Istanbul, the capital of Turkey, is located next to the Bosphorus Strait, the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, and its beautiful and numerous beaches are among the sights of this city.
Rich culture and architecture, along with other sights of Istanbul such as historical attractions, attract millions of tourists from all over the world to the capital of Türkiye throughout the year. In the meantime, there are few people who are aware of the existence of the best beaches in Istanbul on the edge of the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea; Beaches with numerous recreational facilities such as swimming, boating, surfing, kitesurfing and diving along with luxury restaurants and accommodations that will bring you a unique day away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Among the best beaches in Istanbul, we can mention Nonstop Beach, Bebek Beach, Ozonia Beach, Babylon Kilios Beach, Shile Aqua Beach, Amirgan Beach, Green Aqua Beach, etc., which attract many tourists in summer and early autumn. Stay with us to take you on an exciting trip to the beaches of Istanbul.
The best beaches in Istanbul:
Non Stop Beach
- Black Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 30 km
- Address: Kumköy, Plaj Yolu Cd. No:28, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Petr Arcanum
Noisy parties and concerts on the “Non Stop” beach attract many young people to this beach.
Non Stop Beach is one of the best beaches in Istanbul, famous for its noisy parties and concerts. This beach is located next to the Kilios village of Istanbul and is a suitable place for summer and water sports and recreation such as surfing and kite riding, swimming in the sea, boating, beach volleyball, football, basketball and tennis.
On the non-stop beach, the fun doesn’t stop even for a moment on a summer day; A place where the experience is like being in an Istanbul water park. Along this beach, there are many chairs arranged so that visitors can relax and sunbathe on them after or before swimming. Tourists can easily go to this beach from Taksim Square by shuttle buses.
Ozonia Beach
- Black Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 30 km
- Address: Demirci, Plaj Yolu Cd., 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Joris Cocquebert
Uzunya Beach is located in the north of Istanbul. In the past, this beach was popular among fishermen in Istanbul; But over the past few years, it has been renovated and quickly became a popular and crowded beach in the summer season. This beach is considered one of the most natural and unspoiled beaches in Istanbul, with wooden umbrellas, beach chairs, seafood restaurants serving fish and fresh seafood, and cafeterias serving grilled chicken, meatballs, and local drinks, great for spending a day. It is different in Istanbul.
Ozonia Beach is a quiet, clean and pleasant place; A beach that looks more like movies than a real beach and is a suitable place for family fun. This beach is located in the village of Kilyos and you can camp there or walk along the hiking trails. Don’t miss watching the motorcycle racing. The best time to visit Ozonia Beach is July to September (mid-July to mid-October).
The coast of Babylon Kilios
- Black Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 30 km
- Address: Demirciköy Mevki Kilyos Yolu, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: itinari.com. Photographer: Unknown
Babylon Kilyos sandy beach is one of the most popular and best beaches in Istanbul among tourists, which attracts music lovers to this beach. Regular and continuous music festivals at Babylon Kilios Beach have varied programs. In addition, the existence of high-quality restaurants with the possibility of serving Mediterranean cuisine have made this beach a popular place among families and young people to spend a sunny day. Don’t miss tasting grilled fish burgers and cheese sandwiches at Babylon Kilios Beach.
Shile Aqua Beach
- Black Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 80 km
- Address: Balibey Mahallesi Ağlayankaya Caddesi, Halay Sk. D:No:2, 34980 Şile/İstanbul, Turkey
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Dr.salahalden barakat
Sile Aqua Beach, Sile or Aqua (Sile Aqua Beach) in the northwest of Istanbul is another spectacular beach in Istanbul, which, in addition to numerous recreational and comfort facilities, such as famous Istanbul restaurants and traditional and modern cafes, is the second highest lighthouse in Europe. contains To access this beach, you can use city buses to reach Uzumkom area and Bali Bay neighborhood.
Babek Beach
- The coast between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 10 km
- Address: Bebek, Cevdet Paşa Cd. No: 30, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Unknown
Bebek Sahili Beach is located in the Besiktas district of Istanbul, on the edge of the Bosphorus Strait. This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Istanbul, which is located in the European part of the city, and it is considered an attractive destination for recreation and sightseeing for most of the tourists in Istanbul. Walking, cycling, visiting the nearby sights, eating and snacking in cafes, restaurants, etc. are only part of the activities that tourists will have the opportunity to do in Babek Beach.
Babek beach has always been the subject of many Turkish movies and series due to its many charms. Bebek Park, the Egyptian Consulate and the best cafes and restaurants in Istanbul can be mentioned among the sights along this beautiful beach. However, Bebek is considered a luxury and expensive beach.
Degirman Beach, Borno
- Marmara Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 20 km
- Address: Heybeliada, Adalar No:63, 34973 Adalar/İstanbul, Turkey
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: yoldakiizler.com. Photographer: Unknown
Degirman Borno beach is for people who love nature
Değirmenburnu Plajı beach is located on Heybeli Island, the second largest island in Istanbul. An island famous for its narrow beaches and pine trees. This beach is suitable for people who love nature; Because a natural park is located near it and visitors can enjoy a green and dense atmosphere next to the blue sea. The best time to visit this beach is from July to October (mid-July to mid-November).
Green Aqua Beach
- Marmara Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 25 km
- Address: Heybeliada, 34973 Adalar/İstanbul, Turkey
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Igor Checkanof
Aqua Green beach is one of the best beaches in Istanbul on Hibli Ada Island, a short distance from the city center. To access this beach, you need to board a boat or small ships from the neighborhoods of Besiktas, Kadikoy and Eminunu. Green Aqua Beach attracts locals and tourists with its stunning views and refreshing atmosphere. A recreation center, educational classes and a restaurant are among the facilities of this beach; A place where you can make a good day with friends or family members.
Floria Gunesh Beach
- Marmara Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 30 km
- Address: Basınköy, Florya Sahil Parkı, 34153 Bakırköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: beachsearcher.com. Photographer: Unknown
Florya Güneş Beach is located next to the Sea of Marmara in Istanbul and near one of the prosperous neighborhoods of this city called Florya. This sandy, beautiful and clean beach was one of the favorite beaches of Atatürk, the first president of Türkiye. For this reason, his residence on this beach has become a museum, and today tourists can visit this museum after visiting the beach.
Olive Shell Beach
- Marmara Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 35 km
- Address: Büyükada – Maden, Saliha yegane meydanı no1, 34010 Adalar/İstanbul, Turkey
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Yorgo Teodoridis
Ilio Sadaf beach is one of the popular areas for wedding celebrations
Elio Sedef Beach is one of the oldest and best southern beaches of Istanbul on an island near the city center (Sedef Island) that should not be missed. This beach will blow your mind with its mesmerizing views and dense green atmosphere.
Live music, performances by local DJs, restaurants serving a variety of local cuisines make Olio Sadaf Beach a wonderful place to spend a day in Istanbul. This beach is one of the popular areas for celebrations, especially weddings.
Riva Beach
- Black Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 35 km
- Address: Riva, 34829 Beykoz/İstanbul, Turkey
- The most famous beaches in Istanbul
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Gencay Gny
Riva is the name of a small village in Bekoz district in the northwest of Istanbul; A village that has pleasant sandy beaches as well as other attractions and beautiful views. Riva Beach is very busy on weekends and its unique beauty and charm will dazzle your eyes. To reach this beach, you can use a bus from the center of Bekoz region.
Golden or Golden Beach
- The coast between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 10 km
- Address: Beylerbeyi, Beylerbeyi İskele Cd. No:4, 34676 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey
- The closest beaches in Istanbul to Taksim Square
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Lyudmila С.
Istanbul’s Golden Beach is located in the Rumelishisari area near the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea and has a wide variety of beach activities including beach volleyball, pedal boats, rock climbing, mini golf, snorkeling, surfing, walking on this beach, etc. Tourists can also go to first-class restaurants and fast food restaurants on this beach to choose from a varied menu of international and local dishes. There are more than 20 wooden bungalows and luxury boutique hotels where you can stay in the Golden Beach of Istanbul.
You can swim, sunbathe and make a day full of peace and silence in the pristine Golden Beach of Istanbul. This beach has three piers and is located right in the area connecting the Black Sea to Marmara.
Soma Beach
- Black Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 30 km
- Address: Gümüşdere, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
- The closest beaches in Istanbul to Taksim Square
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Arya ŞEN
Suma beach in the north of Istanbul is a beautiful and heavenly beach with attractive facilities such as residences and exhibitions where various music festivals are held. This golden, sandy and clean beach is surrounded by green and pristine hills and is a great destination to escape from the busy and urban environment. Soma beach is the right place to meet the locals and understand the spirit of Istanbul. To access this beach, you can take a taxi from Taksim Square.
Soma Beach entertainment includes swimming in the sea, yoga classes, pilates, dancing, local concerts, etc. The area of this beach is about 23 thousand square meters and most of the visitors go to it in the evenings and nights. Because Soma Beach has an area for camping and pitching tents; Of course, you must coordinate with the beach in advance. On Fridays and Sundays, Soma turns into one of the best sights in Istanbul at night; Local DJs organize parties on this beach that are very fun and burn calories and last until midnight and sometimes until 6 in the morning.
The best time to visit Soma Beach is from March to October (mid-March to mid-November). A wooden path is designed for walking on this beach; In addition, beach chairs and umbrellas are also available for you to relax under the summer sun and by the blue sea.
Coward’s Beach
- The coast between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 20 km
- Address: Kireçburnu, 34457 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
- Istanbul beaches for swimming
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: B. Çağlar Yağcı
Terso Beach is one of the beaches close to the center of Istanbul where you can swim. This beach is included in the category of non-sandy beaches on the edge of the Bosphorus Strait, and despite being close to the city center and crowded environments, it will provide tourists with a clean and peaceful atmosphere.
Treso Beach is a free beach where you can swim, sunbathe and watch the surrounding scenery. The level of facilities on this beach is not very high compared to luxury beaches; However, you will have access to umbrellas and sunbeds, swimming facilities, and small local restaurants and cafes. Access to Terso Beach from Istanbul city center is simple. For this, you need to take a taxi or bus to Sarir neighborhood.
Kadbestan beach
- Marmara Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 20 km
- Address: Caddebostan, Park İçi Yolu, 34728 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Turkey
- The closest beaches in Istanbul to Taksim Square
Photo source: 1001beach.co; Photographer: Unknown
Caddebostan beach is located in the Asian part of Istanbul (Kadikoy area) and is a set of three beaches with 450-meter, 300-meter, and 250-meter shorelines, two of which are free and the other one with the possibility of using a canopy and shower. There is an entrance fee. If you plan to swim, this beach is the right place for you due to the presence of a bay in it; Just keep in mind that this beach gets crowded on weekends and after school hours. On Kadbestan beach, stands, restaurants and numerous facilities such as sunbeds, changing cabins, mobile towers and lifeguards are intended for tourists. These facilities have been installed by Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.
Buyuk Chekmeje beach
- Marmara Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 50 km
- Address: Fatih, Kordonboyu Cd., 34500 Büyükçekmece/İstanbul, Türkiye
- Istanbul beaches for swimming
Photo source: beachsearcher.com; Photographer: Unknown
You can swim on Buyuk Chekmeje beach or eat and drink in cafes and restaurants.
Büyükçekmece Plajı is one of the European and so-called aristocratic neighborhoods in the east of this city, which has many historical places to visit and some of Istanbul’s famous shopping centers are located there. The beach of this neighborhood is one of the best beaches in Istanbul on the edge of the Sea of Marmara, which will make a memorable summer day for you with numerous recreational facilities.
It is possible to swim at Buyuk Chekmeje beach. This beach is also famous for high-quality cafes and restaurants, and tourists are very satisfied with the quality of the food served, especially fish sandwiches. Buyuk Chekmeje beach is a suitable place for family fun. The old stone bridge is also considered one of the sights of Buyuk Chekmeje beach; The bridge built by Mimar Sinan, the famous royal architect.
Burch Beach
- Black Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 30 km
- Address: Gümüşdere, Sarıtepe Kampüsü, 34470 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
- Istanbul beaches for swimming
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Emre Kaşıkara
Burç Beach is one of the most famous northern beaches of Istanbul with giant waves on the edge of the Black Sea. As soon as you enter this beach, you will be faced with colorful umbrellas and sunbeds, restaurants, numerous cafes (with a capacity of more than 200 people), a parking lot with a capacity of 600 cars and well-equipped shops. Borch beach is one kilometer long and with its unique blue waves, it is considered a suitable place to experience marine and beach activities in Istanbul. This part of the sea is shallow up to 100 meters; For this reason, it can be classified as a suitable beach for swimming.
There are a variety of marine activities such as swimming in the sea, kite riding, kite boarding, boating (double hulled boats or catamaran), windsurfing, beach volleyball, beach soccer, and surfing. Every year, surfing competitions are also held on this beach. You have to pay an entrance fee to enter Burch Beach. The capacity of this beach is about two thousand people.
Borch beach belongs to Istanbul Bogazici University; So, if you are a student in Türkiye and have a student card, use your entrance discount. Note that due to the proximity of this beach to the city of Istanbul, the people of this city and tourists go to this sandy beach on weekends; So if you are looking for a cozy place, go to Burch on midweek days. The best time to visit this beach is July and August (mid-July to mid-September).
Naki Bay Beach
- Marmara Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 30 km
- Address: Maden, NAKİBEY ÇIKMAZI NO:17, 34970 Adalar/İstanbul, Turkey
- Istanbul beaches for swimming
Photo source: nakibey.com. Photographer: Unknown
Nakibey Beach is one of the safest southern beaches of Istanbul on an island near the city center (Buyuk Ada Island), which was opened in 1984. The sea on this coast is a little deep; For this reason, swimming in this area is completely safe, and families can have fun and spend time with each other here with peace of mind. The wooden huts of this beach are also a unique place for a one-day stay with your loved ones.
Lay on the sand at Nucky Bay, soak up the sun and get a tan, or build a sandcastle with your kids. You can also buy fries and mini burgers from the food stalls around this beach. To access Naki Bay beach, you can take the metro from Taksim Square to Kabataş and then take a boat or small boats.
Solar Beach
- Black Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 30 km
- Address: Kumköy, kilya cad no 32/34, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
- Istanbul beaches for swimming
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Bozorgmehr Behrang
Various music festivals and concerts are held in Solar Beach most days of the year
Solar Beach is one of the largest northern beaches of Istanbul on the Black Sea coast in the village of Kilios. In this one-kilometer beach, you can enjoy a variety of attractive and exciting recreational facilities such as swimming pool, rock climbing wall, sports club, jet ski, rock climbing, beach soccer, beach volleyball, surfing, banana boat, karting, kite riding, skating, basketball, etc. become Solar Beach hosts music festivals and various concerts on most days of the year; Events that have countless fans among locals and tourists.
Tasting local Turkish cuisine at Solar Beach restaurants is another experience you should have in this attraction. On this beach, you will meet young people who have come here to have fun, enjoy the atmosphere full of music, relax and even stay here. There is also an aromatherapy center and a beauty salon in Solar Beach, which will make a fun and relaxing day for you. The best time to visit Solar Beach is from March to September (mid-March to mid-October).
Amirgan beach
- The coast between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 15 km
- Address: Emirgan, 34467 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
- The closest beaches in Istanbul to Taksim Square
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Future 125x
Emirgan Sahil Park and Beach on the edge of the Bosphorus is a great opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and watch the seagulls, boats and ships passing by and enjoy a great meal or snack.
Amirgan Beach is another beautiful and lovely beach in Istanbul, which is located in the European part of this city. This beach is located at the end of the famous Amirgan Park, a park with the best and most attractive amenities and entertainment facilities. Holding various flower and plant festivals in Amirgan Park is a good opportunity for those interested in flowers and plants to see the spectacular view of the Bosphorus Strait from Amirgan Beach in addition to visiting the exhibition.
Ozunkom Beach
- Black Sea coast
- Distance to Istanbul city center: 80 km
- Address: Balibey, 34980 Şile/İstanbul, Turkey
- Istanbul beaches for swimming
If you are looking for a suitable beach for swimming in Istanbul, go to Uzunkum Beach. This beach is located in Shile area and is a safe and very clean area. Ozonkom beach is equipped with showers and sunbeds and has a special beach club called “Aqua beach club” where you can enjoy beach parties. To access this beach, you can take bus line 139 from the Asian section of “Uskudar”.
Photo source: Googlemap; Photographer: Burak Toydemir
If you have been to the beaches of Istanbul or know another beach, share your experiences and opinions with us and other Kojaro users.
Cover photo source: lonelyplanet.com; Photographer: Unknown
Frequently asked questions
What are the best beaches in Istanbul?
Nanstop Beach, Bebek Beach, Ozonia Beach, Babylon Kilios Beach, Shile Aqua Beach, Amirgan Beach, Green Aqua Beach, Floria Gunesh Beach, Elio Sadaf Beach, Burch Beach and Naki Bay Beach are among the best beaches in Istanbul.
Which is the best beach in Istanbul for swimming?
The best beaches in Istanbul for swimming are Nanstop Beach, Golden Beach, Soma Beach, Terso Beach, Kadbestan Beach, Buyuk Cekmeje Beach, Burch Beach, and Naki Bay Beach.
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