The Coastal Culture of Turkey
Looking for property for sale in Fethiye or Kalkan villas and need a break with a refreshing swim? Or perhaps you crave an urban escape while hunting for property in Istanbul's city center? With its sparkling turquoise waters and stunning seaside towns, Turkey stands as an unmatched beach destination. Surrounded by the Mediterranean, Aegean, Black, and Marmara Seas, Turkey offers a wealth of natural beauty and diverse experiences. Whether you're a sun worshiper, a water sports enthusiast, or someone who enjoys the seaside, Turkey has the perfect coastal destination for you.
Beach Clubs come in all forms, from basic pay-per-sunbed options to luxurious day-long experiences. Particularly popular in holiday resorts like Cesme, Antalya, Marmaris, and Bodrum, you can find everything from all-day dance parties to ultra-serene spots. Many top hotels offer day passes with meal vouchers, where you might even encounter celebrities visiting the Turkish Riviera. These retreats cater to every preference, offering restaurants, music, spas, kids' clubs, water sports, and other entertainment activities alongside more peaceful alternatives.
Boat Trips are a classic way to explore Turkey’s secluded coves, islands, and beaches. In summer, day trippers flock to board traditional Turkish boats in coastal promenades like Fethiye. These trips, often offering BBQ lunches, allow you to relax and soak in the sun along the Turquoise Coast or the Bosphorus. With Turkey's rich sailing and yachting culture, you can also hire a private boat for the day or longer to create your own itinerary.
Island Hopping may not be as common as in Croatia or Greece, but from Istanbul, the Prince’s Islands are just a short ferry ride away. These islands feature craggy beaches popular with day-trippers. Some beaches are full-service and require a day fee, while the wilder, less crowded western parts of the islands are perfect for a more rugged experience.
Public Beaches abound along Turkey’s over 8000 km of coastline, offering plenty of free, stunning beaches to explore.
Staying Active with Watersports and Trekking: Turkey has become a hub for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and even scuba diving certifications. One of the world’s most famous walking trails, the Lycian Way, stretches over 500 km along the Southwestern Mediterranean. Here, you can hike, camp, and swim through a culturally rich route. Turkey also offers world-class opportunities for sailing and sea kayaking.
Family Beaches: Turkey is incredibly family-friendly, with numerous kids' clubs and restaurants catering to families. For Muslims seeking halal-friendly resorts and beaches with separate facilities, especially around Antalya, more options have emerged over the past 15 years.
Turkey undoubtedly boasts one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines. Your biggest challenge will be choosing the perfect coastal experience for you.