Steeped in history, Olympos Beach on the Lycian coast near Çiralı is especially popular with nature lovers.
Located in the middle of a nature reserve, the pebble beach will impress you with beautiful vegetation, ancient ruins, and a unique atmosphere.
In this guide, you will find all the important information about Olympos Beach near Çiralı, Antalya, including what to expect during your visit, helpful information on entrance fees, attractions, and how to get there.
What Can I Do at Olympos Beach?
Olympos Beach is a natural pebble beach near the ancient city of Olympos.
The wildlife in this oasis includes Caretta Caretta sea turtles that lay their eggs on the beach. This is one of the reasons that Olympos Beach is protected today.
This fact makes Olympos Beach very interesting, especially for nature lovers. Bathing in beautiful clear sea water in the middle of a nature reserve and enjoying peaceful seclusion by day is an extraordinary experience.
History buffs will enjoy the many relics from ancient times.
Most visitors are mainly alternative vacationers, backpackers, and hippies. For a few years now, Olympos Beach has also become an increasingly popular destination for couples and families.
Showers, changing rooms, sunbeds, and umbrellas are not available on the beach.
On the kilometer-long gravel beach, you will find a few restaurants serving dishes with vegetables from their own gardens. Beach vendors, on the other hand, offer refreshments and fresh mussels for sale.
The numerous bars, cafes, and pubs also offer entertainment in the evening, so nightlife is not lacking. A lively atmosphere also prevails on the beach, including campfires.
Nearby Attractions
Undoubtedly the most famous attraction near the beach are the ruins of the ancient city of Olympos. Following the crystal clear Akca stream. You can walk there from the beach.
You can learn more about this ancient city in our guide to the Ancient City of Olympos in Antalya, Turkey: History and Tips.
Olympos Beach is also part of the historical "Lycian Way" hiking route, which is why a hiking trip is a good idea.
Another fascinating sight is the "Eternal Flame" of Chimaera, about 8 km from the beach.
Tree houses in the area are very popular and are an interesting change from hotels, bungalows, and guesthouses. Camping sites are also available.
A popular excursion destination is Köprülü Canyon, where rafting is possible.
Other sports activities are also offered by local guesthouses. These include activities such as climbing and hiking in the coastal mountains, as well as scuba diving, bungee jumping, mountain biking, paragliding, and yoga.
Entrance, Tickets, and Tours
How to Get to Olympos Beach
Olympos Beach is situated in the Kumluca district near Çiralı in the Antalya region. It's located in the ancient city of Olympos, about 28 kilometers from Kemer.
- By Public Transport: If you want to travel from Antalya by public transport, it's best to take the buses or minibuses departing from the Antalya bus station and go in the "Kumluca-Fethiye" direction. Get off at the Olympos station.
- From the Antalya airport: The easiest way to reach Olympos Beach is by taking a shuttle bus.
- By Car: A good alternative is to arrive on your own with a rental car. There is free parking on site. You can read more about this in our guide to renting a car in Antalya.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Olympos Beach is located in the Kumluca district near Cirali in the Antalya region. It's in the ancient city of Olympos, about 28 kilometers from Kemer.
If you want to travel from Antalya by public transport, it is best to take the buses or minibuses that leave from the Antalya bus station and go in the "Kumluca-Fethiye" direction (to Olympos station).
From the Antalya airport, the easiest way to reach Olympos Beach is by taking a shuttle bus. A good alternative is to arrive on your own with a rental car. There is free parking on site.
Since Olympos Beach is located in the ancient city of Olympos, entrance to the beach requires the purchase of a ticket for the ancient city of Olympos. Admission is free for Museum Card holders. Tickets are available on site.
Olympos and therefore Olympos Beach can be visited daily. From April 1st to October 1st, it's open from 8am to 9pm. From October 1st to April 1st, it's open from 08:30am to 5:30pm.
Hotels Around Olympos Beach
The area around Olympos is popular for its exceptional accommodations. Here are the most popular hotels, pensions, tree houses, and bungalows in the area.
1. Çıralı Hera Hotel: Çıralı Hera Hotel is located 6 minutes from Olympos Beach by foot. This 4-star hotel will impress you with its stunning nature and luxury bungalows. Address: Ulupınar Mah, Çıralı Sk No:473/1 Kemer/Antalya
2. Caretta Caretta Pension: This family-friendly pension is only 650 meters from Olympos Beach. The comfortable wooden houses with a balconies and hammocks are located in an idyllic setting that will enchant you with a wide variety of fruit trees. Address: Ulupınar, Çıralı Sk No. 465 Kemer/Antalya
3. Bayram's Tree Houses: If you are looking for an exceptional place to stay, this is for you. Bayram's Tree Houses are 1 km from Olympos Beach and 100m from the ancient city of Olympos. They are some of the most popular tree houses in the area. Address: Bayram's Tree Houses Yazır, Kumluca, Antalya
4. Villa Efsane Hotel Apart Bungalow: Villa Efsane Hotel Apart Bungalow is ideal for those seeking a peaceful and quiet accommodation. Address: Ulupınar, Çıralı Sk 195/10 Kemer/Antalya
The History of Olympos Beach in Turkey
Olympos Beach has a very long history. Centuries ago the beach was known as a pirate stronghold and was therefore avoided.
After Olympos Beach became the scene of movies like "Ulysses" and "Jason and the Argonauts", the place gradually gained popularity.
The beach was considered a popular vacation spot in the 1970s, especially among hippies.
Since 1972, Olympos Beach has been a protected area. The reason for this is Caretta Caretta sea turtles lay their eggs on this beach. The WWF nature and environmental protection organization's promotion project has insured that the coastal section has been developed for tourism only with caution.
For this reason, there are no large hotel complexes near by, only small hostels, guesthouses, bungalows, and family-run hotels.
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Other Beautiful Beaches Around Olympos Beach
To visit other beautiful beaches in the Antalya region, read these articles: