It comes as no surprise to find that Altinkum has some amazing, fine sandy beaches, as its name actually translates to ‘Golden Sands’. The resort is surrounded by three main beach areas, all offering high standards of facilities, including showers, toilets, and numerous sunbeds and umbrellas for hire. A promenade at the back of the largest beach is bustling with bars and restaurants. On the water, you can rent jet skis and pedalos or try something a little different by indulging in sea kayaking. Whatever you decide to do, Altinkum is the perfect place to bask in the sun, enjoy the sea, and relax on the golden sands.
Right in the centre of Didim is the blue flag award-winning Altinkum Beach. Its 750 metres of golden sand are a great favourite amongst holidaymakers, many of whom stay at one of the numerous hotels that nestle along its edge. The sea here is fairly shallow making it ideal for non-swimmers and children and all the usual water-based activities are available. The beach is well served by restaurants, bars, tea gardens and souvenir shops and to the rear is a very popular, paved walking area. The surrounding area also has a vibrant nightlife making Altinkum a 24-hour destination perfect to spend the day relaxing in the sun or spend the night partying under the stars.
If you're in the mood for a more rustic and tranquil beach experience, head 8 km west of Didim to Monastery Beach, also known as Manastir Bay. The beach earns its nickname from the old monastery that you can explore, adding a touch of culture to your trip. Easily accessible by car, Monastery Beach stands out for its peaceful ambiance, escaping the overdevelopment often found in other areas. The crystal-clear waters make it an excellent spot for snorkelling, though we recommend wearing water shoes due to the pebbly entrance to the sea.
As its name suggestys, Aquarium Beach is a fantastic location for observing aquatic wildlife flourishing in the waters around this part of Turkey. The sea here is exceptionally clear and calm, creating ideal conditions to 'find Nemo.' Accessing the delights of Aquarium Beach requires a bit of effort, either through a ten-minute walk from the nearest car park or by a boat journey from nearby Altinkum. However, this isolation also means that the area remains unspoilt and relatively quiet compared to more renowned beach locations.
Located 5 km from the centre of Didim, the beautiful Didim Beach sits next to five-star hotels. This 250-metre stretch of sand is a favourite among holidaymakers, offering all the amenities expected of a quality beach destination—cafes and bars, changing and toilet facilities, as well as sunbed and umbrella rentals. The clear waters present numerous water-based activities for enthusiasts. Given its popularity, the beach can get quite crowded and overwhelming for some. We recommend arriving early in the morning on at least one day to relish a relaxing, quiet swim before the majority of visitors arrive.
Bay Beach, sometimes referred to as Second Bay beach, is considered one of the most beautiful in the area. Although relatively compact, it offers breathtaking views across the ocean from both the car park and the beach itself. What sets this beach apart is the inflatable aqua park located just off the shore in the sea. This brightly coloured playful addition provides a delightful alternative to the typical water activities, enjoyed by both young and young-at-heart. The cove area is also home to a windsurfing and sailing school, offering a more traditional water experience.