Holidaymakers flock to the Turkish Riviera time and time again for its stunning waters and sun-kissed sands. The waves of the Aegean Sea couldn’t be better for cooling down after topping up your tan on one of Dalaman’s many beaches.

We’ve put together a handy guide so you can get the most out of your jollies and go where your heart desires! It’s easy to do some beach-hopping if you fancy a change in scenery or you can keep the kids occupied with a taste of nature. Let’s dive in…

Calis Beach

Imagine 4km of picturesque seafront, the smell of delicious Turkish cuisine and the sound of lapping waves. This suntrap feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city and is seen as one of the most natural beaches in the region. Calm vibes are sure to recharge your batteries and, when you’re ready to stretch your legs, you can stroll to a nearby bar. Time for an aperitif? It’s five o’clock somewhere! So relax, enjoy the charming views and let time slip away.

Olu Deniz’s Beaches

Belcekiz Beach is a long, idyllic swathe at the heart of Olu Deniz. By pitching up here for the day, you’ll be closer to all the action. You’ll have the prime spot for admiring paragliders descending from Babadag Mountain. Why not count the sailing boats gliding past? Maybe you’ll even book one of the many boat tours!

If you want to splash out a little bit, you can pay to enter the Blue Lagoon. Its velvet sands, azure waters and stunning backdrop are more than worth it. This verdant national park is notorious for its photogenic qualities, so make sure your camera’s charged! You’re free to be at one with nature by this rocky landscape and lavish greenery. Can you sea the lagoon yet? We can.

Iztuzu Beach

Those fancying a more interactive beach experience should look no further! This long strip of golden sand spans more than 4km, with some areas marked to protect nesting loggerhead turtles. Iztuzu Beach sits between a freshwater river and Mediterranean waves, so if you travel from Dalyan, why not take a river boat ride? It’s useful to note that between May and October, the beach is closed from 8pm to 8am to protect the turtle eggs!

Kaputas Beach

Epic mountains curve around this smaller and more intimate cove – it’s a hidden gem away from the busy buzz of Olu Deniz’s main beach. Climb down the stairway and appreciate the beauty from top to bottom. If you like swimming, this is a super spot with easy access into the sea and a nice balance of gentle waves. You can capture some Instagram-worthy shots of the water’s incredible colour palette from the rocks before you start your journey down to the beach.

Marmaris Beach

Rustling palm trees, smoother-than-smooth sand and plenty of charming restaurants. What more could you ask for? Turn up early to reserve a sunbed – they go fast in this thriving hotspot! You’ll be rewarded with an opaque view of the teeming marine life if you peer or paddle into the turquoise waters. Why not watch the sun go down afterwards and then retreat into Marmaris’ lively nightlife? A day well spent!

Icmeler Beach

This plot is a strong contender with families, thanks to its calm sea entrance and fine sand. The resort has endless attractions, restaurants and shops for you to take shelter in from the sun. If you’re a creature of comfort and prefer to have toilets, showers and changing rooms, this one is for you. Icmeler is also less than a 15-minute drive to bustling Marmaris and its waterparks and marinas too, which means you won’t be short of things to do!

So while you might’ve thought a beach is just a beach, you now know Dalaman’s thrum with excitement, cosy spaces, stretches of sand fit for children and bubbly promenades. Which one will you laze on first?