Oludeniz: Iconic Turquoise Lagoon & Paragliding In Turkey
Oludeniz (literally translating to “Dead Sea” in Turkish due to its remarkably calm waters) is a beautiful Mediterranean beach. This breathtaking coast has a vibrant public beach and mountains full of pine trees. We also suggest visiting the nearby coves for those who enjoy swimming in multiple locations.
Highlights of Oludeniz
The Protected Blue Lagoon National Park
The inner lagoon is a protected national park separated from the open sea by a narrow sand spit and channel. The lagoon is famous for its shades of aquamarine and turquoise. The calm waters create a safe haven for swimmers and stand up paddleboarders.
The sheltered inner lagoon offers warm, crystal clear waters perfect for swimming.
Tandem Paragliding from Mount Babadag
Above the the beach is Mount Babadag. The 1,965 meter (6,447 feet) peak serves as an ideal paragliding launch site. Thrill seekers who came here for the sole purpose of paragliding and travelers wishing to partake for one time only take off from mountain launching pads. The summit is accessible via a modern cable car. The paragliders fly over the valleys and the turquoise bay before landing directly on the Oludeniz beach. You can learn more at Paragliding In Fethiye.
Coastal Boat Trips
From the beach, daily boat excursions depart to nearby coasts. Some of the programs include Butterfly Valley, St. Nicholas Island (Gemiler Adasi) and other coves.
Gateway to the Lycian Way
Beyond water sports and beachfront relaxation, Oludeniz serves as the official western terminus of the Lycian Way. Hikers can start directly from the mountain roads above the bay to embark on scenic day hikes offering views of the entire lagoon before continuing deeper into the coastal trails.
Location & Travel Guide
Oludeniz is located 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of Fethiye. It is easily accessible via frequent local minibus services or taxi transfers. The nearest regional airport is Dalaman Airport (DLM), situated about 60 kilometers (37 miles) to the northwest.
Seasonal Visiting Guidelines:
- Late Spring & Autumn (May - June & September - October): The ideal visiting window. The weather is pleasantly warm, sea temperatures are perfect for swimming and summer holiday crowds are manageable.
- Summer (July - August): Hot and bustling. Daytime temperatures regularly exceed 35°C (95°F), making early morning swims and late afternoon beach lounging the best strategy.
- Winter (November - April): Quiet and tranquil. While water sports and beach venues scale down operations, the natural beauty remains intact for peaceful coastal walks.
Mount Babadag provides aerial panoramas over the bay.
