Manastır Koyu is a picturesque beach located in the Didim district of the Aydın province in Turkey, on the western coast of the country. It is named after an ancient monastery that is found on the shore. The beach is approximately 5 kilometers from the 45-kilometer-long coastline that stretches between Kuşadası and Didim. The beach is approximately a 15-minute drive from the city center of Didim.
The beach boasts a wide and flat sandy beach with high cave walls that receive sunlight throughout the day. The terrain is mostly sandy, but there are a few rocky areas. The beach's sea is shallow for a considerable distance from the shore, making it a safe and ideal location for families with children or those who prefer to wade rather than swim. However, visitors should be aware that the right side of the beach, where the rocks are, is populated with sea urchins.
Manastır Koyu offers several amenities to its visitors. Umbrellas and seats are available for a fee, and there is also a café on site where visitors can find food and drinks. Some visitors may find the café prices to be on the higher side, so it's recommended to bring your own food and drinks to fully enjoy the beach.
The beach offers an array of activities for tourists. These include walking on the beach, swimming in the sea, sunbathing, boat trips, water sports, canoeing, water slides, diving, and fishing. There are also long and flat walking paths with beautiful views where visitors can observe the historical features of the ancient monastery and the cave walls. Visitors can also dive in the deep waters of the sea. Those interested in watching the sunset can climb a hill on the opposite shore that overlooks the monastery for a magnificent view.
The beach tends to get crowded, particularly in the afternoon hours of 3 to 4 o'clock. However, the crowd typically thins out by 5 to 6 o'clock, leaving the beach and sea largely empty for late visitors to enjoy. Despite its popularity, the beach maintains a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great destination for those looking to unwind by the sea. It is accessible by car or bicycle.
