Beach holidays in Turkey 2026

Yes. Turkey has an extensive coastline bordering the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas. In the summer, the sea water is warm and calm, and the swimming season lasts from about May through October. Holiday options range from large all-inclusive resorts to small port towns and quiet coves. Many beaches sit close to ancient ruins, hills covered with pine forests, and opportunities for boat trips, swimming can easily be combined with day trips.

The southwestern coast—the most highly recommended region—stretches from Bodrum and Marmaris through Fethiye, Kalkan, and Kaş to Antalya. While the areas around Patara, Side, and Belek are dominated by sandy beaches, the Aegean coast around Bodrum and Çeşme has small coves and calm, crystal-clear waters. There are also beaches along the Black Sea coast, but the water temperature there is low, and it rains relatively often.

The Turquoise Coast, stretching between Fethiye and Kaş, is known for its crystal-clear waters, thanks to the rocky seabed, which prevents sand from mixing with the water and clouding it. Bays around Ölüdeniz, Kaputas and Kekova are famous for their exceptionally clear waters. Small coves near Çıralı and Kalkan are just as clear. The water is clearest in late spring and early autumn, when the waves are calm and the beaches are less crowded.

Turkey has many beaches with light-coloured sand, though most of them have a golden hue rather than white, or are mixed with small pebbles. In Patara, soft sand dunes stretch for about 11 miles. In Iztuzu, near Dalyan, as well as along the long stretches of coastline around Side and Belek, the seabed is sandy. Because many coves along the Aegean coast are pebble beaches, check the beach type before booking if a sandy beach is particularly important to you.

June and September are ideal travel months for many people, as the days are hot, the sea water is pleasantly warm, and the heat isn’t as stifling as it is in the height of summer. In July and August, temperatures reach their peak, and the resorts are at their most crowded; these months are ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy the sun and a wide variety of water sports. In May and October, the climate on the southern coast is mild enough for swimming, and prices are lower at the beginning and end of the season.

All-inclusive packages are widespread along the Turkish coast, with meals, snacks, and local beverages often included in the package price. Half-board and bed-and-breakfast accommodation are also common options, and the Turkish breakfast is typically very hearty. Large hotels along the coast usually feature a swimming pool, lounge chairs, a kids’ club, and a spa. Meal plans and cancellation policies vary from hotel to hotel, check the terms and conditions of each hotel.