The Best Beaches in Turkey

02.08.2024 - 12:52 / cntraveler.com / Conde Nast

It’s clear why Turkey is now a favorite holiday destination among beach-loving travelers. The best beaches in Turkey range from tranquil sandy stretches only accessible by boat to family-friendly hideouts with all the amenities required to soak up the sun beside sprawling cities. Dolmus (minibus) services connect many local towns, while other beaches are easily accessible by car. Often, the hidden gems come into focus on aimless drives along the coast—golden bars of sand tucked under cliff faces frequented by locals in the know. Here are some of the best beaches in Turkey.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK.

Ölüdeniz is one of the prettiest areas in Turkey. As a result, it’s one of the most popular spots among tourists and locals. However, thanks to the considerable size of the beach, there’s always a quiet spot for you to claim for the day. There’s a small fee to enter the eponymous national park, but it’s well worth the excursion. Arrive early to secure a prime position on the pine-scented shore and snorkel into the depths of the vivid Blue Lagoon.

Referred to as “the Maldives of Turkey” by those in the know, Lake Salda is one of the most underrated spots in all the land. It’s an expansive, deep lake in varying shades of glittering blue, fringed by white-sand beaches that blend into sweet-scented pine forests. Nearby accommodation options are basic but charming: Check into a local family-run pansiyon for an extended stay near the lake.

At about 11 miles long, Patara Beach is one of the lengthiest sandy stretches in Turkey. Areas near transport hubs and car parking spots are a little crowded but head further down, and there’ll be a peaceful spot to lay your towel, even in the height of summer. Some areas are off-limits as sea turtles shuffle on to lay nests. Pay attention to the signs and watch your step.

Butterfly Valley is a sandy belt set among dramatic cliff faces accessed by boat. Time stands still here, and long afternoons are spent soaking up the sun between the azure Mediterranean and abundant land, where over 100 species of butterflies flutter among wildflowers and fruit-filled trees. No permanent construction is allowed, so food and drink come from low-key huts and bungalows. However, come prepared with snacks and water, and be sure to leave only footprints.

You wouldn't expect some of the best beaches in Turkey to be within such easy reach of Istanbul. However, just over an hour from the heart of the city, you’ll find Şile, a Black Sea haven known for its beautiful beaches. Şile is a municipality made up of more than 60 neighborhoods, with many popular holiday home spots belonging to Istanbulites eager to escape the bicontinental chaos on weekends. The