Where to find golden sand and secret beaches. Fethiye, on the turquoise coast of Turkey, has grown from a modest fishing village into one of the most desirable holiday destinations in the world.
Fethiye, on the turquoise coast of Turkey, has grown from a modest fishing village into one of the most desirable holiday destinations in the world. One of the area’s most appealing aspects are the gorgeous beaches boasting soft sand and incredible views.
Life’s a beach
Take a look at our guide to the best beaches in Fethiye. Whether you are into water sports or just love gazing at the views, there are an abundance of beaches that make Fethiye special.
Ölüdeniz Beach – otherwise known as the ‘blue lagoon’, boasts crystal clear waters, breathtaking views and miles of golden sand. The majority of people visit Ölüdeniz for its famed lagoon beach, a protected national park called Ölüdeniz Tabiat Parkı that you pay to enter. Both the public beach and lagoon are simply stunning, and make for a perfect backdrop to the magnificent mountains soaring above you. Babadag, which is also called Father Mountain, towers above Ölüdeniz and is reputedly the best site in Europe, if not the world, to fly paragliders cross-country in both solo and tandem modes.
Butterfly Valley - is close to Ölüdeniz and is one of the most magical and beautiful bays of Turkey. As its name suggests, the valley is full of the beautiful tiger butterfly. Swimmers and snorkelers will love the crystal blue waters or the less adventurous can enjoy the stunning waterfalls.
Çalis - is a long, clean, sandy beach and is perfect for families with children. There are lots of facilities and it is the place to see magnificent sunsets. To get away from the main town, head to Koca Çalis beach for some chilled out relaxation or to enjoy the windsurfing and kite-surfing facilities available with tuition provided.
Dalyan – is the place to head for a therapeutic hot spring. Here you can bathe in the mineral waters and Mud Baths. Dalyan is well known for the Loggerhead sea turtles “Caretta Caretta”, an endangered species whose nesting grounds are highly protected so keep a look out for these special creatures.
Kidrak – is an environmentally protected beach with impressive natural beauty and located about one kilometre to the east of Belcegiz. Although the beach is small, it is stunning with water many different shades of blue. Although this is one of the most popular areas in Fethiye for camping, it is truly a secret beach offering peace and tranquility.
Gemiler – is a peaceful, shingle beach flanked with pine forests and olive trees. The clear water is good for both snorkelling and swimming and this scenic spot is perfect for general relaxation and soaking up the rays. The beach looks across to St Nicholas Island, and there are a few restaurants serving up fresh meze for a perfect lunchtime treat.
Patara – is located in the ancient city of Patara. This beach is quite long with golden sand and shallow sea making it ideal for families and children. Caretta Caretta Turtles lay their eggs here, making it one of the most special in the world.
Beach life things to do
- Paraglide in tandem off Babadağ Mountain over Ölüdeniz and land on its beach.
- Take a jeep safari through the beautiful Taurus Mountains following the Xanthos River, exploring historical sites then ending at Patara Beach.
- Take a 12-island boat tour around the Fethiye Bay, offering swimming stops by an island or a sea-cave.
- Go on a fishing trip or try night sailing with dinner on board.
- Try some water sports such as scuba diving or kite-surfing.
Hot tip
Tolga Ertukel, Founder of Turkey Homes says: “A self-hire boat is the ideal way to find your very own secret beach in Fethiye.”
Fethiye
