Is Patara beach suitable for a family holiday?
Yes, Patara Beach is considered family-friendly. The sea is generally calm and shallow, making it safe for children to swim and play. The beach's vast expanse of soft sand also provides plenty of space for kids to run around and build sandcastles.
What is the water like for swimming at Patara beach?
The water at Patara Beach is known for being clear and clean. It has a shallow gradient, making it suitable for swimming for most people. While generally calm, there can be waves from time to time. The water temperature is comfortable for swimming, especially from July to September.
When is the best time of year to visit Patara beach?
The best times to visit Patara Beach are during the late spring (April to early June) and early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is warm and pleasant, the sea is inviting, and the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months of July and August. May to October is generally considered the main season.
Are there any rules I should know about when visiting Patara beach, especially regarding sea turtles?
Yes, Patara Beach is a protected nesting ground for endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Nesting season is typically from May to October. During this time, certain sections of the beach may be restricted or marked to protect nests. It's important to avoid disturbing these marked areas. The beach is generally closed to the public after 8:00 PM to allow turtles to nest undisturbed. Using vehicles on the beach is prohibited during nesting season, and boats have restrictions on how close they can approach the shore. It's also advised not to bring dogs to the beach as they can disturb nests.
Are there hotels directly on Patara beach?
No, there are no large hotel complexes or resorts directly on Patara Beach itself because it is a protected area. Accommodations, including family-run hotels, pensions, and guesthouses, are typically found in the nearby village of Gelemiş, which is a short distance from the beach.
Is there an entrance fee for Patara beach?
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Patara Beach as it is part of the Patara National Park, which also includes the ancient ruins of Patara. The fee covers entry to both the beach and the archaeological site. As of early 2025, the fee was reported as 650 Turkish Lira, but this can change. If you have a Turkish Museum Card, entry may be free.
What facilities are available at Patara beach?
Patara Beach offers several amenities for visitors. These include a beach café selling snacks, refreshments, and ice cream. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent. There are also free showers, changing rooms, and toilets. Parking is available near the beach.
How do I get to Patara beach from Kalkan or Kaş?
From Kalkan, Patara Beach is about a 15-20 minute drive (around 15-17 km). You can take a taxi or a local minibus (dolmuş). From Kaş, the distance is approximately 42-45 km, and the journey takes about 30 minutes to an hour by car or taxi. Minibuses also run from Kaş bus station to Patara, often every 20 minutes during peak season.
Can you swim at Patara beach in October?
Yes, you can typically swim at Patara Beach in October. The sea usually remains warm enough for swimming, with average water temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F) in the fall. The weather is also generally pleasant in October, making it a good time to visit.
What is Patara beach known for besides being a beach?
Patara Beach is renowned for several things beyond its sandy shores. It is one of the longest beaches in the Mediterranean, stretching for about 18 kilometers. It's a crucial nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Additionally, the beach is located adjacent to the ancient Lycian city of Patara, meaning visitors can combine a beach trip with exploring significant historical ruins, including a Roman theatre and the Lycian Parliament building.
Is Patara beach usually crowded?
Patara Beach is very long and wide, so even during peak season, it's usually possible to find a quiet spot for yourself. While the area near the main entrance and café can get busier, a short walk will lead you to more secluded sections. The peak summer months of July and August see the largest crowds, while late spring and early autumn are generally less crowded.
What are the opening hours for Patara beach?
Patara Beach is generally open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. These hours are in place partly to protect the nesting sea turtles, as the beach is closed to the public after dark to allow them to nest undisturbed.
Is it windy at Patara beach?
Patara Beach can experience windy conditions and waves at times, which can be good for activities like surfing. However, it's not consistently extremely windy, and many days offer calm conditions suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
How does Patara beach compare to Kaputaş beach or Ölüdeniz?
Patara Beach is known for its vast 18km stretch of golden sand, natural undeveloped surroundings, and significant loggerhead turtle nesting sites, alongside ancient Lycian ruins. It's generally more spacious and offers a wilder, more natural feel. Kaputaş Beach is a smaller, picturesque cove famous for its turquoise waters, accessed by a flight of stairs, and can get crowded due to its size. Ölüdeniz is famous for its stunning Blue Lagoon (a national park with calm, shallow waters ideal for families) and Belcekiz Beach; it's more developed with many hotels, restaurants, and paragliding activities. Patara offers a quieter, more historical and nature-focused experience compared to the often busier and more tourist-developed Ölüdeniz, or the smaller, iconic Kaputaş.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to Patara beach?
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and beverages to Patara Beach. There is also a small cafeteria on-site offering snacks and refreshments if you prefer not to bring your own.
