Mermerli Beach

Beach in Antalya

CC BY-SA 3.0 / José Espanca

Mermerli Beach is one of Antalya's most charming and convenient seaside escapes, hidden just below the ancient walls of Kaleiçi, the city's historic Old Town. Nestled between the cliffs and the Old City Marina, it offers calm turquoise waters, soft sunshine, and stunning views of the Mediterranean. Despite its small size, this beach has long been a favourite among locals and visitors for its easy access, peaceful setting, and scenic surroundings.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Practical Information
How to Get There
Is Mermerli Beach Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

As one of Antalya's oldest public beaches, Mermerli has been welcoming swimmers for over a century. Its name derives from the Turkish word “mermer,” meaning marble, a nod to the stone steps and terraces that were carved into the cliffs to provide access to the sea. Situated just steps from the city's historic core, it has been a beloved summer retreat since Ottoman times, when it served as a popular bathing area for residents living within Kaleiçi's walls.

The beach's setting is part of what makes it so special. Enclosed by steep rocky cliffs on three sides and opening into the calm bay of Antalya, it provides a feeling of privacy despite being in the heart of the city. The Old City Marina and Hıdırlık Tower rise above, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop that combines natural beauty with historic architecture.

Today, Mermerli Beach remains one of the best places to see in Antalya for anyone looking to combine sightseeing with relaxation. It's ideal for cooling off after exploring Kaleiçi's narrow streets, and the gentle waves make it suitable for swimmers of all ages.

Things to See and Do

The main attraction at Mermerli Beach is, of course, the water. The sea here is crystal clear and calm, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Sunbeds and umbrellas line the small stretch of sand and platform area, offering a comfortable spot to relax with a view of the harbour.

The beach also features a small café and restaurant that serves snacks, drinks, and seafood dishes throughout the day. Many visitors enjoy sitting here with a cold drink, watching boats glide in and out of the marina. The gentle hum of the city above contrasts with the peaceful sound of the waves below, creating an atmosphere that feels both secluded and central.

For photography lovers, Mermerli offers some of the most striking coastal views in Antalya. The combination of the turquoise water, rugged cliffs, and old stone walls makes it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Antalya, especially at golden hour when the sunlight casts warm tones across the bay.

Practical Information

Best time to visit: Morning for sunshine and fewer crowds; late afternoon for warm light and cooler air.
Entrance fee: Around 50–100 TL (includes sunbed and umbrella).
Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily.
Official website: Not applicable.
How long to spend: 1–3 hours, depending on your schedule.
Accessibility: Access via stairs near the Old City Marina; not suitable for wheelchairs.
Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, restrooms, café, and changing rooms.
Photography tip: Capture the beach from above near the marina for a full view of the cove and cliffs.
Nearby food options: Mermerli Restaurant (above the beach), and several harbour cafés within a short walk.

How to Get There

Mermerli Beach is located directly beneath the Old City Marina in Kaleiçi. From Republic Square, follow the signs toward the marina or ask for “Mermerli Plajı.” Once you reach the waterfront, you'll find a staircase leading down to the beach through the Mermerli Restaurant. It's only a five-minute walk from Hadrian's Gate, making it easy to combine a morning of sightseeing with an afternoon by the sea.

Is Mermerli Beach Worth Visiting?

Yes, absolutely. While it's small compared to Antalya's larger beaches like Konyaaltı or Lara, Mermerli's charm lies in its intimate setting and unbeatable location. It's one of the top attractions in Antalya for those who want to experience the city's beauty without venturing far. The convenience of being right in the Old Town makes it perfect for a quick swim or a relaxed break during a day of exploring.

For first-time visitors, Mermerli Beach captures the essence of Antalya — history above, turquoise sea below, and a relaxed Mediterranean rhythm that invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Nearby Attractions

Just above Mermerli Beach, the Old City Marina offers a lively atmosphere with cafés, boat tours, and scenic walkways. From here, it's only a short walk to Hadrian's Gate and the Clock Tower, two of Antalya's most famous landmarks. The nearby Hıdırlık Tower in Karaalioglu Park provides an excellent viewpoint over the cliffs, especially at sunset. Kaleiçi's cobblestone lanes, boutique shops, and traditional restaurants are all within easy reach, making Mermerli Beach a perfect stop on any Old Town itinerary.

The Mermerli Beach appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Antalya!

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