At 18km, Patara is one of Turkey's longest beaches and one of its most pristine. Protected as a loggerhead sea turtle nesting site, sections are closed after dark in summer but open during the day for exceptional beach going. The ancient ruins of Patara city are adjacent.
Patara Beach is Turkey's longest beach at approximately 18 kilometres, running in an unbroken line of fine pale sand along the Lycian coast in Kaş District, Antalya province. The beach is largely undeveloped by design: it lies within a protected archaeological and ecological zone that encompasses the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Patara, and the beach itself is a critical nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Sections are cordoned off and closed after dusk during the nesting season from May to September to protect the nests.
The sand is fine-grained, pale cream to white in colour, and remarkably soft underfoot. The beach faces almost due south into the Mediterranean with good exposure to sea breezes, which moderate summer heat but also create light surf on occasion. The water is clear, shading from pale turquoise in the shallows to green-blue further out. The offshore gradient is gradual and swimming conditions are generally suitable, though the open exposure means conditions can vary.
The scale of Patara is extraordinary: walking the full 18 kilometres is an experience in isolation rare on the Turkish coast. The interior dune system behind the beach, stabilised in places by scrub vegetation, reinforces the sense of a genuinely wild landscape. At the northern end of the beach, the ancient city of Patara begins—visitors can walk directly from the sand into the ruins, which include a theatre, ancient lighthouse, triumphal arch, Roman baths, and extensive city walls.
Facilities are limited: an entrance booth charges a combined archaeological site fee of approximately 75–100 TL covering both the ancient city and beach access. A café operates near the beach entrance. Sunbed rental is available near the central beach facilities. There are no resort hotels at Patara itself; accommodation is concentrated in the nearby village of Gelemis, 2 kilometres inland. Access is by car or dolmuş from Kaş (45km east), following signs to Gelemis from the D400 highway.
Amenities
- basic facilities
- some sunbed rental
- café at entrance
Good to know
- Best for
- wildlife-watchers, beachcombers, photographers, swimmers, history-lovers
Highlights
- Turkey's longest unbroken beach at 18km of fine pale cream sand
- Critical Caretta caretta (loggerhead sea turtle) nesting site with summer hatching events
- Adjacent ancient city of Patara with theatre, ancient lighthouse, and ruins walkable from the beach
- Undeveloped, conservation-managed shoreline within a nationally protected archaeological zone
- Vast inland dune system behind the beach for a genuinely wild, natural beach experience
Tips for visiting
- The beach closes after dusk during nesting season (May–September)—plan visits to avoid the evening restriction
- Bring ample sun protection: the beach has very limited natural shade and dune exposure is intense at midday
- Walking the full 18km length requires around 6 hours each way and adequate water supply; most visitors explore a 2–3km section
- The ancient city is worth combining with the beach visit; the combined entry ticket covers both
- Arrive early in morning hours to watch for turtle tracks in the sand before the heat of the day
When to visit
April to June and September to October offer the best conditions—warm water, comfortable temperatures, and far fewer visitors than peak July and August. Early morning walks in June and July offer the best chance of spotting turtle tracks.
Accessibility
Patara Beach is largely inaccessible to wheelchair users. The sand is deep and soft, making wheeled movement difficult, and there are no boardwalks or adapted pathways to the waterline. The entrance area is flat and passable, but the beach itself presents significant barriers for mobility-impaired visitors.
Frequently asked questions
Can visitors access Patara Beach at night?
No. During the sea turtle nesting season from approximately May to September, the beach is closed after dark. This restriction is enforced and essential for the protection of Caretta caretta nests.
Is there an entry fee for Patara Beach?
Yes. Access is through the archaeological site, which charges a combined entrance fee covering both the ancient city and beach access, typically around 75–100 TL. Current rates should be confirmed locally.
What ancient ruins can be seen at Patara?
The ancient city of Patara includes a large theatre, one of the world's oldest lighthouses, a triumphal arch, Roman baths, and extensive city walls. The ruins begin immediately adjacent to the beach at the northern end.
How do I reach Patara Beach?
Patara is accessed via the village of Gelemis, 2km inland. From Kaş, dolmuş services run to Gelemis during summer months. From the D400 highway, follow signs toward Gelemis; the beach entrance and car park are at the end of the approach road.