The rich culture and architecture of Istanbul are the major reasons why tourists flock in huge number to this beautiful European City. To that list, add one more reason- Istanbul beaches. Thanks to the peninsular region which is surrounded by Black Sea, Sea of Marmara, and Bosporus Strait, there are an array of beaches where you can go frolicking in the sun. The summers in Istanbul are hot which lure people to escape to the sandy warm beaches around Istanbul. Apply some sunscreen and soak in the warm sun while the soft breeze from the sea run through your hair. Indulge in the summer sports activities which run gamut on the beaches in Istanbul in Turkey.
Top 15 Istanbul Beaches
If you’re willing to go on an exotic beach vacation then, make sure to visit these pristine Istanbul beaches and enjoy a relaxing holiday. These beaches are not only for sunbathing but also offer clubs where you can chill, drink, relax and have fun!
- Babylon Beach Sound Garden: An Intimate Beach
- Uzunya Beach: A Picturesque Beach
- True Blue Beach: Nice Sandy Beach
- BURC Beach: Most Happening
- Dalia Beach Club: Most Tranquil
- Golden Beach: For A Beachside Holiday
- Solar Beach: For Poolside Parties
- Suma Beach Club: For A Unique Experience
- Nonstop Beach: For A Comfy Beach Vacay
- Nakibey Beach: The Safest Beach
- Elio Sedef Beach: For A Breezy Vacay
- Aqua Green Beach Club: Get Indulge In Clubbing
- Uzunkum Beach: For A Refreshing Experience
- Heybeliada Beach: A Wonderful Tour
- Buyukada Beach: The Largest Beach In Instanbul
1. Babylon Beach Sound Garden: An Intimate Beach
Most intimate of all Istanbul beaches, Babylon Kilyos is a perfect spot for families and youngsters to have a funny, sunny day at the beach. The mountains and the verdant greenery of the beach create a perfect beach atmosphere.
The leisure activities on this beach are endless. Sport a game of volleyball or badminton with the teens. Or get a summer tan lazing on the soft sand of the beach. The silent beach shore makes a perfect spot to get away from the city’s commotion.
There are number of food carts on the beach where you can taste the grilled fish hamburgers, and cheese sandwiches. The evenings at Babylon Beach are all about live DJ music.
Location: Demircikoy, Kilyos, Istanbul.
How to Reach: Take a bus heading towards Kilyos from the bus station.
Price: Weekend – 60 Turkish Liras. Weekdays – 40 Turkish Liras.
Timings: 9am – 8pm
Best Time To Visit: April to November
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2. Uzunya Beach: A Picturesque Beach
One of the picturesque beach trip in Istanbul, Uzunya Beach makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It is located in Demircikoy region of Kilyos which is about an hour drive from Istanbul.
Get one on one with nature at this hidden bay in Istanbul with the exciting caravan camping and trekking opportunities at your disposal. Do not miss the motorbikers racing on the beach.
The small cove beach provides you with familial and quiet atmosphere. Enjoy the delectable cuisine at the Uzunya Beach Restaurant which is famous for its fresh seafood.
Location: Kilyos road, Dalyan region, Demirciköy – Kilyos – Sarıyer
How to reach: Take a bus or shuttle towards Kilyos from the bus terminal.
Price: Weekday – 30 Turkish Liras. Weekends – 45 Turkish Liras
Timings: 8am- 8pm
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Suggested Read: 10 Cruises From Istanbul That Will Add A Dash Of Luxury To Your Turkish Getaway
3. True Blue Beach: Nice Sandy Beach
The nice sandy beach is the oldest place in Istanbul where people come to have a crazy fun-filled weekend. The alluring sunset and the lively atmosphere make True Blue one of the free beaches in Istanbul. You can see the distant sailing boats of Kalami_Marina floating into the sunset as you sit back and relax on the beach chair.
The beach club has a lavish swimming pool, a Mediterranean restaurant, and a bar where you can get tipsy on the finest of cocktails. A popular place for live music concerts and shows, you can dance away to the best of music in the evenings. The cheerful atmosphere of the beach stays on you for a long time. Hands down, it is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Turkey.
Location: Fenerbahçe Mahallesi, Atlıhan Sk. No:30, 34726 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Turkey
How to reach: The beach is inside Fenerbahçe Park which is 30 minutes away from the Istanbul city. You can take an FB1 bus from Kadikoy to Fenerbahçe.
Price: Weekdays – 30 Turkish Liras, Weekends – 40 Turkish Liras
Timings: Fri-Sat 9am- 4pm, other days 9am – 2pm
Best Time To Visit: May and June
Suggested Read: Top 15 Hotels In Istanbul To Usher You With Grandiose Turkish Hospitality
4. BURC Beach: Most Happening
Amon all the beaches near Istanbul city, BURC is the most happening one. The warm sands and the gigantic waves invite a crowd of thousands over the weekend. Located on the coast of Black sea, the 1-km sandy beach is dotted with colorful beach umbrellas.
Get your teeth into the water sports activities which run gamut on this beach. From kiteboarding, catamaran sailing, beach volleyball, football, windsurfing, and surfing. They even host a kitesurfing tournament every year, an event you should not miss.
The beach is owned by Bogazici University in Istanbul. So if you are a student or alumni, you can enjoy great discounts too.
Location: Gümüşdere Mahallesi, Sarıtepe Kampüsü, 34470 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
How to reach: It is 15 km from istanbul. The shuttles run every weekend from Bogazici University.
Timings: 9am – 9:30pm
Price: Weekdays 15 Turkish Liras, Weekends 25 Turkish Liras
Best Time To Visit: July and August
Suggested Read: 10 Exotic Islands Near Istanbul One Must Visit For A Paradisiacal Vacation
5. Dalia Beach Club: Most Tranquil
Dalia Beach Club is the most intimate of all the Istanbul beaches because of its relaxing and tranquil atmosphere. Located adjacent to Solar Beach, the bright green grass of the beach is strewn with rattan umbrellas and comfortable lounge furniture.
The adventure lovers can partake in watersports and trekking ventures in the vicinity. The paddle boats and canoes are available for hire.Do not forget to check out the beach side stands which sell regional natural village products.
The Turkish food at Dalia Beach cafe will make you drool and asking for more. The fish menu here is absolutely lip-smacking.
Location: Demirci Mahallesi, Kilyos Yolu, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
How to reach: It is almost 20 km away from Istanbul city between Kilyos and Demircikoy. You can take any bus heading towards Kilyos.
Price: Weekdays – 25 Turkish Liras, Weekends, 30 Turkish Liras.
Timings: 8am – 6pm
Best Time To Visit: February and March
Suggested Read: 20 Tourist Hot Spots That Make Istanbul A Perfect Holiday Destination
6. Golden Beach: For A Beachside Holiday
If you are looking for a beachside holiday, Golden Beach is a perfect destination out of all the Istanbul beaches. The secluded beach with the wooden bungalows and boutique hotels promises you a paradise of respite and relaxation.
Soak in the goodness of sun at the private bays or partake in sports activities like diving and surfing. Golden beach is one of the best beaches to experience snorkeling in Turkey. There is even an enchanting lake at the Golden Beach Club which gleams blue under the sun.
Enjoy the delectable Turkish foods at the club restaurant which also comes with a lively bar. Of all the beaches around Istanbul, Golden Beach offer you the much-needed seclusion and quietude.
Location: Rumelifeneri Mahallesi, İskele Cd. No:6, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
How to reach: The nearest bus station and metro station is Rumelifeneri.
Price: Weekday 25 Turkish Liras, Weekends 35 Turkish Liras
Timings: 8am – 8pm
Best Time To Visit: December to February and March to May
Suggested Read: 4 Best Ways To Experience Safari In Istanbul On A Thrilling Turkey Vacation
7. Solar Beach: For Poolside Parties
Solar beach near Istanbul is always abuzz with pool side parties and activities. Redefining the concept of ‘urban holiday for urban people’, you can expect sea, sun, and sport all under the same roof at Solar Beach.
There are endless activities at Solar beach to partake. There is an aromatherapy centre, surfing club, health club, and beauty centre at your disposal. Explore this beach to relish the real fun of experiencing water sports in Turkey. Largest of all the Istanbul Beaches, this is where you can enjoy the best music concerts.
If you are not partying, you can stretch a muscle with a game of volleyball or rock climbing.
Location: Kumköy Mahallesi, Tatlısu Cd. No:4, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
How to reach: There are shuttle buses available on weekdays from in front of Ziraat Bank and Haciosman Metro Shop.
Price: Weekdays 25 Turkish Lira, Weekends 40 Turkish Liras
Timings: 8am – 11pm
Best Time To Visit: September to March
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8. Suma Beach Club: For A Unique Experience
Suma Beach Club is the one of the few beaches in Istanbul near Taksim where you can loosen up a little. The nightlife here gives the clubs in Bosphorus and Taksim a run for their money. For a minute, you will even forget that you are in Istanbul.
In the night, you can join a yoga or pilates session, but in the night dancing like crazy is the best way to burn calories. Every friday and Saturday, DJs line up to play dope music till midnight. Of all the Istanbul beaches, this is where the party continues till six in the morning.
The beach shacks are strewn with hammocks where you can lay and soak up some Vitamin D. It is the best place in Istanbul for tourists to socialize in an alien city.
Location: Gümüşdere Mahallesi, Boğaziçi Kampüs Yolu 1/A, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
How to reach: It is a 45-minute drive from Taksim. The cab will take around 80 Turkish Lira to get here.
Price: 60 Turkish Liras on weekends
Timings: 8pm onwards
Best Time To Visit: March to May
Suggested Read: 12 Day Trips From Istanbul: Places That Will Simply Make Your Vacation Productive
9. Nonstop Beach: For A Comfy Beach Vacay
A perfect beach for those who like adventure sports and partying, Nonstop Beach in Istanbul is where fun never stops. The sandy stretch of the beach is lined up with comfy beach chairs where you can enjoy the commotion of the beach while you soak up some sun.
There are a wide range of summer sports you can get your teeth in like kiteboarding, sailing, and windsurfing. Pump up yourself with some yoga, aerobics, and pilates in the day in their health centre.
Location: Kumköy Mahallesi, Plaj Yolu Cd. No:28, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
How to reach: You can take a shuttle towards Taksim AKM.
Price: Weekday 20 Turkish Liras, Weekend 30 Turkish Liras
Timings: 9pm to 12am
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10. Nakibey Beach: The Safest Beach
Opened in 1984, Nakibey Beach is one of the safest beaches around Istanbul. The water here is safe and shallow for a swim anytime. It provides a tranquil atmosphere for families to spend some time together.
The beach bungalows on the island are perfect place to spend a vacation with your loved ones. Get a perfect body tan lying on the warm sand of beaches or build sand castles with your kids. The food trucks on the beach side are famous for fries and mini burgers.
Location: Büyükada-maden Mahallesi, Naki Bey Çıkmazı No:17, 34970 Adalar/İstanbul, Turkey
How to reach: Take a fonikolar metro from Taksim to Kabatas. From here board the ship to arrive at Buyukada and a second free ship to Nakibey.
Price: 35 Turkish Lira for adults
Suggested Read: Istanbul In July: A Guide To Witness The Magic Of City Like Never Before
11. Elio Sedef Beach: For A Breezy Vacay
Making its name in one of the best beaches in Istanbul and one of the oldest ones, this is a must-visit place. The beach offers picturesque views and lush greenery that will lift your spirits. Not only this, but it also offers different types of cuisines, DJ, live music, restaurants, and much more. This is the perfect place for a breezy vacation.
Location: 1 Nolu Sok. No:1, Adalar/Istanbul – Asia, Turkey
How to Reach: You can take a shuttle service from Kartal or Bostanci
Timings: Open 24 hours
Best Time To Visit: March to May
Suggested Read: Exploring 4 Lakes In Istanbul: A Tryst With Mother Nature
12. Aqua Green Beach Club: Get Indulge In Clubbing
Aqua Green beach is one of the best beaches in Istanbul. It offers scenic views and refreshing vibes that attracts both travelers as well as locals. It is home to a beach club that offers world class services. There is a lounge, club, restaurant and more where you can spend some quality time with your friends or partner.
Location: Heybeliada, Yeni İskele Yolu Sk., 34010 Adalar/İstanbul, Turkey
How to Reach: Take a ferry from Besiktas, Kadikoy or Eminonu
Timings: 8am – 8pm
Best Time To Visit: April to July and September to December
Suggested Read: 9 Istanbul Restaurants For That Perfect Turkish Culinary Affair
13. Uzunkum Beach: For A Refreshing Experience
If you are looking for Istanbul beaches for swimming, then head to Uzunkum beach. The beach club is situated in the Sile district and is very safe and clean. It offers everything from showering to sunbathing, so you must visit it during your holiday in Istanbul. The beach hosts a club called Aqua beach club offering clubs and lounges wherein you can enjoy beach parties and more.
Location: Sile, Black sea coast
How to Reach: Take a bus, line number 139 from Uskudar
Timings: Open 24 hours
Best Time To Visit: September to December
Suggested Read: 12 Day Trips From Istanbul: Places That Will Simply Make Your Vacation Productive
14. Heybeliada Beach: A Wonderful Tour
If you want to explore beaches in Istanbul, then you must not miss Heybeliada Beach from Heybeli Island which is considered as the second largest Island in Istanbul, having narrow beaches, surrounded by pine forests. This beach is quite popular for those who are in love with nature as there is a nature park, situated very close to this beach. Tourists will get to enjoy the beauty of lush green forests near the close proximity of the beach.
Location: Camlik Mevki, Heybeliada Turkey
How to reach: Tourists can take Istanbul Metro to reach there which will take around 93 mins to reach there
Price: 20 TL on weekdays and 25 TL on Weekends
Timings: Thursday, Saturday and Sunday
Best Time To Visit: July to October
Suggested Read: 10 Exotic Islands Near Istanbul One Must Visit For A Paradisiacal Vacation
15. Buyukada Beach: The Largest Beach In Instanbul
Buyukada is considered as one of the largest Islands in Instanbul. The tourists of Buyukada beach will enjoy few facilities such as some wonderful restaurants and small eateries. Though the beach is restricted for tourists for some time due to its rocky nature, however, once it’s intermediate opening, people can go there to take a quick dip in the cool water. Apart from the scenic beauty of the beach, there are few picnic spots alongside the beach which are quite economical for the travellers.
Location: Prince Island, Istanbul
How to reach: One needs to take the tram from Sultanahmet stop to Kabatas stop and at Kabatas, tourists can get on the Princes Islands ferry and go to Buyukada.
Price: 3-5 TL
Timings: Thursday, Saturday
Best Time To Visit: July to October
Further Read: 4 Best Wedding Venues In Istanbul For An Out-Of-The-World Experience!
These scenic Istanbul beaches will make you put Turley on the bucket list, if it already wasn’t. Enjoy a wonderful holiday with your family or a romantic getaway with your spouse through Holiday in Turkey with TravelTriangle.
Istanbul beaches that are open for the public are usually crowded on a warm summer day. Watch our Turkey travel video to get a sneak peek at what goes on at these gorgeous beaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul Beaches
What are the best beaches in Turkey?
Some of the best beaches in Turkey are Blue Lagoon, Cleopatra's beach, Patara beach, and Iztuzu beach.
Is Istanbul by the sea?
Istanbul is surrounded by the Marmara and Black seas which are linked by the Bosphorus and many small islands.
Can you swim in the Bosphorus?
One can swim in the Bosphorus but it is advised to not do that as the water is highly averted by the ships which have made the Bosphorus very polluted.
Is there a beach to swim in Istanbul?
We would recommend that you restrict yourself to the beach house. Swimming in the beaches in Istanbul is not prohibited but they’re very polluted and you will definitely not like the experience.
Which is the best area to stay near Istanbul beaches?
You can crash at European Side, Downtown Istanbul, and Fatih if you want to stay near Istanbul beaches.
Is it safe to walk around Istanbul beaches?
Yes, it is safe to walk around Istanbul beaches by yourselves. As a solo female traveler, make sure you exercise caution like you would in any foreign country. Carry a pepper spray and stay alert at all times.
Are there sharks in the beaches at Istanbul?
Yes, there are sharks in Istanbul but they are completely harmless. No incident of shark attack has been reported from Istanbul.
Is Istanbul a coastal city?
Yes, Istanbul is a coastal city. It is straddling between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara.
What are Istanbul beaches famous for?
Istanbul beaches are famous for a myriad of fun things to do in Turkey, like cooling off, going on a minibus tour, among other things.
What should a woman wear at an Istanbul beach?
If you’re a solo female traveler at an Istanbul beach, you can wear long tunic tops, sleeve dresses, and tops with pants and jeans.
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If some people enjoy window-shopping, Dhaarna takes pleasure in day-dreaming about solo trips when she’s not working. A gypsy at heart, she likes to spend her money on vacations, plants, and all things boho.