Side (pronounced See-day) is a small resort town located on the southern coast of Turkey next to the Mediterranean Sea. Steeped in rich Greek and Roman history with two beautiful sandy beaches, Side has become a popular tourist destination.
The two main beaches are simply called East and West Beach. Both beaches have golden-sand which makes them extremely busy in the height of the tourist season, but they both offer many sport facilities including; waterskiing, diving, boat tours, beach volley ball and jet skiing from centres such as Traum Water Sport and the Silver Diving Centre. Also, if you are lucky you may even spot some beautiful turtles and dolphins which swim in the clear blue Mediterranean Sea. There are even some boat tours that will take you out to go snorkelling with the marine life such as The Dolphin Island Boat Cruise, which docks in old harbour.
East Beach
This 3km-long beach is the perfect place to relax and unwind with many sun beds to lie upon. There are many other facilities available on this beach including showers and toilets. But if you fancy going for a walk after a long days sunbathing the Temple of Apollo is just around the corner.
The East Beach can be accessed by walking through the old town and Roman ruins, or if you are staying further away from the resort there is the possibility to take a bus or taxi from one of the many pick up points dotted around the resort. Many of the bus services are free of charge and tickets can be purchased from some of the bars along the beachfront. However, you are usually expected to pay for the use of sun beds and parasols as expected.
West Beach
The West Beach is located in front of the main hotel complexes and bars. There are a wide variety of water sports on offer here from parasailing to racing along on banana boats. This beach is also the better option for young families as the tranquil waters are shallow enough for small children to paddle in.
There are many five-star hotels located on the West Beach including Hemera Resort & Spa, Melas Resort Hotel and the four-star Hotel Asteria which all have their own outdoor swimming pools.
The downside of both of these beaches is during the summer months they can get incredibly overcrowded, but some hotels such as Crystal Sunset Resort & Spa and Nashira Resort Hotel & Spa have their own private beaches, so you won't have to worry about getting up early to guarantee a sun lounger.