Best Beaches in Antalya: 8 Coves and Who They Suit

Konyaaltı — the city's pebble beach under the mountains

Konyaaltı stretches along the western edge of the city centre. Behind you rise the snow-tipped Beydağları mountains; in front, clear water that deepens quickly. It's coarse pebble rather than fine sand, which keeps the water beautifully clear, but a pair of water shoes will make your day far more comfortable. The landscaped seafront has cafés, showers and a long walking path, and it's very easy to reach by public transport.

Good for: city-based travellers who want a quick dip and an evening walk by the sea.

Lara — wide golden sand and resort comfort

If you picture a classic beach holiday, Lara is it. East of the centre, it's a broad ribbon of golden sand lined with the big resort hotels. The sand is soft and the sea shelves gently, which makes it an easy choice for families with children. There are public sections too, just expect summer crowds.

Good for: families who want sand, all-inclusive comfort, and long lazy days by the water.

Kaputaş — that famous turquoise cove

On the winding coast road between Kaş and Kalkan, Kaputaş appears suddenly below you: a small beach wedged between two steep cliffs, holding an almost unreal turquoise. You reach it by a staircase from the roadside, so it takes a little effort, and shade is limited. Because the cove is small it fills up by midday, so arriving early helps with both space and light.

Good for: anyone who wants to see the postcard shot in person, photographers and travellers on the Kaş-Kalkan route.

Çıralı and Olympos — a long shore wrapped in nature

Çıralı is a calm, natural beach backing onto pine woods and citrus groves. Spared from heavy development, it's also a sea-turtle nesting site, so light and noise at night are kept low on purpose. From one end you can walk to the ancient ruins of Olympos, and a short climb inland brings you to the Chimaera (Yanartaş), where natural flames burn from the rocks.

Good for: travellers escaping the crowds who want nature, history and sea together, and who like guesthouses and bungalows.

Adrasan — a quiet cove to breathe in

Çıralı's neighbour, Adrasan, sits in a sheltered bay between the mountains and is usually wonderfully calm. The water is still and clear, and it's a lovely base for a boat trip out to the emptier coves nearby. With its fish restaurants and modest pensions, it runs on a slow holiday rhythm.

Good for: couples after peace and quiet, boat-trip lovers and anyone wanting a simple, unshowy sea holiday.

Mermerli — Kaleiçi's hidden beach

Tucked below the old walls and harbour views of Kaleiçi, Antalya's historic centre, Mermerli is a small beach right in the heart of town. Swimming in the middle of the old city sounds odd until you see the view. It's compact and usually accessed through a venue, so set your expectations on atmosphere rather than a wide sandy shore.

Good for: those staying in Kaleiçi who want to cool off between sightseeing, blending history and a swim.

Side — beaches beside an ancient city

Side is a peninsula famous for its temples and Roman theatre, and the sandy beaches on either side are just as appealing. Wandering the ancient town in the morning and swimming in the afternoon is one of the nicest ways to fold history into a beach day. The western beaches are ideal for sunset.

Good for: history-and-beach travellers, sunset chasers and anyone based around Manavgat.

Cleopatra (Alanya) — fine golden sand in the city

Alanya's signature Cleopatra Beach runs along the foot of the castle headland, a long stretch of famously fine sand. City beach though it is, the quality of the sand sets it apart, with the castle silhouette behind and the Mediterranean in front. Everything's within reach, which suits travellers who want their stay and their swim in the same spot.

Good for: Alanya visitors, fine-sand lovers and those who want city comforts by the sea.

As you can see, Antalya's beaches are anything but uniform, from city pebble to turquoise cove, wild shore to historic harbour, there's a match for every mood. Before you pick your cove, factor in the season, the crowds and how you'll get there. To find seaside venues, beach clubs and more beach ideas, browse FindAntalya's beach club and beach guide.