Finike Beaches

Overview

Finike offers a peaceful retreat on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, a world away from the region's more crowded tourist hubs. As a designated 'Cittaslow' or 'slow city', it provides a calm, laid-back atmosphere perfect for visitors seeking genuine relaxation rather than a bustling party scene. This tranquil environment makes it an excellent choice for families and couples looking for a serene beach holiday, offering a distinctively quieter experience compared to livelier nearby towns.

The coastline here presents a delightful mix of beach types to suit different preferences. While the main public beach near the town center is a long, accessible stretch of sand, the scenic road heading west reveals a series of beautiful and often secluded pebbly coves. Among the most celebrated of these are the famously beautiful Andrea Doria Koyu, a protected bay with stunningly clear water, and the popular Blue Flag beach at Gökliman Plajı. For a unique adventure, Finike Mağralı Koy offers a picturesque setting with a sea cave that you can swim into.

For those willing to venture a bit further for an unforgettable view, the iconic Kaputaş Beach is a popular and worthwhile day trip, renowned for its breathtaking turquoise waters. These editor's picks are just a starting point, as the Finike coast is dotted with numerous other bays and quiet spots. To discover more hidden gems, be sure to explore our complete guide to the area's many beaches.

Top Beaches

Finike Public Beach

The most convenient option, this long sandy beach is right in the town center, making it the go-to spot for local families and easy-going beach days. Stretching for several kilometers, its generous expanse of mostly fine sand offers plenty of room and a classic, uncluttered beachfront experience. The sea is known for being particularly calm and clean, with a gentle entry that makes it inviting for a casual swim. This setting contributes to a peaceful and leisurely atmosphere, noticeably quieter than many other resorts along the coast. It’s a place for a truly relaxing day, perfect for a simple stroll along the water's edge. Backed by the town and its famous orange groves, the beach offers a beautifully simple and authentic Mediterranean scene.

FAQ

Is Finike a good destination for a beach holiday?

Finike is an excellent choice for a tranquil and relaxing beach holiday, especially for travelers looking to escape large crowds. The town is known for its calm, laid-back atmosphere and has even been recognized as a 'Cittaslow' or 'slow city'. It's particularly well-suited for families and couples who prefer a peaceful environment over the bustling nightlife found in other Turkish resorts. The main beach is long, sandy, and family-friendly, while numerous quiet coves are perfect for a serene day by the sea.

What are the beaches in Finike like, sandy or pebbly?

Finike offers a mix of both sandy and pebble beaches. The main public beach, located east of the marina and close to the town center, is a long stretch of fine sand with a gentle slope into the water, making it ideal for children. To the west of town, along the road to Demre, you'll discover numerous small, secluded coves and bays, such as Gökliman Plajı and Mağralı Koy, which are typically pebbly and set in scenic, rocky landscapes.

Gökliman Plajı

Finike Mağralı Koy

How does Finike compare to Kaş for a holiday?

Finike and Kaş offer very different holiday experiences. Finike is a quiet, agricultural town known for its oranges and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for a peaceful, relaxing family holiday away from the crowds. Kaş, on the other hand, has a more vibrant, bohemian, and tourist-focused buzz, with a charming old town, more restaurants, and a livelier atmosphere, though it can be more crowded. While both have beautiful coastlines, Finike is for unwinding, whereas Kaş offers more activities and a social scene.

Is Finike suitable for a family with young children?

Yes, Finike is very suitable for a family holiday with young children. The main public beach is sandy with calm, shallow waters, which is safe for kids. The town itself is quiet and laid-back, lacking the loud party scene of other resorts. There are also parks and playgrounds available. The overall peaceful environment makes it a relaxing choice for families.

Are there any hotels directly on the beach in Finike?

Yes, there are hotels and 'pansiyons' (guesthouses) located directly across the road from the main Finike public beach, offering easy access and sea views. For instance, Hotel Anadolu and Presa Di Finica Hotel are situated with the beach just a short walk away. However, Finike is not dominated by large, all-inclusive beach resorts; accommodation is generally smaller-scale and more integrated with the town.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Can you swim in the sea in Finike and what is the water like?

Yes, you can definitely swim in the sea in Finike. The water is known for being very clean and clear, especially in the coves west of the town like Gökliman and Andrea Doria Bay. The main beach offers calm waters, while the bays are often described as having stunning turquoise hues. The sea is warm enough for comfortable swimming from late spring through autumn, with peak water temperatures in August.

Gökliman Plajı

Andrea Doria Koyu

Are the beaches in Finike crowded?

Generally, no. One of Finike's main appeals is that its beaches are not crowded, even in peak season. It has avoided the mass tourism seen in other parts of Antalya. While the main public beach is used by locals and visitors, it's long enough to find a quiet spot. The smaller coves and bays can be very peaceful, though they might see more people in the late afternoon during summer.

What facilities are available at Finike's beaches?

Facilities vary by beach. The main public beach in Finike has amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, as well as nearby cafes and restaurants. Gökliman Plajı, a popular cove, is managed by the municipality and offers services like sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, and a small cafe. However, many of the more secluded natural coves, like Mağralı Koy and Andrea Doria Bay, are completely untouched and have no facilities, so you'll need to bring your own water, food, and umbrella.

Gökliman Plajı

Finike Mağralı Koy

Andrea Doria Koyu

People Also Ask

How do you get to the more remote beaches and coves near Finike?

The best way to reach the coves west of Finike, such as Gökliman, Andrea Doria, and Mağralı Koy, is by car, as they are located along the main D400 highway towards Demre. You can park on the side of the road and walk down. For Gökliman Beach, there is also a municipal shuttle bus service that runs from Finike town center. Some of the most secluded spots may require a short walk down a path from the road.

Gökliman Plajı

Andrea Doria Koyu

Finike Mağralı Koy

Is it possible to see sea turtles in Finike?

Yes, it is possible to see Caretta caretta (loggerhead) sea turtles in Finike. The beaches are important nesting grounds for these endangered animals. The rocky coastline is also a habitat for the rare Mediterranean monk seal. Visitors should be very careful not to disturb nesting sites, which are often marked for protection, and should maintain a respectful distance if they are lucky enough to spot these creatures.

What is the best time of year to visit Finike for a beach holiday?

The ideal time for a beach holiday in Finike is from June to September. During these summer months, the weather is hot and sunny, and the sea temperature is perfect for swimming and water activities. For those who prefer milder temperatures and fewer people, the late spring months of May and early autumn in October are also excellent choices, as the weather is still pleasant and the sea remains warm.

Are there any clothing rules or local customs for beaches in Finike?

On the main tourist and public beaches in Finike, standard swimwear like bikinis and swim trunks is perfectly acceptable. Finike is a relaxed coastal town accustomed to tourists. However, it's worth noting that it is a more traditional, agricultural town than a major international resort. While not a strict rule, it's respectful to cover up when you leave the immediate beach area to walk into town or visit shops and restaurants. There is also a women-only beach, Altuncan Hatun Kadınlar Plajı, for those who prefer it.