Apicturesque city straddling the coasts of two seas is a perfect summer vacation spot. Istanbul is not only the cultural center of Turkey, but also a prime destination for those who prefer relaxing beach holidays. Istanbul is washed by the Black Sea in the south and Marmara Sea in the north; it also has access to the Bosphorus Strait. Naturally, the choice of beaches is overwhelming. Start your way to the glistening water surface and step into the sand – but which one? Let’s delve deeper into this sea-deep question.
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Private or Public?
Generally, beaches in Istanbul can be divided into private and public ones. Private beaches usually have better facilities and more diversions, but it is more of a tendency than a rule. Public beaches, if chosen wisely, offer the same level of service as some private ones. However, there are private beaches hosting some special facilities and attractions, like water trampolines, Wi-fi, or spa – so you can choose a specific private beach that suits you best.
Marmara or Black?
Marmara Sea beaches are concentrated in Fenerbahçe and Caddebostan districts. They are suitable for family holidays, since the water entry is not steep and the water is generally warmer and less deep than on other coasts. Public beaches here often feature chairs, parasols, and changing stalls.
Princes’ Islands deserve special mention. Also known as Adalarami, it is a cluster of 9 islands, located in the Marmara Sea. They are called Princes’ Islands because during the Byzantine Empire, members of nobility, who went against the rulers, were exiled here. As for today’s state of affairs, the islands are a popular destination. You can get to the islands by ferry from Istanbul, the ride takes an hour or two.
Black Sea beaches can be mainly found in the European part of Istanbul. Nice sandy beaches stretch out beyond the city limits, and some hidden gems are located a certain distance away from Istanbul. Mostly private beaches, and many of them quite high-end; vacations here are definitely more lively.
Unsure which beach to choose? Here is our list of recommendations.
Top Marmara Sea beaches
Caddebostan Beach
Situated in the Asian part of Istanbul, close to the city center, Caddebostan area contains three beaches on the Marmara Sea: one public and two private ones. These beaches are frequented by the locals as well as tourists. Water temperature is exceptionally warm and comfortable on the entire beach zone, since the waters here are rather shallow. There are beach paraphernalia rentals, toilets, showers, and a rescue boat.
Florya Beach
The picturesque district of Florya houses two beaches. There are sunbeds and parasols available for rent, as well as a first-aid station, changing stalls, restaurants, and a parking area. Güneş Beach in Florya is favored by the locals – clean sea makes it one of the best beaches in Istanbul.
Teos Beach
Teos Beach is situated on Kinali Island, one of the most picturesque of the Princes’ Islands. It is a private beach with clean sand and high quality of beach service – sunbeds and umbrellas included in the entrance fee. The beach club serves as a restaurant and offers nightly entertainment activities.
Top Black Sea beaches
Uzunkum Beach
Uzunkum Beach is a fine sand beach located in the Şile district. The beach is clean and well-kept, and there are no jellyfish or seaweed – a perfect photographing spot. The admission ticket gives you access to a nice clean beach, a cafe, bar, and chair and parasol rental.
Solar Beach Therapy
A kilometer-long Solar Beach Therapy is considered one of the most beautiful and well-kept beaches in Turkey. It is not only a beach, but more of a resort with numerous facilities: a health center, child care center, restaurants, bars, gyms, shops, and spas. It also features wild beach parties at night.
Uzunya Beach
Uzunya Beach is a sheltered private bay, combining sandy beaches and green lawns suitable for picnics. Situated in the European part of the city, this area is known for its lively beach parties. Available are parasols, sunbeds, parking lots, billiards, and restaurants.
