Patara Beach

Patara Village & Beach – A Hidden Gem of the Turkish Riviera

📍 Location: Southwest Turkey, near Kalkan & Fethiye
🏛️ Best For: History lovers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts

Why Visit Patara?

🏛️ Ancient Lycian City & Apollo’s Oracle

Once a maritime & commercial powerhouse in Lycian times.
Believed to be founded by Patarus, the son of Apollo.
Home to the famed Apollo Oracle, second only to Delphi in Greece.

Historical highlights:
✅ Triple-arched triumphal gate
✅ Necropolis & Lycian tombs
✅ Ancient baths & basilica
✅ Temple of Athena & Corinthian temple
✅ Rare circular cistern

🎅 The Birthplace of Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus)

St. Nicholas, the 4th-century Byzantine bishop (later Santa Claus), was born in Patara.
He lived in Myra (modern-day Demre), now famous for tomato farming.

Patara Beach – One of Turkey’s Most Stunning Beaches

🏖️ 18 km of Golden Sand

Longest beach in the Turkish Riviera – 18 km long & 300m wide.
Soft, golden sand, unlike the pebbled beaches of other Turkish coasts.
Protected under conservation laws for Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta Caretta) nesting.
No large resorts or construction allowed, keeping it pristine & unspoiled.

🐢 Loggerhead Turtle Nesting Ground

Under strict protection as a major nesting site.
Limited access at night to protect the turtles.

🌅 Incredible Views & Secluded Coves

A rocky outcrop at the easternmost point overlooks a hidden cove with stunning views.
Perfect for sunset lovers & photographers.

Things to Do in Patara
✅ Explore the Ancient Ruins – Walk through Lycian history. 🏛️
✅ Relax on Patara Beach – One of Turkey’s most stunning coastlines. 🏖️
✅ Watch Loggerhead Turtles Nest (Seasonal – May to October). 🐢
✅ Hike the Lycian Way – A famous trek along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. 🥾
✅ Visit Myra (Demre) – See St. Nicholas Church & Rock-Cut Tombs. 🎅

How to Get to Patara
🚌 By Bus:

Frequent minibuses from Fethiye, Kalkan, & Kas.
Dolmuş (shared minibus) from Fethiye Otogar (Bus Station).
🚗 By Car:

Drive along the D400 highway – Patara is well-signposted.
🚶 By Hiking:

Lycian Way trekking route passes through Patara.
🌟 Patara is a must-visit destination for history buffs, beach lovers, and those looking for a serene, untouched paradise along Turkey’s stunning Turquoise Coast! 🌟