Şile: Beach, History and Şile Bezi

In Şile, a long sandy beach, an active lighthouse and a textile tradition passed down to the present day come together. This gives your stay several possible focuses: time at Ayazma Beach, insights into the town’s history or exploring Şile Bezi.

Ayazma Beach: Dimensions and Facilities

Ayazma Beach, also known as Şile Halk Plajı, is located at the entrance to the town. The sandy beach is 1,175 metres long and 50 metres wide. Facilities include lifeguards, showers, sun loungers, parasols, changing cabins and toilets. If the beach is an important part of your trip, you can take these facilities into account when deciding to stay in Şile.

Lighthouse and Harbour Island

The Şile Deniz Feneri was built in 1859–1860 by the French Lighthouse Administration and is the largest active lighthouse in Turkey. Both the original lighting apparatus and the original tower structure have been preserved. Its present-day function is therefore linked to a tangible piece of architectural and technological history. Next to the historic lighthouse is the Şile Fener Cafe, where you can sit and enjoy panoramic views of the Black Sea.

Another striking structure is Şile Kalesi, also known as Ocaklı Ada Kalesi. It stands on Ocaklı Ada in Şile harbour, is 12 metres high and was built as a watchtower. Its island location and recorded function give it a different historical context from the lighthouse. Visitors interested in the town’s history can explore these different structures and consider their distinct purposes and locations.

Şile Bezi and Local Culture

Şile Bezi is a 100% cotton fabric made on handlooms. A cultural heritage passed down from the Ottoman Empire to the present day, it is also regarded as a symbol of Şile. Its handcrafted production makes the textile tradition tangible: both the cotton material and the weaving technique are central to its description. The International Şile Bezi Culture and Arts Festival takes place in Şile every year in July and August. If you would like to focus more on culture and local history, you can keep this annual event in mind when planning your holiday.

Rescue History and Houses on Rocks

In the centre of Şile, the Tahlisiye Rescue Station comprises a station, accommodation barracks, a boathouse and a rocket house. The historic buildings and old rescue equipment at the Tahlisiye complex are considered historic monuments. The Şile Tahlisiye Kayıkhanesi has been faithfully restored and opened to tourism in Şile district. These sites draw attention to the history of maritime rescue and complement the architectural history of the lighthouse and castle. The settlement centre is also home to old houses perched on high rocks—another distinctive feature of the townscape.

Things to Do in Şile and the Surrounding Area

Even outside the beach season, Şile offers a range of interests to consider when planning a trip: coastal scenery, historic buildings and a traditional craft sit side by side. Nearby Ağva, 31 kilometres from the centre of Şile, has several routes for nature walks. Boat trips are also recommended there as a tourist activity. Ağva therefore offers an additional option for travellers who would like to explore nature and water activities nearby, as well as Şile’s places and cultural attractions.

When choosing a holiday apartment in Şile, the key consideration is the mix you are looking for: would you like the beach to be the main focus, or would you prefer to plan your trip around architectural history and Şile Bezi? These topics offer different points of interest, without requiring you to focus on just one side of the town.

More Places to Explore

If you would also like to consider other destinations, you can explore Gümüşdere Köyü, Işıklar, Zekeriyaköy, Anadolu Mahallesi, Yeniköy, Silivri, Kartal and Yayla.

For the broader travel overview: Istanbul.