Uzun Plaj, meaning 'Long Beach' in Turkish, lives up to its name as an extensive sandy coastline stretching for several kilometers south of Kuşadası. It's a significant destination for both locals and tourists seeking a more relaxed beach atmosphere compared to the often-crowded Ladies Beach. The beach is characterized by its shallow, warm waters, making it particularly suitable for families with young children and those who enjoy wading far out into the sea.
Visitors consistently praise the beach for its sheer length, which allows for long walks, runs, and finding less crowded spots. Many highlight the comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas available, often at reasonable prices, and the attentive service from beachside cafes and restaurants. The sunsets here are frequently mentioned as spectacular, providing a beautiful backdrop for an evening meal or stroll. Reviewers also appreciate the generally calm and warm sea, though some note it can be choppy and less clear on windy days. The presence of numerous eateries offering good food and cold drinks, often with changing facilities and showers, adds to the convenience.
To make the most of your visit, consider arriving in the morning to secure a good spot and enjoy the calmer waters before it gets wavier in the afternoon. Bring your own towel and umbrella if you prefer not to rent, though rentals are widely available and affordable. Footwear is recommended for walking on the sand, as it can get very hot. While some areas are well-maintained, a few visitors have noted issues with litter, so choosing a spot near a well-serviced cafe or hotel might ensure a cleaner experience. Allocate at least half a day to fully enjoy the beach, especially if you plan to swim, sunbathe, and have a meal.
Uzun Plaj is easily accessible from Kuşadası center. Many visitors recommend taking a dolmuş (shared minibus), specifically bus number 6 or 7, which costs around 3-6 TL and drops you off directly at the beach. The journey typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Taxis are also readily available and offer a quick, albeit more expensive, option. The beach is well-known to all local drivers. There is a pedestrian path and a cycle path running along the beach, making it easy to navigate once you arrive.
A common complaint among some visitors is the occasional presence of litter, particularly cigarette butts and beer caps, and in some isolated instances, a sewage smell, especially when the tide is out. To mitigate this, it's advisable to choose areas near established beach clubs or restaurants, which tend to be better maintained. While the municipality is working on improvements, as evidenced by recent demolitions of illegal builds, visitors should be prepared for varying levels of cleanliness along the extensive shoreline.
