Best beaches in Turkey

Best for location – Kaputas Beach

This shingle beach is tucked in a cove near the seaside town of Kalkan. It’s a hit with the locals, so you know it’s a top spot. There’s a long flight of steps down to Kaputas Beach, but once you arrive, cooling off in the turquoise waters makes the journey worth it. It’s just 10-minutes outside of town, so once you clock out of your sunbathing session, seafood specialities and refreshing cocktails along its long promenade await.

Browse our holidays to Kalkan.

Best for adventure – Icmeler Beach

A sweeping bay with mountain views from every angle? Icmeler Beach has lots to shout about, including a full roster of watersports, from banana boats to jet-skis and paragliding. This white sand-and-shingle number curves around the entire bay, so you’ll land on it whichever direction you come from. Plus, it’s backed by a promenade filled with bars and restaurants dishing up authentic Turkish cuisine. And if you keep walking along it, you’ll find yourself in lively Marmaris.

Browse our holidays to Icmeler.

Best for seclusion – Patara Beach

With 11 kilometres to its name, Patara Beach is one of the longest stretches of sand in Turkey. It’s also a peaceful escape from busier resorts, and while you’re here, you can check out the ancient ruins of Lycia that sit right on the coast. You’ll pass through the historical site on your way to the beach, paying a small fee to enter. Add this to the sea turtles that nest here every year, and you’ve got your answer to why it’s a hidden treasure in Turkey’s beach scene. You’ll not find any bars or restaurants here, so we’d recommend bringing a packed lunch to keep any hungry tummies at bay if you’re planning to stay for the day.

Best for wildlife – Iztuzu Beach

Along the coast from Patara is Iztuzu Beach, named after the loggerhead turtles that nest there every year. This white-sand swathe is fringed by a pine forest and stretches out for over four kilometres, so there’s plenty of room for you and the turtles. To protect them, the beach closes at night between May and September and is lined with stakes to indicate spots of nesting activity. Fancy a visit? A stay in the riverside village, Daylan, puts you a 30-minute boat ride away.

Browse our holidays to Daylan.

Best for insta-worthy views – Olu Deniz Beach

Say hello to postcard-pretty views at the world-famous Blue Lagoon on your next Turkish getaway. Thanks to crystal-clear and calm waters, it’s an ideal spot for snorkelling. Plus, there are a handful of bars and restaurants serving refreshing sips and tasty treats to tuck in to while you’re soaking up the sea views. The hidden gem of this place, though, is Butterfly Valley, which can be reached by boat. Once you’re there, keep your eyes peeled on the trees to catch a glimpse of the fluttering wildlife this spot was named after.

Browse our holidays to Olu Deniz.