Whether you love beach parties or would like a quiet time on a less touristy beach, Turkey has it all for you. The most beautiful beaches lie in the Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast, in southwestern Turkey. Where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean Sea, you will find exquisite clear, blue, warm waters.
Here are the top beaches in Turkey:
1. Konyaalti, Antalya
If you are looking for a beach and city setting, head to Antalya. Konyaalti beach stretches 7 kilometers from the city towards the Beydağları Mountains. The beach is lined with endless cafes and restaurants, so you will never run out of dining and drinking options.
2. Kaputaş Beach, Kalkan
You will find this little gem between the towns of Kas and Kalkan. From the road, you will need to climb down the stairs going to the beach. The beach is pebbly, with gentle waves that are great for swimming. There are no shops and only a few facilities, but sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent.
3. Çiralı, Antalya
Watch loggerhead turtles come to shore and nest on the sand. Because of the cove's high ecological importance, the Turkish government has declared Cirali a protected area, and the beach has remained undeveloped and unspoiled. This makes Cirali perfect for enjoying quiet moments.
4. Olympos Beach
This is a secluded but more crowded beach on the far end of Çiralı. This beach is part of the backpackers' trail as it is along the Lycian Way trek. Olympos is famous for its treehouse hostels and party vibe.
5. Ölüdeniz Beach
Picturesque lagoon set in a mountainous background. The beauty of this beach has attracted thousands; no wonder hotels and restaurants have sprung up, and the place is now a popular holiday package destination.
6. Kleopatra Beach, Alanya
It's more than just a long, sandy beach. Water activities such as parasailing, jet-skiing, snorkeling, and diving are offered—bars and restaurants serving good food line the beach. For nightlife lovers, the best party places are by the harbor area.
7. Gunluklu, Fethiye
This beach can be found off the Fethiye-Gocek road. Gunluklu is a quick getaway for the residents of both cities of Fethiye and Gocek. No wonder it is usually packed with Turkish families enjoying their time off during weekends. The pine and gum trees lining the beach make it perfect for picnic trips.
8. Ovabuku, Datça Peninsula
The Datça Peninsula is an 80-km-long peninsula connected to Marmaris. The peninsula is lined with coves and bays, which makes it a port stop for Blue Cruises. Ovabuku is one of the three exquisite bays, along with Hayitbuku and Kizilbuk. Small restaurants by the beach, with pine and oak trees lining the town behind, make this an ideal escape.
9. Kargi, Bodrum
Bodrum is known for being a party town during peak season. However, it goes pretty serene if you visit during the off-season (spring and autumn). Kargi Beach is quieter and less crowded, with waters great for swimming. You will also find Camel Beach at the far end of Kargi, where you have the option to… yes, ride on a camel along the beach.
10. Patara, Xanthos Valley
The 9-km stretch of fine, white sand beach of Patara is one of the longest and best coastlines in the Mediterranean. During peak season, the area near the parking and beach entrance can be crowded, but walk further, and you will still be able to find a quiet, solitary spot.
So there are the ten best beaches in Turkey, each more divine than the next. Make sure to visit at least one of these spots when you visit Turkey!