TOP TEN THINGS TO DO IN OLU DENIZ

Sitting on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey is the idyllic resort of Olu Deniz. It's located amid a vibrant valley and backed by pretty pine tree hills and serves up some of the country's most premier beaches including the beautiful Blue Lagoon - famous for featuring on many a postcard. Once you've seen all that this spectacular village has to offer, why not hop on a boat and indulge in an array of tourist attractions during your fun family holidays? 

Travelling to the Turqouise Coast but not sure where to stay? Take a look at our top holiday resorts in Turkey and find the perfect location for you.

Chill out on a Boat Trip

This sophisticated excursion is definitely suitable for anyone who wants to sunbathe, chill out and relax, while swimming in crystal-clear waters. Boat trips leave from the main beach every day during summer, and their first stop is Butterfly valley, a snorkelling utopia. Other places worth a visit include the famous Gemiler Island, otherwise known as Saint Nicholas ruins, and Camel Beach. Lunch is included on all of the trips and sun protection is a must during your Turkey holidays.

Saklikent, Tlos and Yakapark

Jeep Safari Tour

From Olu Deniz to Rhodes

Head to Fethiye, jump on the Ferry that travels to Rhodes island and explore the ambiance and character of this famous Greek Isle. The old town has a magnificent medieval fortress that was built by the crusaders and within the winding cobbled streets you'll find small boutiques and quaint old shops. Don’t forget to find a good café or restaurant and indulge in a traditional Greek meal, too.

Babadag Mountain

Olu Deniz and Fethiye are scuba diving havens thanks to their crystal-clear waters and underwater sea life. This activity is suitable for beginners or experienced divers but if you prefer a birdseye view of the Mediterranean sea, paragliding from Babadag Mountain is a must. Wind conditions have made Olu Deniz a paragliding hotspot and it is not unusual to see about 20 para-gliders in the air at the same time!

Further Afield

If you don’t mind traveling the distance, there are plenty of places worth visiting in the surrunding area. The white calcium pool of Pamukkale (otherwise known as cotton castle) are breathtaking if you fancy taking a dip in its mineral rich thermal waters and along with the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, it's also a UNESCO world heritage site. Closer to Olu Deniz is the mud baths of Dalyan and the famous turtle beach, both making a briliant day out. A highlight of this excursion is sailing the reed lined river overlooked by the Lycian rock tombs of Caunos!

Exploring Fethiye

The nearby region of Fethiye is definitely worth exploring for its diversity. It has a large market on a Tuesday and the old town near the harbour is home to some quirky shops and bars. Lovers of freshly caght seafood should visit the fish market, where you can choose your lunch and a nearby restaurant will cook and serve it with fresh salad. Hunt for some history and seek out the old amphitheatre, museum, and if you are active, the majestic rock tomb of Amynthas high in the hills and overlooking the region!

Ghost Town of Kayakoy

The nearby village of Kayakoy, (formerly called Levissi) was home to thousands of Greek orthodox citizens until the population exchange of 1923. Over time, the village was deserted by returning Muslims and it is now the largest abandoned town in the continent of Asia Minor. Explore ancient old churches, abandoned homes and empty schools, and when lunchtime rolls around, settle down in one of the nearby restaurants for some juicy lamb tandir!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ölüdeniz worth visiting?

Absolutely! One of the must-see spots in Ölüdeniz is Kıdrak Beach. Make sure to tick this off your list, and then dive into the other stunning coastal beaches and thrilling adventure sports the area has to offer.

How do I spend a day in Ölüdeniz?

Start your day at Kıdrak Beach and then head over to Grand Ucel Aqua Park for some fun. Don’t forget to check out the local dining and shopping options while you’re soaking in the Ölüdeniz vibe!

What is the top tourist attraction in Ölüdeniz?

Kıdrak Beach definitely stands out as one of the top attractions in Ölüdeniz, and it should be on everyone’s must-visit list.

Is three days enough to stay in Ölüdeniz?

Three days is a great amount of time to explore Ölüdeniz and see its main attractions. While many travelers tend to stay for about four days, you can easily enjoy Kıdrak Beach, Grand Ucel Aqua Park, and the Fethiye Oludeniz Babadag Cable Car in just three. If you want to see even more, consider extending your stay to check out nearby gems like Fethiye.

Is Ölüdeniz a walkable city?

If you love exploring on foot, Ölüdeniz is perfect for you! Major attractions, including Kıdrak Beach, are just a short walk from downtown. Plus, you can take a leisurely stroll around Ölüdeniz City Centre, a lively area located about 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the heart of the city.

What activities can kids enjoy in Ölüdeniz?

You’re in luck! There are plenty of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep kids of all ages entertained. Here are some fun options:

- Turkish Bath with Oil Massage from Fethiye/Oludeniz/Calis

- Horse Riding Adventure in Fethiye

- Fethiye Horse Riding Experience

- Natural Soap Making Workshop in a Fethiye Mountain Village

- Full Day Boat Cruise in Oludeniz with Lunch and a visit to Butterfly Valley

What to do in Ölüdeniz for adults?

Ölüdeniz has a ton of activities for adults to enjoy, no matter your age. Wrap up your day with a relaxing visit to Fethiye Kordon or Fethiye City Hall.

Looking for free things to do in Ölüdeniz?

You’re in luck! From relaxing in parks to exploring lively neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly activities. If you’re ever in need of some ideas, don’t hesitate to chat with a local tour guide—they’ve got the best tips! And make sure to check out Kıdrak Beach; it’s a fantastic spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the sights without spending a dime.

Where is Olu Deniz and why is it so popular?
Olu Deniz is nestled along Turkey’s breathtaking Mediterranean coast, embraced by lush, pine-covered hills and a vibrant valley. It’s famous for its tranquil vibe, stunning views, and those picture-perfect beaches that everyone loves.

What makes the Blue Lagoon so special?

The Blue Lagoon is the crown jewel of Olu Deniz. With its shallow, crystal-clear waters and soft sandy shores, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, unwinding, and enjoying family outings. It’s no wonder it’s one of Turkey’s most photographed beaches!