Çıralı & Olympos beaches + Chimera (Yanartaş) flames
Scenic coastal beaches, ancient Lycian ruins and the famous natural ‘eternal’ flames — a relaxed beach day combined with a short evening hike to the Chimera (Yanartaş). This activity combines swimming, sunbathing and exploring the Olympos ruins around Çıralı village with a visit at dusk to see the Chimera flames burning from the hillside.
Location
Çıralı village, Olympos ruins and Yanartaş (Chimera) hill, Antalya (Kumluca/ Kemer region), Turkey
Duration
Half day to full day (recommended full day: 6–10 hours including travel); Chimera visit best at dusk/night (add 1–2 hours).
Best Time to Visit
Late April to October for warm swimming weather; May–June and September are best for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. Chimera flames visible year-round; evening visits are cooler and more atmospheric.
Pricing
Beaches: free. Olympos archaeological site: small entrance fee (approx. 50–150 TRY / 2–6 EUR depending on year). Chimera (Yanartaş): small local entrance/parking fee (approx. 20–60 TRY / 1–3 EUR). Optional: guided day trips or transfers 25–70 EUR per person; boat trips from nearby Adrasan/Olympos: 15–40 EUR.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Çıralı Beach – long pebble/sandy beach popular with Caretta caretta (loggerhead) sea turtles.
Olympos – ancient Lycian ruins and treehouse-style guesthouses tucked into pine forest near the shore.
Yanartaş (Chimera) – natural methane-fueled flames that burn from rocky outcrops on the mountainside, visible after dusk.
Clear Mediterranean waters for swimming and snorkeling.
Wildlife and nesting turtles (protection rules in summer).
Sunset views and low-key local restaurants by the beach.
Itinerary
Drive to Çıralı / arrive at the beach
Settle on the shore, swim and relax. Early morning is best for calm sea and cooler temperatures.
Explore Olympos ruins and surrounding trails
Short walk among Lycian tombs and ruins near the beach; bring sun protection and water. Some sites have small admission fees.
Lunch in Çıralı village
Try local seafood or mezze at a seaside restaurant; many small family-run places accept cash only.
Afternoon beach time / optional boat trip to hidden coves
Swim, snorkel or take a short boat trip to explore nearby coastlines (seasonal).
Drive to Chimera (Yanartaş) and hike up to the flames
Arrive before sunset, hike 10–25 minutes depending on parking spot. Bring flashlight/headlamp for return.
Watch the flames at dusk / return
The flames are most photogenic at dusk or after dark. Be prepared for uneven paths and limited facilities.
Safety Requirements
Wear sturdy shoes for the Chimera approach — path can be rocky, steep and uneven.
Bring a headlamp or torch for return from Yanartaş at night; mobile signal can be weak.
Respect sea turtle nesting: avoid bright lights, flash photography and walking on marked nesting areas (main nesting season roughly May–August).
Keep a safe distance from open flames at Yanartaş — methane-fed flames can flare unpredictably.
Sun protection, plenty of water and insect repellent are essential for daytime activities.
If swimming, watch for local current/conditions and avoid isolated swimming at night.
Tips
Start early to avoid mid-day heat and crowds at the beaches and ruins.
Carry cash (TRY) for small entrance fees, parking and local restaurants; card acceptance can be limited in small businesses.
Bring snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater — water is usually clear.
Book transfers or a guided tour if you prefer not to drive; some roads are narrow and parking at Yanartaş is limited.
Respect protected areas and follow local signage — volunteer and conservation groups monitor turtle nesting.
Stay for sunset — both the beach and the view near Yanartaş are especially beautiful at dusk.
If visiting in summer, reserve accommodation in Çıralı/Olympos ahead of time, as the area is popular but low-key.
