Best 15 Beaches in Izmir: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover the best beaches in Izmir has to offer. From family-friendly spots to pulsating party locales, and from golden sands to pebbled retreats, embark on a mesmerizing journey through the turquoise tapestry of this Aegean marvel.

Izmir, gracefully poised along Turkey’s Aegean coast, is a treasure trove of pristine beaches and azure waters. Here, every stretch of sand and sea tells a story. Whether you’re in search of secluded coves to find solace, lively shores pulsating with energy, therapeutic thermal waters to rejuvenate, or vibrant nightlife by the sea, Izmir promises a diverse array of coastal experiences.

Best 15 Beaches in Izmir

1. Boyalık Beach

• Overview: Boyalık Beach enchants visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters. This tranquil beach, devoid of loud music, is a haven, especially for families with kids due to its shallow waters.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Free
• Facilities:
  • No restrooms or changing rooms.
  • Camping site available.

2. Sole & Mare Beach

• Overview: Located in the famous Aya Yorgi Bay, this beach is lively at all times. Protected from the wind, it’s among the top choices for a delightful swim.
• Entrance Fee (2023):
  • Parking/valet service: 80-100 ₺
  • Average entry per person: 500-600 ₺
• Facilities:
  • Sunbed, towel, umbrella, and a beverage included in the entry fee.

3. Paparazzi Beach

• Overview: Known for its calm waters and sandy shores, Paparazzi Beach is a classic choice in Çeşme and one of the best beaches in Izmir. It’s popular among families with children, and reservations are recommended during the summer months.
• Entrance Fee (2023): 500-600 ₺
• Facilities:
  • Restrooms accessible for differently-abled individuals
  • Ramp for differently-abled individuals
  • Sandy beach
  • Wooden pier

4. Ilıca Beach

• Overview: One of Turkey’s most renowned beaches, Ilıca Beach stretches over 3 km. As its name suggests, the beach is close to underground waters, benefiting from the healing properties of thermal springs.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Free
• Facilities:
  • Changing rooms
  • Showers
  • Restrooms
• Transportation: You can reach Ilıca Terminal using the Çeşme Seyahat buses from Izmir. The beach is within walking distance from the terminal.

5. Karaburun Bodrum Beach

• Overview: Located in the center of Karaburun, this blue-flag beach has calm waters. There are free umbrellas and sunbeds provided by the municipality. Small establishments around the beach offer food and beverages.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Free
• Facilities:
  • Free municipal changing rooms
  • Restrooms
• Transportation: From Izmir, you can take the buses to Karaburun and get off in the center. From there, you can take a bus or minibus to the beach.

6. Paşalimanı Beach

• Overview: Amidst the serenading songs of birds, the brilliant dance of blue and green captivates many vacationers. If your ideal holiday involves peacefully entering the sea and reading a book, Paşalimanı is just for you. Its sandy beach and beautiful nature make it a frequent choice among families with children.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Free
• Facilities:
  • Restrooms
  • Showers
  • Changing rooms
  • Small cafes and establishments
• Transportation: This beach is 5 km from Ilıca center and 20 km from Çeşme center. You can easily reach this location using minibuses departing from both Ilıca and Çeşme centers.

7. Yeni Foça Public Beach

• Overview: As one of Izmir’s most popular public beaches, Yeni Foça boasts a 240-meter-long coastline. You can bring your chairs or rent umbrellas and sun loungers at the beach.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Free
• Facilities:
  • Showers
  • Restrooms
  • Changing rooms
• Transportation: Buses from the Izmir bus terminal head to Yeni Foça, with the journey lasting about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the Izban to the Yeni Foça Public Beach, arriving at the Biçerova station, from where there are connections available.

8. Çeşmealtı Blue Beach

• Overview: Due to its proximity (45 km) to Izmir and easy accessibility, this beach with a blue flag is a popular choice. You can find small establishments that rent sun loungers and umbrellas.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Free

9. TCDD Camp

• Overview: A blue-flag beach generally preferred by families with children. Upon entering, they check if you’re carrying any items and usually ensure visitors are families.
• Entrance Fee (2023):
  • TCDD employees: 25 TL
  • Other vacationers: 50 TL
• Facilities:
  • Showers
  • Changing rooms
  • Restrooms
  • Water slides for adults and children
• Transportation: Direct transportation from Izmir center to TCDD Beach isn’t available. You should take the buses to Urla and get off at Urla center. From there, you can reach the beach using the 738 bus.

10. Dikili Beach

• Overview: Famous for its blue flag and clean waters, Dikili Beach boasts a vast coastline and is known for its sandy expanse. Besides enjoying the beach, you can explore nearby natural attractions.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Although there’s no entrance fee, you’ll need to bring your chairs as there are no sun loungers available.
• Facilities:
  • Sandy beach
  • Municipal umbrellas
  • Restrooms
  • Showers
  • Changing rooms
• Transportation: Dikili is 120 km from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport. Direct bus services are available from Bursa, Istanbul, and Ankara.

11. Altınkum Beach

• Overview: When you mention Izmir, it’s impossible not to think of Çeşme and, in particular, Altınkum Beach. Its golden sandy shores and blue-flag turquoise waters make it one of the best beaches in Izmir.
• Entrance Fee (2023): While the beach itself has private establishments that charge around 350-750 TL, the public area is free.
• Facilities:
  • Sun loungers and umbrellas
  • Beach bar/restaurant
  • Lifeguard services
  • Showers
  • Restrooms
  • Changing rooms
• Transportation: Private vehicles are an option, or you can use the minibuses departing every 30 minutes from Çeşme center.

12. Madeo Beach

• Entrance Fee (2023): 350-750 TL
• Facilities:
  • Dietary menus
  • Children’s menu
  • Parking
  • DJ performances
  • Internet
  • Alcoholic beverages
• Transportation: Direct train services (IZBAN) from Izmir center to Çeşme are available. After reaching Çeşme, taxis or minibuses can be used to reach Madeo Beach.

13. Özdere Beach

• Overview: Lined with palm trees and blessed with calm waters, Özdere Beach is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. The soft golden sands shimmer under the sun, making it a paradise for sunbathers and families.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Free
• Facilities:
  • Sun loungers and umbrellas (available for rent)
  • Beachside cafes and restaurants
  • Showers
  • Restrooms
  • Changing rooms
• Transportation: Özdere is approximately 70 km from Izmir. Regular minibuses from Izmir’s main bus station connect directly to the beach.

14. Ayayorgi Bay

• Overview: Famous for its nightlife and beach clubs, Ayayorgi Bay is the go-to spot for party lovers. By day, the beach is serene, but as the evening approaches, the music turns up, and the bay comes alive.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Beach clubs might charge an entrance fee ranging from 300-600 TL. The public areas are free.
• Facilities:
  • Multiple beach clubs with DJs and live music
  • High-end restaurants and bars
  • Sun loungers and VIP cabanas
  • Watersports facilities
• Transportation: Ayayorgi Bay is located near Çeşme, and minibuses are available from Çeşme center.

15. Gülbahçe Beach

• Overview: A pristine and lesser-known beach, Gülbahçe is ideal for travelers looking for untouched beauty. The shallow waters make it safe for kids, while the expansive coastline is great for long walks.
• Entrance Fee (2023): Free
• Facilities:
  • Local kiosks offering snacks and refreshments
  • Picnic areas
  • Basic amenities like restrooms and showers
• Transportation: Minibuses from Izmir’s central station make regular trips to Gülbahçe.