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If you have done the things to do in Turkey, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Kalkan.
Nestled along the turquoise shoreline of the Mediterranean sea, Kalkan beckons with its charming cobblestone streets, rich history, and stunning landscapes.
From exploring the ancient Lycian ruins to indulging in the gastronomic delights of Turkish cuisine, Kalkan offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kalkan:
1. Kaputas Beach
A stunning small beach located between Kalkan and Kas on the Turquoise Coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: Enjoy the crystal-clear turquoise water, take a swim or snorkel around the beautiful surrounding cliffs.
Don’t miss: Stroll along the beach and admire the picturesque views of the Taurus Mountains. Catch a glimpse of the “Blue Cave,” an attraction located on the east side of the beach.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning to avoid the crowds or stay until sunset to witness the breathtaking views. Be prepared to climb down a steep set of stairs to reach the beach.
Also, amenities are limited, so bring your own refreshments and snacks.
2. Kalkan Yacht Marine
A luxury marina in the town of Kalkan, Turkey.
What to see or do: As a marina, Kalkan Yacht Marine offers a range of services for boating enthusiasts, including mooring facilities, yacht maintenance and repair, and fuelling services.
The marina also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a swimming pool and sunbathing area for those who want to relax on dry land.
Don’t miss: Stroll along the marina and soak up the beautiful views of the crystal-clear water and the surrounding mountains. Take a dip in the refreshing pool, or unwind with a drink at the bar.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning on boating in the Kalkan area, Kalkan Yacht Marine is a top choice for reliable and professional service.
Make sure to reserve your mooring spot in advance, especially during peak season.
3. Kalkan Bay
Kalkan Bay is a small, picturesque fishing town located on the Turkish Mediterranean coast.
What to see or do: – Enjoy swimming, sunbathing and water sports at the beautiful Kalkan beach.
Don’t miss: – The picturesque harbor, where you can watch fishermen bring in their daily catch and enjoy fresh seafood at the waterfront restaurants.
Insider travel tips: – Kalkan Bay can get quite crowded in the high season (July and August), so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in May or September.
4. Patara Beach
Patara Beach is a stunning 12-mile stretch of sand located near Kalkan on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.
What to see or do: Patara Beach is great for swimming and sunbathing, but it also offers other activities such as windsurfing and parasailing. The Patara Ruins are also nearby and can be easily explored on foot.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning sunset views from the beach. Also, keep an eye out for the loggerhead turtles that nest on the beach during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, visit Patara Beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
5. Snake Island
Island located off the coast of Kalkan in Turkey known for its abundance of snakes.
What to see or do: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and rocky terrain from a boat tour around the island. Be sure to keep an eye out for the slithering residents as they bask in the sun.
Don’t miss: A chance to see the exotic viper snakes that call the island home. It’s a unique and thrilling experience for nature enthusiasts.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit during the spring or early summer when the weather is nice and the snakes are most active.
However, visitors should exercise caution and keep a safe distance from the snakes at all times. It’s also recommended to book a boat tour with a reputable company to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
6. Kalkan Local Bazaar
Kalkan local bazaar is a vibrant and bustling marketplace located in the heart of the town.
What to see or do: Browse through the wide range of goods available for purchase, including locally-made handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, spices, and fresh produce.
Take in the colors, smells, and sounds of the market and haggle with the friendly vendors to get the best deals.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to try some of the delicious local food sold in the market, such as fresh Turkish Delight, roasted nuts, and traditional street food.
Also, make sure to stop by the spice stalls to sample the various exotic flavors.
Insider travel tips: – Be prepared to negotiate prices with vendors, haggling is expected in Turkish markets.
7. Kalkan Turkish Bath & Spa
A traditional Turkish bath and spa located in Kalkan, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can indulge in traditional Turkish bath rituals including steam rooms, hot marble slabs, and soothing oil massages. The spa menu also includes a range of beauty treatments and massages.
Don’t miss: The intense exfoliation treatment, known as a peeling, which will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to book ahead, as the spa can get busy during peak season.
Also, be prepared for the steam room and sauna to be quite hot, so bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
8. Kalkan Harbour
Kalkan Harbour is a picturesque spot located off the Turkish Mediterranean coast.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll around the vibrant marina, admiring the impressive vessels docked there. The harbor offers an array of activities including sea kayaking, boat tours, and snorkeling.
Explore the narrow streets of the old town and indulge in local cuisine at the many seaside restaurants.
Don’t miss: Kalkan Harbour’s iconic sundown is a daily event that shouldn’t be missed by anyone. It’s the perfect way to relax after a tiring day.
For music lovers, the ever-changing repertoire of local street performers adds an extra touch of ambiance.
Insider travel tips: For a perfect view of the whole island, head to Samova beach in the middle of the harbor.
A short hike uphill from the beach will bring you to an area with an incredible view of Kalkan and the coastline.
It’s not a tourist-heavy place, so you’ll have it mostly to yourself.
9. Kalkan Public Beach
Kalkan Public Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located in the heart of Kalkan town, offering stunning views of the azure blue sea.
What to see or do: Relax on the soft sand, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or simply soak up the sun on one of the sun loungers available for rent.
Visitors can also enjoy water sports such as paddle-boarding, jet skiing, and parasailing, which are all offered on the beach.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the harbor and the surrounding hills.
Grab a bite to eat at one of the various seafront tavernas and cafes nearby.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a sun lounger as it can get quite crowded during peak season. Parking is also limited near the beach, so it is recommended to park further away and walk to the beach.
Additionally, visitors should be aware of strong currents in the water and swim within the designated safe areas.
10. Likya World Antique Theater
The Likya World Antique Theater is an ancient amphitheater located in Kalkan, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the Likya World Antique Theater, which was constructed around 300 BC and could seat up to 4,000 people.
Take a stroll through the historic site and witness the stunning views from the top of the amphitheater.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to attend one of the open-air performances or concerts that take place at the Likya World Antique Theater during the summer months.
These events offer a unique and memorable experience in a truly historic setting.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the site can be a bit challenging for those with mobility issues.
11. Kalkan Diving Center
Kalkan Diving Center is a renowned diving center that offers a range of diving courses in Kalkan, Turkey.
What to see or do: Dive into the crystal clear Mediterranean waters and explore the beautiful underwater world with Kalkan Diving Center. The center offers a variety of diving courses, from beginner to advanced levels, to suit all skill levels.
Discover colorful coral reefs, ancient shipwrecks, and an abundance of marine life including sea turtles, dolphins, and octopus.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to experience a night dive at Kalkan. Explore the underwater world when the sun sets and encounter nocturnal creatures like lobsters, crabs, and squid.
Insider travel tips: – Book your diving courses in advance as spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
12. Kalkan Bird Watching
Kalkan Bird Watching is a popular activity in the scenic town of Kalkan, located in the Antalya province of Turkey.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely walk along the beautiful coastline and spot a variety of bird species such as the Little Egret, Purple Heron, and Black-winged Stilt.
You can also go on a guided bird watching tour for a more enriching experience.
Don’t miss: Witnessing the stunning views of the Taurus Mountains and crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea while bird watching.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring your binoculars for a better bird watching experience. Guided tours are recommended for beginner bird watchers.
Check the best bird watching spots for the season beforehand. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and carry sunscreen for protection from the sun.
13. Xanthos Antik Kenti
Xanthos is an ancient city located in Kalkan, Turkey, known for its remarkable Lycian ruins that date back to the 8th century BCE.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the city, including the impressive ruins of the Nereid Monument, a well-preserved stone structure featuring sculptures of mythical sea nymphs.
The site also includes an extensive collection of Lycian tombs, a Roman theatre, and a Byzantine church.
Don’t miss: The Xanthos River, which runs through the site, offers a scenic view of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also take a short hike to the nearby Letoon, another ancient city with well-preserved ruins.
Insider travel tips: To make the most of your visit, hire a local guide who can provide insight into the history and significance of the site.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.
Lastly, don’t forget your camera – the ruins and surrounding landscape provide excellent photo opportunities.
14. Saklikent Gorge
A natural wonder located in the town of Kalkan, Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the 18-kilometer long canyon, go hiking, wade in the cool waters.
Don’t miss: Visiting the waterfall, which is surrounded by dense vegetation and creates a stunning backdrop for photos.
Insider travel tips: Wear appropriate shoes for hiking and be prepared for the icy water. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning.
Also, make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
15. Tlos Antik Kenti
Tlos Ancient City, a ruined Lycian hilltop settlement located near the town of Kalkan in Antalya province, Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the well-preserved ancient ruins, including the acropolis, stadium, bathhouse, agora, and theater. Walk around the ancient city walls for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Admire the rock tombs and the remains of the Roman aqueduct.
Don’t miss: The Tomb of Bellerophon, a famous ancient Greek hero who tamed the winged horse Pegasus and killed the monster Chimera, is located in Tlos.
The tomb is carved into a steep cliff face and features reliefs depicting Bellerophon, Pegasus, and the Chimera.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as there are many uneven surfaces and steps to climb. Bring water and snacks as there are no facilities in the ancient city.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.