What you should know about İzmir’s beaches
With a coastline stretching more than 600 kilometers along Türkiye’s western shores, İzmir is home to one of the Aegean’s most diverse beach profiles. The coastline begins in Dikili in the north and extends southward through Foça, Karaburun, Çeşme, Urla, and Seferihisar. Each district has its own distinct character: Çeşme and Alaçatı stand out for their vibrant social scene; Karaburun and Dikili for their untouched coves; and Seferihisar and Urla for their gastronomy and relaxed coastal-town atmosphere. No matter which type of getaway appeals to you most, reaching these seaside districts from Adnan Menderes Airport is easy once you book an İzmir flight.
A list of İzmir beaches by features
| Beach area | Water depth | Seabed | When to go? | Distance from the center |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Çeşme | Shallow along the shoreline. Exceeds 100 meters in open waters. | Generally fine, white and golden sandy seabed. | In May, June or September for mild weather and sea conditions. | The distance between İzmir and Çeşme is approximately 87 km. |
| Seferihisar | Generally shallow near the shore. Deepens further out. | Mostly fine sand, though rocky in some areas. | Between June and September, when the sea water warms up and the wind dies down. | The distance between İzmir and Seferihisar is approximately 50 km. |
| Foça | Around 3-5 meters near Eski Foça. Reaches 12-17 meters off the coves. | Generally stony, pebbly and sandy in places. | In June, July, August and September. | The distance between İzmir and Foça is approximately 70 km. |
| Urla | Generally shallow, with a gradually deepening structure. | Mostly sandy seabed. | From early June to the end of September. | The distance between İzmir and Urla is approximately 40 km. |
| Alaçatı | Shallow up to 200-300 meters from the shore in surfing areas. | Fine sand or rocky depending on the area. | Between June and September, when the sea water and the weather warm up. | The distance between İzmir and Alaçatı is approximately 75 km. |
| Dikili | The entry depth in the harbor area is around 5 meters. | Generally a seabed of fine golden sand. | Between June and September, when the summer season begins. | The distance between İzmir and Dikili is approximately 125 km. |
| Karaburun | Around 10-20 meters near the shore. It has a rapidly deepening structure. | Stony, pebbly and sandy in places. | September for calm, between June and August for the summer season. | The distance between İzmir and Karaburun is approximately 100 km. |
Çeşme beaches
When summer holidays in İzmir are mentioned, Çeşme is usually the first destination that comes to mind. With its beaches, historical landmarks, museums, and cuisine, the district welcomes thousands of local and international visitors each year from May to September.
Çeşme’s beaches are remarkably diverse. Ilıca Beach, with its wide sandy shore and shallow waters fed by thermal springs, is ideal for families. Altınkum Beach is known for its golden sand, while Ayayorgi Cove offers a more social beach club atmosphere. Pırlanta Beach is a favorite among windsurfers. Other popular options in the area include Sakızlı Cove, Kocakarı Beach, and Boyalık Cove.
The history of Çeşme dates back to the 7th century BC. We recommend adding Çeşme Castle to your itinerary. Built in 1508 by Mir Haydar, the governor of Aydın at the time, during the reign of Bayezid II, the castle now houses the Çeşme Archaeology Museum and has been on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List since 2020. While in Çeşme, the caravanserai from the era of Suleiman the Magnificent, the Hellenistic and Roman ruins, and the historic fountains that gave the district its name are also worth seeing.
On the culinary front, Çeşme offers some of the Aegean’s most beloved flavors. Seafood, mastic pudding, kumru sandwiches, and mastic cookies are among the local essentials.
Alaçatı beaches
Alaçatı, connected to Çeşme, has become so popular a holiday destination that it deserves its own category. With its stone houses adorned with bougainvillea and geraniums, narrow historic streets, and lively nightlife, it ranks among Türkiye’s most iconic summer escapes.
Among the beaches that make Alaçatı a highlight of İzmir’s coastline, Ilıca Beach, Delikli Cove, Çark Beach, Cleopatra Cove, and Piyade Cove Beach are the best known. Çark Beach is considered the windsurfing capital of Türkiye and has hosted a stage of the World Windsurf Championship for many years. Its shallow waters and steady winds draw both experienced surfers and beginners to the same shore. If you are interested in water sports, we highly recommend taking a lesson and trying it for yourself during your visit to Alaçatı.
Seferihisar
If you are looking for a quieter holiday than the lively atmosphere of Çeşme, Seferihisar is the perfect choice. In 2009, the district became the first in Türkiye to join the global Cittaslow network and earned its “Slow City” title. Founded in Italy in 1999, the Cittaslow movement seeks to resist the uniformity brought by globalization by protecting local cuisine, architecture, traditions, and craftsmanship.
One of the first places to visit in Seferihisar is the ancient city of Teos. With its Temple of Dionysos, agora, theater, cisterns, and ruins of an ancient harbor, it ranks among the region’s most important archaeological sites. Another stop that completes the historical atmosphere is Sığacık. Its stone houses with bay windows, narrow streets, and the producer market held every Sunday within the walls of Sığacık Castle have become the district’s signature.
On the beach side, Akkum Beach is the best known. Blue Flag-certified, covered with fine sand, and usually windy, it is especially popular for windsurfing and sailing. Entry to the public beach section is free, while sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented for varying fees depending on the operator. Akarca Beach, with its shallow, calm waters, is more suitable for families with children and is also a Blue Flag public beach. Known as the “Maldives of Seferihisar,” Ekmeksiz Beach, within Sığacık Ekmeksiz Nature Park, opened to the public in the 2020 summer season and quickly became popular. The path down to the beach passes through pine trees.
Other alternatives for swimming in Seferihisar include Doğanbey and Ürkmez beaches, Çamçaz Cove and Girlen Beach.
Foça beaches
Foça is one of the most distinctive destinations in İzmir. In this peaceful coastal town, you’ll find everything you could want for a relaxing Aegean getaway, from historic streets to beautiful beaches.
Divided into Old Foça and New Foça, the region is best explored by renting a car. This way, you can stop to swim in the stunning coves scattered between the two towns.
Foça’s history dates back nearly 2,700 years to the ancient Ionian city of Phokaia. The town takes its name from the Mediterranean monk seals that inhabit the surrounding islands. Among the places to add to your itinerary are the Persian Tomb Monument, the Fatih Mosque, which was converted from a church during the reign of Mehmed the Conqueror, Beşkapılar Castle, the medieval Foça Aqueduct, and the old windmills. For panoramic sunset views, Seyir Tepesi offers one of the best vantage points in the region.
One of Foça’s most iconic landmarks is the Siren Rocks. According to Homer’s “Odyssey,” these were the rocks where the sirens lived, and Odysseus had himself tied to his ship’s mast to avoid crashing into them. Today, the rocky islets near Orak Island are protected as a Special Environmental Protection Area because they provide habitat for Mediterranean monk seals. Swimming, diving, and camping on the islands are strictly prohibited. However, the islets can be observed from a distance via boat tours departing from Foça Harbor.
As for the beaches, Hanedan Beach, Sazlıca Cove, Çanak Cove, and Mersinaki Cove are standout destinations. New Foça Public Beach is a Blue Flag beach with free entry. Kosova Beach, within Mersinaki Cove, is a fee-based family facility and is especially popular for camping and picnics.
Urla beaches
For many people looking to move from İstanbul or other major cities to a coastal town, Urla is one of the first places that comes to mind. With its gastronomy-focused atmosphere, crystal-clear air, and untouched coves, it has continued to grow in popularity over the years.
Beyond its beaches, places to add to your Urla itinerary include Karantina Island, the ancient city of Klazomenai, the Köstem Olive Oil Museum, Barbaros Village, Bademler Village, Sanat Sokağı for local souvenirs, and the weekly Malgaca Market.
On the beach side, Urla offers two main coastal routes. Heading south leads to quieter spots mostly known to locals, including Altınköy Beach, Demircili Beach, Deniz Yıldızı Beach, Melengeç Beach, and Bodrum Cove. Along the northern coast, you’ll find Çeşmealtı Beach, Kum Denizi Beach, Özbek Akkum Beach, and Gülbahçe Shore. Yassıca Island is also a popular stop on boat tours.
Dikili beaches
Located directly across from Lesbos Island, Dikili is tailor-made for a peaceful holiday. The district is also rich in history: the ancient cities of Atarneus and Pitane, along with Çandarlı Castle, merit a place on every history lover’s itinerary. Pergamon, the region’s most famous ancient city, is also just a short distance away from Dikili.
On the nature side, hiking enthusiasts can explore Atatürk Botanical Garden, Karagöl Nature Park, Nebiler Village, and Lovers Waterfall.
As for beaches, Kayra Beach, Dikili Public Beach, Hayıtlı Cove, Küçük Zindancık Cove, Çandarlı Beach, and Pissa Beach are among the first that come to mind. Some of the coves also offer camping opportunities.
Karaburun beaches
For those seeking peace and quiet amid pristine nature, Karaburun is one of the best options among İzmir’s beaches. Located north of Urla, it is İzmir’s smallest district. With its charming villages, untouched landscapes, and lesser-known coves, it feels like a hidden paradise.
Sarpıncık Lighthouse, Sazak Village, and Ayşe Kadın Mosque are among the district’s cultural landmarks. Exploring the small villages and secluded coves scattered across the Karaburun Peninsula by car is one of the best ways to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Among the leading beach options in Karaburun are Mimoza Cove, Ayı Balığı Cove, İncirliköy Beach, Hamzabükü, Badem Bükü, and Boyabağı Cove. Some coves also offer campsites. The region, which is becoming a favorite destination for divers, is suitable for both scuba diving and free diving. While passing through Balıklıova, don’t forget to pick up some of the area’s famous flour cookies.
Frequently asked questions
Which beaches are the best in İzmir?
Your beach choice in İzmir depends on the type of holiday you are seeking. For a lively, social getaway, Ilıca Beach in Çeşme and Çark Beach in Alaçatı stand out; for a quieter holiday, Ekmeksiz and Akarca beaches in Seferihisar, along with the Mimoza and Hamzabükü coves in Karaburun, are favorites. For a more natural, untouched experience, Sazlıca Bay and Çanak Bay in Foça stand out.
Which beaches should you visit in Çeşme?
In Çeşme, Ilıca Beach is a favorite among families for its wide sandy shore and shallow waters; Altınkum Beach is known for its golden sands; Ayayorgi Bay for its lively beach clubs; and Pırlanta Beach for windsurfing. Sakızlı Bay, Boyalık Bay, and Kocakarı Beach are also good alternatives for those looking to avoid the crowds.
Where can you swim in Seferihisar?
The best-known places to swim in Seferihisar include Akkum Beach, Akarca Beach, and Ekmeksiz Beach near Sığacık. In addition, Girlen Beach, Teos Ancient City Beach, and the shores of Doğanbey and Ürkmez are popular spots.
Is the sea cold in Seferihisar?
Yes, the seawater at Seferihisar’s beaches, especially around Akkum, is noticeably cool. Due to underground water sources and constant winds, temperatures remain lower than at other Aegean beaches. In September, the sea is slightly milder than in the peak summer months.
Is Akarca Beach in Seferihisar paid?
Akarca Beach is a public beach, so entry is free. Charges may apply only to sunbeds, umbrellas, or areas operated by private businesses. A nearby Blue Flag municipal facility is also available.
Which beach should you visit in Foça?
The most popular places to swim in Foça include Yeni Foça Public Beach, Hanedan Beach, Sazlıca Bay, Çanak Bay, Mersinaki Bay, and Karakum Beach. Along the road between Old Foça and Yeni Foça, there are also many small coves accessible by car.
Is the sea clean in Old Foça?
Karakum Public Beach in Old Foça holds a Blue Flag award, and its seawater meets high standards. Yeni Foça Public Beach is also Blue Flag certified. While the beaches are generally clean, some coves have rocky seabeds, so sea shoes are recommended.
Is Kosova Beach in Foça paid?
Yes, Kosova Beach in Mersinaki Bay is a privately operated, fee-based facility. The entrance fee usually includes sunbeds and umbrellas. The facility also offers tent, caravan, and tiny house accommodation options. Entrance fees are typically higher on weekends and public holidays than on weekdays.
Which is the best beach in Urla?
On Urla’s southern coast, Altınköy Beach and Demircili Beach stand out for their shallow, crystal-clear waters. On the northern coast, Çeşmealtı Beach and Özbek Akkum Beach are popular among locals. Yassıca Island, meanwhile, is an untouched spot accessible by boat tours.
Is the sea clean in Urla?
Urla’s southern coast is known for its cleanliness, thanks to its geographical location and exposure to the open sea. The region also has Blue Flag beaches. The northern coast, due to its gulf-like structure, can occasionally experience calmer, more stagnant waters.
Where can you swim in Alaçatı?
In Alaçatı, Çark Beach is the best-known windsurfing spot, known for its shallow waters. Ilıca Beach (the section within Alaçatı’s borders), Delikli Bay, Cleopatra Bay, and Piyade Bay are also popular alternatives.
Where can you swim in Dikili?
In Dikili, the best-known beaches include Kayra Beach, Dikili Public Beach, Hayıtlı Bay, Küçük Zindancık Bay, and Çandarlı Beach. Pissa Beach offers a quieter alternative. Some coves also permit camping.
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