You most likely already know that Istanbul is a large metropolis with a lot to see and do. What you may not notice is that it’s additionally residence to some incredible seashore spots to take pleasure in 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, it is advisable have an concept of the place to move.
The primary time I visited Istanbul, I assumed 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 seashore; I bear in mind gazing him like he was loopy—seashores in Istanbul? Nevertheless it seems he wasn’t dropping his thoughts in any case, and there are a lot of lovely seashore spots to take pleasure in for those who really feel like a change from sightseeing.
Selecting the perfect Istanbul seashore for you is about pre-planning, like most issues on this metropolis. You received’t discover swimming spots within the middle of Istanbul however enterprise only a small distance out, and also you’ll discover a very totally different vibe. Now, heading for a seashore day is one among my favourite issues to do within the metropolis, and it’s a beautiful solution 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 data; 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 incredible seashores in, and really near, Istanbul, supplying you with all the data it is advisable discover the perfect spot in your day’s R&R. From get together seashores to nature and chill-out spots, we’ve acquired a little bit of every little thing.
1. Caddebostan Plajı (Greatest Location)
Caddebostan Plajı is among the finest seashores near Istanbul; in reality, it’s the closest to the principle sights. Positioned just some minutes away from downtown Kadiköy, you possibly can stroll alongside the coastal promenade or take a taxi. As soon as there, the waters are calm, and there are many amenities for a terrific day on the sand.
That is the primary seashore I ever went to in Istanbul, and I had a good time. It’s enjoyable to take a seat on the sand and watch the ferries head out to the Princes Islands as you benefit from the solar. I feel that is additionally presumably the cleanest seashore in Istanbul, and if not, it actually rivals any others. It’s a terrific spot for households, however it could actually get very busy throughout the weekends and faculty holidays.
There are many cafes and eating places across the seashore if you’d like some refreshments and showers and altering rooms which are free to make use of. There are a number 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 possibly can 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 seashore time, how a couple of strolling tour of the Asian aspect? I’ve carried out this tour earlier than you get to see a lot. Click on right here for extra particulars.
- The place to Eat: I significantly loved my meal at Artois Cadde. I had the tastiest pasta right here – additionally they do superb noodles, so make sure to strive these.
2. Anadolufeneri Plajı (Greatest for Historical past)
In case you’re in search of sandy seashores in Istanbul, Anadolufeneri is a superb 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 seashore can also be located subsequent to Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, which affords nice picture alternatives.
However after all, we’re speaking about seashores in Istanbul. The seashore itself is a small cove; it’s tucked away from every little thing which supplies it a very chilled-out vibe. I actually preferred the normal fish eating places across the seashore, which made for a pleasant finish to a wonderfully chilled-out day.
There aren’t any amenities on the seashore so be sure to take every little thing you want, nonetheless, you should buy drinks and snacks from the close by outlets. 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 desirous to discover the world across the seashore.
- 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, leisure.
- Facilities: There are cafes shut by for refreshments, however no facilities on the seashore itself.
- The place to Eat: Captain’s Restaurant is near Anadolufeneri and serves essentially the most scrumptious, recent seafood. The calamari right here was a few of the finest I’ve had in Istanbul, and that’s saying one thing. You also needs to strive the grilled seabass and salad.
3. Babylon Seashore (Greatest for Ambiance)
There are some incredible non-public seashores down within the Sariyer space of Istanbul and Babylon Seashore, Kilyos, is one among my favorites. It is a nice seashore for households, water-sports lovers, and anybody looking for an upbeat, summertime enjoyable really feel to their seashore days. I feel that is the perfect seashore in Istanbul for swimming as a result of the waters are calm and there are lifeguards on responsibility throughout the summer time months.
I liked the vibe at this seashore, and there are such a lot of sporting actions you are able to do, together with volleyball and soccer. After all, you’ll most likely simply need to sit back 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 food and drinks you buy from the restaurant, or a number of road meals carts on the seashore 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 seashore with a tropical vibe. The drink costs had 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 possibly can 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, seashore events, music, environment, meals.
- Facilities: Solar-loungers and parasols, altering rooms, showers, lifeguards, and eating places on-site.
- The place to Eat: There are eating places and road meals carts contained in the seashore which you pay further for. The grilled fish from right here is scrumptious, however you may as well discover many worldwide choices, comparable to burgers and pizza.
4. True Blue Seashore (Greatest for Leisure)
True Blue Seashore is one other well-liked seashore in Istanbul on the Asian aspect, round Half-hour away from central Kadiköy. I went to this seashore for my birthday and had a incredible time; it’s a very vibrant place, and as a non-public seashore membership, you might have every little thing you want for a dreamy day within the solar.
This seashore is well-liked with teams of associates who need to take pleasure in themselves, and there’s music and common merriment all day lengthy. Through the summer time months, there are sometimes seashore events and DJ performances at evening. Along with the seashore itself, there’s additionally a big swimming pool and a top-class restaurant serving scrumptious Mediterranean meals.
The sundown from right here is really 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 occurring, however for those who’re after a vibrant and enjoyable day, I extremely suggest heading right here. Remember the fact that throughout the peak summer time months of July and August, it’s a good suggestion to get there as early as you possibly can 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 recurrently all through the day, and the seashore is simply a few minutes stroll away from the bus cease. Click on right here for bus info.
- Greatest For: Events, leisure, amenities, music.
- Facilities: Solar-loungers and parasols, altering amenities, bogs, showers, lifeguards, and eating places.
- The place to Eat: Khalkedon Fenerbahçe is an upmarket place for a meal after a day on the seashore. 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)
About one hour away from the principle hustle and bustles of the town you’ll discover probably the greatest seashores close to Istanbul: Ormanli Plajı. The drive to this seashore is sort of nearly as good because the precise seashore itself, with winding roads shaded by bushes; 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 seashore, however the water is deliciously clear and calm.
Many individuals select to wild camp round this seashore because it’s so naturally lovely, however it’s additionally ideally suited for a laid-back seashore day. You’ll must take towels with you as there aren’t any sun-loungers, however there are showers and altering amenities simply off the seashore. You’ll discover markets and cafes right here for any refreshments you might want all through the day.
Through the summer time weekends and faculty holidays, this seashore 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 a lot better concept to rent a automotive 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 seashore.
- The place to Eat: Son Fasıl Restaurant is a couple of minutes away from the seashore and serves scrumptious grilled meat and salads. The out of doors seating space is ideal for watching the sundown whilst you eat.
6. Uzunya Seashore (Greatest for Households)
Demircikoy is situated round an hour from the middle of Istanbul, and it’s residence to the perfect seashore in Istanbul for households. Uzunya Seashore is sandy and quiet, the water is shallow, and there’s loads of area to roam. There aren’t an enormous quantity of amenities, however I feel that’s what offers it its allure in some ways; it has an genuine, construct sandcastles and splash the ocean sort of vibe.
There are mountain climbing trails across the space and a few nice eating places, together with Uzunya Seashore Restaurant which is legendary for its extraordinarily recent seafood dishes. In case you get to the seashore 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 area for towels for those who don’t.
I feel this is among 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 best solution to get to this seashore, 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: A number of sun-loungers and parasols can be found for those who get there early sufficient. There’s a restaurant simply off the seashore itself.
- The place to Eat: Uzunya Seashore Restaurant is the closest spot to the seashore and affords snacks all day lengthy.
7. Kisirkaya Plaji (Greatest for Photograph Alternatives)
Kisirkaya Seashore might be essentially the most lovely seashore in Istanbul; in reality, for me, it’s. In case you like to take pictures to replenish your Instagram reel, that is the place to go. It’s acquired that wild vibe about it, however the sand is so smooth; spending time right here is only a pleasure. This is among the Black Sea seashores in Istanbul, and whereas it could actually get a bit of windy round this spot, whipping up some waves, it solely provides to the sweetness.
I ought to level out that these waves will be fairly harmful once in a while, so be sure to take note of lifeguard flags telling you to not swim or go previous a sure level. There are a number of amenities at this seashore, together with altering rooms and showers, however you received’t discover solar loungers or seashore bars; once more, it simply provides to the allure.
I spent a day at this seashore, 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 best ways to get right here. The journey will take round 40 minutes, site visitors relying. Nevertheless, you possibly can 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, leisure, pictures.
- Facilities: There are lifeguards on responsibility throughout the summer time months and a few altering amenities 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)
Burç Seashore is among the finest non-public seashores in Istanbul for anybody who loves water sports activities, and it’s typically filled with guests throughout the summer time months. The vibe at this seashore is upbeat and vibrant, so whereas it’s most likely not someplace to go to get away from all of it, it’s positively someplace to take pleasure in some summer time enjoyable.
You may strive your hand at windsurfing, volleyball, kiteboarding, crusing, and even browsing, because of the massive waves that always frequent this seashore. Regardless of that, the smooth 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 among the finest seashores in Istanbul for a scholar vibe because it belongs to the Boğaziçi College, and as such, you’ll see crowds of scholars on the weekends. It positively provides to the enjoyable environment across the seashore, however it’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 relies on site visitors. Alternatively, the Metro will take you so far as Haciosman, and you may take a taxi from there. Click on right here for Metro info.
- Greatest For: Water sports activities, actions, enjoyable environment.
- Facilities: Lifeguards, sun-loungers, parasols, seashore bars, eating places, altering rooms, and showers.
- The place to Eat: The seashore bar itself affords snacks all day lengthy which are surprisingly good. I had a rooster baguette, and it was recent and attractive. In addition they promote all types of drinks, together with alcoholic drinks.
9. Photo voltaic Seashore (Greatest for Events)
Photo voltaic Seashore is the image you might have in your thoughts when you consider loopy seashore events and summer time enjoyable. If that’s what you’re in search of, you’ll discover it every single day between Could and September. This seashore can also be very massive so that you’re by no means going to battle for area, and it’s filled with further issues to do, comparable to a well being membership, spa, and aromatherapy middle.
As probably the greatest seashores round Istanbul for get together individuals, you may as well strive totally different water sports activities right here, or you possibly can wait till the solar goes down and the DJ begins spinning the decks. The get together 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 seashore, so if you wish to chill out, you completely can, however for those who’re all concerning the music and enjoyable, head again towards the bar space and the swimming pool. Whereas the get together aspect of it would put some individuals off, I didn’t discover it overwhelming, and I had a terrific 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 seashore in about 45 minutes, site visitors relying. Nevertheless, you possibly can take the Metro to Haciosman, and throughout the summer time, there’s a shuttle bus that runs to the seashore from outdoors 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 amenities, showers, seashore bars, and a restaurant. You’ll additionally discover wellness amenities at this seashore.
- The place to Eat: If in case you have a longing for Italian meals, which I typically do, then head to Brio Italian Restaurant near Photo voltaic Seashore. I extremely suggest you strive the combined pizza right here.
10. Golden Seashore (Greatest for {Couples})
There aren’t many locations you possibly can go in Istanbul to actually 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 received’t need to, however for those who’re touring as a pair and also you need someplace that provides a calming and romantic vibe, it needs to be Golden Seashore. It’s the perfect seashore for {couples} in Istanbul as a result of it’s surrounded by fashionable boutique accommodations, the sunsets are superb, and you may sit back in a beachside cabana.
The ocean right here is shallow and clear and the sand golden, with loads of sun-loungers and parasols on supply. There’s additionally a beachside restaurant and bar for all of your refreshment wants. Whereas this can be a well-liked seashore, it’s fairly massive and sweeping, so it’s by no means crowded, and it’s straightforward to absorb the seashore vibe.
I feel that is the perfect seashore for a honeymoon in Istanbul; who wouldn’t need to sit back in a seashore cabana and be waited readily available and foot? There are additionally some nice bars and eating places shut by, supplying you with every little thing 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 possibly can drive or take a taxi in about 40 minutes, nonetheless, 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: Comfortable sand, leisure, seashore cabanas, {couples}.
- Facilities: There are sun-loungers and parasols on the seashore, in addition to altering rooms and showers. You may also hire a cabana.
- The place to Eat: Fener Cafe Restaurant is a superb all-rounder restaurant, providing native delicacies and worldwide decisions. I went for his or her seafood pasta and it was so flavorsome.
Seashores in Istanbul: FAQs
Now the perfect seashores in Istanbul, you may nonetheless have a number of lingering questions; it’s fairly doubtless—seashores and Istanbul aren’t two belongings you’d naturally put collectively. So, let me reply your lingering queries.
Many individuals contemplate the perfect seashore 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 seashore, earlier than returning a number of hours later. Nevertheless, a few of the seashores down in Sariyer are additionally incredible choices.
Photo voltaic Seashore and True Blue Seashore are two non-public seashores which are recognized to be very vibrant and ideally suited for seashore 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 superb selection for households, because of the calm waters and amenities on website. This seashore 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 effective possibility for {couples} because of the romantic vibe and superb sunsets. There are some nice eating places round this seashore too, which offer 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 principle transport hyperlinks. Nevertheless, they’re really gorgeous. If you would like one thing a bit of simpler to search out that also falls into the ‘off observe’ class, Ormanli Plajı offers you that feeling of being away from the town.
Istanbul’s climate will be changeable it doesn’t matter what the month, however between Could and September you’ll discover the perfect of the climate. July and August are the most popular months, however it could actually rain at any time. Regardless of that, downpours do are usually 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 seashore vibes. Many of those seashores are non-public seashores and sometimes have charges to enter, however they supply all of the amenities you want for a terrific day on the sand.
Uzunya Seashore is as near Mediterranean-style circumstances as you’re more likely to get on this a part of the nation. The ocean right here is evident and, for those who’re fortunate, you may see the odd dolphin.
Sure, the designated seashore areas in Istanbul are secure for swimming and probably the greatest methods to chill down in the summertime warmth. Some seashores are a bit of windier than others which makes for waves, however total, Istanbul’s seashores are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
The non-public seashore 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 more likely to come near shore and assault people.
The closest seashore to Istanbul is Caddesbostan Plajı, which is simply across the coastal path from Kadiköy. You may stroll in round 20-Half-hour, or you possibly can take the bus or a taxi.
In Conclusion
I received’t blame you for those who initially thought Istanbul was on no account a seashore vacation spot, however now 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, however it by no means will get previous or boring. Having the choice to relax out within the arms of Mom Nature on a gorgeous seashore simply provides one other dimension of enjoyable.
Whether or not you select to move to a non-public, sheltered seashore for some whole peace and quiet or go for a fun-filled public seashore with music and events, there’s one thing for everybody. The shoreline round Istanbul is breathtakingly lovely with rugged cliffs and blue waters; it might be a disgrace to not spend a day there lapping all of it up.