Iztuzu Beach

Turtle Beach (Iztuzu Plaji) which partly bars the mouth of the Dalyan river has for centuries been a refuge for breeding loggerhead turtles and is now a protected area.

The best way to get to the beach is by boat, sampling the wildlife paradise of undulating hills, rocky crags and fir trees along the route. You are sure to see or hear marsh frogs, stripe-necked terrapins and lizards as they scurry for cover as your craft glides by the Lycian tombs and through the channels leading to the five-mile sandbar called Iztuzu Beach. At one point you pass through a fish weir, which restricts the passage of carp and mullet. Two elderly gentlemen sit there all day, cranking the netted barrier up and down by hand to let vessels through.

The beach separates the delta from the sea, so you can swim in both fresh and seawater. Whichever you prefer, arm yourself with plenty of sun cream. The only shade is at either end of the beach where there are sun-loungers and limited beach facilities.

Local people also prepare and sell snacks from food shacks. You can also get to the beach by dolmus(approx 12km). Please note however that the last dolmus back to Dalyan leaves promptly at 6pm. It is strictly forbidden to stay on the beach at night time because bright lights and noise can distract the turtles.