You most likely already know that Istanbul is a big metropolis with a lot to see and do. What you may not notice is that it’s additionally residence to some implausible seaside spots to get pleasure from in the summertime months too; even I used to be shocked to study this. However, the perfect seashores in Istanbul for swimming and sunbathing are scattered throughout the town, so, you have to have an thought of the place to go.
The primary time I visited Istanbul, I believed it was all sightseeing and meals, and I used to be completely up for each of these issues. Then, my husband advised we go to the seaside; I keep in mind gazing him like he was loopy—seashores in Istanbul? Nevertheless it seems he wasn’t shedding his thoughts in any case, and there are lots of lovely seaside spots to get pleasure from if you happen to really feel like a change from sightseeing.
Selecting the perfect Istanbul seaside for you is about pre-planning, like most issues on this metropolis. You gained’t discover swimming spots within the middle of Istanbul however enterprise only a small distance out, and also you’ll discover a completely completely different vibe. Now, heading for a seaside day is one among my favourite issues to do within the metropolis, and it’s an exquisite technique to wind down after all of the sightseeing and craziness.
10 Greatest Seashores in Istanbul
If you wish to discover the perfect seashores in Istanbul, you’ll want some prior information; these aren’t locations you’ll discover marketed in common vacationer info. However that’s the place I are available in! I’ve put collectively this checklist of 10 implausible seashores in, and really near, Istanbul, supplying you with all the data you have to discover the perfect spot in your day’s R&R. From occasion seashores to nature and chill-out spots, we’ve received a little bit of every part.
1. Caddebostan Plajı (Greatest Location)
![Aerial Drone View of Caddebostan / Istanbul Seaside](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Caddebostan-Plaji.jpg)
Caddebostan Plajı is without doubt one of the finest seashores near Istanbul; in truth, it’s the closest to the primary sights. Positioned only a few minutes away from downtown Kadiköy, you’ll be able to stroll alongside the coastal promenade or take a taxi. As soon as there, the waters are calm, and there are many services for an incredible day on the sand.
That is the primary seaside I ever went to in Istanbul, and I had a good time. It’s enjoyable to sit down on the sand and watch the ferries head out to the Princes Islands as you benefit from the solar. I feel that is additionally probably the cleanest seaside in Istanbul, and if not, it definitely rivals any others. It’s an incredible spot for households, however it will probably get very busy throughout the weekends and faculty holidays.
There are many cafes and eating places across the seaside if you’d like some refreshments and showers and altering rooms which can be free to make use of. There are a couple of sun-loungers and parasols, however they’re taken rapidly, so both get there early or just discover a free spot to put down your towel.
- Location: Caddebostan, Park İçi Yolu, 34728 Kadıköy/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: It’s a 20-30 minute stroll from central Kadiköy, or you’ll be able to take a taxi in about 5 minutes, relying upon site visitors.
- Greatest For: Households, shut proximity to the town.
- Facilities: Altering rooms, showers, eating places, and cafes shut by.
- Greatest Excursions: Earlier than or after you’ve loved your seaside time, how about a strolling tour of the Asian facet? I’ve completed this tour earlier than you get to see a lot. Click on right here for extra particulars.
- The place to Eat: I critically loved my meal at Artois Cadde. I had the tastiest pasta right here – additionally they do superb noodles, so make sure you attempt these.
2. Anadolufeneri Plajı (Greatest for Historical past)
![A tiny tent and tourists enjoying the sun on the beach, as well as a four-boat park near the beach. A gorgeous, clear sea with a rocky peak on the horizon.](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Anadolufeneri-Plaji.jpg)
In the event you’re on the lookout for sandy seashores in Istanbul, Anadolufeneri is a good selection, however I particularly suggest it as a must-visit for anybody into historical past. Right here you’ll discover Anadolu Feneri Lighthouse constructed in 1856, and mountain climbing up there’ll reward you with essentially the most gorgeous views. This seaside can also be located subsequent to Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, which presents nice picture alternatives.
However in fact, we’re speaking about seashores in Istanbul. The seaside itself is a small cove; it’s tucked away from every part which supplies it a extremely chilled-out vibe. I actually appreciated the normal fish eating places across the seaside, which made for a pleasant finish to a superbly chilled-out day.
There aren’t any services on the seaside so be sure to take every part you want, nevertheless, you should buy drinks and snacks from the close by retailers. It by no means will get significantly crowded, which is a plus level, however you’ll most likely solely spend a few hours right here earlier than eager to discover the world across the seaside.
- Location: Anadolufeneri, Beykoz Cd., 34829 Beykoz/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: A ferry leaves Beşiktaş a number of occasions per day, and the journey takes round 1.5 hours.
- Greatest For: Historical past, views, rest.
- Facilities: There are cafes shut by for refreshments, however no facilities on the seaside itself.
- The place to Eat: Captain’s Restaurant is near Anadolufeneri and serves essentially the most scrumptious, contemporary seafood. The calamari right here was a few of the finest I’ve had in Istanbul, and that’s saying one thing. You must also attempt the grilled seabass and salad.
3. Babylon Seashore (Greatest for Ambiance)
![An umbrella and beach chair at the shore. white sand and clean water.](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Babylon-Beach.jpg)
There are some implausible personal seashores down within the Sariyer space of Istanbul and Babylon Seashore, Kilyos, is one among my favorites. This can be a nice seaside for households, water-sports lovers, and anybody in search of an upbeat, summertime enjoyable really feel to their seaside days. I feel that is the perfect seaside in Istanbul for swimming as a result of the waters are calm and there are lifeguards on responsibility throughout the summer season months.
I cherished the vibe at this seaside, and there are such a lot of sporting actions you are able to do, together with volleyball and soccer. In fact, you’ll most likely simply need to relax and benefit from the solar, and there are many sun-loungers and parasols to do exactly that. You pay an entrance price to go in, which is round 100 lira, after which pay further for any foods and drinks you buy from the restaurant, or a number of avenue meals carts on the seaside itself.
In the summertime there are DJ events within the evenings. I went to an occasion in July, and it was like being on a castaway seaside with a tropical vibe. The drink costs have been additionally actually affordable, with a cocktail costing round $7.
- Location: Demirciköy Mevki Kilyos Yolu, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: You may take a taxi from Taksim or Sultanahmet and attain Babylon Seashore in round half an hour, relying on site visitors. Alternatively, you’ll be able to take the Metro to Haciosman after which a taxi the remainder of the best way. Click on right here for Metro particulars.
- Greatest For: Water sports activities, seaside events, music, ambiance, meals.
- Facilities: Solar-loungers and parasols, altering rooms, showers, lifeguards, and eating places on-site.
- The place to Eat: There are eating places and avenue meals carts contained in the seaside which you pay further for. The grilled fish from right here is scrumptious, however you can even discover many worldwide choices, comparable to burgers and pizza.
4. True Blue Seashore (Greatest for Leisure)
![A day picture of a clean beach, white sand, clear water green mountain at the far sight.](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/True-Blue-Beach.jpg)
True Blue Seashore is one other widespread seaside in Istanbul on the Asian facet, round Half-hour away from central Kadiköy. I went to this seaside for my birthday and had a implausible time; it’s a extremely vibrant place, and as a non-public seaside membership, you will have every part you want for a dreamy day within the solar.
This seaside is widespread with teams of buddies who need to get pleasure from themselves, and there’s music and common merriment all day lengthy. Through the summer season months, there are sometimes seaside events and DJ performances at evening. Along with the seaside itself, there’s additionally a big swimming pool and a top-class restaurant serving scrumptious Mediterranean meals.
The sundown from right here is actually one thing else, with nothing however sea and ferries within the distance. It’s not essentially the most enjoyable place as there’s a lot happening, however if you happen to’re after a vibrant and enjoyable day, I extremely suggest heading right here. Remember that throughout the peak summer season months of July and August, it’s a good suggestion to get there as early as you’ll be able to to bag the perfect spot.
- Location: Fenerbahçe, Atlıhan Sk. No:30, 34726 Kadıköy/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: The quantity FB1 bus runs from Kadiköy to Fenerbahçe Park usually all through the day, and the seaside is simply a few minutes stroll away from the bus cease. Click on right here for bus info.
- Greatest For: Events, leisure, services, music.
- Facilities: Solar-loungers and parasols, altering services, bathrooms, showers, lifeguards, and eating places.
- The place to Eat: Khalkedon Fenerbahçe is an upmarket place for a meal after a day on the seaside. The vary of meze right here is mind-blowing, and the grilled meat is so scrumptious.
5. Ormanli Plajı (Greatest for Getting Away from the Metropolis)
![A top view of the beach and landscape, with a green mountain in the distance.](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ormanli-Plaji.jpg)
About one hour away from the primary hustle and bustles of the town you’ll discover probably the greatest seashores close to Istanbul: Ormanli Plajı. The drive to this seaside is sort of nearly as good because the precise seaside itself, with winding roads shaded by timber; it’s tough to think about that you simply’re so near such a large metropolis. I ought to say from the beginning that this can be a pebbly seaside, however the water is deliciously clear and calm.
Many individuals select to wild camp round this seaside because it’s so naturally lovely, but it surely’s additionally best for a laid-back seaside day. You’ll have to take towels with you as there aren’t any sun-loungers, however there are showers and altering services simply off the seaside. You’ll discover markets and cafes right here for any refreshments you could want all through the day.
Through the summer season weekends and faculty holidays, this seaside can get fairly crowded because it’s a low-cost possibility for individuals residing in Istanbul. Getting there early ought to tackle that difficulty, or just keep away from the weekend altogether.
- Location: Ormanlı, 34540 Çatalca/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: There are Metro hyperlinks, however they go the great distance round and take too lengthy; it’s a significantly better thought to rent a automobile or get a taxi. The journey will take simply over an hour.
- Greatest For: Households, nature, getting away from the town, tenting.
- Facilities: There are altering rooms and showers however no different facilities at this seaside.
- The place to Eat: Son Fasıl Restaurant is a couple of minutes away from the seaside and serves scrumptious grilled meat and salads. The out of doors seating space is ideal for watching the sundown when you eat.
6. Uzunya Seashore (Greatest for Households)
![A beach club by the sea with many umbrellas surrounded by green land and mountains.](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Uzunya-Beach-1.jpg)
Demircikoy is positioned round an hour from the middle of Istanbul, and it’s residence to the perfect seaside in Istanbul for households. Uzunya Seashore is sandy and quiet, the water is shallow, and there’s loads of house to roam. There aren’t an enormous quantity of services, however I feel that’s what provides it its allure in some ways; it has an genuine, construct sandcastles and splash the ocean form of vibe.
There are mountain climbing trails across the space and a few nice eating places, together with Uzunya Seashore Restaurant which is known for its extraordinarily contemporary seafood dishes. In the event you get to the seaside early sufficient, you could possibly discover a sun-lounger and parasol, which prolong onto the sand and the grassed space, however there’s loads of house for towels if you happen to don’t.
I feel this is without doubt one of the finest seashores in Istanbul for pure magnificence and getting away from all of it.
- Location: Demirci, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: Driving or taking a taxi might be the simplest technique to get to this seaside, which ought to take round half an hour, relying on site visitors. Alternatively, you could possibly take the Metro so far as Haciosman after which get a taxi for the remainder of the best way. Click on right here for Metro particulars.
- Greatest For: Households, chilling out, nature.
- Facilities: Just a few sun-loungers and parasols can be found if you happen to get there early sufficient. There’s a restaurant simply off the seaside itself.
- The place to Eat: Uzunya Seashore Restaurant is the closest spot to the seaside and presents snacks all day lengthy.
7. Kisirkaya Plaji (Greatest for Picture Alternatives)
![Sandy beach and a blue clear sea in the background.](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Kisirkaya-Plaji.jpg)
Kisirkaya Seashore might be essentially the most lovely seaside in Istanbul; in truth, for me, it’s. In the event you like to take images to refill your Instagram reel, that is the place to go. It’s received that wild vibe about it, however the sand is so comfortable; spending time right here is only a pleasure. This is without doubt one of the Black Sea seashores in Istanbul, and whereas it will probably get a bit windy round this spot, whipping up some waves, it solely provides to the wonder.
I ought to level out that these waves will be fairly harmful sometimes, so be sure to take note of lifeguard flags telling you to not swim or go previous a sure level. There are a couple of services at this seaside, together with altering rooms and showers, however you gained’t discover solar loungers or seaside bars; once more, it simply provides to the allure.
I spent a day at this seaside, and whereas I didn’t go within the water, I actually loved simply sitting and letting the wind blow away the busyness of Istanbul.
- Location: Kısırkaya, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: Self-drive or a taxi is one of the simplest ways to get right here. The journey will take round 40 minutes, site visitors relying. Nonetheless, you’ll be able to minimize down on a few of the street time by taking the Metro to Haciosman after which getting a taxi for the remaining 20 minutes. Click on right here for Metro particulars.
- Greatest For: Nature, rest, images.
- Facilities: There are lifeguards on responsibility throughout the summer season months and a few altering services and showers.
- The place to Eat: I had a scrumptious Turkish breakfast at Panorama Cafe, and the view actually makes the meals right here. I can think about the sundown throughout a night dinner could be fairly epic too.
8. Burç Seashore (Greatest for Water Sports activities)
![Aerial view of the island with green trees and a big boat parked near shore and blue sea. An old castle on the top of the hill.](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Burc-Beach.jpg)
Burç Seashore is without doubt one of the finest personal seashores in Istanbul for anybody who loves water sports activities, and it’s typically full of guests throughout the summer season months. The vibe at this seaside is upbeat and vibrant, so whereas it’s most likely not someplace to go to get away from all of it, it’s undoubtedly someplace to get pleasure from some summer season enjoyable.
You may attempt your hand at windsurfing, volleyball, kiteboarding, crusing, and even browsing, because of the big waves that always frequent this seaside. Regardless of that, the comfortable sand and shallow waters are very inviting; simply be sure to take note of lifeguard directions concerning the waves on any given day.
This is without doubt one of the finest seashores in Istanbul for a scholar vibe because it belongs to the Boğaziçi College, and as such, you’ll see crowds of college students on the weekends. It undoubtedly provides to the enjoyable ambiance across the seaside, but it surely’s finest to reach early if you’d like a great place.
- Location: Gümüşdere, Sarıtepe Kampüsü, 34470 Sarıyer/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: You may drive from the middle of Istanbul or take a taxi in round 40 minutes, however this is dependent upon site visitors. Alternatively, the Metro will take you so far as Haciosman, and you’ll take a taxi from there. Click on right here for Metro info.
- Greatest For: Water sports activities, actions, enjoyable ambiance.
- Facilities: Lifeguards, sun-loungers, parasols, seaside bars, eating places, altering rooms, and showers.
- The place to Eat: The seaside bar itself presents snacks all day lengthy which can be surprisingly good. I had a hen baguette, and it was contemporary and attractive. In addition they promote every kind of drinks, together with alcoholic drinks.
9. Photo voltaic Seashore (Greatest for Events)
![A beach umbrella made of dried coconut leaves and a beach chair](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Solar-Beach.jpg)
Photo voltaic Seashore is the image you will have in your thoughts when you concentrate on loopy seaside events and summer season enjoyable. If that’s what you’re on the lookout for, you’ll discover it on daily basis between Might and September. This seaside can also be very massive so that you’re by no means going to battle for house, and it’s full of further issues to do, comparable to a well being membership, spa, and aromatherapy middle.
As probably the greatest seashores round Istanbul for occasion individuals, you can even attempt completely different water sports activities right here, or you’ll be able to wait till the solar goes down and the DJ begins spinning the decks. The occasion right here goes on till the early hours after which begins once more when the solar comes up.
There are a number of lengthy rows of sun-loungers and parasols lining the seaside, so if you wish to calm down, you completely can, however if you happen to’re all concerning the music and enjoyable, head again towards the bar space and the swimming pool. Whereas the occasion facet of it’d put some individuals off, I didn’t discover it overwhelming, and I had an incredible day right here.
- Location: Kumköy, Kilyos Cd. No:32 D:34, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: Driving or taking a taxi will get you to this seaside in about 45 minutes, site visitors relying. Nonetheless, you’ll be able to take the Metro to Haciosman, and throughout the summer season, there’s a shuttle bus that runs to the seaside from exterior the Ziraat Financial institution. Click on right here for Metro particulars.
- Greatest For: Seashore and pool events, DJs, music, water sports activities.
- Facilities: There are sun-loungers and parasols, altering services, showers, seaside bars, and a restaurant. You’ll additionally discover wellness services at this seaside.
- The place to Eat: When you’ve got a longing for Italian meals, which I typically do, then head to Brio Italian Restaurant near Photo voltaic Seashore. I extremely suggest you attempt the combined pizza right here.
10. Golden Seashore (Greatest for {Couples})
![A clear sea, golden sand, and a green mountain in the distance.](https://www.goatsontheroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Golden-Beach.jpg)
There aren’t many locations you’ll be able to go in Istanbul to essentially get away from all of it; it’s simply such a busy place that it’s tough to flee the hustle and bustle. More often than not you gained’t need to, however if you happen to’re touring as a pair and also you need someplace that offers a calming and romantic vibe, it must be Golden Seashore. It’s the perfect seaside for {couples} in Istanbul as a result of it’s surrounded by fashionable boutique resorts, the sunsets are superb, and you’ll relax in a beachside cabana.
The ocean right here is shallow and clear and the sand golden, with loads of sun-loungers and parasols on provide. There’s additionally a beachside restaurant and bar for all of your refreshment wants. Whereas this can be a widespread seaside, it’s fairly massive and sweeping, so it’s by no means crowded, and it’s straightforward to absorb the seaside vibe.
I feel that is the perfect seaside for a honeymoon in Istanbul; who wouldn’t need to relax in a seaside cabana and be waited readily available and foot? There are additionally some nice bars and eating places shut by, supplying you with every part you want for a romantic time together with your particular somebody.
- Location: Rumelifeneri Mahallesi, İskele Cd. No:6, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul
- Easy methods to Get There: Relying on site visitors, you’ll be able to drive or take a taxi in about 40 minutes, nevertheless, the Metro to Haciosman will prevent some street time. You may then take a taxi for the remaining 20 minutes. Click on right here for Metro particulars.
- Greatest For: Mushy sand, rest, seaside cabanas, {couples}.
- Facilities: There are sun-loungers and parasols on the seaside, in addition to altering rooms and showers. You may as well hire a cabana.
- The place to Eat: Fener Cafe Restaurant is a good all-rounder restaurant, providing native delicacies and worldwide selections. I went for his or her seafood pasta and it was so flavorsome.
Seashores in Istanbul: FAQs
Now you recognize the perfect seashores in Istanbul, you would possibly nonetheless have a couple of lingering questions; it’s fairly seemingly—seashores and Istanbul aren’t two stuff you’d naturally put collectively. So, let me reply your lingering queries.
Many individuals take into account the perfect seaside in Istanbul to be Caddebostan Plajı, merely due to its shut proximity to the town itself. You may simply enterprise over to Kadiköy for the day and stroll round to the seaside, earlier than returning a couple of hours later. Nonetheless, a few of the seashores down in Sariyer are additionally implausible choices.
Photo voltaic Seashore and True Blue Seashore are two personal seashores which can be identified to be very vibrant and best for seaside events. You’ll discover a enjoyable vibe it doesn’t matter what the time of day, and occasions that run late into the night.
Uzunya Seashore is a good selection for households, because of the calm waters and services on web site. This seaside can also be set in a quieter space, so there aren’t any busy roads shut by to disrupt the seaside vibe.
Golden Seashore is an efficient possibility for {couples} because of the romantic vibe and superb sunsets. There are some nice eating places round this seaside too, which give the perfect ambiance for a particular meal for 2.
Whereas there are common ferry hyperlinks to the Princes Islands, a few of the finest seashores are away from the primary transport hyperlinks. Nonetheless, they’re really gorgeous. In order for you one thing a bit simpler to seek out that also falls into the ‘off monitor’ class, Ormanli Plajı gives you that feeling of being away from the town.
Istanbul’s climate will be changeable it doesn’t matter what the month, however between Might and September you’ll discover the perfect of the climate. July and August are the most popular months, however it will probably rain at any time. Regardless of that, downpours do are typically fairly short-lived.
There are a number of public seashores in Istanbul, together with over in Kadiköy, however the Sariyer space is the place you’ll discover the cleanest sand and finest seaside vibes. Many of those seashores are personal seashores and sometimes have charges to enter, however they supply all of the services you want for an incredible day on the sand.
Uzunya Seashore is as near Mediterranean-style circumstances as you’re prone to get on this a part of the nation. The ocean right here is obvious and, if you happen to’re fortunate, you would possibly see the odd dolphin.
Sure, the designated seaside areas in Istanbul are secure for swimming and probably the greatest methods to chill down in the summertime warmth. Some seashores are a bit windier than others which makes for waves, however general, Istanbul’s seashores are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
The personal seaside areas round Sariyer are patrolled by lifeguards, which makes them secure for swimming and water sports activities.
It’s extremely unlikely that you simply’ll see a shark in Istanbul. Whereas there are some species of shark within the deeper waters, they’re not prone to come near shore and assault people.
The closest seaside to Istanbul is Caddesbostan Plajı, which is simply across the coastal path from Kadiköy. You may stroll in round 20-Half-hour, or you’ll be able to take the bus or a taxi.
In Conclusion
I gained’t blame you if you happen to initially thought Istanbul was on no account a seaside vacation spot, however now you recognize all the perfect seashores in Istanbul, I hope you’ve modified your thoughts. Sightseeing in Istanbul is all the time a deal with; I’ve been so many occasions, but it surely by no means will get previous or boring. Having the choice to sit back out within the arms of Mom Nature on a gorgeous seaside simply provides one other dimension of enjoyable.
Whether or not you select to go to a non-public, sheltered seaside for some complete peace and quiet or go for a fun-filled public seaside with music and events, there’s one thing for everybody. The shoreline round Istanbul is breathtakingly lovely with rugged cliffs and blue waters; it will be a disgrace to not spend a day there lapping all of it up.