Olu Deniz is a small village resort found on the southwestern coast of Turkey, which also goes by the name of 'Dead Sea' and 'Blue Lagoon'. Because of its stunning turquoise waters and golden sand it has become one of the most photographed and popular beaches in the world.
Some beaches in Olu Deniz and the surrounding area are brilliant for relaxation, whilst others provide more entertainment facilities including restaurants and water sports activities. The main beaches in Olu Deniz are Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley and Kidrak (Paradise Beach). On the other hand if you don't mind venturing out a bit further why not go to Calis Beach which boasts one of the best water sports club in the whole of Turkey.
Olu Deniz (Blue Lagoon)
The Blue Lagoon is Olu Deniz's most popular beach due to its turquoise crystal clear waters and easy accessibility. Due to the waters being so calm and gentle it makes it an ideal place for a variety of water sports from jet skiing to wind surfing. It's also a very safe place for children to swim in, making it a very family friendly beach.
Olu Deniz's beach is famed for being shaped like an arm. At the far end you will find the most popular spot for tourists where parasols and sun loungers are set out. Whilst the lush green inland part of the bay is a recognised national park, which costs a small fee to enter, but the views are certainly worth it.
Butterfly Valley
Butterfly Valley is a secluded area, protected by the World Heritage Foundation, which can only be reached from Olu Deniz by boat or via the Lycian Way walking trail. This small beach boasts clear turquoise waters and lush vegetation to the rear end of the valley. The reason why it is still relatively unspoilt and is one of Turkey's hidden gems is because it only became a popular tourist resort in the last 20 years or so.
The reason why this astonishing place is called the Butterfly Valley is because it has become a popular habitat for over 60 varieties of butterflies that regularly flutter by. If you decide to travel here you can catch a boat from Olu Deniz harbour, and don't forget to bring a towel, swimsuit and camera with you, as there are also two refreshing waterfalls to stand under in the valley.
Gemiler Beach
If you want to escape the crowds from the popular Olu Deniz Beach then head to Gemiler Beach, which lies just six miles away from Olu Deniz. You can reach this secluded and peaceful beach by boat or either a bus ride from Hisaronu. This beach is surrounded by flourishing pine and olive trees and looks out onto the picturesque St Nicholas Island. It's also worth bringing along a snorkel and flippers as this is a great place to go diving.
Kidrak (Paradise Beach)
Kidrak also known as 'Paradise Beach' is a romantic cove found just a short walk away from the Blue Lagoon on the way to Lykia World. This secluded bay has a much more laid back atmosphere compared to the neighbouring Olu Deniz Beach, but still boasts gorgeous fine sands and tranquil turquoise water. However, the only disadvantages are there are no facilities here including toilets or showers, so it may not be ideal for young families. But if you want somewhere quiet and secluded then this is the place for you.
Calis Beach
Calis Beach is just a little bit further out from Olu Deniz found ten minutes away from the bay of Fethiye in the resort of Calis. Calis is relatively flat compared to the other resorts in the local area, so it makes it an ideal place for people with any mobility problems. This beach is also famed for its seemingly endless beach and refreshing sea breeze.
At one end you will find the luxurious Sunset Beach Club, which boasts many moern holiday apartments, five outdoor pools and its own private beach. So if you want accommodation right by the beach then this could be the perfect place for you. On the other hand if you head to the other end you will find the unspoilt area which has been protected due to endangered turtles laying their eggs here at night.
Due to the sea breeze found at Calis Beach it has become a very popular place for water sports. Fethiye Surf Center offers kite surfing, wind surfing, stand up paddleboards and catamaran lessons for all abilities. This is also a famous spot where some scenes from Skyfall were filmed, and even James Bond himself sat at the bar!