A beautiful pebble beach at the end of a lush river valley containing the ancient Lycian city of Olympos. Accessed through pine forest, this beach attracts the 'treehouse camp' backpacker crowd and outdoor enthusiasts with its authentic natural setting.
Olympos Beach is a long pebble beach at the southern end of the Olympos valley in Kemer District, Antalya province, reached through a forest path alongside the stream that runs through the ancient Lycian city of Olympos. The beach occupies the mouth of the valley where the river meets the Mediterranean, creating a setting of unusual natural richness: pine and oleander forest to either side, ancient ruins along the stream banks, and a wide open sea view to the south.
The beach surface is grey and cream rounded pebbles of varying sizes, with no sand. The water is a clear blue-green of high transparency; the pebble bottom extends well into the sea, keeping the water exceptionally clear. The beach has moderate exposure to swell from the south, and waves can build on windy days. The cove is partially sheltered by the surrounding hillsides but not enclosed, so conditions vary depending on weather.
The bohemian character of Olympos beach is established by the treehouse camp accommodation lining the valley—backpacker-focused pensions built among the ruins and trees that have attracted a young international crowd since the 1990s. The beach is less manicured than Konyaaltı or Lara, with a rougher, more natural feel. Basic beach cafes and sunbed rental are available near the beach end of the path. The ancient ruins of Olympos line both sides of the approach path and include several Roman-era structures visible from the beach itself.
A short walk (approximately 30 minutes) or a dolmuş ride from the beach leads to Yanartaş, the eternal flames of Chimaera—methane seeps through the rock that have burned continuously since antiquity and gave rise to the Chimaera myth. This combination of beach, ancient city, and natural wonder makes Olympos one of the most rewarding destinations on the Antalya coast. Access is from the valley entrance near Olympos village, with a 1.5km walk along the ruins path to the beach. Dolmuş services run from Kemer in summer.
Amenities
- basic facilities
- beach cafes
- sunbed rental
Good to know
- Best for
- backpackers, swimmers, snorkellers, history-lovers, photographers
Highlights
- Pebble beach at the foot of the ancient Lycian city of Olympos, ruins visible along the approach path
- Crystal-clear blue-green water with excellent snorkelling visibility over the pebble bottom
- The Chimaera eternal flames (Yanartaş) accessible by a 30-minute walk from the beach
- Treehouse camp atmosphere with backpacker accommodation built among the valley ruins
- Pine and oleander forest framing the entire approach walk through the archaeological site
Tips for visiting
- Walk through the Olympos ruins to reach the beach rather than arriving by boat—the path through the ancient city is extraordinary
- A head torch is essential for the Chimaera evening visit; the flames are most visible after dark
- The beach has no natural shade; bring a parasol or use sunbed rental (around 100–150 TL)
- Treehouse accommodation fills weeks ahead in July and August; book well in advance
- The valley path can be muddy after rain; wear footwear that can handle wet terrain
When to visit
May, June, and September offer the best conditions with warm water and manageable visitor numbers. July and August are the busiest months, with treehouse camps at full capacity. The Chimaera evening visit is worthwhile year-round.
Accessibility
Olympos Beach is not accessible to wheelchair users. Reaching the beach requires a 1.5km walk along an uneven path through archaeological ruins, with tree roots, stones, and stream crossings. The beach itself is deep pebble with no adapted access to the water.
Frequently asked questions
How do I reach Olympos Beach?
Olympos is 85km south of Antalya city. By car, take the D400 to the Olympos/Adrasan exit and follow the valley road to the car park. Dolmuş buses run from Kemer in summer. The beach is reached by a 1.5km walk along the valley path through the ancient ruins.
Is there an entry fee for the Olympos ruins and beach?
An entrance fee applies to the archaeological site, which covers access to the ruins path and the beach. The fee is typically around 75 TL; confirm current rates locally.
What is Chimaera (Yanartaş)?
Yanartaş is a hillside above the Olympos valley where methane seeps from the rock and has burned continuously since antiquity. The flames are thought to have inspired the myth of the Chimaera fire-breathing creature. The site is approximately 30 minutes on foot from the beach.
What kind of crowd does Olympos Beach attract?
Olympos attracts predominantly a young, independent, backpacker-oriented crowd from the treehouse pensions in the valley. It is not a resort beach; the atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, with basic facilities only.