Iztuzu Beach (Turtle Beach)
A 4.5km pristine golden sand beach, vital nesting ground for endangered Caretta caretta turtles, where freshwater meets the Mediterranean.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Warmest sea and sunniest days
Iztuzu Beach (Turtle Beach)
Best Time
Warmest sea and sunniest days

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 4.5km pristine golden sand beach, vital nesting ground for endangered Caretta caretta turtles, where freshwater meets the Mediterranean.
"A protected paradise where golden sands meet two seas, and turtles find a safe haven."
🚗 Car vs. Boat Access
Dolmuş from Ortaca is cheaper than a boat trip from Dalyan. Both offer scenic routes!
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Nesting season is protected. Avoid disturbing nests and follow all conservation guidelines.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Pristine 4.5km Shoreline
Iztuzu Beach
A vast expanse of fine golden sand meeting the Mediterranean Sea and freshwater lagoon. Perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Caretta Caretta Sanctuary
Iztuzu Beach
Witness the nesting grounds of endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Respect the protected areas and observe from a distance.

DEKAMER Turtle Hospital
Near Iztuzu Beach entrance
Learn about and see rescued sea turtles being rehabilitated. A heartwarming and educational experience.
Dual Water Experience
Iztuzu Beach
Enjoy the unique sensation of swimming where the salty Mediterranean meets the freshwater Dalyan River.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Protecting the Caretta Caretta
Getting to Turtle Beach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car vs. Boat Access
Dolmuş from Ortaca is cheaper than a boat trip from Dalyan. Both offer scenic routes!
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Nesting season is protected. Avoid disturbing nests and follow all conservation guidelines.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, and parasols are small.
💰 Affordable Entry
Entry fees are reasonable, especially for cars. Consider it a small price for a protected paradise.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car vs. Boat Access
Dolmuş from Ortaca is cheaper than a boat trip from Dalyan. Both offer scenic routes!
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Nesting season is protected. Avoid disturbing nests and follow all conservation guidelines.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, and parasols are small.
💰 Affordable Entry
Entry fees are reasonable, especially for cars. Consider it a small price for a protected paradise.
🚶♀️ Walk to the Hospital
The turtle hospital is a short walk from the beach entrance and highly recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Iztuzu Beach is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, expansive golden sands, and the unique experience of its dual freshwater and saltwater environment. Visitors appreciate its role as a sanctuary for Caretta caretta turtles and the educational opportunity at the nearby hospital. While generally affordable, some find the parasols small and the beach can get quite crowded during peak times.
"Great beach with cafe , toilets, changing etc. entrance is 200TL for the car and 350TL for 2 sunbeds ."
Matthew Batt
"Really nice, clean beach, the dolmus end is cheaper than the boat end. And the turtle hospital is in walking distance."
Ann Due Hermannsen
"Very nice, spacious and clean sandy beach. Water is crystal clear and it's shallow for like 20 meters. The only downside was the parasols; they're rather small and don't have great coverage. However the beach is pretty cheap -100 TL for a couple of beds and a parasol - so it's definitely worth it."
Pariz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Iztuzu Beach from Dalyan by taking a scenic boat trip along the Dalyan River, which offers beautiful views of the Lycian rock tombs. Alternatively, you can take a dolmuş (minibus) from Dalyan to the beach.
The dolmuş from Ortaca is generally considered a more budget-friendly option compared to the boat trips from Dalyan.
Yes, you can drive to Iztuzu Beach, and there is a car park available. The entrance fee for cars is quite reasonable.
Many visitors enjoy boat tours that navigate the Dalyan River, offering stunning views of the ancient Lycian tombs and the unique delta landscape before arriving at Iztuzu Beach.
While direct public transport from Marmaris might be limited, you can typically find connections to Dalyan or Ortaca, from where you can then access Iztuzu Beach via dolmuş or boat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Iztuzu Beach, which varies depending on whether you arrive by car or as a pedestrian. For cars, it's typically around 200-300 TL, while for sunbeds and parasols, expect to pay around 100-350 TL for a set.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the entry fees are generally considered affordable, especially for the value of visiting a protected natural area.
Iztuzu Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, access might be restricted during certain periods of the year to protect nesting sea turtles. It's advisable to check local information for specific timings.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site upon arrival. There's no need for advance booking for general beach access.
The Turtle Hospital (DEKAMER) is located near the beach entrance and usually has a separate, small admission fee or donation request, distinct from the beach entry fee.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Iztuzu Beach offers essential facilities including public toilets, showers (with cold, salty water), and a restaurant with reasonable prices. Sunbeds and parasols are available for rent.
Yes, the water at Iztuzu Beach is shallow for a considerable distance, making it ideal and safe for children to swim and play.
While Iztuzu Beach is a nesting ground, seeing turtles directly on the beach is rare and depends on the season. The best place to see turtles is at the DEKAMER Turtle Hospital.
The beach features fine, golden sand, which is soft underfoot and pleasant for sunbathing.
Iztuzu Beach can get very crowded, especially during peak season and midday. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant located within Iztuzu Beach that offers a range of food and drinks at reasonable prices.
Bringing your own snacks and drinks is generally permitted, which can be a good option for budget-conscious travelers or those with specific dietary needs.
The restaurant typically serves a variety of local Turkish dishes, snacks, and beverages suitable for a beach setting.
While the main restaurant is the primary dining option, there might be smaller kiosks or snack bars available depending on the season.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are areas where you can set up a picnic, especially if you arrive early to secure a spot.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning panoramic views of the long sandy beach, the meeting point of fresh and saltwater, and the dramatic mountainous backdrop. The golden hour at sunset offers particularly beautiful light.
Photography is generally allowed at the Turtle Hospital, but always be respectful of the animals and follow any guidelines provided by the staff.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in protected natural areas. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
The higher points along the access road or boat routes offer excellent vantage points for capturing the full sweep of the beach and its unique geography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking the boat trip from Dalyan for a more adventurous journey, as kids often enjoy the boat ride and the views of the rock tombs. If budget is a concern, the dolmuş from Ortaca is a practical alternative. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, or utilize the reasonably priced restaurant on-site.
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts & Conservationists
Be sure to observe all posted signs and guidelines to ensure you don't disturb any nesting areas or hatchlings. Your responsible behavior directly contributes to the survival of this vulnerable species.
💰 Budget Travelers
Enjoy the natural beauty and the unique dual-water environment without breaking the bank. The shallow waters mean you can enjoy swimming and playing without needing expensive water sports equipment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ecological Significance of Iztuzu Beach
Visitors play a crucial role in this conservation. Regulations often include limited access during nesting seasons (typically May to October), designated protected zones on the beach, and restrictions on nighttime activities. The DEKAMER Sea Turtle Research, Rescue, and Rehabilitation Center is a testament to these conservation efforts. Located near the beach, it provides care for injured turtles, many of which suffer from propeller strikes from boats.
Understanding and respecting these conservation measures is paramount for anyone visiting Iztuzu Beach. It's an opportunity to witness a remarkable natural phenomenon while contributing to the preservation of a vulnerable species. The beach's designation as a protected area ensures that its ecological importance is prioritized, offering a glimpse into a more sustainable form of tourism.
Navigating Access: Boat vs. Dolmuş
For those seeking a more economical option, the dolmuş (minibus) from the nearby town of Ortaca is a practical choice. This route typically takes you directly to the beach entrance. While it may lack the scenic river journey, it's a straightforward and budget-friendly way to reach the sands. Many travelers find the dolmuş to be a convenient and cost-effective alternative, especially for families or groups.
Regardless of your chosen method, be prepared for the possibility of crowds, especially during peak season. Arriving earlier in the day can enhance your experience, allowing for more tranquil enjoyment of the beach and its surroundings.
The Unique Dual Water Environment
As you walk along the beach, you can experience the subtle shift from the cooler, calmer freshwater of the lagoon side to the more dynamic, salty waves of the sea. This unique confluence of water types contributes to the rich biodiversity of the area and offers swimmers a varied experience. The shallow waters extending quite far out on the sea side make it particularly safe for families with children.
This natural phenomenon is not only visually striking but also ecologically significant, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna. It's a rare geographical feature that adds another layer of wonder to the already stunning Iztuzu Beach.
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