Manavgat Beaches

Overview

Manavgat welcomes you to the Turkish Riviera, a region famed for its stunning Mediterranean coastline. While the town of Manavgat itself is set slightly inland on a beautiful river, it serves as the perfect hub for exploring a diverse array of nearby beaches, which are celebrated for their predominantly sandy shores. This unique positioning offers visitors the best of both worlds: a charming river town atmosphere with easy access to the sun-drenched beaches of the historic Side peninsula and beyond.

The coastline offers a beach for every taste, from historic shores to tranquil retreats. At Side East beach, you can swim in the shadow of the 2,000-year-old Temple of Apollo, a truly unforgettable experience. For a classic, vibrant beach day, Side Halk Beach is the area's lively go-to spot. Those seeking peace and nature should head to Manavgat Sorgun Halk Plaji, where the sea meets a serene pine forest. For a legendary day trip, the world-famous sands and iconic views of Kleopatra Beach are an essential experience.

Beyond our top picks, the Manavgat region is dotted with countless other beautiful spots, from the family-friendly golden sands at Kumköy to quieter local coves. Whether you are looking for a bustling resort atmosphere or a secluded patch of sand, you can find it here. Be sure to explore our longer list of beaches to discover all the coastal gems this remarkable area has to offer.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What are the beaches in Manavgat like, are they sandy or pebbly?

The beaches in the Manavgat area, particularly around the popular resort town of Side, are known for being mostly sandy. Some beaches, like Sorgun, have a mixture of sand and small pebbles. The long coastline offers a variety of beach experiences, from the fine golden sands at Kumköy Beach to the unique pebble shores of Kleopatra Beach, which is situated between a river and the sea.

Kumköy

Kleopatra

Is it better to stay in Side or Manavgat for a beach holiday?

Choosing between Side and Manavgat depends on your holiday preference. Side is a historic resort town right on the coast, famous for its ancient ruins, lively atmosphere, and two main sandy beaches (East and West Beach) lined with hotels and restaurants. Manavgat is a larger, modern town situated slightly inland on the Manavgat River. While Manavgat itself isn't on the sea, it serves as a hub for the region and is a short drive or bus ride away from numerous beaches, including those in the Side, Kızılağaç, and Sorgun areas. If you want to be steps from the beach and in the heart of the tourist action with ancient sites, Side is ideal. If you prefer a more local town feel with easy access to a wider variety of beaches and natural attractions like the Manavgat Waterfall, then staying in or near Manavgat is a great option.

Side East

Side

Can you swim in the Manavgat River, and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the Manavgat River, and it's a popular activity, especially on boat tours. The river water is known for being very cold and refreshing, even in the heat of summer, as it originates from mountain springs. A unique experience offered by many boat trips is the chance to swim at the river's mouth, where the cold, fresh river water meets the warm, salty Mediterranean Sea. You can literally swim in both at the same time.

What is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Manavgat?

The best time for a beach holiday in Manavgat is from late spring to early autumn, typically from May through October. During these months, the weather is consistently warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is pleasant for swimming, generally staying above 23°C (73°F) from June to November. The peak summer months of July and August are the hottest and most crowded. For a balance of great weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May, June, September, or October.

Are there all-inclusive resorts with private beaches in Manavgat?

Yes, the Manavgat region, especially in the coastal areas of Side, Sorgun, Kızılağaç, and Titreyengöl, is famous for its numerous all-inclusive resorts that feature their own private stretches of beach. These resorts typically provide exclusive access to sun loungers, umbrellas, beach bars, and water sports facilities for their guests, offering a seamless and convenient beach holiday experience.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are the beaches in Manavgat suitable for families with children?

Yes, many beaches in the Manavgat area are very family-friendly. Beaches like Side West Beach, Kumköy Beach, and Evrenseki Public Beach are popular with families because they have fine sand and shallow, calm waters, allowing children to play safely. Many of the large, all-inclusive resorts in the area are located on these beaches and offer extensive family-oriented facilities, including kids' clubs and water parks.

Kumköy

Evrenseki

Are there public beaches in Manavgat or are they all private to hotels?

Manavgat has a mix of private hotel beaches and public beaches. While many of the large resorts have their own dedicated beach sections with sunbeds and amenities for their guests, there are several excellent public beaches (Halk Plajı) that are free to access. Popular public beaches include Manavgat Sorgun Halk Plajı, Boğaz Beach, and Evrenseki Public Beach. These are often well-maintained and may have facilities like showers and changing cabins, though you might need to pay a small fee to rent sunbeds and umbrellas.

Manavgat Sorgun Halk Plaji

Boğaz Beach

Evrenseki

How do you get to the beaches from Manavgat town center?

From Manavgat town center, the easiest way to get to the nearby beaches in areas like Side, Sorgun, or Kızılağaç is by using the local minibuses, known as 'dolmuş'. These are frequent, inexpensive, and run on set routes to all the main coastal spots. Taxis are also readily available for a more direct, though more expensive, journey. The ride to the closest beaches typically takes around 10-20 minutes.

People Also Ask

Is Manavgat a good destination for a party holiday or is it quieter?

Manavgat itself is more of a relaxed, family-friendly destination centered around its river, waterfall, and local life. However, the adjacent resort town of Side has a more active nightlife, with numerous bars, pubs, and some clubs, especially along the waterfront and in the old town. While not a world-renowned party capital like some other destinations, you can certainly find lively evening entertainment in the Side area. The overall vibe of the region leans more towards a relaxing beach holiday or a family vacation rather than a dedicated party scene.

What is the sea water temperature like for swimming?

The Mediterranean Sea temperature in Manavgat is ideal for swimming from late spring to late autumn. In the peak summer months of July and August, the water is very warm, often reaching 28-29°C (82-84°F). The swimming season comfortably lasts from May to November, with water temperatures generally staying above 20°C (68°F). Even in October, the sea remains pleasantly warm, averaging around 25°C (77°F).

Are the beaches around Manavgat usually crowded?

The level of crowding on Manavgat's beaches depends heavily on the season and the specific beach. During the peak tourist season (July and August), popular beaches like Side West Beach can get very crowded, especially in the sections belonging to large hotels. However, the coastline is extensive, and you can find quieter spots. Public beaches like Sorgun or Kızılağaç can be less crowded than the main resort areas. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) will also mean fewer people.

Are there any hidden or quieter beaches near Manavgat?

While the main beaches can be bustling, you can find quieter spots. The long stretch of Sorgun Beach, backed by pine forests, often has less crowded sections, especially the further you move from the main hotel areas. Also, exploring the coastline towards Kızılağaç can reveal more tranquil public beach areas frequented by locals. A boat trip along the Manavgat River often stops at a relatively secluded beach at the river mouth, offering a peaceful swimming opportunity.

Manavgat Sorgun Halk Plaji

Kızılağaç Halk Plaji

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