You're dreaming of that perfect holiday moment to shake off the fatigue of the entire year, right? That moment when the sun warms your skin, your feet sink into fine sand, and the cool waters of the Aegean call to you... Well, that dream becomes a reality in Sarımsaklı, the pearl of Ayvalık, Balıkesir. If you want to fill your list of things to do in Sarımsaklı Beach this summer and collect unforgettable memories, you're in the right place. This isn't just a beach; it's a vibrant world where the heart of the Aegean beats, enveloping you with its energy.

Swim at one of Turkey's longest and most beautiful beaches

The first thing that comes to mind for anyone who hears of Sarımsaklı is its famous beach. So, what makes this beach so special? Let's discover it together. Stretching uninterrupted for about 7 kilometers and reaching a width of 100 meters in places, this massive beach proudly holds the title of one of Turkey's longest coastlines. This feeling of endlessness gives you the freedom to find your own corner, even on the most crowded summer days.   

One of the most distinctive features of the beach is the texture of its sand. These golden-yellow sands are so fine that, surprisingly, they don't stick to your body. When you get out of the sea, the only thing left on you is the salt of the Aegean and a sweet breeze. It's even said that the quality of this sand has been certified by the World Health Organization for its beneficial properties for human health. You'll understand what we mean better when you surrender yourself to the turquoise, clear, and Blue Flag awarded waters. The water maintains its coolness even on the hottest summer days (between 21−24∘C), which is a real lifesaver in the sweltering heat. Its gradually deepening shallow structure and entirely sandy bottom offer an extremely safe environment for families with children and non-swimmers.   

So how can you spend your day on this wonderful beach? Your options are almost limitless. You can either switch to full relaxation mode by lying on your sunbed and reading a book, or you can get your adrenaline pumping with water sports like jet skiing, sea biking, or banana boating. Sarımsaklı offers you both peace and energy at the same time, allowing you to shape your holiday according to your own desires.   

Along the beach, you'll find both free public areas and private beach clubs. Although free public spots are not as plentiful as they used to be, you can grab a great spot with your own umbrella and chair if you go early. If you're someone who says, I love my comfort, I want service at my feet, you can enjoy the comfort of beach clubs for reasonable fees (in the 2024 season, 2 sunbeds and 1 umbrella were around 400-700 TL).   

Take a stroll along the seaside promenade

The magic of Sarımsaklı is not limited to its sea and sand. As the sun slowly begins to set, the promenade just behind the beach takes on a completely different identity. This walkway, which you use to reach the beach during the day, becomes the center of the town's social life in the evenings.

With the sunset, the coastline becomes sparkling and a sweet bustle begins. On one side, night market stalls are set up selling handmade jewelry, local products, and souvenirs, while on the other, a nostalgic amusement park filled with children's laughter greets you. This lively atmosphere makes you feel like you're at a summer fair.   

The best companion for these pleasant walks is the famous imbat wind of the Aegean. This gentle guest, which usually starts blowing from the west in the afternoon, cools even the hottest summer evenings and allows you to wander without feeling overwhelmed. Mingling with the crowd while eating your ice cream as the coolness of the imbat hits your face is one of the most unforgettable moments of a Sarımsaklı holiday.   

Relax at a beachside cafe and enjoy the moment

When you want to take a break after a long day at sea or during your evening walk, the cafes and restaurants along the Sarımsaklı coast will be waiting for you. Sipping a Turkish coffee facing the sea with your feet still in the sand or cooling off with an ice-cold drink is a true Aegean classic.

It's possible to find a place for every taste and budget along the coast. You can sit in a modest tea garden and watch people play backgammon, or you can try special cocktails against the sunset at the bar of a modern beach club. These places are not just where you eat and drink, but also the stage for those moments when you feel the slow and enjoyable rhythm of the holiday most deeply.   

When it comes to flavor, Sarımsaklı has more than received its share from the rich cuisine of Ayvalık, to which it belongs. The first taste you must try here is, of course, the famousAyvalık Tostu. You should definitely taste this delicacy in its original form at legendary places like Tik Mustafa'nın Yeri. For dinner, fresh fish and seafood from the Aegean Sea are a fantastic option. Don't miss the papalina fish if it's in season. Olive oil dishes with traces of Cretan cuisine, a variety of herb salads, and stuffed zucchini blossoms are indispensable on the table. For more information about places to visit in Ayvalık, you can check out our Ayvalık Guidepage.

While You're Here, Discover the Nearby Beauties

If you still have energy after enjoying Sarımsaklı Beach, we highly recommend getting in your car and setting aside a few hours to explore the surrounding wonders.

Legends and Sunset: Devil's Table (Şeytan Sofrası): This hill, just a few kilometers from Sarımsaklı, is an ancient lava formation and gets its name from interesting legends. According to one tale, when the devil was cast out of heaven, he left one of his footprints here. From the top, all the Ayvalık islands and Lesbos Island are laid out at your feet. This spot, especially popular for watching the sunset, can provide you with the most photogenic moments of your life. But be warned, it can get quite crowded around sunset.   

A Journey Through History: The Stone Streets of Cunda (Alibey) Island: This charming island, connected to the mainland by Turkey's first strait bridge, will take you on a journey back in time. Getting lost in its narrow cobblestone streets, photographing the stone houses adorned with colorful bougainvillea, having a coffee at the famous Taş Kahve (Stone Coffeehouse), and watching the view from Lovers' Hill are must-dos on Cunda. To get to know the enchanting atmosphere of Cunda better, visit our page Cunda Island Travel Guide.   

A Breeze of Nostalgia: The Cobblestone Streets of Ayvalık Center: The center of Ayvalık, where Sarımsaklı is located, is like an open-air museum in itself. In areas like the Macaron Quarter, you'll feel like you're in another era as you wander among the historic Greek houses made from the local sarımsak stone. You can witness the region's rich cultural heritage by visiting structures like the Saatli Mosque (Clock Tower Mosque) and the Taksiyarhis Memorial Museum.   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is there an entrance fee for Sarımsaklı Beach? No, Sarımsaklı is a public beach, and entry is completely free. You can use the beach without paying any fee by bringing your own umbrella, chair, and towel. However, if you wish to rent sunbeds and umbrellas from the private businesses on the beach, you will need to pay a fee for this service.   

2. What is the sea like at Sarımsaklı Beach? Is the water cold, and is it suitable for families with children? The sea at Sarımsaklı is Blue Flag awarded, extremely clean, and clear. The water is cool and refreshing, characteristic of the Aegean (around 21−24∘C in summer). The seabed is entirely sand and deepens gradually, making it very safe and ideal for families with children and those who are not strong swimmers.   

3. When is the best time to go to Sarımsaklı? The swimming season in Sarımsaklı lasts from April to the end of September. The busiest and warmest period is July and August, but thanks to the famous imbat wind that blows in the afternoons, the weather is not oppressive. If you prefer a quieter holiday, May, June, and September, when the weather and sea are still wonderful, might be the most ideal times for you.   

Bibliography: For more official information and an up-to-date list of Turkey's Blue Flag beaches, you can visit the website of the Foundation for Environmental Education in Turkey (TÜRÇEV).