4.5 / 5

Patara Beach
📍 Patara Beach, TurkeyView map ›

🗓 Best Time To Visit:April to October

⏰ Open Hours:Open 24 hours

🎯 Things To Do:Sunbathing, Swimming, Visiting Ancient Ruins

💰 Budget:Free Entry, Parking fee applicable

👥 Traveller Types:Families, Solo Travellers, History Buffs, Beach Lovers

📌 Known For:Being the longest sandy beach in Turkey, Home to ancient Lycian ruins, Nesting site for loggerhead turtles

📍 Distances:115 km from Dalaman Airport, 73 km from Fethiye, 212 km from Antalya

🌴 Facilities:Toilets, Changing Rooms, Sunbeds and Umbrellas for Rent

📸 Photo Opportunities:Ancient Ruins, Sunset Views, Sea Turtles

🚫 Regulations:No camping allowed, Keep a safe distance from turtle nests

👀 Tips:Bring sun protection, Visit early or late to avoid crowds

Have questions about Patara Beach?Ask the Tripoto Community ›

Patara Beach: A Guide to Turkey’s Longest and Most Beautiful Beach

Imagine a beach that stretches for 18 kilometers, with soft golden sand, crystal clear water, and breathtaking views of the sunset. A beach that is home to the endangered loggerhead turtles, and the birthplace of Santa Claus. A beach that is surrounded by the ruins of an ancient city, and the wonders of a rich civilization. Sounds too good to be true, right?

Well, such a beach exists, and it is called Patara Beach. Located in the Antalya province of Turkey, Patara Beach is the longest and most beautiful beach in the country, and one of the best in the world. It is a natural and historical paradise, where you can enjoy a variety of activities, attractions, and experiences. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, culture, or wildlife, Patara Beach has something for everyone.

In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Patara Beach and its nearby attractions, including what to do, see, and expect during your visit. We will also provide you with some tips and recommendations for planning and enjoying your trip, such as the best time to visit, the transportation options, and the safety precautions. By the end of this article, you will be ready to pack your bags and head to Patara Beach, the ultimate destination for a memorable vacation.

Why Visit Patara Beach?

Patara Beach is not just another beach. It is a unique and special destination, and here are some of the reasons why:

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Natural beauty and diversity: Patara Beach is a stunning sight to behold, with its golden sand, turquoise water, and sand dunes. The beach is part of a national park, and it is protected from development and pollution. The water is clean and warm, and the sand is soft and fine. The beach is also famous for its spectacular sunsets, which paint the sky in vivid colors. You can enjoy the views from the beach, or from the nearby hills and cliffs. Patara Beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, especially the endangered loggerhead turtles, or Caretta Caretta, which nest on the beach between May and October. You can witness these magnificent creatures laying their eggs, or hatching their babies, if you are lucky. Patara Beach is one of the few places in the world where you can see these turtles in their natural habitat, and it is a privilege and a responsibility to respect and protect them.

Cultural and historical significance: Patara Beach is not only a natural wonder, but also a cultural and historical treasure. The beach is surrounded by the ruins of the ancient city of Patara, which was once the capital of the Lycian civilization, and one of the most important ports and trade centers in the Mediterranean. Patara was also the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, or Santa Claus, the patron saint of children, sailors, and travelers. You can explore the ancient city of Patara, and see the impressive landmarks, such as the theatre, the lighthouse, the parliament building, and the necropolis. You can also learn about the history and culture of the Lycians, who were known for their democracy, art, and architecture. Patara Beach is a place where you can connect with the past, and appreciate the legacy of a rich civilization.

What to Do and See at Patara Beach and Nearby Attractions?

Patara Beach offers a wide range of activities, attractions, and experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do and see at Patara Beach and its surroundings:

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Watch the sunset at Patara Beach: One of the most popular and unforgettable things to do at Patara Beach is to watch the sunset. Patara Beach is known for its amazing sunsets, which are considered to be among the best in the world. The sun sets behind the mountains, creating a dramatic and romantic scenery. The colors of the sky and the water change from orange to pink to purple, creating a magical atmosphere. You can watch the sunset from the beach, or from the nearby hills and cliffs, where you can get a panoramic view. You can also join a sunset tour, which will take you to the best spots to enjoy the sunset, and provide you with drinks and snacks. Watching the sunset at Patara Beach is a must-do for anyone who visits this beautiful place.

Swim and surf at Patara Beach: Another great thing to do at Patara Beach is to swim and surf. Patara Beach is ideal for swimming, as the water is clean, warm, and shallow. The water is also calm and safe, as there are no rocks, reefs, or currents. You can swim in the water, or relax on the sand, and enjoy the sun and the breeze. Patara Beach is also a good place for surfing, as the waves are moderate and consistent. You can surf on the water, or rent a board and take a lesson from a local instructor. Surfing at Patara Beach is a fun and exciting way to experience the water, and to challenge yourself.

Visit the loggerhead turtle nesting site at Patara Beach: One of the most unique and special things to do at Patara Beach is to visit the loggerhead turtle nesting site. Patara Beach is one of the most important nesting sites for the endangered loggerhead turtles, or Caretta Caretta, which are the largest hard-shelled turtles in the world. The turtles come to the beach between May and October, to lay their eggs in the sand. The eggs hatch after about two months, and the baby turtles make their way to the sea. You can witness this amazing phenomenon, if you visit the beach during the nesting season. You can also join a turtle tour, which will take you to the nesting site, and explain the life cycle and the conservation efforts of the turtles. Visiting the loggerhead turtle nesting site at Patara Beach is a rare and rewarding opportunity, and it is important to follow the rules and guidelines, such as not using flashlights, not touching the turtles, and not disturbing the nests.

Explore the ancient city of Patara: One of the most fascinating and impressive things to do at Patara Beach is to explore the ancient city of Patara, which is located next to the beach. Patara was once the capital of the Lycian civilization, and one of the most important ports and trade centers in the Mediterranean. Patara was also the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, or Santa Claus, the patron saint of children, sailors, and travelers. You can explore the ancient city of Patara, and see the remarkable landmarks, such as the theatre, the lighthouse, the parliament building, and the necropolis. The theatre is one of the largest and best preserved in Turkey, and it can seat up to 10,000 people. The lighthouse is one of the oldest and most original in the world, and it was built by the Romans in the first century AD. The parliament building is one of the most significant and symbolic structures in Patara, as it was the place where the Lycian League, the first democratic federation in history, met and made decisions. The necropolis is the cemetery of Patara, where you can see the tombs and sarcophagi of the Lycians, who had a unique and elaborate burial culture. You can also learn about the history and culture of the Lycians, who were known for their democracy, art, and architecture. Exploring the ancient city of Patara is a captivating and educational experience, and it will make you appreciate the heritage and the glory of this ancient city.

Learn about the birthplace of Santa Claus at Patara: One of the most surprising and interesting things to do at Patara Beach is to learn about the birthplace of Santa Claus, or Saint Nicholas, at Patara. Patara is the place where Saint Nicholas was born in the third century AD, and where he became a bishop and a saint. Saint Nicholas was known for his generosity, kindness, and miracles, and he is the patron saint of children, sailors, and travelers. He is also the inspiration for the modern Santa Claus, who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve. You can learn about the life and the legend of Saint Nicholas at Patara, and see the places where he lived and worked, such as the church, the house, and the well. You can also visit the nearby town of Demre, where Saint Nicholas died and was buried, and where you can see his tomb and his museum. Learning about the birthplace of Santa Claus at Patara is a fun and enlightening thing to do, and it will make you see Santa Claus in a new and different way.

Discover the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Xanthos and Letoon: One of the most rewarding and worthwhile things to do at Patara Beach is to discover the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Xanthos and Letoon, which are located about 20 kilometers from the beach. Xanthos and Letoon were the two most important cities of the Lycian civilization, and they are the best examples of the Lycian culture and architecture. Xanthos was the capital and the cultural center of Lycia, and it was famous for its monuments, such as the Nereid Monument, the Harpy Tomb, and the Xanthian Obelisk. Letoon was the religious center of Lycia, and it was dedicated to the goddess Leto and her twin children, Apollo and Artemis. Letoon was known for its temples, such as the Temple of Leto, the Temple of Apollo, and the Temple of Artemis. You can discover the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Xanthos and Letoon, and see the remarkable structures, inscriptions, and sculptures that reveal the history and beliefs of the Lycians. You can also join a guided tour, which will explain the significance and the stories behind each site. Discovering the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Xanthos and Letoon is a captivating and enlightening thing to do, and it will make you admire the achievements and the legacy of the Lycian civilization.

Experience the thrill of Saklıkent Canyon: One of the most adventurous and exciting things to do at Patara Beach is to experience the thrill of Saklıkent Canyon, which is located about 40 kilometers from the beach. Saklıkent Canyon is the second longest canyon in Europe, and one of the deepest in the world. It is a natural wonder, where you can see the contrast between the cold water and the hot rocks, and the green vegetation and the brown cliffs. You can experience the thrill of Saklıkent Canyon, and enjoy a variety of activities, such as rafting, hiking, and zip-lining. You can raft on the rapids of the Eşen River, which flows through the canyon, and feel the adrenaline rush. You can hike on the wooden walkways and the rocky paths, and explore the hidden caves and waterfalls. You can zip-line across the canyon, and get a bird’s eye view of the scenery. You can also relax and have a picnic at the restaurants and cafes near the canyon, and taste the local cuisine and drinks. Experiencing the thrill of Saklıkent Canyon is a fun and exhilarating thing to do, and it will make you appreciate the beauty and the diversity of nature.

Where to Stay and Eat Near Patara Beach?

Patara Beach offers a variety of accommodation and dining options for visitors of all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay and eat near Patara Beach:

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Villas:

If you are looking for a comfortable and spacious place to stay near Patara Beach, you can choose from the many villas that are available for rent. Villas are ideal for families, groups, or couples who want to have privacy and convenience. You can find villas that have different features, such as swimming pools, gardens, terraces, and barbecue facilities. You can also find villas that have different views, such as sea view, mountain view, or village view. Some of the best villas near Patara Beach are:

Villa Patara: This is a luxurious and modern villa that can accommodate up to 10 people. It has 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a dining area. It also has a private pool, a garden, a terrace, and a barbecue area. It has a stunning view of the sea and the mountains, and it is only 2 kilometers from the beach. The price for this villa is $300 per night, and you can book it online.

Villa Lycia: This is a cozy and charming villa that can accommodate up to 6 people. It has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a dining area. It also has a shared pool, a garden, a terrace, and a barbecue area. It has a lovely view of the village and the hills, and it is only 1 kilometer from the beach. The price for this villa is $100 per night, and you can book it online.

Hotels:

If you are looking for a convenient and affordable place to stay near Patara Beach, you can choose from the many hotels that are available for booking. Hotels are ideal for solo travelers, couples, or friends who want to have easy access and facilities. You can find hotels that have different amenities, such as pools, restaurants, bars, and spas. You can also find hotels that have different ratings, such as budget, mid-range, or luxury. Some of the best hotels near Patara Beach are:

Dardanos Hotel: This is a budget and friendly hotel that can accommodate up to 2 people. It has 14 rooms, each with a private bathroom, a balcony, and a mini fridge. It also has a pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a library. It has a cozy atmosphere and a helpful staff, and it is only 500 meters from the beach. The price for this hotel is $30 per night, and you can book it online.

Golden Lighthouse Hotel: This is a mid-range and elegant hotel that can accommodate up to 4 people. It has 27 rooms, each with a private bathroom, a balcony, and a TV. It also has a pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a spa. It has a beautiful view of the sea and the mountains, and it is only 800 meters from the beach. The price for this hotel is $60 per night, and you can book it online.

Restaurants:

If you are looking for a delicious and authentic place to eat near Patara Beach, you can choose from the many restaurants that are available for dining. Restaurants are ideal for anyone who wants to taste the local cuisine and drinks, and to enjoy the ambiance and the service. You can find restaurants that have different cuisines, such as Turkish, Mediterranean, or international. You can also find restaurants that have different prices, such as cheap, moderate, or expensive. Some of the best restaurants near Patara Beach are:

Asma Altı Restaurant: This is a cheap and cheerful restaurant that serves Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, such as kebabs, salads, soups, and desserts. It also serves local drinks, such as ayran, tea, and beer. It has a rustic and cozy decor, and a friendly and attentive staff. It is located in the village of Patara, and it is only 1 kilometer from the beach. The average price for this restaurant is $10 per person.

Zeytin Restaurant: This is a moderate and refined restaurant that serves Mediterranean and international dishes, such as seafood, pasta, pizza, and steak. It also serves local drinks, such as wine, raki, and cocktails. It has a modern and elegant decor, and a professional and courteous staff. It is located on the beach of Patara, and it has a stunning view of the sea and the sunset. The average price for this restaurant is $20 per person.

Patara Beach is a wonderful destination in Turkey, where you can enjoy the sunset, the loggerhead turtles, the ancient ruins, and the surfing. It is a place where you can experience the natural beauty and diversity, the cultural and historical significance, and the fun and adventure of this amazing beach and its nearby attractions. Patara Beach is a place where you can have a memorable and enjoyable vacation, and where you can create unforgettable memories.

Getting There

There are several ways to get to Patara Beach from Istanbul, depending on your budget, time, and preference. Here are some of the options:

By plane and bus:

This is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Patara Beach from Istanbul. You can fly from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Dalaman Airport (DLM), which takes about an hour and a half. Then, you can take a bus from Dalaman to Fethiye, which takes about an hour. From Fethiye, you can take another bus to Patara Kavsagi, which takes about 40 minutes. From Patara Kavsagi, you can take a taxi or hitch a ride to Patara Beach, which is about 3.5 kilometers away. The total cost for this option is around 2,000 to 4,000 Turkish Lira (TL) per person, depending on the flight and bus fares.

By bus:

This is the cheapest and most eco-friendly way to get to Patara Beach from Istanbul. You can take a bus from Istanbul Esenler Otogar to Fethiye, which takes about 12 to 14 hours. Then, you can follow the same steps as above to get to Patara Beach from Fethiye. The total cost for this option is around 500 to 800 TL per person, depending on the bus company and the season.

By car:

This is the most flexible and adventurous way to get to Patara Beach from Istanbul. You can drive from Istanbul to Patara Beach, which takes about 9 to 10 hours. The distance is about 820 kilometers, and the route is mostly via E881 and E87 highways. You can enjoy the scenic views and stop at any places you like along the way. The total cost for this option is around 3,000 to 4,500 TL per car, depending on the fuel consumption and the toll fees.

If you are interested in visiting Patara Beach, you can book your trip online, or contact us for more information. We are Tripoto, a leading travel platform that connects travelers with local experts and guides. We can help you plan and customize your trip to Patara Beach, and provide you with the best deals and offers.

We can also help you with other destinations in Turkey, such as Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus. We are here to make your travel dreams come true, and to make your travel experience easy and hassle-free.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Patara Beach today, and discover the longest and most beautiful beach in Turkey. You will not regret it.

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