This research project aims to examine the evolution of Istanbul’s historic beaches. The objective is to determine the place and importance of these areas, which have emerged as significant social and cultural spaces over time, from the Ottoman Empire to the early years of the Republic and then to the present day. The focus is on the urban culture. Moreover, the social and cultural dimensions of the beaches are analyzed, and the necessity of their protection is emphasized. The existing literature does not provide a detailed analysis of the social and cultural impacts of Istanbul’s beaches. This research endeavors to address this gap by underscoring the significance of Istanbul’s beaches in urban memory and their role in social modernization. Qualitative methods, archival documents, newspapers from the period, and academic studies were analyzed through a comparative approach, which involved the examination of visual and written sources. The findings demonstrate the transition from Ottoman sea baths to modern beaches and the evolution of these structures. While privacy and security were of paramount importance during the Ottoman period, the modernization of beach culture accelerated in the Republican era. This was accompanied by rapid urbanization and industrialization in the post-1950 period, which in turn led to environmental problems. This study illuminates the significance of Istanbul’s historic beaches within the social and cultural fabric of the city, as well as their role in the process of modernization. The conservation of these areas is crucial for the long-term preservation of cultural heritage. The implementation of environmental improvement and sustainable tourism policies can facilitate the revitalization of these structures, thereby reinforcing the city’s connection with the sea. Such measures are of critical importance in ensuring the transfer of the city’s cultural heritage to future generations.

Istanbul, historical beaches, modernization, Florya Beach.