Oludeniz Travel Guide

Oludeniz lies just 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) from Fethiye, and is renowned for its crystal-clear lagoon and iconic beach. Despite its development with hotels and apartment complexes, Oludeniz retains its stunning scenery, making it a lively and attractive destination for holidaymakers. The nearby resort town of Hisaronu sits on a mountain plateau and is known for its bars, nightclubs, shops and restaurants. Both Oludeniz and Hisaronu are increasingly recognised for their outdoor activity potential, especially with their rugged surroundings. For instance, Oludeniz Beach is a hotspot for various water sports, such as paragliding from the top of Babadag Mountain, as well as boat trips that depart regularly from Oludeniz or Fethiye to explore the scenic coastline. The surrounding hills offer numerous trails with spectacular views, including the fascinating Greek Village, which was abandoned during the Greco-Turkish War.

Shopping

While Oludeniz has several souvenir shops along the Belcekiz Beach seafront, and many resort hotels and apartment complexes have their own gift stores, for a more authentic shopping experience, visitors should consider taking a dolmus (local minibus) to nearby Hisaronu or Fethiye. Both towns have bustling markets where haggling is part of the experience. Popular purchases include leather goods, carpets, jewellery, as well as inexpensive knock-off designer sunglasses and watches. The markets in Fethiye are particularly known for fresh produce and traditional Turkish crafts.

Restaurants

Oludeniz has a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes. Turkish cuisine is well-represented, and visitors can easily find Mediterranean fine dining by the sea. While Oludeniz's restaurant scene is diverse, those seeking even more variety can venture a few kilometres inland to Hisaronu or Fethiye, where international cuisine, including Italian and seafood, is widely available.

Nightlife

Nightlife in Oludeniz is generally more relaxed than in nearby resort towns, with many visitors enjoying laid-back beachside bars. For those seeking a livelier night out, Hisaronu, just a short distance away, offers more vibrant clubs and bars. Fethiye also has a more bustling nightlife scene.

Holiday activities

Oludeniz is best known for its stunning blue lagoon, which is often cited as the most beautiful beach in Turkey. The beach is a major draw for visitors, particularly for paragliders who flock from around the world to soar above the turquoise waters of Oludeniz after launching from Babadag Mountain. Local operators offer tandem paragliding experiences for first-timers. Popular water activities include diving and snorkelling, and those who'd prefer to stay dry will have plenty of options, including a 12-island boat trip, visits to ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites, the famous Butterfly Valley, and the historic ghost town of Kayaköy. Visitors should also take the time to experience a traditional Turkish bath (hammam), available in many local resort hotels, which is a rejuvenating and culturally immersive experience.

Any negatives?

While Oludeniz is a beautiful destination, it does have a few downsides. Some visitors find the aggressive behaviour of touts, especially during the peak tourist season, to be bothersome. Along with that, prices in Oludeniz have risen in recent years, making it relatively expensive compared to other regions in Turkey. The weather can also be a challenge during the height of summer, with temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C (86°F) and sometimes reaching 40°C (104°F), combined with high humidity. As a result, mosquitoes can be a nuisance, particularly in the evenings near the lagoon and surrounding nature areas.