ABOUT KALKAN
Kalkan Turkey Travel Guide
Welcome to beautiful Kalkan — one of the most picturesque and charming harbour towns on Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coastline.
Famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, rooftop restaurants, beach clubs, luxury villas and relaxed atmosphere, Kalkan has become a favourite destination for couples, families and groups looking for a more sophisticated and authentic Turkish holiday experience.
Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning once again to this special corner of Turkey, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your stay at Villa Ocean Pearl Kalkan.
Restaurants in Kalkan
Kalkan is renowned for its exceptional dining scene and is widely considered one of the best places to eat in Turkey.
With over 100 restaurants ranging from relaxed cafés and traditional Turkish eateries to elegant rooftop dining experiences, there truly is something for everyone. Regardless of budget, the quality of food is typically outstanding, with fresh ingredients, warm hospitality and beautiful settings throughout the town.
Kalkan is particularly famous for its stunning rooftop restaurants where you can dine whilst watching the sun set over Kalkan Bay before the harbour lights begin to sparkle in the evening — a truly unforgettable holiday experience.
Our local villa representative Sharon will always be happy to recommend favourite restaurants, beach clubs, cafés and bars and can also assist with table reservations if required.
Talking Turkish
Although English is widely spoken in Kalkan, learning a few Turkish phrases is always appreciated by the locals.
* Hello — *Merhaba*
* Please — *Lütfen*
* Thank You — *Teşekkür ederim*
* Yes — *Evet*
* No — *Hayır*
* Water — *Su*
* The bill please — *Hesap lütfen*
* Good day — *İyi Günler*
* Good evening — *İyi Akşamlar*
The Turkish people are incredibly warm and welcoming, and even a few simple words often bring a smile.
Weekly Market
Kalkan’s popular weekly market takes place every Thursday and is well worth visiting during your stay.
Here you will find:
* Clothing & jewellery
* Handbags & souvenirs
* Spices & Turkish delights
* Local crafts
* Fresh fruit & vegetables
* Honey, cheeses and local produce
The atmosphere is lively and colourful, and bargaining is all part of the experience.
Beaches in and around Kalkan
Kalkan Beach
Kalkan’s own Blue Flag beach is located close to the harbour and offers clear water and a relaxed atmosphere. The beach is pebbly, so beach shoes are recommended for comfort entering the sea.
Patara Beach
Approximately 15 minutes from Kalkan, Patara Beach is one of the most spectacular beaches in Turkey, stretching for miles with golden sand dunes and protected turtle nesting areas.
The beach is accessed through the fascinating ruins of the ancient city of Patara, making it a wonderful day out combining history and natural beauty.
Kaputaş Beach
One of the most photographed beaches in Turkey, Kaputaş Beach is famous for its dramatic turquoise water and stunning cliffside setting between Kalkan and Kaş.
During peak summer months it can become very busy, but it remains one of the most breathtaking spots along the Turkish coastline.
Beach Clubs
Kalkan is also famous for its stylish beach clubs which combine swimming platforms, sun loungers, restaurants, bars and water sports in beautiful waterfront settings around the bay.
Popular beach clubs include:
* Mahal Beach Club
* Palm Beach
* Indigo Beach Club
* Yalı Beach Club
* Kalkan Beach Park
* Kalamar Beach Club
Several offer complimentary water taxi services from Kalkan harbour.
Boat Trips
A traditional gulet boat trip is one of the highlights of any holiday in Kalkan.
Spend the day cruising the coastline, swimming in secluded bays, enjoying lunch on board and relaxing under the Mediterranean sun whilst taking in spectacular sea views.
Private boat charters and shared daily boat trips can both be arranged.
Activities & Excursions
There is an incredible range of activities and excursions available in and around Kalkan.
Popular experiences include:
* Canoeing & rafting adventures
* Jeep safaris
* Horse riding
* Water sports
* Paragliding
* Scuba diving
* Lycian Way walking trails
* Turkish hammam experiences
For history lovers, the surrounding area is rich in ancient Lycian sites including:
* Patara
* Xanthos
* Letoon
* Kekova
* Saklikent Gorge
The scenery throughout this part of Turkey is simply breathtaking.
Car Hire & Getting Around
Although many guests choose simply to relax around Kalkan and use taxis or water taxis, car hire can be a great option for exploring the wider area and discovering hidden beaches, mountain villages and historical sites.
During peak summer months we strongly recommend arranging car hire in advance.
Airport transfers from Dalaman Airport to Kalkan can also be arranged.
Local Places to Explore
Kaş
A beautiful harbour town approximately 30 minutes from Kalkan, Kaş offers boutique shopping, cafés, restaurants and a more traditional Turkish atmosphere.
Islamlar
Located in the hills above Kalkan, Islamlar is known for its cooler temperatures, peaceful surroundings and famous trout restaurants set amongst rivers and greenery.
Saklikent Gorge
One of the region’s most popular attractions, Saklikent Gorge offers spectacular scenery, riverside restaurants and adventurous walking experiences through the gorge itself.
Kekova & Sunken City
Boat trips to Kekova allow visitors to explore ancient ruins, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking coastline scenery.
Why Guests Fall in Love with Kalkan
Kalkan offers something truly special — a combination of luxury villa holidays, authentic Turkish charm, spectacular scenery and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
Many guests return year after year for:
* The warm hospitality
* Stunning sea views
* Beautiful sunsets
* Exceptional restaurants
* Relaxed atmosphere
* Luxury villas and beach clubs
* The perfect mix of relaxation and adventure
We hope you fall in love with Kalkan just as much as we have.
