Patara Beach and Ancient City is a unique destination located near the village of Gelemiş in the Kaş district of Antalya, standing out with both its natural beauty and historical richness. Patara Beach, one of the longest beaches in Turkey, offers visitors a unique seaside experience with its approximately 12-kilometer-long fine sandy coast. It is also an important nesting area for Caretta caretta sea turtles, and therefore it is environmentally protected. With its wide beach, sunset views, and shallow sea, it is a popular spot for nature lovers.
Patara Ancient City is known as one of the most important cities of the Lycian civilization. With a history dating back to the 8th century BC, the city became the capital of the Lycian League during the Roman period and hosted the first democratic parliament building. Remains such as the ancient theater, agora, aqueducts, bath structures, and the parliament building can still be seen today. With its historical texture and location intertwined with nature, Patara is an indispensable travel route for history and nature enthusiasts.
Where is Patara Beach located?
Patara Beach is located in the southwest of Turkey, within the boundaries of Gelemiş Neighborhood in the Kaş district of Antalya province. It is approximately 43 kilometers from the Kaş town center and about 17 kilometers from Kalkan. The beach is situated right next to the Patara Ancient City, making it an attractive destination for both nature and history lovers.
Patara Beach is one of the longest beaches in Turkey, with a length of 12 kilometers and a width reaching up to 1,500 meters. Known for its fine sandy structure and shallow sea, the beach is also an important nesting area for Caretta caretta sea turtles and is therefore under protection. The beach is open to visitors from 08:00 in the morning to 20:00 in the evening.
To reach Patara Beach, one can drive to Gelemiş Village via the D400 highway. It is also possible to reach the beach by minibuses departing from Kaş or Kalkan. Visitors using public transportation can reach Gelemiş Village by minibus and then walk approximately 20–25 minutes to the beach.
Located just behind Patara Beach, the Patara Ancient City is known as one of the important port cities of the Lycian civilization. Historical ruins such as the ancient theater, temples, and colonnaded streets offer a unique experience to visitors.
During your visit, watching the sunset from the natural sand dunes located in the middle of the beach will also be an unforgettable experience. These sand dunes have also hosted many Yeşilçam films in the past.
How to get to Patara Beach?
Patara Beach is located near the village of Gelemiş in the Kaş district of Antalya and offers various transportation options.
🚗 By Private Vehicle
- From Antalya: Follow the D400 highway in the direction of Kalkan. After passing Kalkan, follow the signs for Patara to reach Gelemiş Village.
- From Fethiye: Use the D400 highway heading toward Kalkan. After passing Kalkan, turn at the Patara junction to reach Gelemiş Village.
🚌 By Public Transportation
- From Kaş: During the summer months, minibuses depart from the Kaş bus station every 20 minutes to Patara. The minibuses drop you off at the Patara junction; from there, you may need to transfer to another service to reach the beach.
- From Fethiye: You can take a shared minibus (dolmuş) from Fethiye to Kalkan, and then use local transportation or a taxi to reach Patara.
- From Antalya: Take a bus from Antalya to Kaş, and from there, take a minibus to Patara.
✈️ By Air
- Dalaman Airport: Approximately 120 km from Patara. You can take a bus from the airport to Fethiye, then continue on to Patara.
- Antalya Airport: Approximately 220 km from Patara. From the airport, go to Antalya bus station, take a bus to Kaş, and then travel to Patara.
ℹ️ Additional Information
- Beach Entrance Fee: Entrance to Patara Beach is subject to a fee. Museum Pass holders can enter free of charge.
- Visiting Hours: The beach is open to visitors between 08:00 in the morning and 20:00 in the evening.
- Caretta Caretta Protection: The beach is a nesting area for Caretta caretta sea turtles. Therefore, certain areas of the beach are under protection, and it is important for visitors not to disturb the natural habitat.
How much is the entrance fee to Patara Beach?
As of 2025, the entrance fee to Patara Beach has been set at 650 TL per person. This fee includes access to the Patara Ancient City located right next to the beach, as part of a combined ticket system.
🎟️ Entrance Fee Details
- Entrance Fee: 650 TL
- Museum Pass Holders: Entitled to free entry.
- Sunbed and Umbrella Rental: Available for an additional fee; prices may vary depending on the season and the operator.
⏰ Visiting Hours
Patara Beach is open to visitors every day from 08:00 to 20:00. Entry is prohibited outside these hours, as the beach is an important nesting area for endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles.
🏖️ Additional Information
The beach offers basic facilities such as showers, toilets, and changing cabins.
There is a café on the beach for food and beverage needs.
The natural structure of the beach is preserved; therefore, there is no development in the area.
To which civilization does the Patara Ancient City belong?
Patara Ancient City was an important port city of the Lycian Civilization in antiquity. As one of the capitals of the Lycian League, Patara played a major role especially in political and commercial matters. The city maintained its significance during the Roman period as well and is considered one of the earliest examples of a democratic parliament in history due to being home to the Lycian League Assembly Building.
What is the history of Patara Ancient City?
The history of Patara Ancient City dates back to the 8th century BC, and it is considered one of the oldest and most important cities of the Lycian Civilization. According to ancient sources, Patara was also known as a prophetic center of Apollo, and it is believed that the city was founded by Apollo.
During the Hellenistic period, Patara was an important port city and further developed during the Roman era, becoming the capital of the Lycian League. It also served as the administrative center of the provinces of Lycia and Pamphylia during the Roman Empire, and the assembly building (bouleuterion) was built here. The city maintained its importance during the Byzantine period, became a bishopric center in the early Christian era, and is believed to be the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, known as Santa Claus.
Is it possible to swim at Patara Beach?
Yes, swimming is allowed at Patara Beach. With its 12-kilometer length and wide sandy area, it is one of the longest beaches in Turkey. Known for its fine sand and shallow waters, the beach is suitable for swimming. However, since it faces the open sea, it can be wavy at times, and caution is advised on windy days.
The beach is open to visitors from 08:00 in the morning to 20:00 in the evening. Entry is prohibited outside these hours, as the beach is an important nesting area for endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles.
It is important to follow specific rules while swimming at Patara Beach. In particular, turtle nesting zones are marked, and placing umbrellas or sunbeds in these areas is prohibited. Also, visitors should take care not to damage the environment in order to preserve the beach’s natural structure.
Basic facilities such as showers, toilets, and changing cabins are available on the beach. There is a café for food and beverage needs, and sunbed and umbrella rental services are also provided.
Patara Beach offers visitors a unique experience with both its natural beauty and historical richness. While it provides a suitable environment for swimming, it is also important to act in an environmentally conscious manner.
Is Patara Beach a nesting area for Caretta carettas?
Yes, Patara Beach is one of the most important nesting areas in Turkey for the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles.
Every year between May and September, Caretta carettas lay their eggs on this beach. For this reason, the beach is under environmental protection and is closed to visitors during the night (usually after 20:00). Additionally, nesting areas are marked, and it is prohibited to place umbrellas, sunbeds, or walk in these zones. Thanks to these protection efforts, Patara Beach serves as a safe breeding ground for sea turtles.
Which structures can be seen in Patara Ancient City?
The main structures that visitors can see in Patara Ancient City are:
- Lycian League Assembly Building (Bouleuterion): One of the earliest democratic parliamentary structures of the ancient world.
- Theater: An impressive structure from the Roman period with a capacity of 6,000 people.
- Main Street (Colonnaded Street): A wide street paved with marble and lined with columns.
- Triumphal Arch: A grand arch built in honor of Roman Emperor Hadrian.
- Baths: Various Roman-era bath structures of different sizes.
- Harbor and Lighthouse Ruins: Remains indicating that Patara was a port city.
- Mosaic Structures and Temples: Religious buildings and floor mosaics from different periods.
- Necropolis Area Behind the Theater: Filled with ancient tomb structures.
These structures reveal how important a center Patara was throughout history.
When should Patara Beach be visited?
Patara Beach can be visited year-round, but the most suitable times are during the spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) months. During these periods, the weather is cooler, and you can avoid large tourist crowds.
The summer months (June–August) are when the sea temperature is ideal for swimming. However, this is also the high season, so prices may be higher and the beach more crowded.
In winter, swimming is not recommended due to the cold sea water. However, for those interested in exploring the ancient city, it offers a quieter atmosphere.
Visiting hours are between 08:00 in the morning and 19:00 in the evening. Entry is prohibited outside these hours, as the beach is an important nesting area for endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles.
When planning your visit, you may choose the evening hours to watch the sunset. Patara Beach is known as one of the most beautiful places in Turkey to watch the sunset.
In conclusion, spring and autumn months are the most ideal times to visit Patara Beach in terms of both weather conditions and visitor density.
What are the accommodation and food options in Patara?
Patara offers a wide range of accommodation and dining options, thanks to its natural beauty, historical charm, and tranquil atmosphere.
🏨 Accommodation Options
Accommodation alternatives in Patara vary to suit every budget and preference:
- Boutique Hotels and Guesthouses: Many boutique hotels and guesthouses in the area offer guests a warm, family-like atmosphere. For example, Golden Lighthouse Hotel and Golden Pension stand out with their nature-integrated locations and friendly service.
- Nature-Inspired Facilities: Patara Delfin Hotel and Xanthos Boutique Hotel are ideal choices for nature lovers with their large gardens and peaceful environments.
- Villa Rentals: For those seeking a more private and independent stay, rental villas such as Villa Mirbiş, Villa Patara, and Villa Saltanat are available. These villas are especially suitable for families and groups of friends.
🍽️ Dining Venues
Patara’s food scene offers a wide variety ranging from traditional Turkish cuisine to seafood:
- Ayşe Pancake House: Known for its homemade gözleme (Turkish flatbread) and cozy atmosphere, this spot is ideal for breakfast and light meals.
- Durak Lokantası: This eatery is popular among locals and tourists alike for its delicious pides and friendly service.
- Zephyros Restaurant: With a stylish ambiance and seafood-focused menu, it is a good option for dinner.
- Sailing Terrace Restaurant: Offering meals with a sea view, this venue is suitable for romantic evenings.
- Limon Kebab: A great choice for meat lovers, offering a variety of kebabs with a flavorful menu.
- Gelato Patara: Famous for its homemade ice cream, this shop is perfect for sweet breaks.