Beaches of Alanya

Planning a beach holiday in Turkey? The beaches of Alanya offer golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning Mediterranean views. From the famous Cleopatra Beach to the peaceful shores of Ulas and Incekum, discover 8 of the best beaches in Alanya and find the perfect spot for your holiday.

Cleopatra Beach – The Most Famous Beach in Alanya

When talking about the best beaches of Alanya, Cleopatra Beach is usually the first place that comes to mind. Located near the city center, this beautiful stretch of coastline is one of the most popular destinations for both tourists and locals.

According to local legend, Cleopatra once swam here, and the beach’s fine sand was brought from Egypt especially for her. Although the story is difficult to verify, the beach’s beauty is undeniable.

What Makes Cleopatra Beach Special?

• Beautiful golden sand and clear turquoise water.
• Stunning views of Alanya Castle and the Mediterranean Sea.
• A long seaside promenade with cafés, restaurants, and shops.
• Easy access from hotels and the city center.
• Facilities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Things to Do at Cleopatra Beach

Cleopatra Beach is perfect for travelers who enjoy an active beach holiday. Depending on the season and available operators, you can try activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, beach volleyball, and snorkeling.

You can also rent a sunbed and umbrella or simply bring your own towel and enjoy the sunshine.

The water becomes deep relatively quickly in some areas, so families with young children should pay attention to swimming conditions and designated safe areas.

Best for: Swimming, water sports, couples, and travelers who want to stay close to Alanya’s attractions.

According to Alanya Municipality:

“Alanya Belediyesi, Kleopatra Plajı’nı berrak Akdeniz suları ve Mavi Bayrak statüsüyle öne çıkararak, plajın şehrin en tanınmış kıyı turizmi noktalarından biri olduğunu vurgulamaktadır.”

“Alanya Municipality highlights Cleopatra Beach for its clear Mediterranean waters and Blue Flag status, making it one of the city’s most recognizable coastal attractions.”

Keykubat Beach – A Relaxing Beach Near Alanya City Center

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere than Cleopatra Beach, Keykubat Beach is an excellent alternative.

Located east of Alanya’s harbor, this long beach offers a more relaxed setting while remaining close to the city’s hotels, restaurants, and everyday attractions.

Keykubat is particularly popular with visitors who want to enjoy the Mediterranean without spending the entire day in crowded tourist areas.

What to Expect at Keykubat Beach

• A long shoreline with plenty of space to relax.
• Generally gentle waves, depending on weather conditions.
• Beautiful views of the Mediterranean coastline.
• Nearby parks, cafés, and restaurants.
• Convenient access from many hotels in eastern Alanya.

The beach can be livelier during weekends and the summer holiday season, but it often offers a more laid-back atmosphere than the main tourist beaches.

Best for: Couples, families, relaxed swimming, and visitors staying near eastern Alanya.

Portakal Beach – Beautiful Coastal Views and Peaceful Surroundings

Located between Alanya’s city center and the Oba area, Portakal Beach is a lovely destination for travelers looking for beautiful coastal scenery and a less crowded atmosphere.

Also known as Orange Beach, this stretch of coastline offers a combination of natural beauty and convenient access to nearby residential areas.

Why Visit Portakal Beach?

• Beautiful views of the Taurus Mountains.
• A mix of sandy and pebbly sections.
• A more relaxed atmosphere than some central beaches.
• Clear Mediterranean water on suitable swimming days.
• Lovely scenery for coastal photography.

Portakal Beach is also a great place to enjoy a peaceful walk along the coast, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

Keep in mind that some sections have stones and pebbles, so bringing water shoes can make your visit more comfortable.

Best for: Photography, peaceful beach days, swimming, and travelers who enjoy scenic coastal areas.

Ulas Beach – A Hidden Coastal Escape Near Alanya

Looking for a beach surrounded by nature? Ulas Beach is one of the most attractive spots to explore outside Alanya’s busy city center.

Located west of the city, this small bay is surrounded by rocky cliffs, pine trees, and beautiful Mediterranean scenery. Its natural setting makes it feel quite different from the larger and more developed beaches.

What Makes Ulas Beach Worth Visiting?

• A beautiful natural bay surrounded by greenery.
• Shaded areas beneath pine trees.
• Picnic spots and outdoor seating areas.
• A quieter atmosphere away from the busiest tourist areas.
• Scenic views of the Mediterranean coastline.

Ulas is especially appealing to visitors who enjoy picnics and spending time outdoors. It is also a popular choice among local families looking for a relaxing day by the sea.

The beach is smaller than Cleopatra and Keykubat, so visiting earlier in the day can help you enjoy a more comfortable experience.

Best for: Nature lovers, picnics, couples, and travelers looking for a quieter beach.

Incekum Beach – One of the Best Sandy Beaches Near Alanya

If soft sand and shallow water are high on your beach holiday wishlist, Incekum Beach is definitely worth visiting.

Located in the Avsallar area, approximately 25 kilometers west of Alanya, Incekum is famous for its fine golden sand and beautiful turquoise water.

The name “Incekum” means “fine sand” in Turkish, which perfectly describes the beach.

Why Is Incekum Beach Popular with Families?

• Soft, fine sand that is comfortable for walking.
• Generally shallow water near the shore.
• A gentle beach entrance in many sections.
• Nearby cafés and places to enjoy refreshments.
• A beautiful natural setting for swimming and relaxing.

Compared with some of Alanya’s deeper-water beaches, Incekum can be a more comfortable choice for families with children.

However, sea conditions can change, so parents should always supervise children while swimming.

You can also combine your beach visit with a trip to Avsallar or explore nearby attractions.

Best for: Families with children, sandy beach lovers, swimming, and relaxing summer holidays.

Damlatas Beach – A Beautiful Beach Near Alanya’s Famous Cave

Damlatas Beach is another popular coastal destination, particularly for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxing beach day.

Located close to Damlatas Cave and the western end of Cleopatra Beach, it offers convenient access to some of Alanya’s most famous attractions.

Things to Enjoy at Damlatas Beach

• Clear Mediterranean water.
• Easy access to Damlatas Cave.
• Beautiful views of Alanya’s coastline.
• Convenient location near cafés and restaurants.
• A great place to relax after exploring the city.

One of the biggest advantages of Damlatas Beach is its location. You can spend the morning exploring the famous cave and then enjoy an afternoon swimming or sunbathing by the sea.

Best for: Sightseeing, swimming, short beach visits, and first-time visitors to Alanya.

Mahmutlar Beach – A Long Beach Away from the City Center

Located east of Alanya, Mahmutlar Beach is a good option for visitors staying in the Mahmutlar neighborhood or looking to explore more of the surrounding coastline.

This area offers a different atmosphere from central Alanya, with residential buildings, local cafés, and a long Mediterranean shoreline.

Why Visit Mahmutlar Beach?

• A long coastline with several beach access points.
• Less crowded sections compared with central tourist beaches.
• Nearby cafés, shops, and restaurants.
• A convenient option for visitors staying in Mahmutlar.
• Beautiful views of the Mediterranean.

Some sections are pebbly or rocky, and the sea can be rougher depending on weather conditions. Beach shoes are a useful addition to your travel bag.

Best for: Longer stays, local experiences, peaceful walks, and visitors staying in eastern Alanya.

Kestel Beach – A Peaceful Spot for Nature Lovers

Kestel Beach is another beautiful option along Alanya’s eastern coastline. Known for its quieter surroundings and relaxed atmosphere, it is ideal for travelers who prefer spending time away from busy tourist areas.

The beach offers a combination of sandy and pebbly sections, with lovely views of the Mediterranean.

What Can You Expect at Kestel Beach?

• A relatively peaceful coastal atmosphere.
• Beautiful sea views and natural surroundings.
• Opportunities for swimming when conditions are suitable.
• A relaxing place for morning walks.
• Easy access from the Kestel neighborhood.

If you enjoy quiet mornings by the sea, Kestel is a lovely place to visit. Watching the sunrise or enjoying a traditional Turkish tea nearby can make your beach day even more memorable.

Best for: Nature lovers, peaceful beach walks, and visitors looking for a quieter coastal experience.

Which Beach in Alanya Is Best for You?

Not sure which beach to visit during your holiday? Here is a quick comparison to help you choose.

Tips for Visiting the Beaches of Alanya

Before heading to the Mediterranean coast, here are some practical tips to make your beach experience more enjoyable.

1. Choose the Best Time to Visit

The beach season in Alanya is generally best from late spring through early autumn. July and August are particularly hot and busy, while May, June, September, and October can offer a more comfortable combination of warm weather and fewer crowds.

2. Bring Beach Shoes

Although several beaches have soft sand, others include pebbles and rocky sections. Water shoes can be especially useful at Portakal, Mahmutlar, and Kestel.

3. Protect Yourself from the Sun

The Mediterranean sun can be intense, particularly during the middle of the day. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of drinking water.

4. Arrive Early to Find a Good Spot

Popular beaches such as Cleopatra and Incekum can become busy during the summer. Arriving in the morning gives you a better chance of finding a comfortable place to relax.

5. Check Sea Conditions Before Swimming

Wind, waves, and currents can change throughout the day. Always pay attention to local swimming warnings and lifeguard instructions.

6. Explore More Than One Beach

Each beach has a different atmosphere. If you have several days in Alanya, try visiting both the popular central beaches and quieter coastal areas outside the city.

About us: