Patara Beach & ruins
Patara is a unique combination of one of Turkey's longest sandy beaches and the archaeological remains of an important ancient Lycian city. The site offers wide golden sands, rolling dunes, and shallow warm waters ideal for swimming, alongside ruins that include a theater, a parliament (bouleuterion), Roman baths, temples, and a restored lighthouse. The area is also an important nesting ground for the endangered Caretta caretta (loggerhead sea turtle), and parts of the beach are protected during nesting season.
Location
Patara Beach & Ancient City (Patara Antik Kenti), Gelemiş / Kaş (Antalya Province), Turkey
Duration
2–6 hours (half-day to full-day visit). Combine with nearby sites for a full-day itinerary.
Best Time to Visit
April–June and September–October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. May–August is turtle-nesting season—some areas are restricted in the evening/night to protect nests.
Pricing
Approximate costs: Entrance fee to the archaeological site and beach area is typically around ₺40–₺60 (varies by season and concessions). Guided tours range from €20–€50 per person. Parking and local services may charge small additional fees. Prices change—check locally or online before visiting.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Extensive golden sandy beach stretching nearly 12 km in the surrounding area (the main access beach is long and wide).
Well-preserved ruins: theater, bouleuterion (parliament), Roman baths, triumphal arch, and remains of temples and houses.
Restored Lycian harbour structures and a distinctive stone lighthouse.
Important nesting habitat for the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtle — seasonal protections in place.
Dune landscapes and shallow, warm Mediterranean waters ideal for swimming and families.
Sunset views over the Aegean/Mediterranean and tranquil, low-rise coastal scenery.
Itinerary
Explore the archaeological site
Start early to avoid heat and crowds. Walk through the ruins: theatre, bouleuterion, baths, and streets. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes.
Beach time and swimming
Relax on the broad sandy beach, swim in shallow warm waters. Watch for protected areas marked for turtle nesting (do not disturb).
Lunch
Local cafés and small restaurants near Gelemiş or a packed picnic—limited full-service options close to the beach.
Walk the dunes & visit lighthouse/harbour ruins
Walk the dune trails (stay on marked paths) and visit the small harbour area and lighthouse ruins for photos and quiet exploration.
Sunset and return
Catch the sunset over the water, then return to base. If visiting during nesting season, avoid night walks on the beach.
Safety Requirements
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) and plenty of water—summer temperatures can be high.
Respect protected turtle nesting zones; do not use bright lights or dig in marked areas at night.
Wear sturdy footwear for uneven archaeological surfaces; some paths are sandy and can be slippery.
Avoid climbing on fragile ruins — they are protected and can be unstable.
Watch for currents and follow local advice when swimming; there are lifeguard services only in peak season/areas.
Carry basic first-aid items; mobile reception can be spotty in remote stretches.
Tips
Arrive early in high season to secure parking and quieter spots on the beach.
Combine Patara with nearby ancient sites such as Xanthos and Letoon, or a visit to Kaş or Kalkan for a full-day regional tour.
Hire a local guide to learn Lycian history and to spot details you might miss on your own.
Bring cash (Turkish lira) for small vendors—card acceptance may be limited in remote areas.
Respect local wildlife rules during May–August; volunteers and rangers may cordon off nesting zones.
Drone use may be restricted over archaeological sites and turtle nesting areas—check regulations and seek permission.
Facilities are basic in some sections: bring snacks, water, and a sun shelter if planning an extended beach stay.
Accessibility is limited across dunes and some ruin areas; call ahead if you need wheelchair assistance.
