About Altinkum
Everything you need to know about Altinkum
🌊 Welcome to Altınkum
Altınkum — meaning Golden Sand in Turkish — is one of the Aegean coast's most beloved resort towns, nestled on the southern tip of the Didim Peninsula in Aydın Province. With its iconic three sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, Altınkum has earned a well-deserved reputation as a favourite destination for both British expats and international holiday-makers.
Whether you're spending a two-week holiday or have made Altınkum your permanent home, you'll find a warm and welcoming community, a thriving local economy, and everything you need right on your doorstep.
🏖️ Beaches & Things To Do
Altınkum is famous for its three stunning beaches — First Beach, Second Beach, and Third Beach — each with its own character. First Beach is the most central and lively, lined with bars, restaurants, and sunbed rentals. Second Beach is a little quieter and popular with families, while Third Beach offers a more peaceful escape with clear, shallow waters.
Beyond sunbathing and swimming, there's no shortage of things to do: boat trips to hidden coves, water sports, quad biking, jeep safaris, and day trips to the magnificent Temple of Apollo — one of Turkey's most important ancient sites — just minutes away in Didim Town.
🏺 Culture, History & Local Life
Just inland from the beaches lies Didim Town, the administrative heart of the region. Here you'll find local markets, authentic Turkish restaurants, mosques, and a genuine slice of everyday Turkish life. The town's centrepiece is the Temple of Apollo at Didyma — an ancient oracle sanctuary once rivalling Delphi in importance, now a remarkable open-air archaeological site.
The area is also home to a large and well-established British and European expat community. Year-round residents enjoy a slower pace of life, low cost of living, excellent weather, and a strong sense of community spirit — with regular social events, charity fundraisers, and local clubs catering to all ages and interests.
🍽️ Food & Drink
Altınkum's dining scene is as diverse as its visitors. From freshly caught fish served at waterfront restaurants to full English breakfasts at British-owned cafes, there's something to suit every taste and budget. Local Turkish cuisine — mezes, grilled meats, gözleme, and freshly baked bread — is exceptional and affordable.
The bar and café culture is equally vibrant. Beach bars, rooftop terraces, and lively pubs mean that evenings in Altınkum are never dull. Many venues host live music, quiz nights, and themed evenings throughout the season.
🌙 Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Altınkum comes alive. The resort has a well-established nightlife scene centred around the beachfront and marina area. From relaxed cocktail bars to late-night clubs and live music venues, there's entertainment for every age and taste.
British-style pubs showing live sport, karaoke nights, tribute acts, and traditional Turkish meyhanes all sit side by side — creating a unique and entertaining mix that keeps visitors and residents coming back year after year.
🛍️ Shopping & Markets
Shopping in Altınkum ranges from bustling local bazaars to modern supermarkets and international brand stores. The weekly market (pazar) is a highlight — a colourful, noisy, and thoroughly enjoyable experience where you can pick up fresh produce, spices, textiles, leather goods, and souvenirs at excellent prices.
For everyday essentials, there are several well-stocked supermarkets, pharmacies, hardware stores, and specialist shops serving both the tourist and expat communities. Bargaining is expected and welcomed at market stalls — just smile, be friendly, and enjoy the experience.