New smoking ban on Antalya beaches could land Brits £28 fine
A smoking ban has been introduced on beaches in a popular tourist destination.
Antalya is one of the most-visited cities in the world, welcoming more than 17 million tourists each year, including around 1.6 million Brits (third-largest source of international visitors).
Tourists visiting the Turkish resort city are being warned about a new smoking ban that has just been introduced on select beaches.
Antalya beaches affected by new smoking ban
A new smoking ban came into force on beaches in Antalya on June 5.
The new restrictions will initially apply to the following beaches:
- Lara
- Belek
- Çamyuva
- Beach Park
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This will be the first phase of a broader initiative, according to local news outlet Daily Sabah.
The smoking ban on Antalya beaches is said to be part of the 'Blue Mediterranean Initiative', which aims to "protect marine ecosystems".
Project coordinator Ebru Şahin, speaking in the Hurriyet Daily News, said: "Cigarette butts pose a far greater threat to the marine environment than many people realise".
Mr Şahin explained: "Images taken from the sea floor showed what at first appeared to be marine organisms or sponges, but were actually cigarette butts.
"They accumulate among sand and pebbles, are carried into the sea by currents and cause serious damage to the ecosystem.
"Protecting the seas begins with small behavioural changes."
What is the fine for breaking the smoking ban on Antalya beaches?
Individuals caught smoking on the impacted Antalya beaches could be fined 1,764 Turkish Lira (roughly £28).
This could increase to 5,000 lira (£181) under the proposed new laws.
Have you got a holiday booked to Antalya in 2026? Let us know in the comments below.
