August is the hottest month of the year for Dalyan and one of the driest. As a result, this is the prime month for those looking to take a holiday. It is the busiest time of the year, but also the best for those who want to do some sun worshiping while also enjoying the waters surrounding the city. If a potential visitor is looking to take a trip to the region for this time of the year, it is advisable to book a room and excursions well in advance to beat the crowd.
This month is tied for the driest time of the year with only 3mm of precipitation expected. This is the same amount of rain that is expected in June, but here it falls over an average of 7 days rather than only 4. While the amount of days is higher, it is mainly a light rain that will not impede any outdoor activities for too long a period of time. However, a quick check of an extended forecast is always a good idea.
Temperatures are the warmest of the year during this time and visitors will need to pack accordingly. The average daily temperature for the month is a warm 27°C (81°F). The average afternoon high is a very warm 34°C (93°F). As a result, shorts and short sleeves need to be worn throughout the day. The average overnight low is a warm 20°C (68°F).
There is also plenty of sun to enjoy while lounging on the beach. The region sees an average of 13 hours of sunshine each day. Combined with warm sea surface temperatures, now is the perfect time to enjoy the beaches in the region. Water temperatures during this time of the year are the warmest they will be throughout the year. The average water temperature is an impressive 26°C (79°F) and is warm enough for the whole family to enjoy.
WHERE TO STAY
With traditional hotel rooms, bungalows and apartments there is something for everyone at the Sedir Resort. Those on holiday in August can take advantage of the region's dry weather and enjoy the resorts large adult pool. Set in both gardens and a forest, nature lovers will love this resort as well as those how are looking to get away for a while. Even though it is only a 20-minute walk to the center of town, the resort feels like it is a world away.
Guests will enjoy the attention to detail provided by the staff at the Beyaz Villas. The family-run hotel offers 14 fully equipped apartments and guests can enjoy lounging by the pool or sipping on a cocktail in the bar. Guests may also choose to eat at the breakfast buffet and take advantage of one of the several outings and adventures that are offered through the hotel.
Guests will be made to feel right at home at the Dalyan Central Park Hotel. This adult only hotel offers visitors a chance to sun by the pool while relaxing and enjoying everything the region offers. All hotel rooms come with air conditioning as well as a private bathroom. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available upon request and guests can take advantage of bike rentals, free WiFi and a library.
THINGS TO DO
August in Dalyan is a great month to take any one of the numerous boating trips that are offered from the local companies operating in the area. There are guided tours of the coastal areas that include dolphin watching, viewing the coral reefs that ring the area and spotting the famous Loggerhead turtles that Dalyan is famous for.
Visitors can also charter boats to go on sea fishing expeditions from Dalyan. The waters around the Turkish coast are loaded with many different species of fish and other delicious marine life such as blue crabs. Fishing for blue crabs is a popular pastime with the locals and visitors who try it are sure to enjoy it as well. As a bonus, the blue crabs caught in Dalyan are excellent to eat!
HIT THE BEACH
With average afternoon temperatures of 34°C (93°F) and water temperatures of 26°C (79°F), August is the best time to visit a beach near Dalyan. Additionally, there is very little rain during this time of the year, so there is very little chance of seeing time at the beach washed away. Just down the road is Pantara located in the Xanthos Valley. As one of the longest continuous beaches in the Mediterranean, this is a great spot for families and couples. In the summer, there are large enough waves to surf and enjoy. While it can get crowded, there are enough spots for couples to find some privacy.
RESTAURANTS AND NIGHTLIFE
A recent winner of a certificate of excellence for 2015, Lime Restaurant and Bar is a great place to get a good meal at a reasonable price. The menu is comprised of options ranging from traditional Turkish to pizza with plenty in between. However, all the dishes are expertly prepared and guests keep coming back for more. Combined with a friendly staff, there is a lot to like about this small, off the beaten path restaurant.
Those looking for a light, but filling lunch will enjoy Dalyan Iz Café. With a menu that includes such dishes as vegetarian special of the day, salad of the day, lemon cake, and fresh fruit smoothies there is a lot to like about this little gem. The menu also changes with the season in order to take advantage of the freshest ingredients available.
If a friendly, relaxed bar is your idea of a good time, then check out Tequila Bar. With an attentive staff that never lets your drink get too empty, this is a great place to relax and enjoy some great music while meeting new friends from around the world. The drinks are well made and the prices are reasonable adding to the overall feel of the bar.