The 10 Best Beaches in Turkey

With 7,200 km (4,500 miles) of coastline, Turkey is one of the world's top beach destinations. Over 450 of the country's beaches have been awarded blue flag certification, which can make choosing where to go a big task for beach lovers. Take a look at our pick of the 10 best beaches in Turkey for some travel inspiration. You will see, it's not hard to find a beach in Turkey that is your perfect fit.

Blue Lagoon, Fethiye

The Blue Lagoon in Fethiye is one of the most stunning beaches in the Eastern Mediterranean. It is no wonder that the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism uses its evocative image on the cover of its guidebooks!

The stretch of coastline twists into a giant curve, cradling the bay. The water with its sapphire hue is unbelievably clear. Mountains encircle the entire coast to form a calm and wave-less lagoon.

The still waters provide the perfect backdrop for a multitude of activities both in and out of the water, including paragliding and scuba diving.

Kaputas Beach, Kas

If you are near Kas, Kaputas Beach is a must-see. Located at the mouth of a canyon, it is a little piece of paradise.

The beach is accessed via more than 150 steep steps. While this descent might not be everyone's idea of fun, the breathtaking view, comprising mountains, islands, white sands, and the pure blue water, is worth the sweat!

Kaputas Beach is public place and under protection by the local government, so there are no privately owned resorts or restaurants in the area. Currently, only one government bar offers drinks and fast food at affordable prices as well as sunbeds and parasols for hire.

Butterfly Valley, Fethiye

As the name suggests, Butterfly Valley is a haven for nature. In the months of June through to September, thousands of butterflies group together and coast through the valley. The bay area is also a peaceful retreat for holidaymakers seeking to reset and relax.

As Butterfly Valley is a designated nature reserve, commercial buildings and activities are banned on the bay. This is a place to camp responsibly and really enjoy the natural setting. The beach is kissed by clear sapphire seas and framed by steep rocks, painting a truly amazing picture.

Away from the bay, a walk to the back of the valley takes you to a waterfall and a sea of wildflowers.

Patara Beach, Gelemis

This broad strip of gently shifting white sand is Turkey's longest beach. People love its warm waters, the body surfing, the waves, and the serried ranks of dunes.

Food and drink there falls within a very reasonable price range, and it is easy to hire parasols and sunbeds at an affordable price.

Cleopatra Beach, Alanya

The enchanting Cleopatra Beach lies at the foot of the rolling hills of the magical medieval castle of Alanya. Legend has it that this beach was enjoyed by Anthony and Cleopatra.

It is popular with young people as well as families due to its variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Its shallow, translucent Mediterranean waters are ideal for swimming and water activities.

Konyaalti Beach, Antalya

Konyaalti Beach is one of Antalya's urban beaches, stretching for 7 km on the west side of this ancient port city.

It is best known for high quality resorts and entertainment venues, a tree-lined beach park full of Turkish pine and hibiscus flowers, and a water park. An endless array of food courts and tasty treats can be found behind the beach.

Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan

This long sandy beach has the sea on one side and a maze lake on the other. Also known as Turtle Beach, it is a state-protected nesting site of the loggerhead turtle.

To protect the turtles, a whole stretch of the beach is prohibited for tourist activities and the beach is closed at night. There is also a Conservation Centre where you can learn more about the endangered species.

Kabak Beach, Fethiye

Kabak Beach is another beautiful secluded bay along the Turquoise Coast. Located about 25 km south of Oludeniz, it is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking to retreat into a secret paradise.

To get to this beautiful little beach, you have to be ready for a hike as the beach is a 30-minute walk from the village with the same name. The bay is so peaceful and surrounded on three sides by luxuriant pine forest. The picturesque views make the hike worthwhile.

Cirali Beach, Kemer

This is one of the most famous beaches of the Antalya region. Lapped by glistening blue waters and surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, the beach is a long stretch of sand and pebbles which never gets crowded. It is the ideal place for travelers seeking peace and quiet.

The ancient ruins of Olympos at the southern end of the beach can be reached on foot. As this area is a nesting site for turtles, the beach is closed at night.

Lara Beach, Antalya

Lara Beach is a lovely strip of beach in front of some of the best hotels in Antalya. It is remarkably clean and offers a wide variety of water sports, facilities, and attractions. Though Lara Beach is busy in the high season, it is still a great place to spend summer vacation.

Explore the Best Beaches in Turkey with Us

Need help planning your beach trip to Turkey? Our travel advisors can help you. We will offer you inspiration and personal suggestions. We know the best times to visit and what to avoid.