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Iztuzu Beach Dalyan

4.6
·5k reviews·, Türkiye

A pristine 4.5km stretch of golden sand, vital for turtle nesting, where the river meets the sea.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
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One of my many photos taken from "Radar Mountain" Wowzer!

Iztuzu Beach Dalyan

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A pristine 4.5km stretch of golden sand, vital for turtle nesting, where the river meets the sea.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"Fantastic beach absolutely 5 stars for everything. The beach is lovely sandy and clean."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐢 Respect the Turtles

Avoid disturbing nesting areas. Gates may close at 7 PM for turtle protection.

💰 Affordable Amenities

Sunbeds and umbrellas are reasonably priced, and there's a nice cafe with fair prices.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Pristine 4.5km Stretch

The Pristine 4.5km Stretch

The entire beach

Miles of fine golden sand meet clear, shallow waters. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying nature's untouched beauty.

TikTokInstagram
Caretta Caretta Sanctuary

Caretta Caretta Sanctuary

Nesting grounds

Witness a critical habitat for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. A unique opportunity to see nature conservation in action.

Instagram+1
Dalyan River Boat Trip

Dalyan River Boat Trip

Dalyan River to Iztuzu Beach

A picturesque boat ride through the delta, offering stunning views and a unique perspective on reaching the beach.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Turtle Conservation First

Iztuzu Beach is a vital nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Access may be restricted during nesting season to protect them. Always respect marked areas and follow guidelines to ensure these magnificent creatures can thrive. TikTokInstagram

Getting There: Boat or Road?

Most visitors arrive by boat from Dalyan, a scenic 45-minute journey through the delta. Alternatively, you can drive and park, but be aware of potential gate closures after 7 PM due to turtle activity. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍İztuzu Plajı, Dalyan | MUĞLA 🎈Türkiye’nin en güzel plajlarından biri. Plajın güzelliği, caretta carettaların yumurtlama bölgesi olması, yüksek noktalarda seyrine doyum olmayan bir manzara sunmasından kaynaklanıyor. 🎈4.5 km uzunluğa sahip sahili, incecik kumları, tertemiz denizi var. 🎈2011’de Avrupa’nın en iyi açık alanı seçilen İztuzu Plajı’nın denizi oldukça temiz. Suyu da oldukça sığ. Çocuklu a...
@rotasizmimar
6.6K likes • 545.7K views

🐢 Respect the Turtles

Avoid disturbing nesting areas. Gates may close at 7 PM for turtle protection. InstagramReddit

💰 Affordable Amenities

Sunbeds and umbrellas are reasonably priced, and there's a nice cafe with fair prices. InstagramReddit

The beach of iztuzu plaji Dalyan 🥰🇹🇷 #a_traveling_foodie #travelgram #summervibes #travelguide #wanderlust #citytrip #beach #streetphotographers #traveldestination #instashot #photography #explorepage✨ #traveladdict #globetrotter #coffee #instadaily #travelblogger #forbestravelguide #streetphotography #travelling #hobbyphotographer #türkiye #fyp #citytrip #colorful #instatravel #happy #city_explor...
a_traveling_foodie
416 likes • 3.7K views
Iztuzu Beach is one of Türkiye's breathtaking coastal strips, located at the point where the Dalyan River meets the Mediterranean Sea. İztuzu Beach is a must-visit destination for holidaymakers nesting grounds of loggerhead sea turtles, this beach is a natural paradise for visitors. Boat tours along the Dalyan Canal further enhance the allure of the beach. İztuzu Beach is a must-visit destination ...
importurkiye
9 likes • 357 views

🚶‍♀️ Hike for Views

Consider a short hike from the parking area for stunning panoramic views of the beach. Reddit

🚤 Scenic Boat Access

Taking a boat from Dalyan is a popular and beautiful way to arrive. Instagram+1

İztuzu Beach 💙 Dalyan #iztuzu #iztuzuplajı #iztuzubeach #dalyantatil #dalyan #influencer #reelsinstagram #reelsvideo #kesfet #holiday
villa_konakyalcin
25 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐢 Respect the Turtles

Avoid disturbing nesting areas. Gates may close at 7 PM for turtle protection. InstagramReddit

💰 Affordable Amenities

Sunbeds and umbrellas are reasonably priced, and there's a nice cafe with fair prices. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike for Views

Consider a short hike from the parking area for stunning panoramic views of the beach. Reddit

🚤 Scenic Boat Access

Taking a boat from Dalyan is a popular and beautiful way to arrive. Instagram+1

💧 Fresh & Salt Water Mix

Experience the unique sensation of swimming where fresh river water meets the sea. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Iztuzu Beach is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning natural beauty, clean and shallow waters, and fine sand. Visitors highlight its importance as a turtle nesting site and appreciate the affordable amenities and the scenic boat access from Dalyan. Some note the 7 PM gate closure for road access due to turtle protection.

"Awesome place to visit. You can also see a real turtle hospital. Not a for-profit turtle farm but a place where they really save these animals."

John Simons

"The beach is great. But with few hours hike is the best.
We parked cars on last bigger parking place bit over beach and walked around by marked path up/down to beach."

Michal Strizko

"Fantastic beach absolutely 5 stars for everything. The beach is lovely sandy and clean. The sea is warm and remains shallow for a long time. They have a very nice bar/ restaurant with lots of choices for very low prices. The entrance is very fair at 100 TL. The sun-beds are cheap compared to other beaches at 200 TL per set. People are nice. They have clean toilets and dressing area and a life guard on watch as well as a first aid post. Pretty great, we will go again."

Tim Meijster

What People Like

Pristine natural beauty
Clean, shallow waters
Turtle conservation efforts

What People Dislike

Road gate closure at 7 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most scenic route is by boat from Dalyan, taking about 45 minutes through the delta. This is a popular choice for many visitors. Instagram Alternatively, you can drive to the beach, but be mindful of the 7 PM gate closure to avoid being stranded overnight due to turtle activity. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. Some visitors recommend parking at the last larger lot before the beach and then walking. Reddit

Many travelers find the boat trip from Dalyan to be the most enjoyable and visually rewarding way to reach Iztuzu Beach. Instagram+1

While not direct public transport, dolmuş (minibus) boats operate from Dalyan, offering an affordable way to get to the beach. Instagram

The boat trip from Dalyan typically takes around 45 minutes. Driving times will vary depending on traffic and your starting point. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is a small entrance fee, often referred to as a 'service fee'. It's generally considered very fair and affordable. InstagramReddit

The entrance fee is typically around 30 TL, with boat trips from Dalyan costing around 200 TL for a round trip. Instagram

Due to its status as a turtle nesting site, access might be limited or regulated during certain times to protect the Caretta caretta. Instagram+1

The beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, the road access gate closes at 7 PM to protect nesting turtles. Reddit

Tickets are typically purchased on-site or as part of a boat tour package. Advance booking is usually not necessary for beach entry itself. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find clean toilets, changing rooms, a pleasant cafe, sunbeds, and parasols available for rent. There are also lifeguards and a first-aid post. Reddit

Yes, the sea is warm and remains shallow for a considerable distance, making it great for swimming and families. Reddit

Iztuzu Beach is a protected nesting ground for Caretta Caretta turtles. While you might not always see them, you can visit the nearby turtle rescue center. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is a nice bar/restaurant on the beach offering a selection of drinks and food at reasonable prices. InstagramReddit

Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can enjoy a scenic hike, visit the turtle rescue center, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the expansive golden sands, the meeting point of river and sea, and the dramatic mountainous backdrop. Early morning or late afternoon light offers beautiful photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

While you can photograph the beach and its surroundings, it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance from any nesting turtles or hatchlings to avoid disturbing them. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beach and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful if you spot any distant wildlife. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in protected natural areas and near wildlife habitats. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide soft, warm light that enhances the beauty of the beach and surrounding landscape. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Iztuzu Beach is an excellent choice for families. The shallow, warm waters make it safe and enjoyable for children to play and swim. Reddit The fine sand is perfect for building sandcastles. Many visitors appreciate the clean facilities, including toilets and changing rooms, which are essential for a family outing. Reddit

Consider taking the boat trip from Dalyan as it's an adventure in itself for kids, offering exciting views and a sense of exploration. Instagram While the beach is a turtle nesting site, the turtle rescue center nearby offers an educational and engaging experience for children to learn about marine conservation. Instagram Remember to bring plenty of sun protection and stay hydrated, as the sun can be intense. Instagram

🐢 Nature Enthusiasts & Conservationists

For those passionate about wildlife and conservation, Iztuzu Beach is a pilgrimage site. Its designation as a critical nesting ground for Caretta caretta is its defining feature. Instagram+1 You can learn about ongoing conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these endangered species. Visiting the turtle rescue center is highly recommended to understand the challenges and successes of rehabilitation programs. Instagram

Respecting the beach's protected status is paramount. Adhering to guidelines, staying on marked paths, and avoiding any disturbance to the natural habitat are crucial. The unique ecosystem where river water meets the sea also supports diverse birdlife, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Instagram The pristine, undeveloped nature of the beach itself is a testament to successful conservation, offering a rare glimpse of a truly natural coastline. Instagram

🏖️ Beach Lovers & Relaxation Seekers

If your idea of paradise is miles of soft sand and clear, calm waters, Iztuzu Beach will not disappoint. The 4.5 km stretch of fine golden sand provides ample space to find your perfect spot, whether you prefer lively areas or quiet solitude. TikTokInstagram The shallow sea is ideal for leisurely swimming and wading, making it a stress-free environment to unwind. Reddit

Enjoy the convenience of affordable sunbeds and umbrellas for a comfortable day of sunbathing. InstagramReddit The on-site cafe offers refreshments, and the overall atmosphere is one of tranquility and natural beauty, with minimal development visible. Instagram It's the perfect place to disconnect, soak up the sun, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a beautiful beach. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ecological Significance of Iztuzu Beach

Iztuzu Beach, often called 'Turtle Beach', is far more than just a beautiful stretch of sand. It holds immense ecological importance as a critical nesting ground for the endangered Caretta caretta (loggerhead sea turtles). These ancient mariners have been returning to these shores for millennia to lay their eggs in the soft sand. The beach's unique geography, a narrow spit separating the fresh waters of the Dalyan River delta from the Mediterranean Sea, creates a vital habitat not only for turtles but also for various bird species and marine life. Instagram+1

Recognizing its ecological value, Iztuzu Beach is protected. Access is managed to minimize disturbance to the turtles, especially during the nesting and hatching seasons. Visitors are urged to be mindful of marked areas and to avoid any actions that could harm the turtles or their eggs. The presence of a turtle rescue and rehabilitation center (@dek in one reel) further underscores the commitment to conservation efforts in the area. Instagram This dedication ensures that Iztuzu remains a sanctuary for these vulnerable creatures, offering a rare glimpse into a thriving natural ecosystem. Instagram

Experiencing Iztuzu Beach means appreciating its dual role as a stunning tourist destination and a crucial wildlife preserve. The efforts to balance tourism with conservation are evident, making a visit here a chance to connect with nature responsibly. Whether you arrive by boat through the scenic delta or by road, the pristine environment and the chance to contribute to conservation awareness make Iztuzu a truly special place. TikTokInstagram

Navigating Your Journey to Iztuzu Beach

Reaching Iztuzu Beach offers a choice between two distinct experiences: a charming boat journey or a more direct road approach. The boat trip from Dalyan is a highlight for many, transforming the commute into a scenic adventure. As your boat glides through the Dalyan River delta, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the ancient Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs. This journey takes approximately 45 minutes and is often cited as a must-do experience. Instagram+1

For those who prefer to drive, there is road access to the beach. However, a crucial point to remember is that the gate at the road entrance closes at 7 PM. This is to ensure the safety of the nesting turtles that come ashore at night. If you are driving, make sure to plan your departure accordingly, or you might find yourself spending the night! Reddit Some visitors suggest parking at the last larger parking area before the beach and then walking the rest of the way. Reddit

Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, the journey itself is part of the Iztuzu Beach experience. The boat trip offers a more immersive natural encounter, while the drive provides flexibility. Both options lead to a destination renowned for its natural beauty and ecological significance. Instagram+1

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