While Bursa is not particularly known as a tropical paradise, its robust variety of terrain does include some enjoyable beaches. 

Nested on the nothern side of Bursa, Gemlik county rests situated next to the Sea of Marmara. This port city (gemi = boat, -lik = place; literally place of the boats) is most popular to local Turks as a summer house getaway. But for anyone looking for a cool dip after a long day touring around downtown, Kucukkumla might be just the beach spot you need. 

Kucukkumla does not boast powdery white sand, but that doesn’t mean a serious sandcastle can’t be forged! Come prepared with your nomral beach gear, but don’t worry if you happen to forget something. Local beachfront vendors stand ready to meet your needs.

Hungry? No problem! Cafes line the drive as far as the eye can see, serving food from morning to late evening. COVID-19 conscious individuals may also appreciate the outdoor covered eateries available. 

The water is shallow near the beach and gentle-flowing waves make it ideal of swimmers of all strengths. For a small fee, children can enjoy sliding and bouncing on floating inflatables. The Sea of Marmara contains a variety of wildlife including a few types of jellyfish, but fear not. These bobbing wonders are venom-less and benign and won’t interfere with your beach day adventures. 

Here’s a view of the beach from the eyes of one beach-goer…(Note: video taken pre-COVID.)

* Video courtesy of Batin Ozturk.