The pristine beaches, secluded bays, and island coves of Türkiye
The Turquoise Coast stretches across Türkiye’s southern border from Antalya in the east round to İzmir in the TurkAegean. Boasting a coastline defined by its history, culture, and beauty, now’s the time to explore some of the best beaches this corner of the world has to offer.
With over 4,000 kilometers of coastline, the Turquoise Coast has long been a top beach destination. Year on year, travelers flock to its golden sands and crystal waters, seeking a unique coastal getaway on the edge of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. Whether it’s a family-friendly holiday or a solo experience, a fun-filled adventure or an off-grid escape, its shores have something for everyone.
Trips to Türkiye’s coast are dominated by endless days of warmth. The sunny weather conditions extend from May all the way through to October, with temperatures averaging between 26ºC and 31ºC.
Antalya: An ancient Turkish Riviera
Start your coastal journey at the most eastern point of the Turkish Riviera: the ancient port city of Side (pronounced “sea day”). Often likened to an open-air museum, Side is a perfect case of “old meets new”. Sunbathe amid archaeological ruins on the east beach sand dunes or against a backdrop of chic hotel resorts and waterfront restaurants on the west beach.
Located just a two-hour drive west of Side and grounded in a similar history is Phaselis. An ancient port, it is now a series of tranquil bays for those wanting to kick back and relax. Retrace the steps of Roman settlers on Harbor Way before taking a dip in the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean.
Türkiye’s longest beach is in Antalya. Patara stretches for 18km and is a hotspot for day-trippers and wildlife alike. As one of the few remaining breeding grounds for endangered Caretta Carettas (Loggerhead Sea Turtles), visitors are required to leave the beach by 19:30 in summer. However, Patara is surrounded by ecological wonders, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers.
Located just a two-hour drive west of Side and grounded in a similar history is Phaselis. An ancient port, it is now a series of tranquil bays for those wanting to kick back and relax. Retrace the steps of Roman settlers on Harbor Way before taking a dip in the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean.
Türkiye’s longest beach is in Antalya. Patara stretches for 18km and is a hotspot for day-trippers and wildlife alike. As one of the few remaining breeding grounds for endangered Caretta Carettas (Loggerhead Sea Turtles), visitors are required to leave the beach by 19:30 in summer. However, Patara is surrounded by ecological wonders, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers.
For adventurous families, the towering Babadağ Mountain presents the ultimate challenge. At 6,500 feet above sea level, it is one of the best spots in the world for paragliding, and one of the highest commercial take-off sites. Suitable for ages from four to eighty-four, enjoy up to 45 minutes in the air, soaking in the breathtaking views of Türkiye’s iconic coastline as you make your descent back to Ölüdeniz beach.
Muğla: All-inclusive holidaying
In the bordering province of Muğla, you’ll find the quintessential beach destination of Fethiye. When inland, browse the traditional carpets, ceramics, and delicacies as you wander through the local bazaar. While offshore, sail around the diverse array of lagoons, caves, and bays that make this coastal town picture-perfect.
For a change of scenery, take a dolmuş (local bus) from Fethiye to Ölüdeniz, an idyllic beach that’s perfect for families. Head straight to the Blue Lagoon, taking in the magic of the ever-changing shades of blue and the beauty of surrounding pine-clad mountains. Boats are prohibited in this area, guaranteeing escapism – but not at the cost of entertainment. Kids can try their hands at canoeing, snorkelling, or scuba diving, and do so with confidence. Ölüdeniz literally means “Dead Sea”, due to its perpetually calm waters (even during storms), so it’s a safe environment for everyone.
For adventurous families, the towering Babadağ Mountain presents the ultimate challenge. At 6,500 feet above sea level, it is one of the best spots in the world for paragliding, and one of the highest commercial take-off sites. Suitable for ages from four to eighty-four, enjoy up to 45 minutes in the air, soaking in the breathtaking views of Türkiye’s iconic coastline as you make your descent back to Ölüdeniz beach.
Back on the mainland, drive two hours from Fethiye to Çamlı before taking another boat to Sedir Adası, also known as Cleopatra Island. Renowned for its iridescent beach, it is said that Mark Anthony had each egg-shaped seashell shipped across from the Red Sea for Cleopatra. Today, honeymooners walk through the island’s only agora and pose with the heart-shaped stones, trying to capture the magic of the ancient romance. Plan your trip carefully: the beach closes at 19:00 and it’s advisable to be back on the mainland by sunset.
Just a short boat ride away from Ölüdeniz, a hidden gem awaits in the form of Gemiler Island. Only 1km-long, every inch reveals glimpses of a past spanning millennia of history. Soft sands and olive trees circle the remains of Lycian rock tombs and Eastern Roman churches, which can be traced back as far as the 4th century AD.
Back on the mainland, drive two hours from Fethiye to Çamlı before taking another boat to Sedir Adası, also known as Cleopatra Island. Renowned for its iridescent beach, it is said that Mark Anthony had each egg-shaped seashell shipped across from the Red Sea for Cleopatra. Today, honeymooners walk through the island’s only agora and pose with the heart-shaped stones, trying to capture the magic of the ancient romance. Plan your trip carefully: the beach closes at 19:00 and it’s advisable to be back on the mainland by sunset.
İZMİR and beyond: Local culture at its best
Hugging the TurkAegean coast in northwestern Türkiye is İzmir. Like its neighboring provinces, it boasts a selection of beaches that are as culturally significant as they are picturesque. Begin in Selçuk on one of the quietest beaches in the local area: Pamucak.
At its southern tip stands a series of 5-star resorts, perfectly located next to the Aqua Fantasy waterpark. For those looking for a more cultural experience, the ancient Roman city of Ephesus lies just 7km away. Taxis and dolmuşes line the promenade, ready and waiting to take you to what is considered the most renowned historical site in Türkiye, and home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: The Temple of Artemis.
A trip to the TurkAegean wouldn’t be complete without visiting nearby Çeşme, where a charming seaside town awaits: Alaçatı. Follow the cobbled streets past boutique hotels, traditional wineries, and old stone houses before journeying to the golden sands of Altınkum beach. South of here is Cennet Koyu in Bodrum – a perfect camping spot for those looking to get back to basics. Meaning “Paradise Bay”, it is a beautiful contrast of emerald forests and azure waters. Further still lies Kızkumu beach in Marmaris. Appear to walk on water as you follow the long stretch of sand out to sea or stay inland to hear the tale of an ancient princess and forbidden love.
Experience just one of these beaches and you’ll soon learn how this region earned its rightful name as the ‘Coast of Happiness’.
A trip to the TurkAegean wouldn’t be complete without visiting nearby Çeşme, where a charming seaside town awaits: Alaçatı. Follow the cobbled streets past boutique hotels, traditional wineries, and old stone houses before journeying to the golden sands of Altınkum beach. South of here is Cennet Koyu in Bodrum – a perfect camping spot for those looking to get back to basics. Meaning “Paradise Bay”, it is a beautiful contrast of emerald forests and azure waters. Further still lies Kızkumu beach in Marmaris. Appear to walk on water as you follow the long stretch of sand out to sea or stay inland to hear the tale of an ancient princess and forbidden love.
Experience just one of these beaches and you’ll soon learn how this region earned its rightful name as the ‘Coast of Happiness’.
The diversity of the Turquoise Coast means wherever you choose to holiday, you won’t have a hard time filling your itinerary. Local cultures, ancient legends, and natural wonders cover every inch of the TurkAegean-Mediterranean border, making it a destination unlike any other in the world.
