Çatalçam Plajı, situated in the Atakum region of Samsun, Turkey, is a prominent beach stretching along the Black Sea coast. It is located on the Atakum coastline, a popular swimming area, specifically towards the end of the coastline along the Samsun-Bafra road. The beach is approximately 20 kilometers away from the city center of Samsun and can be reached by minibuses like the İncesu or Taflan that depart from the city center towards Atakum. Another option is the minibuses heading to the 19 Mayıs or Bafra districts.
The beach is part of the Çatalçam Social Facilities, managed by the Atakum Municipality, providing a unique view of the sea. These facilities, situated in Yeşilyurt Mahallesi, offer amenities such as beach umbrellas and tables for visitors to relax. However, it lacks certain amenities like showers and changing rooms. Food and beverages, including both hot and cold drinks, snacks, and ice cream, can be ordered at these facilities.
Çatalçam Plajı is known for its natural beauty and cleanliness, with minimal construction in the area. It consists of sandy shores and is popular among locals and tourists from neighboring cities during the summer months. The beach, with its calm and clean environment, is particularly attractive to families and individuals seeking a peaceful retreat. The sea here is not deep and the entrance to the water can be a bit stony. The depth increases the further out you go but the breakwaters help to keep the sea calm, making it resemble a pool, especially during windy weather.
One of the unique features of Çatalçam Plajı is the opportunity for visitors to have a picnic under the trees on the shore, as there are no shopping facilities in the immediate vicinity. This, along with its serene sea and beach, contributes to its charm, even when it gets busy on weekends.
In 2015, Çatalçam Plajı was awarded the Blue Flag, a certification for cleanliness. It is the only beach in Samsun to receive this recognition. Despite losing its Blue Flag status in 2016 due to certain developments, the beach remains a preferred destination for locals and tourists alike.
