Along the coast of Turkey’s stunning Lycian Coast, between jam-packed Fethiye and Antalya, lies Kalkan – a little town of just under 4,000 people that has a lot to offer to visitors of any type.
The lush-natured high hills of this old fisherman town are ornamented with white-washed houses, brightly colored bougainvilleas, and romantic cobblestone alleys that gently descend into the crystal clear blue waters of the Aegean.
Sounds dreamy?!
That’s because it is.
Read on to discover all the amazing things to do in Kalkan to make the most out of this charming little town that can deliver unforgettable experiences for anyone’s taste.
For Beach Lovers
Kalkan hosts a beautiful, white pebble public beach stretching on the left of the town’s harbor. Checking all the boxes to maintain its Blue Flag status, Kalkan’s public beach offers reasonably-priced umbrellas and sunbeds, as well as shower and changing room facilities. But you can definitely just bring a towel and lay under the sun!
Some of the town’s best cafes and eateries are steps away, so it’s fair to say that this is a lively beach and probably not the best choice for those who are after a peaceful day at the beach listening to the waves swooshing.
But if the bustle isn’t a dealbreaker for you, you’ll be in for a delightful day of swimming and snorkeling in some of the clearest blue waters ever.
For those who’d like a more sophisticated experience and more privacy, there’s a handful of beach clubs on each side of the town, slanting from the hills into the deep blue.
Learn more: Kalkan Beach Clubs
From calm and secluded beaches to party and watersports lovers clubs, there also are plenty of options just a short drive away from the town!
Learn more: Kalkan Beach Guide
More on Water
If just laying under the sun and taking the occasional dip just won’t cut it for you, there are plenty of fun things to do in Kalkan, Turkey such as water activities to explore otherwise inaccessible shorelines or get that adrenaline kick.
For one, you can lounge in the sunshine and have a delicious lunch on a traditional wooden gület.
Or hop on to Kekova Island to see the ancient sunken city.
Maybe take a kayak down the Eşen Stream that makes part of the border between Muğla and Antalya. Stop for a therapeutic mud bath along the way.
Or maybe hop to neighboring Greece for a day trip to Kastellorizo Island.
Or take an evening boat tour and enjoy dinner while the moonlight illuminates the white-washed houses on Kalkan’s hills as it reflects into the deep blue.
Or take one of the many Kalkan boat trips that provide activities such as paddle boarding or jet skiing.
The possibilities are really endless.
For History Buffs
While on the Lycian Way, don’t miss Xanthos, the capital of ancient Lycia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts a number of remarkable, well-preserved monuments, that mark some of the top things to do in Kalkan, Turkey.
Continue down the river’s stream to reach Letoon, the archeological remains of an ancient sanctuary center with temples and monuments that are nothing less than stunning.
Right where the Eşen river meets the Aegean sea lies Patara, the successive capital of Lycia. Immerse yourself in history and take the time to explore the vast area of remains of this once flourishing maritime and commercial city.
Once done, watch the unforgettable sunset from the sand dunes, on a beach that stretches just under 20km in length.
Learn more: A Guide to Patara, Turkey
For Foodies
It’s safe to say that no matter where in Turkey you are – you’re in for a treat, literally! Kalkan boasts dozens of eateries of all sorts; from luxurious sushi bars and Mediterranean cuisine restaurants by the sea to quaint restaurants serving traditional Turkish dishes in the bougainvilleas-decorated cobblestone alleys.
In fact, exploring eateries is one of the best things to do in Kalkan regardless if you’re a foodie or not! Luring you in with some mouthwatering smells of food, there are plenty of Kalkan restaurants that provide rooftop seating, and a sensational dining experience, therefore.
For Revellers
As promised, Kalkan has a bit of everything to cater to any traveler. Party-lovers can start the night at one of the many bars in town providing anything between a laidback ambiance in little flagstone buildings and a lavish rooftop or seaside setting.
For a complete Kalkan nightlife experience, continue in one of the clubs where DJs typically play an eclectic mix of music that will surely make you dance the night away.
Is Kalkan Worth Visiting?
A small town nested beneath hills and mountains, Kalkan is definitely worth visiting by those who are after access to beautiful beaches, delicious food, and a dash of history, while still being away from the hustle and bustle of large tourist destinations.
