Beach Guide
Phaselis Beach is unique — not one beach but three beautiful bays within the ancient Lycian city of Phaselis. You can swim in crystal-clear water surrounded by 2,000-year-old ruins, with pine forests behind and the Mediterranean ahead. It's a 15-minute drive from Kemer and one of the most memorable beach experiences on the Turkish Riviera.
The three bays: (1) Northern Harbour — the main archaeological area, largest bay, pebbly beach. Closest to the car park and the ancient ruins (aqueduct, Hadrian's Gate, main street). Easiest access. (2) Central Harbour (Liman) — the commercial heart of ancient Phaselis, with agora ruins and harbour walls. The middle bay, slightly quieter than the north. (3) Southern Harbour — the smallest and quietest bay, a 10-minute walk from the car park through the ruins. Best for swimming — the water here is exceptionally clear and deepens gradually. All three are pebbly — bring water shoes.
Getting there: from Kemer, drive south on the D400 for 10 km (15 minutes). Turn right at the brown 'Phaselis' sign into the national park. The car park is large and shaded by pine trees — included with park entry (~€1 per person + ~€1 per car). From the car park, the Northern Harbour beach is a 2-minute walk. To reach the Southern Harbour (best swimming), walk 10 minutes through the archaeological site — a beautiful walk through ruins and pine forest.
What to bring: water shoes (pebbles!), snorkel and mask (clear water, fish near the ruins), picnic lunch (limited food options inside the park — a small café at the entrance only), sun protection (shaded areas are limited), and a sense of wonder — you're swimming where Lycian sailors moored their ships 2,500 years ago. Best time: arrive before 10:00 AM in summer to beat the tour buses from Antalya. The Southern Harbour is quietest in the early morning and late afternoon.
Yes — all three bays are open for swimming. The Southern Harbour is the best for swimming — clearest water, quietest, and deepest. The water is crystal clear and you can see ancient stones on the seabed. Bring water shoes — the beaches are pebbly.
Southern Harbour — quietest, clearest water, most scenic. It's a 10-minute walk from the car park through the ruins. Worth it. Northern Harbour is the most convenient (2 min walk) but busier. Central Harbour is a good middle ground.
National park entry: ~€1 per person + ~€1 per car. Parking included. Sunbeds are not available — bring a towel or mat. The small café at the entrance sells drinks and snacks. Very affordable for a world-class archaeological beach.