Kalkan
Kalkan — 25 km west of Kaş — is a small, elegant coastal town that has developed from a fishing village to an upscale resort without losing its charm. White houses with bougainvillea cascade down the hillside to the small harbor. Kalkan is quieter and more exclusive than Kaş — ideal for couples and those seeking tranquility.
- Rooftop Restaurants: Kalkan's specialty — almost every restaurant has a rooftop terrace with a view over the bay. Eating meze here at sunset is a dream.
- Kaputaş Beach: 7 km east — one of the most photogenic beaches in Turkey: a narrow gorge opens to the sea, turquoise water, framed by cliffs. 194 steps lead down. Very crowded in summer.
- Patara Beach: 18 km long sandy beach (the longest in Turkey) — nature reserve and turtle nesting site. Hardly developed, endless expanse. Plus, the ruins of ancient Patara with theater, triumphal arch, and allegedly the oldest parliament building in the world.
💡 Tipp
Kaputaş Beach is the Instagram motif of the Lycian Coast — but unbearably crowded in July/August (the beach is tiny). Come in June or September, ideally before 10 a.m. For a full beach day, Patara is the better choice: endlessly long, never crowded, and the ancient ruins are included for free.