Oludeniz Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Oludeniz, Mugla Province, Turkey)

The main tourist attractions are the beaches of Oludeniz and the scenic splendour of the Blue Lagoon and mountains. This area is quite refreshing and right up there with the most beautiful in Turkey. While it is somewhat touristy nowadays, it is easy to escape the beach scene (not that you'd want to) and find some seclusion around the lagoon.

Other than the lagoon and the beautiful Belcekiz Beach, Oludeniz is also good for activities and outdoor attractions, both in the water and in the air. The resort has the best paragliding in the country, along with great walking and swimming. To get away from the beach, tourists should head up Babadag Mountain or to the nearby communities of Hisaronu and Ovacik.

Paragliding

Address: Oludeniz, Turkey, TR
Oludeniz is one of the best spots in Europe (and maybe even in the world) for paragliding, owing to the warm clear air and the amazing views, which include the Butterfly Valley and the Blue Lagoon. The towering Babadag Mountain is the main launch point and you can be soaring for almost an hour if you know what you're doing. You can also undergo training or book a tandem flight. On a clear day, it is possible to see as far as the Greek island of Rhodes.
Open hours: daily - weather dependent
Admission: charge

Blue Lagoon (Tabiat Parki)

Address: Oludeniz Caddesi, Oludeniz, Turkey, TR
Apart from the beach, the Blue Lagoon is the main draw to Oludeniz. This stunning section of calm water is to be found just behind the beach and is now a protected area. The lagoon is pockmarked with sloping golden sands and has perfect water, which is considered to be safe for children. Although officially a natural park, the lagoon is open to water sports and there is a beach club as well. The Blue Lagoon features a partially shaded beach, together with its main stretch of sand - Genc Beach, which is totally exposed to the sun and connected by a free shuttle service.
Open hours: sunrise to 18:00 daily
Admission: charge, extra for sunbeds

Outdoor Activities

Address: Oludeniz, Turkey, TR
Along with paragliding, Oludeniz boasts fantastic walking, swimming and many other appealing outdoor attractions. The walking and hiking are particularly good, as the area is rugged, lofty and lush, with a large bird population for lovers of wildlife. Jeep safaris and white-water rafting can also be enjoyed, plus there are many boating opportunities and, of course, all types of water sports.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge for some activities

Cruises / Boat Trips

Address: Oludeniz, Turkey, TR
All through the summer months, regular boats collect holiday makers from the beach and cruise along the coastline for an entire day, taking in attractions such as the Blue Cave and Saint Nicholas Island. Along the way, boats will stop off so that passengers can enjoy a quick swim, and often alight at Gemiler Beach. Those taking a cruise to the Butterfly Valley will find that boats depart from the beach at around 11:00 and return approximately six hours later. Of note, most cruise packages include lunch in the price.
Open hours: daily - seasonal
Admission: charge, discounts for children

Hisaronu

Address: Hisaronu, Turkey, TR
Hisaronu is a popular little community to visit or be based in while staying in Oludeniz. This suburb village is located just a matter of minutes to the north and sits up on a plateau, a little inland from the beach, being surrounded by mountains and boasting a lively Brit-centric atmosphere. Although perhaps slightly 'in your face', the neighbouring resort of Hisaronu provides good accommodation and enticing entertainment options, as does nearby Ovacik. Buses run to and from the beach every few minutes, or you can walk the route in about 20 minutes.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Ovacik

Address: Ovacik, Turkey, TR
Ovacik is sited above nearby Hisaronu, on the foothills of Babadag Mountain, and is a popular alternative to staying at the former. Its accommodation is far cheaper than places near Oludeniz's beach, plus there are many bars and restaurants here, which are generally fairly quiet and understated. Ovacik is also well-placed for walks into the countryside and hiking up the mountain, and lies on the road to Fethiye.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free