If Kaş is about clear water and hidden coves, Patara is the opposite — a vast, golden, dune-backed beach that runs for 18 km, with one of Lycia's most important ancient cities right behind it. It makes a wonderful day trip and a complete change of scene.
The beach
Patara Beach is one of the longest in the Mediterranean and feels gloriously wild — soft sand, rolling dunes and space to disappear, even in August. It's a protected area and a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles, so it stays undeveloped, with simple facilities and a sunset that's hard to beat.
The ancient city
Behind the beach lies ancient Patara — a major Lycian port and, by tradition, the birthplace of St Nicholas. Wander a grand colonnaded street, a restored theatre, a lighthouse and the council chamber often called a cradle of parliamentary democracy. It's atmospheric, uncrowded and easy to combine with a few hours on the sand.
Getting there from Kaş
Patara is about 45 minutes west of Kaş by car or minibus (dolmuş), making an easy half- or full-day trip. Bring water, sun protection and a hat — shade is limited. A single ticket covers both the beach and the ruins, so allow time for both.
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