Kurna Halk Plajı is a picturesque beach located in the village of Şile Karakiraz, near Istanbul. It is situated near the villages of Karakiraz and Kurna, approximately 60 km from Istanbul, and 29.5 km away from the city center. Despite its close proximity to the city, the beach offers a sense of tranquility and escape, particularly during off-peak times. The beach is nestled between Riva and Şile in the Riva-Şile-Ağva region, and is characterized by its beautiful sandy coastline and bordering forest. However, it is important to note that the sea can sometimes be choppy, and swimming in the Black Sea can be risky due to strong currents. Additionally, the area where the creek meets the sea is home to small snakes, insects, and jellyfish. Despite these natural challenges, the beach is generally clean, thanks to the presence of lifeguards and gendarmes. Kurna Halk Plajı is relatively calm compared to other beaches in Istanbul, and it is not typically crowded, even on weekends. However, it can get busier on Sundays. The beach offers free entry and places to stay for free with a caravan or tent. It also has a free parking lot located nearby, making it easily accessible by car. It is also possible to reach the beach by public transportation, followed by a short walk from Kurna Village center. Despite being a free beach, Kurna Halk Plajı lacks certain amenities. There are no toilets, sunbeds, or umbrellas available, and the only facility is a lifeguard club. Visitors are advised to bring their own chairs and umbrellas, and to come prepared as the local people may not be able to assist with additional needs. Basic grocery needs can be met at a small store in Kurna Village center or at Sahilköy, a nearby village.
