Konyaaltı Beach

Konyaaltı runs west from the cliffs below Antalya's centre for about seven kilometres, and what sets it apart from other city beaches is the backdrop: the Beydağları rise abruptly from the far end of the bay to over two thousand metres, snow-capped into spring, so you swim looking at mountains. The beach is grey pebble rather than sand, which keeps the water noticeably clear, and it shelves quickly - better for actual swimming than the shallow sand beaches. Behind it runs a long landscaped promenade with cycle paths, lawns, cafés and playgrounds, rebuilt in recent years, and the Antalya Aquarium and the archaeological museum are at the eastern end. Beach clubs occupy stretches with loungers and service; free public sections sit between them, with lifeguards, free changing rooms and showers, a section fitted for disabled visitors, and Blue Flag status for the water. It is a working city beach - locals use it year-round for walking - and it is busy but not resort-crowded.

The landscape

• The mountain backdrop - the Beydağları wall across the bay.
• The pebble shore - grey stone and clear water.
• The promenade - the rebuilt walk and cycle path behind.
• The city end - the cliffs and museum at the eastern edge.

When to go

May to June and September to October. Late afternoon for the light on the mountains; midsummer is very hot and the pebbles burn underfoot.

What to expect

It is pebble, not sand - beach shoes are worth having and the stones get hot. It shelves steeply, which does not suit small children. Beach clubs charge and the free sections are busier.

Nearby

The Antalya Museum and the aquarium are at the eastern end; Kaleiçi is up on the cliff above.

Key facts