When hearing the name, ‘Antalya’, one tends to think of the city itself, which attracts both Turkish and international visitors seeking sun, fun and relaxation. But, Antalya is much more than just a city. In fact, it’s a whole province, covering an area of over 20,000 km2. Situated on the South Western Mediterranean, its coastline winds around bays and peninsulas all the way from Patara in the west to Gazipasa in the east. With 640 km of incredible coastline, one would expect it to have some pretty amazing beaches, and in this regard, Antalya certainly doesn’t disappoint, boasting some of the world’s best, including 202 ‘Blue Flag’ beaches.

Choosing the best is impossible, each has its own attraction. But, just to whet your appetite, here’s a few of the outstanding ones:

KONYAALTI Beach in the city of Antalya

The promenade has just undergone a massive re-development and is now a wonderful stretch of cafes, walking and bicycle tracks, play areas and splash fountains. Most of the cafes also have their own beach section, offering lounges and umbrellas, where you can order cold drinks and food from the café menu and enjoy a fun atmosphere with music and activities. The beaches are large pebble and the water is crystal clear and a beautiful temperature, especially from June onwards. If you prefer to find your own spot away from the serviced beaches, there’s  plenty of space for that too. Just take your umbrella and towel and you’re set for the day.

LARA Beach in the city of Antalya

Lara is very similar to Konyaalti with the services it provides, but the main difference is that Lara is a sandy beach. Lots of hotels and resorts nearby make it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

PATARA

The most western of all Antalya’s beaches, Patara is an 18km long stretch of fine, white sandy coast, backed by desert like sand-dunes and pine covered mountains in the distance. It’s an unsheltered beach and can be quite windy, which makes it an ideal location for wind surfing and being quite shallow, it’s a popular choice for families. Other activities include horse-riding, kayaking, paragliding and scuba diving. The beach is named after the ancient city of Patara, ruins of which can be seen nearby. Another attraction is the Caretta Turtles, who have made this area their nesting ground for over 40 million years. The beach is protected and closed after sunset in nesting season. Patara is also thought to be the birthplace of Apollo. Nearby places to stay are Kalkan and Kas but, even closer is the village of Gelemis, which has a range of accommodation, restaurants and bars.

KAPUTAS

Just a 5km drive from the resort town of Kalkan and 20km from Kas, is the picture perfect Kaputas Beach, hidden in a small bay and surrounded by steep cliffs. Access to this little piece of paradise is by descending the 187 steps from the road or by one of the many boats that day trip there. It is a sand and shingle mix, with crystal clear waters changing form turquoise to azure blue. A beautifully undeveloped beach, there are sunbeds and umbrellas available, but only on a small scale. You’ll definitely find your sought-after rest and relaxation here. And look out for the Caretta Turtles here too!

ADRASAN

Another of Antalya’s hidden gems is Adrasan. In a secluded cove, hugged on either side by pine covered mountains, is this natural, ‘Blue Flag’ beauty with sparkling clear water and 2km of sand and shingle beach. As it is a protected area, it has remained unspoiled, but still has enough amenities to give you a wonderfully relaxing and tranquil day of sun and swimming.

OLYMPOS

Just north of Adrasan is this very popular beach, access to which takes you past the ancient Hellenistic ruins of Olympia, a site well worth visiting. You’ll need to carry all your gear with you, including beach umbrella, food and drink, as there are no facilities on this beach. This is what makes it so special though. It is completely natural, unspoiled, relaxed, with beautiful pine covered mountains close by and clear, cool water. Olympos is very popular with the young who enjoy camping nearby and chilling in a natural environment.

CIRALI

Adjoining Olympos is Cirali, very similar to Olympos but more sandy than pebbly. It is a natural stretch of beach with low-key restaurants and cafes offering a wide variety of food and drinks. Lounges and umbrellas are on the beach, but not masses of them. There’s plenty of space to stake your own piece of personal space and you won’t be bothered by hoards of people or loud music if its peace that you like.

No matter what sort of day at the beach you’re after, whether it’s full of fun and music, natural beauty or rest and relaxation, you will most certainly find what you’re looking for in Antalya. Why not make your way along the stunning coast of this province and enjoy all it has to offer.