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- Top place goes to this gorgeous 4.5km stretch of golden sand, accessible by river boat from Dalyan town, which sits on a narrow spit of land between the Med and the Dalyan river. It's the main breeding ground for the endangered loggerhead turtle, so the beach has a protected status, and there's a turtle sanctuary here too.
- This untouched gem is a little off the beaten track: it's a bus or car ride from Kas, and there are limited facilities - all of which make it a wonderfully calm location to sit back and relax without being hassled. Don't miss the little hidden coves with its turquoise waters.
- A boat trip to this beautiful island from Marmaris is a must. The beach, which is made up of tiny white pearl-like shells, is another of Turkey's protected areas so you access the crystal clear waters via a wooden set of stairs: there are strict rules preventing anyone touching the sand. Best bit? "This is one of the best experiences we've had on a holiday", says one Tripadvisor reviewer. Any complaints? "The Nazi-style beach police ruined it".
- A few miles north-west of the resort of Kalkan, this stunning beach sits adjacent to the dune-engulfed Lycian site of Patara. It's one of the longest beaches in the entire Mediterranean, so even in high season it's possible to find a secluded spot. Any complaints? Apparently it gets a bit windy, but many reviewers found this refreshing, particularly in peak season.
- Turkey's most photographed beach sits in a secluded sandy bay at the mouth of a lagoon, which is a nature reserve where construction of any kind is strictly prohibited. The best bit? The water here is famous for its aquamarine shades, while the beach frequently features in the top five beaches in the world. Any complaints? The beach gets very crowded, and the lagoon closes sometimes for a (very necessary) clean-up.
- With lovely views over the islands, this 1km curve of sand is well served with lots of nice places for drinking and eating (although some reviewers say the restaurant greeters are too pushy). Although Bitez feels almost like a suburb of Bodrum, it has a much more laid-back atmosphere, with wooden rowing boats bobbing up and down in the breeze and - joy of joys - free sun beds.
- The hot springs around Cesme mean that Ilica boasts the warmest waters in the whole of the country. Fine sands and wonderfully calm, clear shallow waters lapping at the shores of one of Turkey's longest beaches make it a favourite for families.
- The numerous islands of Fethiye Bay make the sea at Calis feel more like a lagoon, with smooth calm waters and a nice wide stretch of sand. This is a great spot for spectacular sunsets, best admired from one of the beach bars, says one reviewer.
- A great with lots of golden sand and shallow waters with a plethora of water activities for kids, this beach is singled out for its good value refreshments and facilities. Some reviewers said it needed a good clean, while others said it was spotless...
- Konyaalti is in the middle of a big city - which makes it perfect for anyone who gets bored sitting around on a towel all day. The beach appears to be never-ending so you'll get a spot even in peak season. The setting here is beautiful, with the Bey mountains stretching dramatically out to the west.