy beautiful beaches and, in most cases, a promenade lined with palm trees, cafes and restaurants. From the Northern Aegean, these beachside resorts also form part of the Turkish riviera. Places like Yalikavak marina hosts mega yachts from all around the world, making it high profile for swimmers, beachgoers, and sailors alike. However, for that seashore ambience and some of the world’s best beaches, one place stands out.
Which Part of Turkey Has the Best Beaches?
For us, the Mediterranean coast easily wins. Also known as the Turquoise Coast, think calm waters, stunning sunsets, beachfront villages, sandy beaches, pristine sunbathing havens, and a host of water sports like scuba diving and snorkelling. Also include all-inclusive beach hotels, marine life like sea turtles, copious amounts of sunshine, and turquoise waters that collectively make up the best beaches in Turkey. So where do you go? You can choose places like Dalaman or Marmaris, but two regions stand out.
1: Antalya: King of Sand Beaches in Turkey
The first thing to know about Antalya is that these shores are Turkey’s most popular beach holiday destination, which speaks volumes. It is also the second most popular place for foreigners buying holiday homes, who want the best beach town ambience. Covering a large section of coastline, the Antalya region breaks down into the city centre and smaller beach resorts like Alanya, Side, Belek, Kemer, Kas and tranquil Kalkan.
For proof that it is home to Turkey’s best beaches, look at Trip Advisor reviews. Consistently high ranking stretches of sand include Cleopatras, Lara beach, lively Konyaalti and Kaputas. Lara features the sand beach festival every year, where large sculptures made from sand become the social highlight. Additionally, places like the city centre and Kemer beach resort offer a decent nightlife scene for those who want to party after the sun goes down on the sands.
There are many beaches to choose from, but if you want a remote beach, go sailing. Hire a private yacht, jump on a daily boat trip, or sign up for an overnight blue cruise. All go to many offshore destinations to hidden bays and clear waters. For uncrowded beaches, Phaselis is a delight. Sitting in front of the dunes and near ancient ruins, the crescent-shaped beach is perfect for family picnics, swimming, and generally enjoying mother nature. Crowds are rarely a problem here because it also sits within a national park. Find out more about the Antalya region of Turkey here.
2: To the Best Beaches in Fethiye
Ah, Fethiye! Home to gulet cruises, the Blue Lagoon, a long stretch of coastline, and soft sand. Like above, the Fethiye region covers a large area. Alongside the city-centre, public beach vacation towns include Oludeniz, nestled into a small valley, and Calis Beach, a popular expat destination for people who want to buy property in Turkey. Oludeniz is famously home to the Blue Lagoon, which many say is the perfect beach.
We like the main beachfront though, and don’t be surprised to see paragliders flying in the air because this is where the landing pad is. When we go to the beach in Oludeniz, we also like to get the water taxi over to Butterfly Valley, a secluded beach backed by a towering green valley. Meanwhile, Calis Beach promenade has had a makeover, making it an excellent place for swimming, and sunbathing with stunning views. It is a laid-back beautiful beach and great for families—more about the Fethiye region.
About Us: We hope we answered your question about which part of Turkey has the best beaches. We are Turkey Homes, a property and lifestyle specialist with offices all over the country. If you like the beachfront ambience and are thinking of investing in Turkey, browse our portfolio of seafront homes for sale. Otherwise, our article about the top ten beaches in Turkey will also be of interest.
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