Patara Beach
Patara ranks among the most beautiful beaches in Türkiye and, for many, is among the very top spots. Some even consider it the best beach in Antalya. Patara Beach, stretching along the border of Gelemiş Village in Antalya’s Kaş district, is Türkiye’s longest beach, with an 18-kilometer shoreline and fine golden sand. Patara is also home to the Ancient City of Patara, once the capital of the Lycian League. To reach the beach, visitors pass through the Patara Archaeological Site, where, before reaching the sea, they encounter one of the world’s oldest surviving lighthouses, an ancient theater, and the assembly building.
Because it serves as a nesting ground for Caretta caretta sea turtles, the beach is closed to visitors from 20:00 to 08:00, and lights and noise are prohibited at night. Entry is free with a Museum Pass, while visitors without one pay a combined fee for the archaeological site and the beach. Sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented from the beach operator.
While visiting Patara, you can also add the nearby ancient cities of Letoon and Xanthos to your itinerary and spend a few days in Kaş on your way back to Antalya along the coast. The two closest airports to Patara are Antalya and Dalaman.
Who it’s best for: Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, those who enjoy long walks, and travelers seeking peace and quiet.
When to visit: Since the area is often windy, those who enjoy wavier seas may prefer visiting between June and September. It is also exceptional for sunset views.
How to get there: Take the Ova/Gelemiş exit from the D400 highway connecting Antalya and Muğla. The road through the village leads directly to the archaeological site and the beach parking area. Patara can be reached from Kaş, Kalkan, and Fethiye by public transportation, private car, or taxi. The two nearest airports are Antalya and Dalaman; depending on your route, book a flight to either Antalya or Dalaman.
Kaputaş Beach
Set between Kaş and Kalkan, in Antalya, Kaputaş Beach lies at the mouth of a canyon. Its distinctive silhouette is often seen in advertisements and promotional films about Türkiye. Kaputaş Beach is accessed via a 187-step staircase, which also offers great photo opportunities. Among Kaputaş’ unique characteristics are its water: spring water flows from the mountains and mingles with sea water underground, ensuring that the waters of Kaputaş Beach remain cool and refreshing. If you enjoy cold-water swimming, a visit to Kaputaş Beach will be a treat! Close to Kaputaş is the otherworldly Blue Cave, accessible only by sea.
Who it’s best for: An excellent choice for young travelers, photography enthusiasts, and confident swimmers. However, it may not be the best beach for families with young children.
When to visit: Kaputaş Beach becomes extremely crowded in July and August. For a calmer, more peaceful experience, visiting in May-June or September is preferable.
How to get there: Because it is located along the Kaş–Kalkan coastal road, it can be easily reached by minibuses running from central Kaş to Kalkan; the minibus drops passengers directly at the top of the beach staircase. Visitors arriving by private car can park in the free roadside areas, though it is advisable to arrive early in the morning to find a spot. The nearest airports are *Dalaman and Antalya.
İztuzu Beach
Set in Dalyan, Muğla, İztuzu Beach was selected the best open area in Europe by The Times in 2008, the best beach in Europe by Zoover and Meteovista in 2011, and the 7th best beach in Europe by TripAdvisor in 2013. İztuzu Beach, a 4.5 kilometer-long crescent of golden sand, is most certainly among the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches.
İztuzu is also a prominent spawning ground for the Caretta sea turtles – in fact, the beach is commonly known as ‘Turtle Beach’ – which have been under protection in this area since 1988. To avoid disturbing the turtles, the beach is closed between 20:00 and 08:00, and it is forbidden to make noise or turn on lights in the area.
Who it’s best for: The sea at İztuzu Beach is quite shallow, making it especially suitable for families with children. It is also an ideal beach for nature lovers and for those who enjoy protected natural areas.
When to visit: Specific rules apply throughout the Caretta caretta nesting season (May–September). For a calmer, less crowded seaside experience, September is the ideal time to visit.
How to get there: There are two ways to reach the beach from central Dalyan: by minibus on the road or by shared boats along the canal. The boat journey is often preferred because it is convenient and offers the chance to see the Dalyan Delta along the way. The nearest airport is Dalaman; you can reach Dalyan quickly by flying there.
Cleopatra Beach
Cleopatra Beach is a magnificent two-kilometer-long Mediterranean beach located in the Alanya district of Antalya, to the west of the historical peninsula. It is named for the legendary Egyptian queen, who is believed to have enjoyed the area with the Roman general, Mark Antony. Wide and sandy, golden Cleopatra Beach draws hundreds of thousands of tourists annually for sea-sand-sun holidays along its shallow, clear sea.
Snorkeling and paragliding, along with jet ski and pedalo activities, are quite popular on Cleopatra Beach, with a number of companies providing rental equipment. We also recommend a visit to the nearby Damlataş Cave and the Blue Flag Damlataş Beach.
Who it’s best for: Ideal for those who want to combine a beach day with easy access to the city center, travelers seeking beach facilities such as showers and restaurants, and anyone who enjoys water sports.
When to visit: The best time to visit Cleopatra Beach is typically between June and August, when the sea is warmest. However, for a calmer atmosphere and milder weather, May or the period between September and October offers a more relaxed experience.
How to get there: The beach is within walking distance of central Alanya and can be reached easily on foot or by a short ride on public transportation from many points in the city. Although the closest airport to Alanya is Gazipaşa–Alanya Airport, most visitors prefer Antalya Airport. You can reach Alanya by road after booking a flight to Antalya.
Belcekız Beach
Belcekiz Beach, set in jewel-like Ölüdeniz in the Fethiye district of Muğla, is an iconic Mediterranean beach – sandy and wide, featuring a turquoise sea and a legendary view.
The views attract paragliders; paragliding is especially popular here, with companies providing facilities for routes that start from Babadağ and end in Ölüdeniz.
Within a short drive from Belcekız Beach are Hisarönü Town, Butterfly Valley, Kıdrak Bay, Paspatur Bazaar, Arsada Ancient City and Telmessos Ancient City.
Who it’s best for: Belcekız Beach is an excellent choice for those looking to spend their days swimming, sunbathing, and adding a bit of adventure to their Ölüdeniz experience through activities like paragliding.
When to visit: You can visit from early May through October. During this season, the weather and sea temperatures remain very comfortable.
How to get there: Ölüdeniz is about 14 kilometers from central Fethiye and can be reached easily by Ölüdeniz minibuses that run frequently throughout the day or by private car. The nearest airport is Dalaman. By booking a flight to Dalaman, you can continue to Ölüdeniz via Fethiye.
Çıralı and Olympos beaches
Çıralı, in Antalya’s Kemer district, is one of the few places along the Mediterranean coast that has preserved its natural character. Because it is a first-degree protected natural area, large-scale hotel development on the beach is prohibited. Accommodation options are limited to small guesthouses, bungalows, and campsites. The shoreline extends for approximately 3 kilometers, connecting to Yanartaş in the north and the Ancient City of Olympos in the south.
Known for its fine pebbles and crystal-clear water, the beach offers two distinct atmospheres at each end. On the Çıralı side, you will find turquoise waters and a setting well-suited for families, while the Olympos side opens to a wilder landscape where a stream meets the sea amid ancient ruins. Both beaches are nesting grounds for Caretta caretta sea turtles, so access to the shore at night, artificial lighting, and noise are prohibited.
Entry to the beach is free from the Çıralı side; Museum Pass holders can enter the Ancient City of Olympos through the seaside entrance. One of the region’s classic evening rituals is to walk up to Yanartaş at sunset to watch the natural flames rise from the rocks.
Who it’s best for: The beaches in this area are ideal for nature lovers, campers, history buffs, yoga and meditation groups, and those seeking a slower pace. For families with children, the Çıralı side is generally the better option.
When to visit: May, September, and October are the best months for both temperature and tranquility. In July and August, humidity in the valley can become quite intense.
How to get there: Take the Ulupınar/Çıralı turnoff from the D400 highway heading toward Antalya–Kumluca, then continue along the winding road that leads directly to the beach. You can also reach the area by minibuses departing from Antalya for Çıralı or Olympos. The region is about 80 kilometers from Antalya Airport; you can plan your trip by booking a flight to Antalya.
Kızkalesi Beach
Kızkalesi, located in Mersin’s Erdemli district, takes its name from the historic castle rising from the middle of the sea, about 200 meters off the coast. With its sandy shoreline stretching about 600 meters, shallow waters, and a nearly wave-free sea, it is especially well suited for families with children. It is also a Blue Flag public beach with accessibility features for visitors with disabilities.
The beach is operated by Denizkızı Tourism under the Mersin Metropolitan Municipality. Facilities include showers, restrooms, changing cabins, lifeguard services, sunbeds, and umbrellas, all available at affordable rates. In summer, the area’s daily population can reach 100,000. Nearby attractions include the Heaven and Hell Sinkholes, Asthma Cave, Korykos Castle, and the Ancient City of Kanlıdivane.
Who it’s best for: A great choice for non-swimmers, those who prefer shallow water, travelers interested in history and cultural routes, and anyone seeking an affordable vacation.
When to visit: The best times to visit are May, early June, and September. In July and August, Mersin’s high humidity and the beach’s extreme crowding can make the experience less comfortable. The sea is also clearest between 07:00 and 10:00 in the morning.
How to get there: Kızkalesi, located along the Mersin–Silifke coastal road, is easily accessible by buses and minibuses departing from both Mersin and Silifke. It is about 65 kilometers from central Mersin. The nearest active civil airport is Adana. You can reach Kızkalesi by road after booking a flight to Adana.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Mediterranean beaches?
Türkiye’s Mediterranean coastline begins in the Fethiye and Dalyan districts of Muğla in the west, continues through Antalya’s popular coastal destinations, including Kaş, Kalkan, Kemer, and Alanya, passes through the Erdemli and Silifke districts of Mersin, and extends to Hatay via the Karataş and Yumurtalık districts of Adana.
Which beaches in the Mediterranean have Blue Flag status?
In Türkiye’s 2025 Blue Flag ranking, Antalya ranks first with 233 beaches. It is followed by Muğla, Mersin, and Adana. Among Antalya’s most notable Blue Flag beaches are Kaputaş, Patara, and Lara; in Muğla, Belcekız, İztuzu, and Sarıgerme stand out; and in Mersin, Kızkalesi, Susanoğlu, Kocahasanlı, and Boğsak are among the leading Blue Flag beaches.
Which is the best beach in Antalya?
There is no single answer to this; it depends on your vacation style. Patara stands out for combining a natural sandy beach with an ancient city experience; Kaputaş for its striking turquoise waters; Cleopatra Beach for shallow waters and proximity to the city; and Çıralı for a quieter escape immersed in nature.
Where is the cleanest sea in Mersin?
The districts of Erdemli and Silifke in Mersin have the highest concentration of Blue Flag beaches. Kızkalesi, Susanoğlu, Yapraklıkoy, and Boğsak Cove are especially known for their clear waters. Boğsak Cove is also protected as a nesting site for Caretta caretta.
Where is Patara Beach located? Is Patara Beach free?
Patara Beach is within the Patara Archaeological Site in Gelemiş Village, part of Antalya’s Kaş district. The same ticket covers entry to both the beach and the archaeological site. Museum Pass holders enter free of charge, while visitors without a pass pay the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s rates. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for an additional fee.
Where is Kaputaş Beach located? Is it free?
Kaputaş Beach is in Antalya’s Kaş district, along the Kaş–Kalkan coastal road. Because it is operated by Kaş Municipality as a public beach, entry is free. Charges apply only if you rent sunbeds or umbrellas.
How far is Kaputaş Beach from Antalya?
Kaputaş Beach is about 195 kilometers from Antalya’s city center. Because the road is quite winding, the drive usually takes about 3 hours.
How far is Kaputaş Beach from Fethiye?
Kaputaş Beach is about 75 kilometers from central Fethiye. The drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Where is İztuzu Beach located? Is İztuzu Beach free?
İztuzu Beach is in Dalyan, within Muğla’s Ortaca district, about 12 kilometers from central Dalyan. Pedestrian access is free, but there is a fee for vehicle entry. Sunbed and umbrella rentals are available separately. Because the beach is a protected nesting area for Caretta caretta, it is closed to visitors from 20:00 to 08:00.
Where is Cleopatra Beach located? Is Cleopatra Beach free?
Cleopatra Beach is in Antalya’s Alanya district on the western side of the historic peninsula. As a Blue Flag public beach operated by the municipality, it is free to enter. Sunbed and umbrella rental prices vary by operator.
What makes Cleopatra Beach special?
Cleopatra Beach is known for its 2-kilometer stretch of fine, golden sand and its shallow, crystal-clear water. Its snorkeling-friendly waters and ability to remain clean despite its location in the city center make it one of Türkiye’s most established beach destinations. The beach derives its name from legends associated with Queen Cleopatra of Egypt.
Where is Belcekız Beach located? Is Belcekız Beach free?
Belcekız Beach is in the Ölüdeniz neighborhood of Muğla’s Fethiye district. As a public beach, it is free to enter. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for an additional fee. The neighboring Kumburnu Lagoon lies within a protected nature park and requires a separate entrance fee.
Is Belcekız Beach deep?
At Belcekız Beach, the water reaches about 2 meters in depth approximately 5 meters from the shoreline and then deepens quickly. For this reason, visitors who are not confident swimmers are advised not to venture too far from the shore, while children are generally better suited to the shallower Kumburnu Lagoon right next to it.
Stories knock at your door!
You can easily download images, and share on your social media accounts via your smartphone. Just press and hold the story, and save or share the image you have selected via the menu that appears.
