Kleopatra Beach, officially known as Uzunyalı Beach, stretches approximately 2 kilometres along the southern waterfront of Marmaris in Muğla province, forming the spine of the resort town's tourist district. The beach takes its name from the legend that Cleopatra VII had fine sand imported from Egypt during her time in the region, though historians regard this as local lore rather than documented history. The sand is pale and relatively fine by Aegean standards, becoming slightly coarser near the waterline. The sea is calm and protected within Marmaris Bay, sheltered by surrounding forested hills, making swimming conditions gentle throughout the season. Water depth increases gradually from shore, suitable for non-swimmers and children in the shallower areas. The beach is divided into a long commercial section where operators rent sun loungers and parasols at ₺100–₺200 per pair, and a free public section used predominantly by local families and budget visitors. Cafés, beach bars, juice stands and fast-food kiosks line the promenade behind the beach, operating from early morning through late evening. The Marmaris promenade and the nearby Bar Street district give the area a lively resort character, with bars and clubs active until the small hours in summer. Water-sports operators offer jet skiing, banana boat rides, parasailing and pedal boats from the beach at standard resort prices. The beach is accessible on foot from Marmaris marina in approximately 10 minutes, and there is no entry charge. The beach faces south-southwest, receiving strong afternoon sun, and is rarely affected by significant wave action given the bay's sheltered geometry. A lifeguard is on duty in the busiest sections during the high season.
Amenities
- Sun loungers (₺100–₺200/pair)
- Showers
- Cafés
- Bars
- Water sports
- Free public section
Good to know
- Best for
- families, partiers, swimmers, sunbathers, couples
Location
Uzunyalı Sahili, 48700 Marmaris, Muğla
36.8536, 28.2756 View on map
Highlights
- 2-kilometre sandy bay with sheltered, calm swimming — one of the most accessible beaches in Marmaris
- Free public section alongside the commercial sunbed strip, walkable from Marmaris marina in 10 minutes
- Full water-sports menu: jet skiing, parasailing, banana boats and pedal boats throughout the season
- Lively promenade backdrop with beach bars, cafés and proximity to Bar Street nightlife
- Named after Cleopatra, adding a legendary dimension to a classic Aegean resort beach
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before 10:00 to claim a free public-section spot; the commercial section is open later but costs ₺100–₺200/pair
- The beach is at its quietest in the early morning — ideal for swimming before water-sports boats begin operating
- Bring sea shoes for sections where the sand gives way to pebbles and shell fragments near the eastern end
- Promenade restaurants behind the beach are noticeably cheaper than beach-bar menus; walking 50 m inland saves money
- Jellyfish are occasionally present in late August and September — lifeguards post warning flags when sightings occur
- The free public car park south of the marina is the closest driving option; expect queues from 11:00 in July and August
When to visit
June through September is the main season, with July and August the busiest months and sea temperatures reaching 26–28°C. June and September offer a good balance of warm water and slightly smaller crowds.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kleopatra Beach in Marmaris actually connected to Cleopatra?
Local tradition holds that Cleopatra VII visited Marmaris and had sand imported from Egypt for the beach. There is no verified historical record supporting this claim, but the story is deeply embedded in local tourism identity and gives the beach its popular name.
Is the beach free to enter?
Access to the beach is free. A long public section requires no payment. Private operators charge ₺100–₺200 per sunbed-and-parasol pair on the commercial sections. Showers carry a small charge.
What water sports are available?
Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, pedal boats and sea kayak hire are all available from beach operators during the June-to-September high season. Prices vary by operator and negotiating is common.
How far is the beach from Marmaris town centre?
The beach begins approximately 1 kilometre from Marmaris town centre and marina, a 10–15 minute walk along the waterfront promenade. Dolmuş minibuses also run along the coastal road.
Is the sea calm enough for children?
Marmaris Bay is well sheltered and the sea is normally calm with gentle wave action. The gradual depth increase near shore makes the shallower sections suitable for children. Lifeguards are present during high season.