Best beaches in Turkey

1. BEST FOR LOCATION – KAPUTAS BEACH

Nestled in the mouth of a canyon, there’s a long flight of steps leading visitors down to Kaputas Beach. But once you arrive, cooling off in the turquoise waters definitely makes the journey feel worth it. About an hour’s drive from Fethiye, the secluded location of this shingle beach means there’s only a handful of fellow tourists around. It’s no secret with the locals, though, so arrive early for a prime spot.

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2. BEST FOR ADVENTURERS – ICMELER BEACH

Located near Marmaris, this tourist-friendly beach is lined with bars and restaurants, plus plenty of sunloungers peering out onto the sea. Once you’ve finished relaxing on the sand, head off on a boat trip around the surrounding area, hike through the nearby hills, or try your hand at scuba diving or water-skiing.

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3. BEST FOR SECLUSION – PATARA BEACH

With 11 kilometres to its name, Patara Beach is the longest stretch of sand in Turkey. It’s also a peaceful escape from busier resorts, thanks to the ancient ruins of Lycia that sit right on the coast. Visitors must pass through the historical site to reach the beach, paying a small fee to enter. This, along with the sea turtles that nest here every year, makes Patara a hidden treasure in Turkey’s beach scene. There aren’t bars or restaurants here, so make sure to bring a packed lunch.

4. BEST FOR WILDLIFE – IZTUZU BEACH

Along the coast from Patara is Iztuzu Beach, named after the Loggerhead turtles that nest on the sand every year. To protect them, this long stretch of beach closes at night between May and September, and is lined with stakes to indicate spots of nesting activity. Plus, there’s also a sanctuary tourists can visit. And while relaxing on your sunlounger, make sure to take in the views – the bright blue waters are fringed by pine forest.

5. BEST FOR IMPRESSIVE VIEWS – OLU DENIZ BEACH

This beach is your gateway to Turkey’s Blue Lagoon, where you can expect clear-as-glass waters and postcard-pretty views. There are a handful of bars and restaurants where you can grab a cold drink and something to eat, and the calm waters make it an ideal spot for snorkelling. The hidden gem of this beach is Butterfly Valley, which can be reached by boat. As well as the impressive natural beauty this cove offers, look up into the trees and you’ll catch a glimpse of the fluttering wildlife this beach was named after.

Ready for a Turkish delight?

Browse our holidays to Turkey, and for more beach-inspired getaways, take a look at our lists of the best beaches in Greece and Italy.

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Author: Lizzie Butler