Turkey’s Wealth of water sports Destinations
Turkey’s climate consists of hot and sunny weather for much of the year making the coastal regions the ideal place to indulge in some water sports. Whether you come to free dive in Antalya or surf on the Black Sea waves, there’s no shortage of water sports destinations in Turkey.
Turkey is one of the world’s most popular destinations attracting over 31 million visitors per year. Holidaymakers come for the beautiful, sun-drenched beaches and the coastal regions in Turkey benefit from temperatures of over 30C during the summer months. The hot climate is conducive to outdoor activities and there is an abundance of water sports to enjoy along the Turkish coastline. Surfing, scuba diving, kayaking and jet-skiing are just a few of the options available on holidays to Turkey.
Get your surf on
Turkey does boast some excellent surfing destinations and has become the 72nd country to become a member of the International Surfing Association (ISA). Some of the best surfing spots in Turkey can be found at Merkez Sile, Embryo Point, Alanya and Aglaynkaya. Surfing in Turkey isn’t just a summer sport and some of the best surfing conditions can be found from December through to the end of March. Popular coastal resorts such as Marmaris have water sports centres where surfing equipment can be hired and lessons can be taken.
Diving in Turkey
There are plenty of scuba diving spots in Turkey but for something a bit different why not try free diving. Oxygen-free diving is an ancient technique and experts can dive underwater for around four minutes. Dive instructors will show beginners the breathing methods before heading out to dive spots during the five day courses that take place in Kas, Antalya. Scuba diving courses are of course also available and with a minimum age limit of eight years old this is the perfect family water sport.
Riding the waves
Akcapinar Beach, east of Akyaka Town is considered one of the best places in Turkey if you want to indulge your passion for kiteboarding. With shallow 150 metre water depths and a rock free coastline this is also one of the best places for beginners. Marmaris has a kiteboard surfing school where learners can take lessons and hire kiteboards and surfboards. May through November is the best time of the year to learn kiteboarding as the weather will be warm and there will be good winds along the coastline.
Turkish resort water sports
Water sports in Turkey are part of everyday life thanks to the beautiful climate. If you’re visiting the popular resorts found in Marmaris, Bodrum, Alanya or Altinkum then you are guaranteed a host of exciting water sports. Jet-skiing, paragliding, surfing and water-skiing are just some of the options available at the resorts. If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing then hire a boat, find a secluded beach and simply spend a day sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling.