A guide to the best beaches in Turkey

If you’re looking for a seaside retreat then Turkey should be top of your list as it has some of the best beaches out there. Rest assured that whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family holiday, a romantic getaway for two, an isolated artist’s retreat or a holiday with all your mates, Turkey has you covered for sun, sand and sea.

Take a stroll down Turkey's longest beach

Just south of Olu Deniz is Patara, a firm favourite among kids for its warm shallows and gentle shelved sand.

While, grown-ups appreciate its never-ending sand. As Turkey’s longest beach, Patara is perfect for strolls as you search for the perfect deserted spot.

A large number of body boarders take to the Patara water, as the waves that come rolling in from the Sea of Marmara are ideal for belly surfing. You can get the kids involved too while you kick back on the hot golden coast with a book in hand, or you can always join in.

Relax in the shade under a row of olive groves

The Bodrum Peninsula is the rocky elbow of Turkey, covered in row after row of olive and pine trees. Popular among wealthy visitors, Turkey’s Bodrum region is dotted with beach resorts that offer luxurious comfort and stylish beach bars.

Bitez and Turkbuku lead the way in the Bodrum Peninsula, with Blue Flag awards and hammocks swinging lazily between the trees.

Bathe in a deep blue lagoon

After much development, Olu Deniz is now one of Turkey’s top-rated attractions. But don’t worry, the resort’s natural beauty still retains so much of its original charm. The additions of barsrestaurants and hotels have also amplified the great food and drink offering in Olu Deniz.

A dip in the lagoon itself is an absolute must, but if you want something a little more special then take a boat trip over to the Butterfly Valley Beach, another excellent strip for kicking back by the crystalline water.

A bohemian retreat for arty types

Kalkan has slowly evolved from a fishing village into a dramatic artistic hub in the Antalya region of Turkey. The residents of the area are mostly locals fleeing the busy side of the country, in favour of the bohemian nightlife and culture of Kalkan.

The beach echoes this vibe – so don’t be surprised if you see homemade handicrafts, fishing boats drifting in the water, live musicians and not a tourist-ridden club in sight.

The traditional holiday hotspot you've been looking for

For an utterly family-friendly Turkish beach resort, visit Antalya. Skirting the front of a series of large resorts and, by night, a truly happening club scene, visitors to Antalya have all the most popular attractions right at their finger tips.

Restaurantsbars and shops can all be found just off the main strip of sand, so you’ll barely have to leave your towel to eat great local food, buy all your souvenirs and enjoy an evening tipple.