If you look beyond the famous Turkish delights, the majestic dome of Haga Sophia, and plush Turkish carpets, you will see that Turkey has a lot more to offer, like coastal towns with all-inclusive resorts and fun water sports – often at far cheaper prices than their Mediterranean counterparts in Europe.
In this article, we will tell you about the best beach towns in Turkey to help you plan the perfect beach holiday in Türkiye!
What Makes A Türkiye Beach Vacation So Good?
Turkey has a beautiful coastline with clear blue waters and stunning beaches, making it an ideal destination for families who want to relax and enjoy the sunshine. But what makes all this possible is Turkey’s Mediterranean climate, which provides the ideal weather for outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, and water sports.
But that’s not the only reason one would want to plan a vacation to Turkey! It is also famous for its hospitality and family-friendly culture, making it suitable for families with children. Secondly, there are plenty of activities to help tourists spend a memorable time, such as water parks, boat tours, and historical sites.
And if you’re a history buff, you’re in luck! Because Turkey has a rich cultural heritage and numerous historical sites and museums for you to visit and learn about the country’s history and culture.
Did we mention the delicious Turkish food? Because that’s one huge reason that draws people towards Turkey! You’ll find many restaurants offering everything from baklava to doner kebabs and lahmacun, the Turkish Pizza.
Therefore, if you’re looking for a combo of natural beauty, cultural attractions, family-friendly activities, and great food, the coastal towns of Turkey are ideal for creating lasting memories!
Understanding the Coastal Areas of Turkey
Turkey has not one but three coastal areas, including the Aegean Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea. Each coastal area is different from the other and has something unique to offer. Let’s take a closer look at each.
Aegean Coast of Turkey
The Aegean Sea coastline of Turkey is the longest. It is located in western Turkey and stretches from Istanbul all the way to Marmaris.
The Aegean coast is also known as the west coast and is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque coastal towns. Popular destinations in this region include Bodrum, Kusadasi, and Çeşme.
Bodrum is a famous historic town with a beautiful marina and ancient ruins, while Kusadasi is known for its beaches, water parks, and lively nightlife. Conversely, Çeşme is a smaller town that offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere with its thermal baths, historic castle, and pristine beaches.
Mediterranean Sea Coast of Turkey
The Mediterranean Sea coast, also known as Turkish Rivieria or the Turquoise Coast, covers the southern part coast of Turkey.
It is also popular with tourists and is known for its warm waters, sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Popular towns in this region include Antalya, Marmaris, and Alanya.
Antalya is a historic city with a beautiful old town, while Marmaris is a bustling tourist town with plenty of water sports and boat tours. Alanya is known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and happening nightlife.
Black Sea Coast of Turkey
The Black Sea coast is located on the eastern coast of Turkey and stretches from the northern end of the Bosphorus to Georgia. Even though it is less developed than the other two regions, it still offers unique attractions and beautiful scenery.
Some popular destinations in this region include Trabzon, Rize, and Samsun. Trabzon is a historic town with a beautiful old town and ancient monasteries, while Rize is known for its tea plantations and stunning mountain scenery. On the contrary, Samsun is a bustling port town with a mix of modern and historical attractions.
Best Time to Visit the Turkish Coast
The best time to plan a beach holiday on the Turkish coast depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do.
The peak tourist season on the Turkish coast is from June to September, when the weather is hot and sunny, and the beaches are crowded. Therefore, if you want to enjoy the warm waters and indulge in water sports and beach activities, this is the ideal time to visit.
However, if you prefer a quieter and more relaxed vacation, the shoulder season from April to May and October to November might be more suitable. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds are smaller, making it easier to explore the attractions without feeling rushed. Additionally, prices for accommodation and flights are often lower during these months.
It’s worth noting that the Black Sea region experiences more rainfall than the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. So, avoiding the rainy season from December to February is best if you plan to visit this area.
Best Beach Towns in Turkey
Now that you know the best time to plan a vacation to the Turkish coast, let’s take you through the best coastal towns in Turkey that you should include in your itinerary.
We’ve included for each the closest airport to look for direct flights, though do note some airports are small and only serviced domestically.
1. Antalya
Coast: Antalya is located on the Mediterranean coast.
Closest Airport/Distance: Antalya Airport (13 km)
Why is Antalya Good for a Family Beach Holiday?
Antalya is one of the best beach cities in Turkey because it has some of the most beautiful beaches with long stretches of sand, clear-blue waters, and stunning views. Some famous beaches in this town include Konyaalti Beach, Lara Beach, and Olympos Beach.
But that’s just one thing; Antalya offers a wide range of family activities, including water sports, boat tours, and snorkeling. The highlight of this beach city is Antalya Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums, and the MiniCity theme park. Therefore, if you’re traveling with kids, they will have a stellar time!
For history lovers, Antalya has many ancient sites to explore, including Hadrian’s Gate, the Old Town of Antalya, and the ruins of the ancient city of Perge. You can also visit the Antalya Museum, which has many exhibits on the history and culture of the region.
As for the food, it is known for having some of the best delicacies, including pide, kebab, and baklava.
The best part about visiting Antalya is its accessibility. It has a major airport and plenty of transportation options. And, as the town is close to other popular destinations in Turkey, such as Fethiye and Bodrum, it is an excellent base for exploring the region.
Popular Hotels in Antalya
If you plan to visit Antalya, stay at the all-inclusive Rixos Premium Belek (with access to The Land of Legends) or Porto Bello Hotel Resort and Spa.
Explore all accommodation options, including rental homes in Antalya here:
2. Fethiye
Coast: Fethiye is located on the Mediterranean coast.
Closest Airport/Distance: Dalaman Airport (50 km)
Why is Fethiye Good for a Family Beach Holiday?
Fethiye is a popular destination for nature lovers, with some of the best beaches in the world, including the famous Oludeniz Beach. The beaches in this coastal town have crystal-clear waters and are great for swimming and sunbathing.
Other activities for families include water sports, boat tours, paragliding, and the fun-filled Fethiye Aquapark, which has many water slides and pools for kids to enjoy [closed Summer 2023 – try Orka World Waterpark instead]
When we said Fethiye is great for nature lovers, we weren’t joking, as it is surrounded by immense natural beauty. This includes the Saklikent Canyon, the Butterfly Valley, and the Tlos Ancient City. Families can explore these natural wonders and enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities.
There are also the Lycian Rock Tombs, Fethiye Castle, and the Fethiye Museum, making it an excellent place to go exploring.
Popular Hotels in Fethiye
Some popular hotels in Fethiye include Calis Sunset Beach Club and the Jiva Beach Resort All-Inclusive on Calis Beach.
See all accommodation options around Fethiye, including rental properties:
3. Çeşme
Coast: Çeşme is located on the Aegean coast.
Closest Airport/Distance: Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (90 km)
Why is Çeşme Good for a Family Beach Holiday?
Çeşme is a quieter and more relaxed beach town in Turkey, making it ideal for families who want to unwind and enjoy a more laid-back holiday. The Ilica Beach, Çeşme Altinkum Beach, and Ayayorgi Bay in Çeşme are popular among tourists for their stunning views and family-friendly activities like snorkeling and water sports.
Çeşme has the Aqua Toy City water park, a must-visit place for kids. It has kiddy pools and a variety of water slides for kids of all ages.
The highlight of Çeşme is the Çeşme Castle and the Ancient City of Erythrai, which take you back in time and give an insight into Turkey’s rich culture and history.
For food lovers, there is a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving traditional Turkish cuisine and local specialties such as grilled seafood, meze, and Turkish delight.
Popular Hotels in Çeşme
One of the most popular hotels in Çeşme is the Boyalık Beach Hotel & Spa, or see all accommodation options for Çeşme:
4. Alanya
Coast: Alanya is located on the Mediterranean coast.
Closest Airport/Distance: Gazipasa Airport (40 km) or Antalya Airport (120 km)
Why is Alanya Good for a Family Beach Holiday?
Alanya is home to some of the best beaches in Turkey, including Cleopatra Beach, Damlatas Beach, and Keykubat Beach. But apart from beaches, it has stunning scenery.
It is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the Taurus Mountains. You can take a cable car ride up the hilltop to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Alanya also has several natural attractions, including the Manavgat Waterfalls and the Dim Cave. You can explore these areas by taking a day trip, enjoying nature’s beauty, and cooling off in the refreshing water.
One thing Turkey is known for worldwide is its hammams. In Alanya, you will find several Turkish baths offering a range of treatments, including massages, scrubs, and relaxation therapies.
Also, unlike other cities in Turkey, Alanya has a unique blend of Turkish and Mediterranean cultures. Therefore, if you step away from the beach and into the city, you can visit the lively bazaar, a marina, and a fishing harbor. And if you wish to taste the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, you’ll find many roadside restaurants and stalls.
Popular Hotels in Alanya
For an experience of a lifetime, we suggest staying at the Litore Resort Hotel, or Alaiye Resort & Spa Hotel in Konakli, both offering ultra-all-inclusive packages.
5. Bodrum
Coast: Bodrum is located on the Aegean coast.
Closest Airport/Distance: Milas-Bodrum Airport (36 km)
Why is Bodrum Good for a Family Beach Holiday?
If you’re looking for a beach city with happening nightlife, Bodrum it is! While it has its share of beautiful beaches, including Gumbet Beach, Bitez Beach, and Torba Beach, we cannot deny the entertainment options in the city. From outdoor concerts to shows and plenty of bars and nightclubs, it’s ideal for couples and groups of friends.
However, Bodrum also has many ancient ruins for people with a keen interest in history. These include Bodrum Castle, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, and the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Sounds pretty interesting!
For people who’d like to skip the nightlife and stick to family beach activities, there are plenty of water sports, like jet skiing, parasailing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Families can also take a boat tour to explore the coastline and nearby islands.
Moreover, Bodrum has a lively bazaar and shopping district where families can browse for souvenirs and handicrafts. You will also find several modern shopping malls and boutiques.
In short, Bodrum is an all-in-one kind of place that caters to people of all ages and interests.
Popular Hotels in Bodrum
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive place to stay, we suggest Crystal Green Bay Resort & Spa and Kefaluka Resort on Akyarlar Beach.
6. Kuşadası
Coast: Kuşadası is located on the Aegean coast.
Closest Airport/Distance: Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (84 km)
Why is Kuşadası Good for a Family Beach Holiday?
Just like Bodrum, Kuşadası is also a vibrant coastal town in Turkey. It has several amazing beaches with plenty of activities for the whole family. For instance, the Ladies’ beach is a long stretch of sandy shoreline with calm and clear waters, making it ideal for families with young children.
There are several beach bars, restaurants, and cafes along the promenade, where families can relax and enjoy the views. Other popular beaches include Long Beach and Kuşadası Beach.
All the beaches in Kuşadası offer adrenaline-rushing water activities like jet skiing, parasailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and boat tours to nearby islands.
Kuşadası also has a rich history, and you will find several ancient sites to explore, including the ancient city of Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Temple of Artemis.
And, if you’re looking for souvenirs to take back home, there are a variety of shops and markets selling traditional Turkish handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and ceramics.
In short, if you’re looking for beautiful beaches, historical sites, water sports activities, shopping, nightlife, and delicious food, Kuşadası is just the place for you!
Popular Hotels in Kuşadası
If you’re looking for a 5-star hotel that offers many activities for the kids, we suggest staying at Charisma De Luxe Hotel. And if you want to enjoy an all-inclusive experience, Pine Bay Holiday Resort is a good choice in Kuşadası.
7. Marmaris
Coast: Marmaris is located on the Mediterranean coast.
Closest Airport/Distance: Dalaman Airport (95 km)
Why is Marmais Good for a Family Beach Holiday?
Marmaris is an excellent place if you’re looking for a beach getaway. However, it has a lot more to offer than just beaches. It is home to the Dalyan Mud Bath, which has natural mud baths with healing properties. Visitors can enjoy a mud bath and relax in the thermal pools suitable for all ages.
And if you’re looking for physical activities other than water sports, you’ll find many at the Marmaris National Park. This includes hiking, cycling, kayaking, and exploring the park’s stunning waterfalls and natural pools.
Moreover, the Marmaris Bazaar will surely interest you if you’re a shopaholic! It is a bustling market where you can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and local products. The market has a lively atmosphere and is a great place to shop, provided you have good bargaining skills!
Check out all accommodation and apartment rental options in Marmais
Frequently Asked Questions of Turkish Coast Beach Towns
The best coast in Turkey depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. If you’re interested in beaches, water sports, and nightlife, then the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts may be your best option. However, the Black Sea coast could be your ideal destination if you prefer a more laid-back and rural setting with beautiful green landscapes and local culture.
The coast of Turkey is known as the Turkish Riveria or the Turquoise coast. It is towards southwest Turkey and includes Antalya, Muğla, part of Aydın, southern İzmir, and western Mersin.
Turkey’s Aegean and Mediterranean coasts are known for having some of the best beaches in the country.
The Aegean coast is famous for Oludeniz, Iztuzu Beach, and Bodrum’s Blue Lagoon, with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and rocky coves. While, Patara Beach, Kaputas Beach, and Lara Beach on the Mediterranean coast have long stretches of sand, hidden bays, and turquoise waters.
More Helpful Tips For Planning Your Turkey Family Holiday
If you’ve decided the Turkish coast is perfect for your next family vacation, you may like to read up next:
- Our guide to the Turkish dress code – including a complete packing list for a family vacation in Turkey
- Coming via Istanbul? Make time in your Turkey itinerary to check out the country’s largest city straddling the Bosphorus with our complete family guide to Istanbul
- Coming to Turkey in winter? Plenty still to enjoy even in the coolest months, see our complete guide to Istanbul in Winter, Cappadocia in winter, plus all our favourite Turkish Ski resorts if you want to swap the coast for mountains!
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