12 Best Family Friendly Hotels in Side: Sandy Beaches & Pure Joy
Family Friendly Hotels in Side: If you ask a seasoned traveler where to take a toddler for their first sea experience, the answer is always Side. Unlike the pebbly shores of Kemer or the deeper waters of Alanya, Side offers miles of golden, shallow, and fine sand. It’s a place where parents can actually sit back while their children play safely at the water’s edge.
But choosing a resort in Side can be overwhelming. Some are tucked away in the quiet forests of Sorgun, while others sit right on the vibrant promenade of Kumköy. In this guide, we’ve ignored the generic “star ratings” and focused on what really matters: the kids’ club quality, the beach safety, and the “wow” factor. Plus, we’ll show you how to navigate the 60km journey from Antalya Airport with a Private VIP Transfer that feels like part of the vacation itself.
The Top Picks for a Perfect Family Friendly Hotels in Side
Barut Hemera

This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a legendary hospitality experience. Barut Hemera is famous for its “Bary Star” concept, which provides everything from baby monitors to bottle warmers.
- The Inside Scoop: Their patisserie serves authentic Turkish ice cream that kids (and dads) adore.
- Why This Hotel? It’s located on the seaside walking path, meaning you can push a stroller all the way to the Side Antique City.
Paloma Finesse

For families who appreciate modern design and “farm-to-table” food. This is the “cool” side of family travel.
- The Highlight: The “Chef’s Kitchen” where kids learn about local ingredients while having fun.
- Logistics Note: Located in the Sorgun forest area, it’s a serene escape. Our VIP vans provide a peaceful 60-minute ride through the scenery to get you here.
Crystal Sunset Luxury Resort & Spa

If your children measure a holiday by the size of the water slides, this is their paradise. It boasts one of the most impressive aquaparks in the region.
- The Inside Scoop: The evening shows here are Broadway-quality, keeping the whole family entertained after dinner.
Otium Family Eco Club

A dream for eco-conscious parents. This hotel is designed entirely around the “Kid’s World” concept, a massive 3,000 m² area dedicated to play and education.
- Why This Hotel? They offer a dedicated baby beach area with shade and soft sand.
Arum Barut Collection

Quiet luxury meets family fun. It’s perfect for families who want high-end service without the loud, chaotic atmosphere of typical “club” hotels.
- The Highlight: Their “Vegan and Gluten-Free” buffet options are among the best in Turkey.
Sunis Kumköy Beach Resort & Spa

Located in the heart of Kumköy, this hotel has arguably the best beach in Side. You can walk 50 meters into the sea and the water will still only be at your waist.
- Transfer Tip: Kumköy is a busy area. Avoid the shuttle bus maze; a private driver will drop you right at the lobby while others are still making hotel stops.
Voyage Sorgun

Nestled in a pine forest, this resort offers a “back to nature” feel with all the 5-star perks.
- The Inside Scoop: Their 24-hour à la carte service means you don’t have to rush the kids to the buffet at a specific time.
Kamelya Selin Hotel

Part of the massive Kamelya Collection. Guests can use the facilities of three hotels, meaning you get access to a literal “water world” and multiple football pitches.
- The Highlight: The beach is massive—even in high season, you’ll never feel crowded.
Royal Dragon Hotel

The unique Far-East architecture makes this a visual treat. It’s famous for its funfair (lunapark) and stone-oven pizzas by the pool.
TUI Blue Sensatori Barut (Side Residence)
Strictly focused on the “sensory” experience. Separate zones for families and adults ensure everyone gets the holiday they want.
Blue Waters Club

A sports-focused family paradise. From professional tennis courts to mountain biking trails, this is for the active family.
Side Star Resort

Located in the Gündoğdu area, this hotel is known for its friendly staff and repeat guests who come back every year like family.
Why the 60km Journey to Side Demands a VIP Transfer
Side is roughly 65 km (40 miles) from Antalya Airport. After a flight, a 1.5-hour shuttle bus with 10 different hotel stops is the last thing a tired child needs.
- Fixed & Fair Rates: No surprises. You know the price before you land.
- The “Safety First” Approach: We provide free baby seats and boosters, properly installed and ready for your arrival.
- Direct & Fast: We cut the travel time down to 55-60 minutes, getting you into the pool while others are still on the bus.
- Spacious Luxury: Our Mercedes Vito vans offer enough room for double strollers and all the “just in case” luggage families carry.
Best Things to Do in Side Turkey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Family Friendly Hotels in Side
Is the sea in Side safe for small children?
Yes! Side is famous for its shallow, sandy coastline, especially in the Kumköy and Evrenseki regions. It is much safer for toddlers than the steeper beaches of Kemer or Alanya.
How long is the transfer from Antalya Airport to Side?
By Private VIP Transfer, it takes approximately 60 minutes. Public shuttles can take up to 2.5 hours due to multiple stops and waiting times at the airport.
What is the best time to visit Side with a family?
June and September are the “sweet spots.” The weather is warm enough for swimming, but you avoid the intense 40°C heat of July and August.
Can we visit the Side Antique City with a stroller?
Mostly yes! The main road leading to the Temple of Apollo is paved and stroller-friendly. However, some of the inner ruins have sandy or rocky paths where a carrier might be easier
Are there good pharmacies or hospitals in Side?
Absolutely. Side and the nearby town of Manavgat have world-class private hospitals and English-speaking pharmacies (Eczane) that are very accustomed to helping tourists.
