Aegean Region, Turkey

Marmaris Beaches

Overview

Nestled within a sweeping, protected bay on Turkey's stunning Aegean coast, Marmaris is a premier beach destination that caters to every style of holiday. Its location ensures the sea is exceptionally calm and warm, perfect for swimming and family holidays. The resort town is known for its dual personality; you can find both a vibrant, party atmosphere along its main stretches and a more tranquil, relaxed vibe in its surrounding bays and villages. This variety allows visitors to tailor their beach experience, whether they seek non-stop action or a peaceful retreat.

The coastline stretches for miles, connecting the town center to nearby resorts. At the heart of the action is Uzun Yalı, also known as Long Beach, with a bustling promenade packed with restaurants and water sports. For finer, golden sand and a more relaxed day, many visitors make the short trip to the ever-popular İçmeler Beach. If scenic beauty is a priority, the Blue Flag shores of Turunç Plajı offer a picture-perfect escape in a tranquil bay. For a truly unique day trip, the protected sands of İztuzu Beach are famous as a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles, offering an unforgettable encounter with nature.

Marmaris offers a diverse range of beach surfaces, from the gritty, dark sand of the main town beach to the soft, imported sand at many hotel beachfronts and the pebble-and-sand mix in more remote coves. For a legendary beach experience, many take a boat trip to Sedir Island, home to the famed Cleopatra Beach, which boasts unique, silky sands. With so many distinct shores, from lively resort fronts to hidden gems, our guide to the best beaches in Marmaris will help you discover the perfect spot for your holiday.

FAQ

Are the beaches in Marmaris sandy or pebbly?

Marmaris offers a mix of beach types. The main public beach in the town center is known for having gritty, dark sand and can be narrow. However, many hotels along the 10km stretch known as Long Beach import finer, softer sand for their private sections. For consistently fine, golden sand, many visitors head to nearby Icmeler Beach. Other beaches in the region, like Kumlubuk, feature a combination of sand and pebbles, while some more remote coves can be rocky.

Can you swim at the main beach in Marmaris town?

Yes, you can swim at the main beach in Marmaris, known as Marmaris Urban Beach. The water is generally calm, clear, and warm, making it suitable for swimming. However, because it's a busy, central beach close to the port, the water clarity can sometimes be affected on crowded days. For a clearer and often quieter swimming experience, many people take a short trip to nearby beaches like Icmeler or Turunc.

Which is better for beaches, Marmaris or Bodrum?

Both Marmaris and Bodrum are top-tier beach destinations on the Turkish coast, but they offer different experiences. Marmaris is set in a large, sheltered bay, resulting in very calm and warm waters, ideal for swimming. Its long promenade connects the main town to Icmeler, offering miles of beachfront with restaurants and bars. Bodrum, on the other hand, is on a peninsula and features numerous distinct bays and smaller resort towns, each with its own character. The beaches in the Bodrum area can be more varied, from the lively beaches in Gumbet to the more upscale and chic beach clubs in Turkbuku. The choice often comes down to personal preference: Marmaris for its long, continuous and lively beachfront within a calm bay, and Bodrum for its variety of distinct coves and more diverse resort atmospheres.

What is the best month for a beach holiday in Marmaris?

The ideal time for a beach holiday in Marmaris is from June to September. During these months, you'll experience the hottest weather, with average daily temperatures between 26°C and 30°C (79°F to 86°F), and minimal rainfall. The sea is also at its warmest, perfect for swimming, with water temperatures peaking in August. May and October are also great shoulder months with pleasant weather, warm seas, and fewer crowds.

Are there all-inclusive hotels with private beaches in Marmaris?

Yes, Marmaris has a wide selection of all-inclusive hotels, and many of them situated along the coastline have their own private sections of the beach. These hotels often provide exclusive access to sun loungers and umbrellas for their guests. Some upscale resorts, like the TUI BLUE Grand Azur or Grand Yazici Club Turban, are known for their excellent beachfront locations and all-inclusive packages. Staying at one of these resorts can be a great option if you want the convenience of having dedicated beach space and amenities included in your stay.

Is Marmaris a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Marmaris is a very popular destination for families. The main bay's waters are typically calm and shallow, which is safe for children. Many beaches, especially Icmeler Beach, are well-equipped for families with facilities and calm waters. Beyond the beach, Marmaris offers family-friendly activities like water parks (Atlantis and Aqua Dream), boat trips, and a long, flat promenade perfect for strolling.

How do you get to the quieter beaches outside of Marmaris town?

Getting to the beaches outside the main town is straightforward. The most common way is by using the local 'dolmuş' (minibus) service, which is frequent and affordable, connecting Marmaris to nearby towns like Icmeler and Turunc. For more remote beaches like those on the Bozburun Peninsula or to visit islands like Cleopatra Island, daily boat tours departing from Marmaris harbor are a popular and scenic option. Taxis are also readily available for more direct travel.

Is it better to stay in Marmaris or Icmeler for the best beach experience?

The choice between Marmaris and Icmeler depends on the vibe you're looking for. Stay in Marmaris if you want to be in the heart of the action, with a bustling promenade, extensive nightlife, and a lively atmosphere right on your doorstep. The beach here is long and backed by countless bars and restaurants. Choose Icmeler for a more relaxed and quieter beach experience. Icmeler's beach is famous for its finer golden sand and is generally considered more scenic and tranquil, though it still has plenty of amenities. It's only a short dolmuş or water taxi ride away from Marmaris if you want to experience the livelier town.

People Also Ask

Are the sunbeds on Marmaris beaches free?

The use of sunbeds on Marmaris beaches often operates on a system tied to the adjacent bars and restaurants. While the public beaches themselves are free to access, the sun loungers and umbrellas are typically owned by these establishments. In most cases, you can use them for free for the day as long as you purchase drinks or food from their venue. This is a common practice along Marmaris Long Beach and in Icmeler. There are also sections of public beach where you can lay your own towel for free.

What is the water like for swimming in Marmaris?

The sea in Marmaris is well-known for being very calm, clear, and warm, especially from late spring to autumn. The town is situated in a large, natural bay protected by an island and a peninsula, which shields it from strong waves and wind. This makes the water ideal for swimming and water sports. The water temperature is comfortable for swimming from May through November, reaching its peak warmth in August at around 26-28°C (79-82°F).

Are there any hidden or less crowded beaches near Marmaris?

Yes, for those looking to escape the crowds, the region around Marmaris has several quieter options. The Bozburun Peninsula, south of Marmaris, is dotted with tranquil coves like Hisaronu Bay and Kumlubuk Beach, which are known for their natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. You can reach these by car or as part of a boat tour. Turunc Beach, while a resort town itself, is significantly quieter than Marmaris and Icmeler. For a truly unique experience, boat trips to places like Cennet (Paradise) Island or Amos Beach offer a more secluded feel.

Is Cleopatra Beach really worth the trip from Marmaris?

For many visitors, the trip to Cleopatra Beach on Sedir Island is a highlight. Its fame comes from its unique, protected golden sand, which legend says was brought from Egypt for Cleopatra. The setting is stunning, with incredibly clear turquoise water. However, it's important to know that access to the special sand is restricted to protect it—you can't lay a towel on it, but you can walk on it and swim in the designated areas. The trip involves a boat journey and an entrance fee. It's worth it if you appreciate unique natural beauty and history, but may not be for those simply looking for a free and unrestricted beach day.

Is Marmaris more for partying or relaxing beach holidays?

Marmaris successfully caters to both. The town center, particularly around Long Beach and Bar Street, is famous for its vibrant and energetic nightlife, attracting those looking for a party atmosphere. However, you can easily have a relaxing beach holiday by staying in the quieter parts of Marmaris, or in nearby resorts like Icmeler and Turunc, which are known for their more laid-back vibe. The surrounding area also offers numerous secluded coves and natural parks for those seeking tranquility.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Marmaris: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
Today is shaping up to be a glorious beach day in Marmaris! Expect intense sunshine, so be sure to bring sunscreen as the UV index will be high. The air temperature will be very hot, so stay hydrated. The sea temperature is wonderfully warm and the waves are gentle, making for ideal swimming conditions. A light breeze should keep things comfortable. Overall, conditions are perfect for a full day of enjoying the beach.
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Air

Low / High28.6°C/42°C
Feels Like (High)44.4°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature28.5 °C
Wave Height0.6 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:08/20:19
Sunshine Hours13.0 hrs
UV Index8.05
Cloud Cover0%
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Wind

Speed12.6 km/h
Gusts29.2 km/h
DirectionNW

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