The Ministry of Culture and Tourism is expanding the public beach practice against exorbitant prices rising in private businesses during the summer. While it is aimed to offer citizens an affordable holiday with free entry and a low-cost service model, it was stated that the new practice will continue to be gradually implemented in coastal areas.
Price Difference with Private Businesses
In public beaches operated by the ministry, food and beverage prices are kept significantly lower than in private businesses. At the public beaches, lahmacun is set at 125 TL, hamburger at 450 TL, and the parking fee is 120 TL for the whole day. The sun lounger rental fee is 400 TL.
In private businesses, especially in popular holiday destinations like Bodrum, parking fees range from 1800 to 3000 TL, while lahmacun prices can go up to 2500 TL.
Blue Flag and Free Services
Of the 20 public beaches operated by the ministry, 12 have Blue Flag status, meeting international criteria such as water quality and environmental management. Basic needs such as showers and toilets are provided free of charge at the public beaches.
The project is currently concentrated mainly on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. Of the existing 20 public beaches, 14 are in Antalya, 5 in Muğla, and 1 in İzmir.
Disability Access and Social Facilities
At the public beaches, necessary architectural arrangements are made so that disabled individuals can easily benefit from the beach area, the sea, and all other services within the facility. The facilities also include social amenities such as changing cabins, baby care rooms, children's playgrounds, sports areas, and a prayer room.
New Beaches by 2026
The ministry plans to bring the public beach service model to other regions of Turkey. By the end of 2026, it is aimed to put three more public beaches into operation in the areas of Sinop Abalı, Samsun Yakakent, and Bitlis Adilcevaz.
