Patara & Kalkan & Kaputaş & Kaş
Sandy Dunes, Charming Streets, and Azure Seas: A Picture-Perfect Escape
If you haven’t traveled this route yet, I must admit, I’m a little envious. You’re about to experience its breathtaking beauty for the first time! And trust me, it’s something you absolutely need to see.
These locations are located in the following order (moving away from Fethiye): Patara, Kalkan, Kaputaş Beach, and Kaş. It's ideal to leave Patara for the return leg of your trip, especially to catch its beauty during the golden hour just before sunset. As for Kaş and Kalkan, it doesn't matter which one you visit first—both are charming, but Kaş is larger, and you might find yourself wanting to spend more time there. Let’s take a closer look at each destination.
Kalkan
Kalkan
A Charming Town with a Greek Heritage
Kalkan, once known as Kalamaki, is a relatively young settlement. Around 150-200 years ago, Greek merchants established a village here with a small harbor to facilitate trade between local farmers and other regions of the Ottoman Empire. The town flourished, and by the early 20th century, it boasted a customs office, 17 restaurants, a jewelry workshop (with a goldsmith), and several tailors.
However, the 20th century brought significant changes, and after World War II, the Greek inhabitants were forced to leave. In the 1960s, the development of coastal roads connected Kalkan with Antalya and Fethiye, and in 1984, the road was paved, making access much easier. This led to the rise of tourism, with the port being used for yachts.
By the 1980s, Kalkan was already popular among celebrities and sailors, but it remained a small resort town. In the 2000s, the town saw a boom in Mediterranean-style white villa constructions, and today, Kalkan is almost entirely made up of these stunning homes.
It takes about an hour to reach Kalkan from Fethiye.
However, the 20th century brought significant changes, and after World War II, the Greek inhabitants were forced to leave. In the 1960s, the development of coastal roads connected Kalkan with Antalya and Fethiye, and in 1984, the road was paved, making access much easier. This led to the rise of tourism, with the port being used for yachts.
By the 1980s, Kalkan was already popular among celebrities and sailors, but it remained a small resort town. In the 2000s, the town saw a boom in Mediterranean-style white villa constructions, and today, Kalkan is almost entirely made up of these stunning homes.
It takes about an hour to reach Kalkan from Fethiye.
On your way to Kalkan, be sure to stop at the viewpoint to get a panoramic view of the entire town from above. It's a great spot for photos and to take in the beauty of the area.
The most charming streets of Kalkan are located near the public beach, which is both clean and pleasant to visit. You can park your car along the main street, where parking is usually available. One of Kalkan’s landmarks is the "blue balcony house" , which stands out, as does the white house draped in pink bougainvillea along the promenade. The area just above these locations on 5 Sk. (Sokak) has a romantic and aesthetically pleasing vibe, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Another lovely spot to visit is the Taş Ocak Cave, which is also worth a short walk along the sea.
Many of the town’s restaurants and cafes will be closed, especially in the off-season. During our visit in late October, only the more expensive seaside restaurants remained open.
If you’re in need of a quick snack or meal, head to the large Migros supermarket, where you can enjoy delicious pastries and even have a pizza cooked freshly in the oven for you for just 99 lira. For a discount, you can use my card—just enter or tell the cashier the number 5433642716.
The most charming streets of Kalkan are located near the public beach, which is both clean and pleasant to visit. You can park your car along the main street, where parking is usually available. One of Kalkan’s landmarks is the "blue balcony house" , which stands out, as does the white house draped in pink bougainvillea along the promenade. The area just above these locations on 5 Sk. (Sokak) has a romantic and aesthetically pleasing vibe, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Another lovely spot to visit is the Taş Ocak Cave, which is also worth a short walk along the sea.
Many of the town’s restaurants and cafes will be closed, especially in the off-season. During our visit in late October, only the more expensive seaside restaurants remained open.
If you’re in need of a quick snack or meal, head to the large Migros supermarket, where you can enjoy delicious pastries and even have a pizza cooked freshly in the oven for you for just 99 lira. For a discount, you can use my card—just enter or tell the cashier the number 5433642716.
Kaputaş
Incredible Sandy Beach Surrounded by Beautiful Cliffs.
Kaputaş
A Must-See Stop on the Way to Kaş.
Just a 10-minute drive from Kalkan, Kaputaş Beach is one of the most picturesque spots on the Turkish coastline. Geologically unique, it’s a dried riverbed nestled in a mountain gorge. The beach is covered with fine pebbles and sand and is well-equipped with amenities, including umbrella and sunbed rentals, a cafe, restrooms, and changing rooms. Located right off the main road, access requires descending a long staircase from the parking area — so be prepared for the climb back up!
The entrance fee is 35 ₺ per person.
Just a 10-minute drive from Kalkan, Kaputaş Beach is one of the most picturesque spots on the Turkish coastline. Geologically unique, it’s a dried riverbed nestled in a mountain gorge. The beach is covered with fine pebbles and sand and is well-equipped with amenities, including umbrella and sunbed rentals, a cafe, restrooms, and changing rooms. Located right off the main road, access requires descending a long staircase from the parking area — so be prepared for the climb back up!
The entrance fee is 35 ₺ per person.
Kaş
A Historical Coastal Gem
Just 25 scenic minutes from Kaputaş Beach lies Kaş, a town larger, older, and historically more significant than its smaller neighbor, Kalkan. Most sources date the founding of Kaş to the Lycian civilization in the 4th century BC.
The Lycian city of Phellos was originally built in the mountains above Kaş. However, the need for a port led to the founding of Antiphellos, which means "opposite Phellos." Antiphellos grew into an important trading center, especially known for exporting cedar wood from the nearby forests. However, with the fall of the empire and frequent raids by pirates and Arabs, the port fell into poverty. By the 11th century AC, Kaş became part of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum and later the Ottoman Empire.
As for its modern name, "Kaş" means "eyebrow" in Turkish, likely inspired by the curved shape of the town. Another theory traces its origin to the Ottoman shortening of the name Karşı Phellos ("opposite Phellos") to simply "Karşı” and later “Kaş”.
Today, Kaş is a thriving coastal destination blending ancient history with modern charm.
The Lycian city of Phellos was originally built in the mountains above Kaş. However, the need for a port led to the founding of Antiphellos, which means "opposite Phellos." Antiphellos grew into an important trading center, especially known for exporting cedar wood from the nearby forests. However, with the fall of the empire and frequent raids by pirates and Arabs, the port fell into poverty. By the 11th century AC, Kaş became part of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum and later the Ottoman Empire.
As for its modern name, "Kaş" means "eyebrow" in Turkish, likely inspired by the curved shape of the town. Another theory traces its origin to the Ottoman shortening of the name Karşı Phellos ("opposite Phellos") to simply "Karşı” and later “Kaş”.
Today, Kaş is a thriving coastal destination blending ancient history with modern charm.
The Ancient Theater of Antiphellos: A Sunset Favorite
The most iconic historical site in Kaş is the ancient Greek theater of Antiphellos, built in the 1st century BC. Offering stunning views of the sea and the nearby Greek island of Meis, the theater is a favorite spot for tourists to watch the sunset. Today, it also serves as a venue for yoga classes and musical performances, blending history with modern experiences.
The most iconic historical site in Kaş is the ancient Greek theater of Antiphellos, built in the 1st century BC. Offering stunning views of the sea and the nearby Greek island of Meis, the theater is a favorite spot for tourists to watch the sunset. Today, it also serves as a venue for yoga classes and musical performances, blending history with modern experiences.
The Lycian Lion Tomb: A Historical Gem the Old Town of Kaş
Another remarkable historical site in Kaş can be found in the charming streets of the old town: the Lycian Lion Tomb, also known as the Royal Tomb, dating back to the 4th century BC. This ancient tomb is adorned with carved lion heads on the sides, giving it its name. During the summer, this area comes alive with shops offering handmade crafts and cozy cafes, though most close in the winter. Still, a stroll through these streets is highly recommended.
If you’re feeling hungry, a few tourist-friendly cafes near the waterfront remain open year-round, such as Bella Vita. For something special, visit Kaş Bistro, run by expats, offering great views and a central location. For a taste of traditional Turkish cuisine, head to the small Emre Lokantası for a hearty and authentic meal.
Another remarkable historical site in Kaş can be found in the charming streets of the old town: the Lycian Lion Tomb, also known as the Royal Tomb, dating back to the 4th century BC. This ancient tomb is adorned with carved lion heads on the sides, giving it its name. During the summer, this area comes alive with shops offering handmade crafts and cozy cafes, though most close in the winter. Still, a stroll through these streets is highly recommended.
If you’re feeling hungry, a few tourist-friendly cafes near the waterfront remain open year-round, such as Bella Vita. For something special, visit Kaş Bistro, run by expats, offering great views and a central location. For a taste of traditional Turkish cuisine, head to the small Emre Lokantası for a hearty and authentic meal.
Küçük Çakıl Beach: A Tiny Gem
Unlike Kalkan, Kaş doesn’t have a central public beach, but there is a charming pebble beach of Küçük Çakıl. This small bay can get very crowded in the summer, so it’s best visited in the off-season when you can truly enjoy its serene beauty. For stunning views and photos, head to a nearby café with a terrace overlooking the sea — though it’s likely to be closed in the winter, the view alone is worth coming.
Unlike Kalkan, Kaş doesn’t have a central public beach, but there is a charming pebble beach of Küçük Çakıl. This small bay can get very crowded in the summer, so it’s best visited in the off-season when you can truly enjoy its serene beauty. For stunning views and photos, head to a nearby café with a terrace overlooking the sea — though it’s likely to be closed in the winter, the view alone is worth coming.
A Scenic Drive Around the Çukurbağ Peninsula
If you’re traveling by car, take a drive around the Çukurbağ Peninsula for breathtaking views and a taste of Kaş’s most enchanting area. You might find yourself wanting to return during the summer to stay in this magical part of town.
If you’re traveling by car, take a drive around the Çukurbağ Peninsula for breathtaking views and a taste of Kaş’s most enchanting area. You might find yourself wanting to return during the summer to stay in this magical part of town.
Patara
Timeless Ruins and Endless Sands
Patara is a destination with two distinct sides: the organized section, featuring an archaeological site and an equipped beach, and the wild side, where you’ll find endless sand dunes and unspoiled landscapes.
To explore the archaeological site and the organized beach, head to the main entrance, where admission costs €15 (cash in Turkish lira only). If you’re interested in the dunes, park at a this location, though be prepared for a rough dirt road. Don’t forget to bring something warm to wear — it's always windy on the beach.
Patara’s history is rich and ancient, playing a significant role across various periods. The first settlement here dates back to the 8th century BC. According to legend, the city was founded by Patarus, the son of Apollo and the nymph Lycia. Patara is also claimed to be the birthplace of Apollo and his sister Artemis, with the local palm grove linked to the myth of their birth. However, similar legends are told about the ancient city of Letoon nearby and the Greek island of Delos, so the true origins remain a mystery.
To explore the archaeological site and the organized beach, head to the main entrance, where admission costs €15 (cash in Turkish lira only). If you’re interested in the dunes, park at a this location, though be prepared for a rough dirt road. Don’t forget to bring something warm to wear — it's always windy on the beach.
Patara’s history is rich and ancient, playing a significant role across various periods. The first settlement here dates back to the 8th century BC. According to legend, the city was founded by Patarus, the son of Apollo and the nymph Lycia. Patara is also claimed to be the birthplace of Apollo and his sister Artemis, with the local palm grove linked to the myth of their birth. However, similar legends are told about the ancient city of Letoon nearby and the Greek island of Delos, so the true origins remain a mystery.
Patara, founded in the 8th century BC, was a major Lycian port and later the capital of the Lycian League. The strategic location made it a critical hub for maritime trade and political activity. Under Roman rule, Patara retained its prominence, acting as a center for grain shipments to Rome and a naval base. Structures like the Granarium (Hadrian’s Granary) highlight its significance during this period.
The city also has strong ties to early Christianity. It is the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, widely known as the inspiration for Santa Claus. Saint Nicholas later became the Bishop of Myra, a nearby city. Additionally, both the Apostle Paul and the evangelist Luke are believed to have passed through Patara on their journeys.
Byzantine influence turned Patara into a Christian and military hub in the 8th century. However, with the rise of the Seljuks in the 13th century and subsequent Ottoman rule, the city declined due to the silting of its harbour, which transformed the once-thriving port into marshlands. Over time, Patara was buried under sand, which preserved its ruins remarkably well. Excavations began in 1988, uncovering monuments such as the Roman theater, council house, lighthouse, and colonnaded streets.
Patara is now a UNESCO Tentative List site, celebrated for its archaeological significance and its nearby beach, a nesting ground for endangered Caretta-Caretta sea turtles.
The city also has strong ties to early Christianity. It is the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, widely known as the inspiration for Santa Claus. Saint Nicholas later became the Bishop of Myra, a nearby city. Additionally, both the Apostle Paul and the evangelist Luke are believed to have passed through Patara on their journeys.
Byzantine influence turned Patara into a Christian and military hub in the 8th century. However, with the rise of the Seljuks in the 13th century and subsequent Ottoman rule, the city declined due to the silting of its harbour, which transformed the once-thriving port into marshlands. Over time, Patara was buried under sand, which preserved its ruins remarkably well. Excavations began in 1988, uncovering monuments such as the Roman theater, council house, lighthouse, and colonnaded streets.
Patara is now a UNESCO Tentative List site, celebrated for its archaeological significance and its nearby beach, a nesting ground for endangered Caretta-Caretta sea turtles.
Recommendations for Visiting Kaş, Kalkan, and Patara
Best Time to Go:
Plan your trip on weekdays to avoid crowds of local visitors. This itinerary is best suited for travelers with a car, as public transportation between these locations is time-consuming and requires multiple transfers. If you're traveling without a car, I recommend skipping Patara, as reaching the dunes requires a taxi ride.
Important Notes:
- Be prepared for a lot of walking, as both Kaş and Kalkan are built on steep slopes. Buses typically stop at the upper parts of these towns, requiring a descent to the central streets.
- For a more relaxed trip, consider spending one or two nights in Kaş to explore the area at a slower pace.
Public Transportation Option:
1. Plan Your Route:
Check the bus schedule on websites like obilet or purchase tickets for a direct bus from Fethiye to Kaş and another from Kalkan back to Fethiye. Choose buses arriving at Kaş Eski Otogar (the old bus station) instead of the new one on the hill. The Fethiye bus station is located here.
2. Explore Kaş:
Start your day in Kaş. From the old bus station, check the timetable for minibuses heading to Kaputaş Beach and Kalkan.
3. Visit Kaputaş Beach:
After exploring Kaş, take a minibus to Kaputaş. Spend time enjoying this beautiful beach, then either catch the next minibus or arrange a taxi to Kalkan.
4. Discover Kalkan:
After wandering the charming streets of Kalkan, head to the bus station and take a direct bus back to Fethiye.
Alternative Option:
Stay overnight in Kaş to fully enjoy the towns and beaches at a leisurely pace. You can visit all three destinations without rushing or missing any highlights.
Best Time to Go:
Plan your trip on weekdays to avoid crowds of local visitors. This itinerary is best suited for travelers with a car, as public transportation between these locations is time-consuming and requires multiple transfers. If you're traveling without a car, I recommend skipping Patara, as reaching the dunes requires a taxi ride.
Important Notes:
- Be prepared for a lot of walking, as both Kaş and Kalkan are built on steep slopes. Buses typically stop at the upper parts of these towns, requiring a descent to the central streets.
- For a more relaxed trip, consider spending one or two nights in Kaş to explore the area at a slower pace.
Public Transportation Option:
1. Plan Your Route:
Check the bus schedule on websites like obilet or purchase tickets for a direct bus from Fethiye to Kaş and another from Kalkan back to Fethiye. Choose buses arriving at Kaş Eski Otogar (the old bus station) instead of the new one on the hill. The Fethiye bus station is located here.
2. Explore Kaş:
Start your day in Kaş. From the old bus station, check the timetable for minibuses heading to Kaputaş Beach and Kalkan.
3. Visit Kaputaş Beach:
After exploring Kaş, take a minibus to Kaputaş. Spend time enjoying this beautiful beach, then either catch the next minibus or arrange a taxi to Kalkan.
4. Discover Kalkan:
After wandering the charming streets of Kalkan, head to the bus station and take a direct bus back to Fethiye.
Alternative Option:
Stay overnight in Kaş to fully enjoy the towns and beaches at a leisurely pace. You can visit all three destinations without rushing or missing any highlights.
