Resort Wear Guide for the Turkish Riviera
Antalya is the undisputed capital of the Turkish Riviera, famous for its sprawling, luxurious all-inclusive resorts. When you are spending a week moving between the private beach, the massive pool complex, and five different buffet restaurants, what exactly should you pack? The vibe is relaxed but stylish. Here is your resort wear guide.
1. The Daytime Uniform: Swimwear and Cover-ups
During the day, you will practically live in your swimwear.
- Swimwear: Pack at least three different swimsuits or bikinis so you always have a dry one to put on.
- The Cover-up: This is the most crucial item in your suitcase. You cannot walk into the resort’s lunch buffet or lobby wearing only a bikini. Pack lightweight, stylish cover-ups like sheer kaftans, linen button-down shirts, or crocheted dresses that easily slip over wet swimwear.
2. Smart Casual Evenings
When the sun goes down, the resorts transform. While you don’t need a tuxedo or a ballgown, “smart casual” is the expected dress code for dinner.
- For Men: Leave the tank tops and flip-flops in your room. Wear tailored shorts or lightweight chinos paired with a crisp polo shirt or a short-sleeved linen button-down. Loafers or clean, stylish sneakers are perfect.
- For Women: Flowing maxi dresses, elegant rompers, or wide-leg palazzo pants paired with a nice blouse are ideal. The evening breeze off the Mediterranean can be lovely, so a light pashmina or shawl is a good addition.
3. Footwear Strategy
- Pool/Beach: Rubber flip-flops or slides are mandatory for walking on the hot tiles around the pool.
- Evening: Strappy sandals or espadrilles for women, and loafers or boat shoes for men.
- Water Shoes: Many of the beaches in Antalya (particularly in Konyaaltı and Kemer) are pebbly rather than sandy. Pack a cheap pair of neoprene water shoes to protect your feet when getting in and out of the sea.
4. The Resort Bag
You won’t want to carry a leather purse to the pool. Pack a large, woven straw tote bag or a stylish canvas beach bag. It needs to be big enough to hold your sunscreen, sunglasses, a book, your room key, and a dry cover-up.
