
Kalkan, located in the Kaş district of Antalya, is that charming coastal town where sea and history intertwine, where bougainvillea drapes the streets, and where peace oozes from every corner... This is it!
If you’re thinking, "I want to swim in the sea, experience some history, and take a refreshing walk in nature this holiday," you’re in the right place. Now, I’m taking you to the must-see spots in and around Kalkan. Let’s explore! 🌊🌸
📍 Kaputaş Beach – That blue you saw on Instagram!
A legendary beach 7 km from Kalkan, where the sea meets the mountains. Yes, I’m talking about the famous Kaputaş, a 187-step climb. With its incredible turquoise waters, golden sands, and pristine air, it’s breathtaking.
💡 Bring water shoes; the pebbles can be a bit stubborn.
💦 The water is cool, even a little icy, but it’s a welcome relief in the summer heat.
🌊 Entry is free, with sun loungers, showers, and restrooms available.
🏖 Patara Beach – Walk on the dunes at sunset, you won’t regret it.
This isn’t just a beach; it’s also home to the loggerhead sea turtles, a vast area steeped in history. It’s a 12-kilometer-long, wide, fine-sand beach. Especially the sunset... It’s hard to describe; you have to experience it.
📸 Sunset poses on the dunes are legendary.
🎫 Entry is 650 TL, but it’s free if you have a Museum Card.
👣 You walk to the beach through the ancient city of Patara; it’s an experience in itself.
🏞 Saklıkent Canyon – Soak your feet in the ice-cold water and cool off!
This is a paradise for nature lovers. A huge 18-kilometer canyon, ice-cold waters, the sounds of nature, and plenty of oxygen. You’ll be walking through the water, sometimes holding on to ropes. So, there’s a bit of adventure in store!
👟 Non-slip shoes are a must.
🧥 Bring a change of clothes, you’ll get wet.
🎟 Entry: 65 TL for adults, 35 TL for students (Museum Card not accepted).
🏛 Xanthos Ancient City – The ancient capital of Lycia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Columns, a theater, rock tombs… You’ll touch the past with every step.
📍 20 km from Kalkan.
🎫 Museum Card accepted.
📖 If you’re interested in mythology, this place will captivate you.
🛥 Kekova Sunken City – Come face to face with underwater history
You can only reach this area by boat. Imagine an ancient city buried underwater, where you can see the ruins through the glass bottom as you sail. There are also swimming breaks at spots like Tersane Bay.
📸 Perfect for those who love underwater photography.
🛑 Swimming is prohibited in the sunken city, but you can swim around it as much as you like.
🧿 Kalkan Center – Like a charming Mediterranean movie set
Narrow stone streets, whitewashed houses, purple bougainvillea, cafes where you can sip your coffee overlooking the sea… This is the heart of Kalkan.
🍽 Fresh seafood, you say? There’s plenty of it here.
🛍 Boutiques, souvenirs, handcrafted jewelry… A mini paradise for shoppers.
🎶 There’s live music in the evenings, which is a bonus!
🌿 İslamlar Village – Escape the city, breathe in the mountain air
A cool, tranquil mountain village just 10 minutes from Kalkan. Quiet, peaceful, and a place to wake up to the sound of birdsong. Its trout restaurants are famous. Fresh fish + village breakfast = Happiness!
🧜♂️ Fırnaz Bay (Muar Cure) – Enjoy a natural spa!
Another wonderful bay accessible by boat from Kalkan. The turquoise water is already stunning, but what makes this place special is its natural mud! It’s said to be good for the skin. So, both a facial and a treatment!
🏰 Kaleköy (Simena) – Grab your ice cream and climb up to the castle!
This charming village, accessible only by sea, is famous for its hilltop castle, ancient tombs, and homemade ice cream. It’s a place where history, nature, and delicious food come together.
📸 Patara Sand Dunes – Türkiye’s mini desert
Behind Patara Beach lie giant sand dunes. You can go on a horseback safari here or simply walk along the sunset to capture epic photos. It’s especially ideal for a romantic evening.
Bonus 🎁
Letoon Ancient City: A tranquil ancient site steeped in mythology.
Tlos Ancient City: Very close to Saklıkent, one of the oldest cities in Lycia.
Gizlikent Waterfall: Take a cool walk and reach a small waterfall.
Güvercinlik Cave: A sea cave you can swim into.
Kalamar Bay: Jump off the cliffs and immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters.
Bezirgân Village: A quiet getaway nestled in the mountains, the Lycian granaries are stunning.
🎒 Get Ready, Kalkan Awaits You
In Kalkan, you can fit a different exploration into every day. You’ll find yourself cooling off at the beach one day, at the ancient city the next, and at the waterfall the next. If you’re looking for a full holiday, relaxing and rejuvenating at the same time, Kalkan is the place to be!
Pack light, but be prepared to leave your heart behind. 💙