Side Beaches 2026: Ancient Temples & Twin Shores Guide
"Five re-erected Corinthian columns from the 2nd-century AD Temple of Apollo still stand at the tip of Side's peninsula — at sunset, they frame the Mediterranean horizon in what may be Turkey's most photographed silhouette."
Introduction
Side beaches flank an ancient Pamphylian port city on Antalya's eastern coast, where 2,500 years of Mediterranean history meet the waterline. The district's twin beaches — west and east — wrap around a peninsula crowned by temple ruins, a Roman amphitheatre, and a pedestrianised old town built directly on top of the ancient city.
Character & Setting
Side sits on a narrow peninsula 75 km east of Antalya city, jutting into the Mediterranean between two sandy bays. The name means "pomegranate" in the ancient Anatolian language. A 15,000-seat Roman amphitheatre, the Temple of Apollo, the Temple of Athena, and the remains of a Roman bath (now the Side Museum) cluster at the peninsula's tip. The old town's cobblestoned streets are largely car-free, and restaurant terraces spill toward the harbour. Tourism runs year-round but peaks in summer, drawing a mix of history-minded Europeans and beach holidaymakers from across the continent.
The Beaches
Side Beach is really two beaches divided by the ancient peninsula. The west beach stretches approximately 3 km toward Kumköy — fine golden sand, gradual shallow entry, calm water, and a full range of water sports. This is the family side: lifeguards from June through September, gentle waves, and the Temple of Apollo visible from the sand at the far end. The east beach runs 2 km toward Sorgun forest — slightly coarser sand with occasional pebble patches, deeper entry, and noticeably fewer crowds. Water clarity is better on the eastern side, making it the preferred shore for swimmers who value space over facilities. Both beaches are free, with sunbed rental from beachfront operators. The unifying feature is the view: from either shore, the temple columns and the old town's profile anchor the horizon, giving Side's beaches a sense of place that no purpose-built resort strip can replicate.
FAQ
How many beaches are in Side?
Two — Side West Beach (3 km, family-friendly) and Side East Beach (2 km, quieter), divided by the ancient peninsula.
Is the Temple of Apollo free to visit?
Yes. The temple stands in the open at the peninsula tip with no entrance fee. Arrive 45 minutes before sunset for the best light.
Are Side beaches free?
Yes. Both are free public beaches. Sunbed and umbrella rental costs approximately 150–250 TL per set.
Which Side beach is better for families?
West beach — shallower entry, calmer water, lifeguards in summer, and more facilities along the shore.