Ölüdeniz & Blue Lagoon★★★
Ölüdeniz (literally: "Dead Sea", due to the calm, windless water) has one of the most photographed bays in the world: The Blue Lagoon — an almost closed basin with incredibly turquoise water, surrounded by pine forests and sandy beach. Behind it rises the 1,969 m high Babadağ massif.
The Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a nature reserve (entrance 100 ₺ per person). The beach is fine pebbles, the water shallow and warm — perfect for snorkeling. In summer (July/August), however, it gets very crowded. The best time: June or September, mornings before 10 a.m.
Paragliding
Ölüdeniz is one of the best paragliding spots in the world. From the summit of Babadağ, you glide down to the beach in a 25–45-minute tandem flight — with views of the lagoon, the coast, and the surrounding mountains. Prices: 2,500–4,000 ₺ (approx. 70–115 €), including transfer to the mountain, flight, and photos/videos. Dozens of providers, all certified. In summer, hundreds of pilots fly daily.
Beaches
- Belcekiz Beach: The main beach of Ölüdeniz — 600 m sand/pebbles, paragliders land here. Lively, many beach bars.
- Kidrak Beach (Paradise Beach): 2 km south, quieter, more natural, surrounded by pines. Entrance approx. 50 ₺.
💡 Tipp
Paragliding from Babadağ is an absolute must-do — even for beginners (tandem flight, no experience needed). Book the day before at one of the many offices in Ölüdeniz (not through the hotel, surcharge!). Mornings are calmer, afternoons have more thermals for longer flights. Ask the pilot for acrobatic maneuvers if you're brave!