Where are the best beaches in Alanya, Turkey?

Alanya, Turkey is a great holiday destination for travelers looking to soak up some sun, relax on the beach, and explore a different country and culture. With beautiful blue waters, stunning sunsets, and incredible views, it’s no wonder why so many people take a vacation to Alanya every year. But with hundreds of beaches in the region, it can be tricky finding the best ones. Here we break down which beaches are the most popular and have something special to offer.

The Cleopatra Beach is one of the most visited and most photographed beaches in Alanya. Legend says that Cleopatra used to swim here with her lover Mark Antony in the summer, so it’s no surprise that this is one of the most popular spots in Alanya. The beach itself is white and sandy, and in the summer months the water is a gorgeous turquoise color. There are many great bars, restaurants, and cafes near Cleopatra Beach too, making it great for socializing and enjoying the sunset.

Oyster named Incekum Beach as a great beach for both swimming and sunbathing. Located on the westernmost part of Alanya and 14 kilometers away from Side, Incekum Beach offers tropical vibes without being overly crowded. The water here is pretty shallow so it’s generally very calm and perfect for swimming or other water sports. Clean sand and crystal-clear blue waters make this one of Alanya’s top attractions.

If you’re looking for a beach that’s a bit quieter, try Dim Cave Beach. Found near the Dim Cave monument, this beach features soft sand and shallow waters that are perfect for swimming and enjoying time with family and friends. Since this beach isn’t as popular as other beaches in the area, it remains a tucked-away gem that can provide some privacy if you want to get away from it all. Dim Cave Beach also boasts stunning sunset views which make it one of Alanya’s best-kept secrets.

If you’re an adventure seeker, then Kargicak Beach could be worth checking out. This beach has smaller waves and calmer waters, making it perfect for activities such as windsurfing, parasailing, and more. Kargicak Beach also features plenty of nearby bars and restaurants where you can buy snacks and drinks during your stay here.

Finally, Lara Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to have a great time in Alanya. Much bigger in size than other nearby beaches, Lara Beach has plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, or just simply relaxing. Not to mention there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions nearby if you get bored of the beach vibe. Plus you won’t have to worry about overcrowding issues as Lara Beach remains relatively uncrowded compared to other spots in Alanya.

No matter what part of Alanya you’re looking to explore on your next trip, there’s a beach perfect for you. From the romantic vibes of Cleopatra Beach to the tranquil atmosphere of Dim Cave Beach, there’s something special waiting at each spot that makes Alanya one of Turkey’s most popular holiday destinations. Plus with so many attractions nearby you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on your next visit!

An Insider’s Guide to Alanya, Turkey

Alanya is a charming city located on the south coast of Turkey and is known for its stunning beaches and rich history. With its clear turquoise waters, marvelous scenery, warm weather, and hospitable locals, Alanya should be at the top of every traveler’s list when visiting Turkey.

Top Beaches in Alanya

1. Kleopatra Beach – This is the most popular and well-known beach in Alanya. It is located in the city center and has a long strip of golden sand and crystal clear waters. There are also several bars and restaurants nearby.
2. İncekum Beach – A perfect spot for families with children as the sea level is shallow. It is located 25 km east of Alanya and has a serene setting with golden sand and pine trees.
3. Ulas Beach – A secluded beach on the east side of the city, surrounded by rocky cliffs and crystal clear waters. Ulas beach is perfect for those who plan to step away from the crowd and enjoy some peaceful time alone or with their partner.
4. Obakoy Beach – A perfect place for those who love water activities like windsurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing. Obakoy beach is located near the town of Avsallar.
5. Keykubat Beach – Located just west of the city center, the beach is a little quieter than Kleopatra beach yet equally stunning with its stretch of golden sand, crystal clear waters, and palm trees.

Historical Attractions in Alanya

1. Alanya Castle – Built on a rocky promontory above the city, the castle has a splendid view of the Mediterranean and the city. It is fortified with walls, towers, and gates, and in the inner part, there are remains of a Byzantine church and a cistern.
2. Red Tower – Constructed in 1226, the Red Tower was built to protect the harbor. The tower has five floors, with each floor having a different exhibit displaying the history and culture of Alanya.
3. Damlataş Cave – Located in the heart of the city, Damlataş Cave is a unique place to visit. The cave has a natural formation of stalactites and stalagmites.
4. Alanya Archaeological Museum – Situated near the Red Tower, the museum displays a collection of artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods.
5. Syedra Ancient City – The ancient city of Syedra is located 20 km east of Alanya and is an interesting day trip to take. The city has an impressive amphitheater, a temple, and a necropolis.

Local Food and Dining

1. Adana Ocakbaşı – This restaurant serves authentic Turkish cuisine, mainly grilled meats like lamb chops (şiş kebabı), and Adana kebab. The restaurant is located in the center of the city.
2. Konak Restaurant – Situated near the dockyards, Konak restaurant is the ideal place to dine for seafood lovers, offering grilled or fried fish, shrimp, calamari, and octopus.
3. Şarıl Börek Salonu – A perfect spot for breakfast, Şarıl Börek Salonu serves delicious börek, a pastry filled with cheese or meat.
4. Tike Kebap – Tike Kebap is an excellent spot to grab a quick bite to eat. It serves mouth-watering Turkish kebabs and pide, a type of Turkish pizza.
5. Seyir Restaurant – One of the best options to dine in Alanya, Seyir restaurant offers not only tasty meals but also an exceptional view of the Alanya Castle and the Mediterranean.

Cultural Experiences in Alanya

1. Turkish Bath (Hamam) – A traditional Turkish bath is a must-try experience in Alanya. The Hamam is a relaxing place to unwind and rejuvenate with massages, sauna, and steam rooms.
2. Turkish Night Show – A Turkish Night Show is an evening activity that offers a glimpse into the Turkish culture with traditional dances, music, and costumes.
3. Alanya Bazaar – The busy Bazaar in Alanya is a perfect place to buy souvenirs and indulge in some local street food.
4. Boat Trip – Take a boat trip from the harbor to explore the breathtaking coastline of Alanya, including the famous Cleopatra beach and the caves.
5. Turkish Tea – Turkish tea is an essential part of the Turkish culture, and you can find tea cafes all over Alanya to enjoy a cup of piping hot tea.

Off the Beaten Path Experiences

1. Dim Cave – Located 11 km east of Alanya, Dim cave is one of the hidden treasures of the city. The cave has an ideal temperature and humidity for a comfortable tour.
2. Alara River – Alara River is perfect for rafting, kayaking, or canoeing. The river is surrounded by beautiful scenery and nature.
3. Sapphirus – Sapphirus is a boutique winery located in the mountains of Alanya, offering wine-tasting tours and a unique experience to learn about local wine production in Turkey.
4. Kizil Kule Beer – Kizil Kule beer is a local craft beer made with Alanya’s purest water, and you can find it in local bars in the city.
5. Goksu River – A beautiful hidden gem, Goksu River has a secret waterfall and excellent hiking trails. This adventure is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore the stunning landscapes outside of Alanya.

Alanya is a destination with endless possibilities for travelers to enjoy and explore. The city has something for everyone from its beaches to its historical sites, food, and local culture.