A comprehensive analysis of Türkiye’s beaches: Spatial distribution, morphometry, and human impacts

Abstract

The classification and morphometric characteristics of beaches is crucial for understanding coastal dynamics, evaluating natural and anthropogenic pressures, and supporting effective coastal management and conservation strategies. This is particularly important for countries like Türkiye, where extensive and diverse coastlines play a key role in tourism, the economy, and ecological sustainability. This study presents the first comprehensive, nationwide inventory and characterisation of Türkiye’s beaches, encompassing its 8483 km coastline. Using satellite imagery, 6110 beaches were identified and classified according to environmental conditions, with analyses conducted on their morphological characteristics, sea boundaries, and provincial distributions. The results show that rocky coast and river-mouth beaches constitute 81% of the total beaches but only 46% of the total beach length. Conversely, deltaic and lowlying beaches represent just 2.6% of the total number but comprise 37% of the total length, highlighting their significance despite their scarcity. Along the Mediterranean and Black Sea coasts, where mountain ranges extend parallel to the shoreline, beaches are fewer in number yet tend to be longer and broader. In contrast, the tectonically active and highly indented Aegean Sea coastline, with numerous bays, gulfs, and peninsulas, has the highest beach density, though these beaches are generally shorter. These findings underscore the role of coastal morphology and geological processes in shaping beach characteristics. In addition to natural factors, anthropogenic activities strongly influence Türkiye’s coasts: while coastal engineering structures have reshaped many Black Sea beaches, construction and tourism pressures are most evident along the Aegean coast, with Mediterranean beaches showing the highest proportion of human impact relative to their total number. This comprehensive analysis provides essential data to guide sustainable coastal management and conservation strategies in Türkiye.