There are numerous things to do in Oludeniz, Dalaman, Turkey, ensuring you have a fantastic holiday. From paragliding over the blue lagoon at one of the most famous spots in the world, to turtle spotting in Dalyan. As well as a coastline strung with stunning beaches, trendy cocktail bars, and delicious restaurants.
Not to mention the variety of ancient ruins to explore and history to learn. If you don’t feel like participating in sports activities, that’s not a problem either. You can sit by the pool, sip cocktails, or enjoy the many restaurants and bars. Your options are limitless, with so many interesting things to do, see and places to eat. I can completely understand why it is such a popular destination.
Overlooking the Blue Lagoon from the road Ölüdeniz Dalaman, Turkey
Where is Ölüdeniz Dalaman
Ölüdeniz is a beach resort village located on the southwestern coast of Turkey in the Dalaman region. It is situated 16 km from the main city of Fethiye in Muğla Province. The nearest airport to Ölüdeniz is Dalaman International Airport, just 60 km away, about an hour’s drive to the resort. This distance makes it a popular choice for British holidaymakers, especially during the summer.
Explore popular British summer package holidays in the beautiful Dalaman region of Turkey, available through Jet2Holidays.
Best Things to do in and around Ölüdeniz
Whether looking for a serene coastal escape or an activity-packed vacation, Ölüdeniz promises an unforgettable experience on Turkey’s beautiful Mediterranean coast. Here is a list of 16 top things to do in Ölüdeniz, Dalaman, Turkey, to help you get the most out of your time in this fantastic destination.
Watching the Paragliders at sunset, Ölüdeniz, Dalaman, Turkey
1. Wander through the Ghost Town of Kayaköy Village
The ghost town of Kayaköy village, also known to the Greeks as Levissi, is worth visiting. It is a deserted ancient Greek village in the south of Fethiye. Wander around the 500 or so house ruins and two abandoned Greek Orthodox Churches. Due to a combination of historical events, Kayaköy village in Turkey has been deserted and partially destroyed since the 1920s, when the Greeks were forced to leave.
Today, Kayaköy village is preserved as a museum and a historical monument.
The History of Kayaköy Village, Turkey
Some of these uncontrollable events included the loss of the First World War and the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. In addition to the attempted Greek occupation of the Anatolian region. Then, in 1957, an earthquake hit Kayaköy village, destroying most of the abandoned buildings. Leaving them with no windows, doors and about half of the walls collapsed.
Wandering around Kayaköy ghost village
The ghost town of Kayaköy village is family-friendly. Take care, as the village is situated on a hill and you will walk on uneven ground, over rocks, and across oversteps. It’s best to wear good walking shoes to avoid slipping. I wear Teva Women’s Sandals, which are great for the Turkish hot weather and uneven paths. The best time to go is early morning or late afternoon when it is not so hot.
Inside the Greek Orthodox Churches, Ghost Town, Dalaman, Turkey
2. Fethiye Horse Safari
Spend a fun few hours on a Fethiye Horse Safari adventure, including a Kayaköy ghost village visit. You will ride a horse through the mountains, given the opportunity to take pictures and wander on foot. The duration of the horse tours is 3 hours. It does not matter if you are a beginner; advanced-level tours are made for everyone to enjoy.
Horse Tours are usually two times a day, morning or afternoon. Book a Horse Safari here that will pick you up from Oludeniz. The weather in Ölüdeniz and Fethiye, Turkey, can be hot and dry. Make sure to take a reusable water bottle to keep hydrated. I use one like this that not only keeps the water cold but is reasonably priced.
3. Take a Day Trip to Saklıkent Gorge
Take a trip to Saklıkent Gorge National Park and hike to Gizlikent Waterfall to cool off in the refreshing water. Saklıkent Gorge, also known as the “Hidden City,” is 18 km long and reaches a depth of 300 m, making it Europe’s deepest canyon. This natural wonder is located 40 km from Fethiye.
As you hike through the cool waters of the gorge, enjoy the breathtaking views of the towering canyon walls before heading to Gizlikent Waterfall, where you can swim, relax, and take stunning photos of the waterfall. Multiple tour operators offer trips to both Saklıkent Gorge and Gizlikent Waterfall, providing guides who lead you through the safest and most scenic routes.
Book a full-day Jeep safari to Saklikent Canyon, Gizlikent Waterfall, and Kaputas Beach. This is a great option for solo travellers or couples looking for things to do.
The Ghost Town of Kayaköy village, Ölüdeniz, Dalaman, Turkey
4. Paragliding in Oludeniz, Turkey
If you’re looking for the adventure of a lifetime, you can’t miss paragliding over the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz. This activity is not only one of the top things to do in both Ölüdeniz and Fethiye, but it also ranks as the most popular attraction along the Turkish Riviera. It is a well-known hotspot among paragliders worldwide, as it is one of the highest commercial take-off points, at nearly 2,000 meters (6,550 ft). The paragliding season in Oludeniz is from April to October, during the warmer months.
As it is tandem paragliding, your professional pilot will not only ensure that you are ok but will make you feel at ease during your flight, all the way to your landing point. Depending on wind conditions, your journey from the top of Babadag Mountain at takeoff to the landing area should take 25- 45 minutes. This is the second time I have paraglided in Ölüdeniz, and it was a fantastic experience. I had incredible views of the Turkish Riviera and the Blue Lagoon.
Here are related Paragliding tours in Oludeniz, Turkey.
Paragliding Takeoff Point
There is a purposely built paragliding takeoff platform, a cable car, and the Babadag 1700 Grill & Bar restaurant located on Babadag Mountain at 1700 meters. While there are several takeoff points on the mountain, this is the most popular one used by tourists paragliding in Oludeniz, Dalaman.
Most companies will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the takeoff point, so I suggest double-checking when booking. Prices start at £65 per person. Just remember, when your pilot says run, you have to run!
Paragliding Ölüdeniz Additional Information
- Paragliding over the blue lagoon in Oludeniz, Turkey, can be done at any time, but the best time to do it is at sunrises or sunsets. Some of the best pictures I saw from these times of day looked amazing.
- Be aware that some paragliding companies don’t like people taking cameras or smartphones, just in case you drop them. I suggest double-checking with your pilot to see if you can take a GoPro or Insta360 on your flight. I was allowed to strap mine to the paraglider.
Paragliding over the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz, Dalaman, Turkey – Photo by Erciyes Kayak Merkezi
5. Babadağ Mountain, Ölüdeniz
Babadağ Mountain in Ölüdeniz, Türkiye, is a breathtaking destination that offers adventure, stunning views, and unforgettable experiences. Rising to 1,969 meters, this majestic peak is renowned for its paragliding opportunities. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Babadağ Mountain offers a variety of other attractions.
Visitors can enjoy a scenic cable car ride to the summit, dine in restaurants, attend performances at the open-air theatre, and take in breathtaking panoramic views from the observation deck. Additionally, hiking enthusiasts can explore the mountain’s trails and discover its rich flora and fascinating ancient history.
There are four cable car stations where tourists can disembark at altitudes of 1200, 1700, 1800, and 1900 meters. The 1200-meter station is the most popular and remains open year-round, depending on weather conditions. The cable car entry station is on the main road in Ölüdeniz, and tickets can be purchased from the administrative offices at this location.
6. Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz, Turkey
The iconic Blue Lagoon is one of the most photographed locations in Türkiye when viewed from above. Its turquoise waters and serene surroundings make it the perfect spot for beach lovers. Spend a full day or half a day lying on a sunbed or enjoying one of the many water activities, such as swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
The Blue Lagoon, located at the end of the beach in Ölüdeniz, is part of a National Park. It is about a 10-minute walk from the town centre. Be sure to check with your hotel, as some may offer a complimentary shuttle service to the entrance. The Blue Lagoon is open daily, and a small entrance fee applies.
Swimming and kayaking in the crystal-clear water of the Blue Lagoon was great fun. If you have been to the one in Malta, I highly recommend this water activity while on holiday in Oludeniz, Turkey. Please ensure you wear the appropriate lotion.
Blue Lagoon Additional Info
- You can hire a kayak or paddleboard by the hour.
- The Blue Lagoon beach is mostly pebbles, not sand.
- Take your own beach towel and reusable water bottle to keep hydrated.
Kayaking on the Blue Lagoon Ölüdeniz Dalaman Türkiye
7. Cocktails and Sunset on Oludeniz Beach
Enjoy cocktails and take in the atmosphere while watching the sunset on Ölüdeniz beach, which is magical. The sky transforms into a canvas of pinks and oranges, reflecting off the tranquil waters below. From a beachfront bar, beach club, or a rooftop terrace, watch as paragliders gracefully descend from Babadağ Mountain as the sun sinks below the horizon.
Whether enjoying a fruity concoction or a classic drink, this unforgettable experience is a perfect addition to a summer holiday in Dalaman, Turkey. Some of the bars in Oludeniz along the beach worth mentioning are, Sey Beach Lounge, Buzz Beach Bar, and Jade Terrace Food & Drink.
8. Sailing around the 12 Islands of Gocek
Sail around the 12 Islands of Gocek for an unforgettable day of adventure and relaxation. Explore hidden coves, swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear water with fish nearby, and stop at pristine beaches. If you are lucky enough, you may even spot dolphins swimming. Various boat companies will take you around the 12 Islands of Gocek, most stopping in popular spots like Cleopatra’s Bath and Bedri Rahmi. As well as Aquarium Bay, Ancient Shipyard and Pancake Island.
One of my favourite days in Oludeniz, Turkey, was sailing around the 12 Islands of Gocek on our private boat. It felt like we were in our own private paradise. GYG offers a full-day cruise with a BBQ that is reasonably priced. You can bring your snorkelling equipment along.
Swimming in the crystal clear water – Gocek Islands – Photo by Mel Legarda
9. Scuba Dive or Snorkel in Oludeniz, Turkey
Spend half a day scuba diving or snorkelling in the turquoise waters of Ölüdeniz, Turkey, where you can explore underwater caves, reefs, and a diverse array of marine life.
Local diving schools in Oludeniz offer trips for divers and snorkelers of all experience levels, including half-day and full-day options. Join this half-day scuba diving program led by a trained instructor, which includes equipment.
10. Gemile Island (St Nicholas Island) and Butterfly Valley
Enjoy a day on a Butterfly Valley Tour and St. Nicholas Island cruise, which includes lunch. You can swim and snorkel at Blue Cave and Cold Spring Bay. Stroll along the paths of Butterfly Valley while searching for rare butterflies in the nature reserve. You will also visit Gemile Island, also known as St. Nicholas Island, which is believed to be the original burial site of Saint Nicholas.
Take the opportunity to explore the island’s ruins, which date back to the 4th and 6th centuries AD, and climb to the viewpoint for stunning views. Book a full-day Butterfly Valley Tour and St. Nicholas Island cruise with GYG. If you’re looking for an adventure with a touch of luxury, consider booking a private speedboat tour to St. Nicholas and Butterfly Valley.
Lunch on the boat- Gocek Islands, Dalaman – Day trip from Oludeniz Resort, Turkey
11. Hike Part of the Lycian Way
Hike part of the Lycian Way trail in Ölüdeniz, where you’ll enjoy dramatic coastal views and ancient ruins along this historic path. This long-distance market hiking trail spans 520 km (320 mi). While it typically takes weeks to complete, it is easy to start the trail from any point along the way.
All you need to do is follow the red and white stripes that mark the path. This is an excellent option for those seeking outdoor activities in Oludeniz, Turkey. It’s best to do this in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is setting and the temperature is cooler. Read more about the Lycian Way on Multi-Day Hikes in Europe.
12. Thermal Mud Baths Dalyan Peloid
A trip to Dalyan is incomplete without visiting the Thermal Mud Bath at Dalyan Peloid. Research has shown that it is beneficial and has numerous advantages, including aiding with arthritis and potentially addressing infertility. Not to mention, it also serves as an excellent exfoliator for your skin.
After layering yourself with the mud, allow it to dry for 15- 20 minutes before rinsing it off under the shower and then relaxing in the thermal pool. It doesn’t cost much to enter the mud baths, and for an additional cost, you can also receive a massage. I must admit that my skin felt great afterwards.
Ensure that the thermal mud bath has a licence from the Ministry of Health in Oludeniz, Turkey, with your
Playing around in the mud – Dalyan Peloid – Photo By Portia Jones
13. Take a Boat Ride in Dalyan
After visiting the Thermal Mud Baths, spend the rest of the day exploring the Dalyan Delta by boat. Make sure to stop and admire the Lycian tombs, enjoy lunch, and take a swim at Iztuzu Beach. As you explore, keep an eye out for Loggerhead sea turtles and other wildlife that inhabit this nature conservation area.
The best part was that we had our own private boat, where you could sit on the roof and take in the stunning 360-degree views, and it was also a great spot for spotting turtles. This water activity can also be done from Marmaris.
14. Marvel Lycian tombs
Sail through the network of winding water channels toward the ocean. Your first stop will be at the Lycian tombs, which are intricately carved into the cliffs high above. I was captivated by how they managed to construct these tombs over 2,000 years ago. If you look closely, you will also catch a glimpse of the ancient city of Kaunos further down the channel.
The boat then cruised along the river and out to sea, where we stopped just offshore on a secluded beach with crystal blue water. It was a great spot for lunch and swimming before heading back.
The Lycian tombs – Dalyan Delta, Dalaman, Turkey
15. Turtle Beach
On our way back, stop off at the unspoilt sands of Iztuzu Beach (Also known as Turtle Beach) for another swim. The beach is protected because Loggerhead Turtles lay their eggs there. At the eastern end of the beach, a turtle hospital is located, caring for injured turtles.
If you are unable to catch a boat, you can get a Dolmus (Bus), which drops you off near the Turtle Hospital, and you can walk the short distance from there. Book one of these Dalyan River boat cruises in advance, which includes lunch.
16. Eat at the Fish Market in the Grand Bazaar
Due to its location, Fethiye Ölüdeniz, Turkey, offers an abundance of seafood that you must try. If you’re looking for fresh local seafood, be sure to visit the seafood market one evening. You can also stroll through the Grand Bazaar, taking in the delightful aromas of various herbs and spices.
At the market, you can purchase fresh fish, and the nearby restaurants will cook it for you for a small fee. If you’re unsure about which fish to buy, don’t worry; most of the restaurants also have menus featuring fresh seafood options.
Squid and wine at the Fish Market, Fethiye, Dalaman – Things to do at night
17. Hotels in Oludeniz, Turkey
Most of the leading hotels are situated about 5-10 minutes from the beach and in the centre of Oludeniz, Turkey. Don’t be discouraged about staying further out, as most accommodations are within walking distance, and most hotels offer regular shuttle buses. Check Agoda for the current availability of accommodations for the Ölüdeniz Dalaman, Turkey area.
All-Inclusive Liberty Hotel
I stayed at the Liberty Hotel Oludeniz, located just a 5-minute walk from the stunning Belcekiz beach. The hotel had three outdoor pools, including a children’s pool (freshwater) and an adults’ pool. Two restaurants, a buffet and an à la carte restaurant, plus a pool bar to enjoy those drinks in the sun. The Liberty Hotel Oludeniz also features a health club, complete with a sauna, Turkish Bath, and massage services.
Liberty Hotel Rooms
I had a spacious room on the second floor with a private balcony that had views of the surrounding mountains. The bed was comfy, the air conditioning was good, and the WiFi worked well in the room. You could sit on the balcony and watch the paragliders fly over.
Liberty Hotel is the perfect spot to stay in Oludeniz, Dalaman, for a holiday with friends, a partner, or even with family.
Paragliding over the resort of Ölüdeniz, Dalaman
18. How to get to Oludeniz, Turkey
Dalaman International Airport
Oludeniz Beach resort is part of the Dalaman Region on the southwestern coast of Turkey. The closest international airport is Dalaman International Airport, approximately 57 km away. It should take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive to Oludeniz.
I flew with Jet2 airlines as part of Dalaman with Jet2 Holidays, which services nine airport routes from the UK and various other areas in Europe. Explore popular British summer package holidays in the beautiful Dalaman region of Turkey, available through Jet2Holidays.
Transfers to Ölüdeniz and Surrounding Areas
The best way to get to Oludeniz, Turkey, is via transfer, whether shared or private. If you are taking a Jet2 package, you will be given a choice of options.
Hire a car to drive around Ölüdeniz
Alternatively, you can hire a car to get around Oludeniz and explore Turkey’s top attractions, especially if you’re travelling in a group. There are numerous companies at Dalaman Airport where you can hire a car.
⇒ Check out Travel Supermarket for a FREE, easy, fast comparison on car hire in Dalaman.
Boats along the Dalyan Delta, Dalaman, Turkey
19. Discover other coastal towns around the Mediterranean Sea.
Millions of people flock to seaside cities along the Mediterranean coast yearly for a summer holiday. Discover some of these places around the Mediterranean that are pure paradise. Feel free to read the following articles.
- 14 Top Things to Do and See in Hammamet, Tunisia
- 15 Historical and Cultural Attractions in Paphos
- What to do and see in Larnaca, Cyprus
Have you been to Ölüdeniz, Dalaman, Turkey, on a holiday before? Please feel free to share your experience in the comments below, or if you know of other places to see in the Dalaman area.
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Oh my gosh! That ghost town looks amazing. I would love to go there!!
I have never heard of Oludeniz in Turkey before and WOW I am glad I stumbled upon your post! What a gorgeous place! I dont like to lay by the beach all day like you so I am happy to see that there are much other more adventurious things to do! Paraglading over the lagoon is beautiful! And the sailing and the boat cruise are definitely a must! I love kayaking although 20€ for an hour is a bit too expensive for me.
That said, I am adding Oludeniz to my travel wish list!
This one of my favourite spots in Turkey and I have been a couple of times now. The paragliding is so much fun to do and I highly recommend it if you ever get the chance
This is a pretty perfect itinerary to Oludeniz Mel! I’ve not yet been anywhere in Turkey, but absolutely love the landscape. You’re so brave doing paragliding there; I’m quite scared of heights so not sure I could do it. The fish market would be a must for me; I adore seafood, and that octopus looks incredible, especially with a chilled glass of white too. Really hope to visit one day soon!
Thanks very much, Lisa, you would love it there. Turkey is one of my favourite countries to explore it is just so full of history and fun things to do. I hope that you get there one day.
This is such a comprehensive guide! I adore the Mediterranean Sea, and Turkey looks amazing. I had no idea about the thermal mud baths, that is the perfect way to relax after kayaking and snorkeling.
It is really weird being in that mud but a lot of fun. I never realised that it has so many benefits for your body and health which is amazing.
Wow. Thanks for sharing a great post. I have visited Turkey and done Istanbul and Antalya. This is another luxe toon surely to be visited. Thanks for the details. Would love the paragliding and the rafting. The photos and video add so
Much depth to the post. Great going and top tips.
I have been to Istanbul and Antalya too and they are very nice but Oludeniz is definitely a favourite for me. I could easily relax and stay there for a while
What a lovely post. I don’t know about gliding but I am in for kayaking. The water looks amazing. And those ruins – I would love to discover those.
Kayaking there was a lot of fun, wished that we had it longer so we could have explored of the area. Paragliding was definitely a lot of fun
Oludeniz Dalaman looks so gorgeous, I would love to visit this place when I visit Turkey. The activities you have listed sound so much fun and interesting. Exploring the old ruins in the ghost town and sailing across the 12 islands would be my top choice. Thanks for sharing such a detailed itinerary.
Oludeniz is one of my favourite places to go. Turkey has so many amazing things about the place and you definitely do not run out of things to do.
I’ve never been to Turkey but it looks fantastic. The paragliding sounds like so much fun! I think it would take a lot of ‘mind over matter’ to get me to do that but I think I would enjoy it once I’d started. The Blue lagoon and mud bathes sound like fun too.
You are so right it is definitely a mind over matter at the start when you are running of the edge of the mountain but once your up all is good.
It looks like you had so much fun kayaking, flying and bathing in mud baths! What an epic destination. I would also love to visit the ghost town of Kayaköy village. Great advice concerning the best time to visit and appropriate footwear!
It is such a great place to explore and there is so much to do. I hope you get there one day
So many fun and interesting things to do! How do you ever pick one…. Oh, I get it, don’t do them all!
Thanks for sharing. Keep travel blogging. Adventure is better shared with friends!
It is a great place to go if you love outdoor activities.
What a visually stunning destination! I love your aerial shots which really show off the natural beauty of Oludeniz. Kayaköy village looks like the kind of photogenic ruins I’d enjoy exploring and I’d love to try the paragliding too, though I’m a bit of a scaredy cat! Of course, would love to explore the islands and marine life too.
I’ve never been to Turkey but this looks stunning! I LOVE that you went paragliding! That would never have made my radar but now I feel like I have to do it! And I would love to visit the fish market you suggest!
The paragliding was scary and exciting at the same time and I highly recommend gong there if you can.
D-Resort Grand Azur Marmaris looks gorgeous. Paragliding to turtle spotting, fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, indulging in great food, lots to explore makes Ölüdeniz Dalaman Turkey makes a great place for holidaying. Honestly, I had never heard about it but it was refreshing to read your blog. I love learning about new places. Paragliding is fun. I quite enjoy doing it. Your pictures tell me that you had a great experience too. It was intriguing to learn about Kayakoy village.
I was super impressed with Azur Resort and I loved the turtle spotting and kayaking. I hope you get there one day
I’ve never been to that part of Turkey but it looks very picturesque. How fun to do the paragliding, and the mud bath looks great too!
This is the second time that I have been here and I forgot how nice the area was. Definitely get your self to one of the 5 star resorts down here 🙂
Ghost towns are so fascinating. Yet we have seen a lot in the US and Kayakoy village looks quite different from what we’re used to! It’s incredible that it’s so ancient and that it was partly destroyed due to a series of events, but I like the fact that there are still people who want to preserve what is left of it!
I have never been to a ghost town in the USA but I would love to. I am always watching documentaries about them on tv. I would have loved to spend longer in Kayakoy and explore the whole area.
I love visiting ghost towns so I’d have to check out Kayaköy Village. The day sailing sounds lovely too and a great way to see the land from the water, and of course, all that fish looked super tasty. I haven’t been to Turkey yet, and this area sounds like it has many things I like to experience when traveling. Saving!
I really enjoyed Kayakoy and I wished that I could have been there longer to explore. Such an intriguing place to wander around in.
Not sure I would call the events and consequences of World War 1 an uncontrollable event or the end of the Ottoman Empire (which brought with it its own set of consequences) or the Greek’s attempt to invade the Anatolian region. Kayaköy is a good historical reminder of the price of conflict and war and love the fact the Turks are now protecting the site. Just added another place on our “must see” list. Thank you!
Turkey is an interesting place for many reasons including history. I do hope that you get to go there one day.
This is so different from the part of Turkey I’ve seen! Love it! Kayaking and sailing sound especially enticing.
I have been all over Turkey through the years and I can agree that is totally different in all areas. Hopefully you get to go down to this stunning area one day
I love that there are so many things to do on the water. The kayaking and the boat trips would definitely be on my list, as would visiting the deserted village. And the mud bath sounds fascinating too, although a good call on checking for a place that is properly accredited.
That ghost town is so eerie but your photos are hauntingly beautiful. I’d love to explore more of Turkey, this post is inspiring! I’ve only been to Istanbul
It was really interesting walking through the ghost town and I would have loved to have stayed longer there. It definitely one part of the world that I do love visiting.
I had never heard of Oludeniz before, but based on this is sounds absolutely amazing! I’d love to visit some day! I’ve never had to chance to visit Turkey, but I really would love to!
I am happy to know more about Dalaman region. Perfect tips with fewer words. I do appreciate for putting your efforts. Surely, it is a helpful itinerary. Thanks.