Beach Guide
Olympos Beach sits at the mouth of a river valley where the ancient Lycian city of Olympos meets the Mediterranean. It's a 2 km stretch of sand and pebbles backed by lemon groves, ruins, and pine forest — a protected loggerhead turtle nesting site with zero development. A 35-minute drive from Kemer, accessed via an unpaved final track. The journey through the ruins to reach the sand is half the magic.
Getting there: from Kemer, drive south on the D400 for 24 km past Tekirova. Turn right at the 'Olympos' sign and follow the winding road for 2 km through citrus groves. The final 500 metres are unpaved — manageable in any car in dry weather. Small car park at the Olympos valley entrance (~€1–2). From the car park, walk 1.5 km through the ancient city (ruins among lemon groves and oleander) to reach the beach. The walk is flat, beautiful, and takes about 20 minutes.
The beach experience: Olympos Beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, 2 km long, backed by the river mouth on one side and cliffs on the other. The river is shallow enough to wade across (knee-deep in summer) — crossing it takes you to the quieter northern section. The water is clear and deepens gradually — good for swimming. Loggerhead turtles nest here (June–September) — marked nests are visible. The beach has NO facilities — no sunbeds, no café, no toilets. This is wild beach at its purest. Bring everything.
Practical tips: wear sturdy shoes for the walk through the ruins. Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and a towel. The walk back through Olympos at sunset, with the ruins glowing golden and the smell of lemon blossoms, is unforgettable. Combine with Çıralı Beach (2 km north — walkable along the sand) and Yanartaş (Chimaera flames) for an epic day. There's a small pension-run café at the Olympos valley entrance for cold drinks — the last supplies before the beach.
Drive 35 min from Kemer via D400, turn right at Olympos sign, 2 km winding road + 500m unpaved track. Park at valley entrance (~€1–2). Walk 1.5 km (20 min) through ancient ruins to the beach. No facilities — bring everything.
They're different experiences, 2 km apart. Çıralı is easier to access (drive right up), has village restaurants nearby, and is pure sand. Olympos requires a walk through ruins (magical), is more secluded, and has a wilder feel. Visit both — they're connected by the beach.
Yes — the water is clear and deepens gradually. The river mouth creates interesting sandbars at the shoreline. Swimming is excellent. Beware of occasional currents near the river mouth after heavy rain. No lifeguards — swim within your limits.