When travelers think of things to see in Antalya, Lara Beach often tops the list. Known as one of the longest and most famous beaches in Turkey, Lara Beach has been drawing visitors for decades with its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant tourism scene. Just beside this stretch of coast, Sandland—an open-air sand sculpture exhibition—adds a fascinating cultural layer to the beach experience. Together, Lara Beach & Sandland create a unique mix of natural beauty and artistic wonder, making them essential stops for anyone looking to visit Antalya.

A Brief History of Lara Beach & Sandland

Lara Beach rose to prominence in the late 20th century as Antalya developed into one of Turkey’s most popular coastal destinations. Its fine, soft sand and warm Mediterranean waters made it an ideal holiday spot, particularly for families and international tourists. Sandland, meanwhile, was established in the early 2000s as an annual international sand sculpture festival, bringing together artists from around the world to transform tons of sand into breathtaking works of art. Over time, Sandland has evolved into a permanent attraction, celebrating history, mythology, and modern creativity in larger-than-life sculptures.

Top Features and Highlights

Lara Beach is best known for its pristine coastline stretching nearly 12 kilometers, lined with luxury resorts, beach clubs, and family-friendly areas. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, water sports, and beachside dining, all while soaking in spectacular views of the turquoise sea.
Sandland, located right on Lara Beach, is the true cultural gem. Using only sand and water, skilled artists create massive sculptures—some as tall as 7 meters—depicting legendary figures, historical landmarks, fairy tales, and even futuristic themes. Each year, the exhibition changes, giving repeat visitors something new to admire. At night, the sculptures are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for evening strolls.

What Makes It Unique

What sets Lara Beach & Sandland apart from other attractions in Turkey is the combination of natural beauty and artistry. While many beaches in Antalya are beautiful, Lara’s soft golden sands are considered some of the best in the Mediterranean. Sandland is one of the largest sand sculpture exhibitions in the world, using nearly 10,000 tons of sand annually. A fun fact is that the sculptures are built without glue or cement—just compacted sand and water—yet they last throughout the season thanks to careful techniques. It’s not just sightseeing; it’s stepping into a world where art meets nature.

Visitor Information & Travel Tips

Today, Lara Beach continues to serve as a major hub of Antalya tourism, welcoming thousands of visitors daily during the summer season. Entry to the beach is free in some sections, while private beach clubs may charge a fee. Sunbeds and umbrellas are widely available, and the beach is well-equipped with restrooms, cafes, and sports facilities.

Sandland is open year-round, though the best time to visit is between spring and autumn when new exhibitions are unveiled. Tickets are reasonably priced, with discounts for children, students, and families. Visitors are encouraged to bring a camera—though touching the sculptures is not allowed. The site is accessible by car, taxi, or public transport from central Antalya, and is family-friendly with plenty of shaded areas and refreshments nearby.

Whether you’re after a relaxing day by the sea or a cultural experience like no other, visiting Lara Beach & Sandland offers the perfect blend of leisure and inspiration in Antalya.

Lara Beach & Sandland

Visit Lara Beach & Sandland in Antalya, Turkey—one of the top things to see in Antalya and a highlight of Lara Beach tourism. This unique destination combines the golden sands of Lara Beach with Sandland, one of the world’s largest sand sculpture exhibitions. Perfect for families, history lovers, and beachgoers alike, it’s a must-see among historical and cultural sites in Turkey.

Brief History: Lara Beach gained prominence in the late 20th century as Antalya transformed into one of Turkey’s most visited coastal resorts. Its soft golden sands and turquoise waters made it a hub for leisure and tourism.

Notable Features: Stretching over 12 km, Lara Beach boasts fine-grained sand, crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, and a mix of public and private beach clubs. Many luxury resorts and entertainment venues line the shore, offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports.

Fun Fact or Unique Angle: Often called the “Turkish Riviera’s Las Vegas” because of its themed resort hotels, Lara Beach is also famous for hosting international festivals, concerts, and events.

Current Use or Visitor Info: Free public access is available in certain areas, while private sections offer added comfort for a fee. Tourists can enjoy beach sports, seaside dining, and sunset views. It’s family-friendly and one of Antalya’s most popular things to see.

Lara Beach

Visit Lara Beach in Antalya, Turkey, for golden sands, turquoise waters, luxury resorts, and vibrant beach culture—a top highlight of Antalya tourism.

Lara Beach

Antalya, Turkey

Visit Lara Beach in Antalya, Turkey, for golden sands, turquoise waters, luxury resorts, and vibrant beach culture—a top highlight of Antalya tourism.

Location