A guide to Patara Beach near Kalkan and Kaş with an Ancient City Twist

When planning your Turkey tours, one destination that should undoubtedly be on your list is Patara Beach. Nestled along the enchanting Turquoise Coast, Patara Beach beckons with its pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

This comprehensive guide to Patara Beach invites you to explore not only its idyllic beach setting but also the intriguing remnants of an ancient city that add a fascinating historical dimension to this coastal paradise. Join us on a journey where the allure of sun-kissed relaxation meets the echoes of ancient ruins of Patara, creating an unforgettable experience for those seeking the perfect blend of nature and history.

What is the history of Patara and the historical significance of Patara Beach?

Patara is an ancient city and port located on the southwestern coast of Lycia in modern-day Turkey. It holds historical significance due to its rich history, archaeological remains, and the famous Patara Beach. Here's an overview of the history of Patara and the significance of its beach:

1. Ancient City of Patara:

   • Patara was a flourishing city in antiquity and played a significant role in the Lycian League, an ancient confederation of Lycian city-states.
   • It was a crucial naval and trading port with strong ties to the wider Mediterranean world.
   • The city was known for its impressive architecture, including a well-preserved theater, a triumphal arch, and a granary.
     
     

2. Cultural and Religious Significance:

   • Patara was not only an economic and political center but also had cultural and religious importance. The Lycian League met in Patara, and the city was home to the temple of Apollo, a deity widely revered in the ancient world.
   • The Oracle of Apollo at Patara was renowned, attracting visitors seeking guidance and divination.
     
     

3. Birthplace of St. Nicholas:

   • Patara is traditionally considered the birthplace of St. Nicholas, the historical figure who inspired the modern-day figure of Santa Claus. St. Nicholas was the bishop of Myra, a nearby city, and his connections to Patara are often mentioned in historical accounts.
     
     

4. Patara Beach:

   • Patara Beach is known for its natural beauty and is one of the longest beaches in the Mediterranean, stretching approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles).
   • The beach is characterized by golden sands, clear blue waters, and dunes. It is a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), adding to its ecological significance.
   • Due to its historical importance and stunning scenery, Patara Beach has become a popular tourist destination.
     
     

5. Archaeological Excavations:

   • Archaeological excavations in Patara have revealed various structures, including the mentioned theater, arch, and granary, shedding light on the city's urban planning and architectural achievements.
   • Ongoing excavations continue to uncover more about Patara's history and significance.
     
     

6. UNESCO Recognition:

   • Patara is part of the "Lycian Coast – Antalya" UNESCO World Heritage Site, which recognizes the cultural and historical significance of the Lycian region.

In summary, Patara's history is deeply intertwined with its role as an ancient city, a center of trade, culture, and religion. The archaeological remains and the natural beauty of Patara Beach contribute to its importance as a site of historical and touristic interest.

Which animals can be seen at Patara Beach?

One of the most popular animals to be seen at Patara Beach is the loggerhead sea turtle. These turtles can be found nesting on the beach from May through October. The loggerhead sea turtle is an endangered species, so visitors should take extra care to not disturb them while they are nesting. Loggerhead sea turtles can be identified by their large heads and reddish-brown shells. 

Patara Beach is also home to a variety of birds, including seagulls, cormorants, and flamingos. Seagulls can usually be seen flying around the beach or perched atop rocks along the shoreline. Cormorants are also common sights at Patara Beach; they often perch on rocks near the water’s edge and dive into the ocean in search of fish. Flamingos can sometimes be spotted wading in shallow waters near the beach or flying overhead in flocks. 

In addition to birds and sea turtles, visitors may also spot other animals while visiting Patara Beach such as foxes, rabbits, lizards, and snakes. Foxes are often seen roaming around near the beach or searching for food in nearby fields and woods. Rabbits can often be found hopping around near bushes or trees close to the beach as well as grazing on grassy areas nearby. Lizards are usually seen sunning themselves on rocks close to the water’s edge while snakes may sometimes be spotted slithering through tall grasses or bushes near the beach. 

Is Patara Beach near any restaurants?

When it comes to dining options near Patara Beach, there are plenty to choose from. The beach itself has several restaurants that offer delicious seafood dishes as well as traditional Turkish cuisine. These restaurants are typically open during the day and offer excellent views of the Mediterranean Sea. For those looking for something more upscale, there are also several high-end restaurants located nearby Patara Beach. These restaurants offer fine dining options with some of the best views in the area. 

For those looking for something more casual, there are plenty of cafes and bars near Patara Beach that serve up delicious snacks and drinks. These establishments typically stay open late into the night and provide an ideal spot to grab a bite after a day at the beach or just relax with friends over drinks. 

In addition to these eateries, there are also several food stands located near Patara Beach that serve up quick snacks like kebabs or sandwiches. These stands typically stay open until late in the evening and provide an affordable option for those who don't want to spend too much money on food while at the beach. 

Finally, if you're looking for something even more unique, there are several local vendors located near Patara Beach who sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods from their carts or boats. This is a great way to experience the local culture while enjoying some delicious treats! 

Are there any activities available at Patara Beach, and if so, what are they?

Patara Beach is not just a place to relax and take in the scenery - there are plenty of activities available at Patara Beach as well. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll along the shore, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or something in between, there's something for everyone at Patara Beach. 

For those looking to take it easy, there are plenty of activities available that don't require any physical exertion. You can take a leisurely stroll along the beach and take in the sights and sounds of the Mediterranean Sea. There are also plenty of places to sit and relax on the beach while watching the waves roll in or just enjoying a peaceful moment. 

If you're looking for something more active, there are plenty of water sports available at Patara Beach. You can go swimming in the sea or rent kayaks or stand up paddle boards to explore further out into the sea. There are also plenty of opportunities to go snorkeling and explore all sorts of marine life beneath the surface. 

For those who want an even bigger adrenaline rush, there are several parasailing companies located near Patara Beach that offer parasailing trips over the Mediterranean Sea. This is a great way to get an aerial view of Patara Beach while experiencing some thrilling heights! 

If you're looking for something more educational, there are several archaeological sites located near Patara Beach that offer guided tours through ancient ruins from centuries past. These tours provide insight into Turkey's rich history and culture while giving visitors an up close look at some amazing archaeological sites. 

Finally, if you're looking for some nightlife entertainment after dark, there are several bars and restaurants located near Patara Beach that offer live music and dancing late into the night. This is a great way to end your day with some fun before heading back to your hotel room!

When is the best time of year to visit Patara Beach?

The best time of year to visit Patara Beach is between May and October. During this period, temperatures are mild and sunny days are plentiful. The summer months (June-August) are particularly popular with tourists due to the warm weather and extended hours of daylight. However, if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, you may want to avoid these months as they can be quite crowded. 

How much does it cost to visit Patara Beach?

As far as cost goes, visiting Patara Beach is free! That’s right – there’s no entrance fee or parking charge associated with visiting the beach. Of course, if you plan on spending any time in nearby restaurants or shops, you may need to pay for those services separately. 

What time does Patara Beach open? Which days is it open?

Patara Beach opens at 8:00am every day and closes at 7:00pm during summer months (April-October). During winter months (November-March), it closes at 5:00pm. If you plan on spending time on the beach, make sure you arrive early as it can get quite crowded during peak season. 

How to get to Patara Beach from Kaş?

Getting to Patara Beach from Kaş is easy and relatively inexpensive. The easiest way is by car or taxi, which will take about 30 minutes and cost around 25-30 Turkish Lira (TL). You can also take a dolmuş (minibus) from Kaş Bus Station for around 8 TL per person. The dolmuş will drop you off at the entrance of the beach, where you can then walk or take a taxi to get to the beach itself. 

Which other beautiful beaches around Patora Beach are located on the Turquoise Coast?

The Turquoise Coast is a stunning stretch of Mediterranean coastline in Turkey that is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the white sands of Oludeniz to the crystal clear waters of Patara, visitors to this region are sure to find a beach that suits their needs. But which other beautiful beaches are located on the Turquoise Coast? 

One of the most popular beaches on the Turquoise Coast is Marmaris, located in Mugla Province. This beach is known for its golden sand and crystal clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is also lined with restaurants and bars, so visitors can enjoy a bite to eat or a drink while soaking up the sun. 

Another great beach on the Turquoise Coast is Icmeler, located near Marmaris. This beach has white sand and shallow waters, making it ideal for families with young children. The beach also has plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, so visitors can enjoy some refreshments while taking in the stunning views. 

Further down the coast lies Fethiye Beach, located near Fethiye Town in Mugla Province. This beach is known for its blue-green waters and soft sand, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, so visitors can enjoy some delicious food or drinks while taking in the views. 

Another great beach on the Turquoise Coast is Olu Deniz Beach, located near Oludeniz Town in Fethiye District. This beach has white sand and crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling. The area also has plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, so visitors can enjoy some refreshments while soaking up some sun. 

For those looking for something a bit more secluded, Patara Beach may be just what you’re looking for. Located near Patara Town in Antalya Province, this beach has white sand and turquoise waters that make it perfect for swimming or snorkeling. There are also plenty of restaurants nearby where visitors can grab something to eat or drink while enjoying their time at this beautiful spot on the coast. 

Finally, there’s Kalkan Beach located near Kalkan Town in Antalya Province. This stunning stretch of coastline has soft sand and crystal clear waters that make it perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Plus there are plenty of restaurants nearby where visitors can grab a bite to eat or a drink while enjoying their time at this picturesque spot on the coast. 

Frequently Asked Questions regarding Patara Beach

Where to park at Patara Beach?

When it comes to parking at Patara Beach, there are several options available. The first option is to park in the nearby village of Gelemis. This village has plenty of parking spots available for visitors who want to visit the beach. There are also several other villages nearby that offer parking as well, such as Kalkan and Kas. All of these villages have ample parking spaces for visitors who want to visit the beach.

The second option for parking at Patara Beach is to park at one of the many beachfront hotels or resorts located along the beach. Most of these resorts offer free or discounted parking for their guests, so be sure to check with them before you arrive. Some hotels even offer shuttle services from their hotel or resort directly to the beach, so this can be a great way to get around without having to worry about finding a place to park your car.

Finally, if you're looking for a more convenient option for parking at Patara Beach, there are several private companies that offer paid parking spots along the beachfront as well. These companies usually charge a fee per hour or per day depending on how long you plan on staying at the beach and how much space you need for your car or other vehicles. Be sure to check out all your options before deciding which one is right for you.

Are there sunbeds on Patara Beach?

The answer is yes! There are plenty of sunbeds available on Patara Beach that can be rented from local vendors or from some of the nearby hotels and resorts mentioned earlier in this article. Prices vary depending on how long you plan on using them and what type of sunbeds they have available, but generally speaking they're very affordable and worth every penny! Just make sure that you bring your own towel and sunscreen when visiting Patara Beach so that you can enjoy your time in the sun without worrying about getting burned!

How long is the Patara Beach?

The length of Patara Beach is approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) long which makes it one of Turkey's longest beaches! That means there's plenty of room for everyone who visits this stunning destination each year!