Whether you call it Cleopatra Beach, Kleopatra Beach, or Cleopatra’s Beach, the sheltered—but easily swimmable—waters of Kleopatra Plajı draw travelers from around the world. Facilities run from loungers to volleyball courts and a children’s playground, with Jet Ski, waterskiing, parasailing, and banana boats on offer. Cleopatra Beach is a common stop on Alanya city tours, but many travelers pass by on a sunset cruise, a private boat charter, or one of Alanya’s signature “pirate boats”.
Cleopatra Beach sits on the west side of Alanya Castle, about a 1-mile (1.5-kilometer) walk southwest of the main bus station. The Alanya Teleferik cable car from the castle stops a stone’s throw from the east end of the beach, or pick up bus 1, which runs along the coast road past many resorts.
Lifeguards protect the beach between April and November, and outside those times most travelers will find air and water temperatures too cold for swimming. The beach can get extremely busy during the European summer vacation season (July and August): June or September are more mellow. Kleopatra Beach faces west, making it a great spot for a sunset cocktail at one of the beach bars.
During Roman times, Alanya was a notorious pirate base. Today, the city’s “pirate boats” commemorate that legacy. Styled as traditional pirate galleons, complete with masts, but powered by engines, not sails, they’re a popular way to see sights including Cleopatra Beach, Alanya Castle, and the Red Tower. Many offer foam parties, a buffet lunch, and onboard DJs.