Çıralı Beach
A long shingle beach framed by citrus groves at the foot of the Olympos ruins. A protected loggerhead turtle nesting site with calm, clean water.
Çıralı Beach is a nearly 4-kilometer shingle and sand shoreline backed by citrus groves. It is a key nesting site for loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) between May and September; keeping the beach dark at night is vital for hatchlings. The sea is calm with a gentle slope, good for swimming. Sunbeds and shade are available near the village, but most of the beach remains natural.
The village itself is low-key, with small pensions and fruit stalls. A 20-minute coastal walk leads to the ancient Lycian ruins of Olympos, scattered along a river mouth right at the beach. Inland, an evening hike to the Chimaera flames is worth the effort.
“Unspoiled shoreline where turtles nest and the ruins of Olympos meet the sea—a world away from busy resorts.”
After dark, avoid any light on the beach—even your phone screen can disorient turtle hatchlings, and local guards enforce it.
A few wooden walkways near the village centre provide easier access, but the shingle is soft and unstable for wheelchairs beyond that.
Good to know
- Is Çıralı Beach free to visit?
- Free. Long shingle beach backed by citrus groves; loggerhead turtle nesting zone.
- How long should you spend at Çıralı Beach?
- ~2h
- When is the best time to visit Çıralı Beach?
- Morning
- Is Çıralı Beach wheelchair accessible?
- A few wooden walkways near the village centre provide easier access, but the shingle is soft and unstable for wheelchairs beyond that.
