Beach Season (Black Sea) Featured in
Turkey's Black Sea (Karadeniz) coastline is rather cloudy and rainy year round, because of the northern and western winds, which are held up with the mountain range in the south of the seaside. Heavy rains also mean lush vegetation that makes local beaches and surrounding areas resemble tropics sometimes. All the same, in the summer, the semi-tropical heat eventually sets in local beaches, drawing thousands of vacationers who come here to enjoy the sun and chilly waters of the Black Sea. In the period between June and August, small maritime towns and villages often double the number of its residents. Some of the most popular seaside locations include the city of Sinop, Gerze, and Türkeli in the Sinop Province, also the city of Samsun, Zonguldak, Amasra in Bartın Province, and Kilyos close to Istanbul.
Along with pleasant seaside laziness, the beach cities have some more attractions to be discovered on your holidays. When in Sinop, don't miss the Sinop Fortress, Balatlar Church, and Temple of Serapis. Gerze is famous for the Çeçe Sultan Tomb, a pilgrims'destination located 15 kilometres from the city. Also take your time to visit Değirmenler, İdemli, and Gazhane Bay. If you choose to spend your seaside holidays in Amasra, local highlights include naturally the Amasra Castle, and also the Church Mosque, and the Birds Rock Road Mountain. Kilyos is famous for historical landmarks such as a cistern, cannons, huge monumental plane trees, and 14th-century Genoese fortress. Unfortunately, the latter is currently inaccessible due to its location withing the military zone. The Ataturk Culture Center is likely to make your stay in the city of Samsun quite a cultural experience. And Zonguldak will surprise you with a plentitude of tea gardens and restaurants.
