Kaputas Beach, located on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is one of the most iconic and picturesque beaches in the country. Nestled in a deep gorge between the towns of Kalkan and Kas, this small beach is renowned for its turquoise waters, golden sands, and dramatic natural setting. Kaputas Beach is a favorite among both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful escape and a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.

Location

Kaputas Beach is situated in the Antalya province of Turkey, along the famous Turquoise Coast. It lies about 7 kilometers from Kalkan and roughly 20 kilometers from Kas, making it easily accessible from both towns. The beach is located at the mouth of a gorge that cuts through the steep cliffs, creating a striking backdrop as the road winds along the coast. This unique location gives Kaputas Beach its distinct beauty, with the cliffs towering above the vibrant, turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Facilities

While Kaputas Beach is relatively small and known for its natural, unspoiled beauty, it offers basic facilities to ensure a comfortable visit.

- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Visitors can rent sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach, providing a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the sun. These are available for a small fee, and while the beach is not overly commercialized, these facilities ensure that visitors can enjoy a full day at the beach in comfort.

- Cafeteria and Snack Bar: There is a small café and snack bar near the entrance to the beach, offering light refreshments such as cold drinks, snacks, and ice cream. While the selection may be limited, it’s convenient for visitors looking to grab a quick bite or cool off with a drink.

- Toilets and Showers: Basic facilities, including toilets and showers, are available near the beach. These are simple but well-maintained, allowing visitors to freshen up after a swim or before heading back up to the road.

- Parking: Parking is available along the main road that runs above the beach. However, during the peak season, parking spaces can fill up quickly due to the limited number of spots. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a parking space or consider using public transport or a taxi to avoid the hassle.

Water Sports and Activities

Kaputas Beach is primarily a place for relaxation and enjoyment of the natural surroundings, but it also offers opportunities for water-based activities.

- Swimming: The calm, clear waters of Kaputas Beach are perfect for swimming. The water here is a brilliant shade of blue, and the beach’s position in a sheltered cove means that the waters are usually calm, making it ideal for swimmers of all levels. The beach is known for its refreshing waters, which are cooler than many other beaches along the coast due to the underground freshwater streams that flow into the sea.

- Snorkeling: The clear waters around Kaputas Beach make it a great spot for snorkeling. While there aren’t extensive coral reefs, the rocky areas near the beach provide some opportunities to spot small fish and marine life. Visitors can bring their own snorkeling gear or purchase equipment from nearby shops in Kas or Kalkan.

- Photography and Beach Walks: The stunning setting of Kaputas Beach, with its towering cliffs and turquoise waters, makes it a popular destination for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can capture breathtaking views from the road above the beach, and the golden sands provide a perfect place for beach walks along the shore.

- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: While not as commonly found at Kaputas Beach itself, visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards from nearby towns like Kas or Kalkan and explore the coastline on their own. Kayaking along the coast offers a fantastic way to experience the surrounding natural beauty and discover hidden coves.

Nearby Attractions

Kaputas Beach is located in a region rich in natural beauty and historical significance, providing visitors with plenty of nearby attractions to explore.

- Kalkan: Just 7 kilometers away, Kalkan is a charming coastal town known for its narrow, cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and vibrant bougainvillea. Kalkan offers a variety of boutique shops, restaurants, and cafés, making it a great place to visit after a day at the beach. The town’s harbor is also a launching point for boat tours, diving excursions, and trips to nearby islands.

- Kas: Located about 20 kilometers from Kaputas Beach, Kas is another beautiful coastal town that has retained its laid-back atmosphere. Known for its diving spots, Kas is a great place to book scuba diving or snorkeling trips. Visitors can also explore the town’s ancient Lycian tombs, the well-preserved amphitheater, and enjoy its vibrant markets and waterfront restaurants.

- Patara Beach: Patara Beach, about 20 kilometers from Kaputas, is one of Turkey’s longest beaches, stretching over 18 kilometers. This sandy beach is also a protected area due to its significance as a nesting ground for endangered loggerhead turtles. Nearby, visitors can explore the ancient ruins of Patara, including a Roman theater and a triumphal arch.

- Saklikent Gorge: Located about 45 kilometers from Kaputas Beach, Saklikent Gorge is one of the deepest canyons in Turkey. Visitors can hike through the gorge, wade through its cool waters, and enjoy the dramatic natural scenery. It’s a great day trip for those looking to combine a beach visit with a more adventurous experience.

- Lycian Way: For those interested in hiking, the Lycian Way, one of Turkey’s most famous long-distance hiking trails, passes near Kaputas Beach. This ancient trail runs along the coast, offering hikers stunning views of the Mediterranean and opportunities to explore ancient Lycian ruins along the way.

Accessibility

Kaputas Beach is accessible by both car and public transport, but visitors should be prepared for the steep descent from the road to the beach.

- By Car: The easiest way to reach Kaputas Beach is by car. It’s located along the D400 coastal road between Kalkan and Kas. Visitors driving from Kalkan can reach the beach in about 10 minutes, while those coming from Kas will need about 20–25 minutes. There is parking available along the road, but spaces are limited, especially during the summer season. Drivers should be cautious as the road is narrow with sharp turns.

- By Public Transport: Public minibuses (dolmuş) run regularly between Kalkan and Kas, making it easy to reach Kaputas Beach without a car. The dolmuş will drop visitors off at the top of the stairs leading down to the beach. This is a convenient and affordable option for those staying in nearby towns.

- By Taxi: Taxis are another convenient option, especially for visitors who prefer not to deal with parking. Taxis are readily available in both Kalkan and Kas, and the fare to Kaputas Beach is relatively inexpensive due to the short distance.

- Access to the Beach: Once at the parking area, visitors must descend a long staircase to reach the beach. The staircase offers stunning views of the beach and surrounding cliffs, but visitors should be prepared for the climb back up, especially in the midday heat. The walk down is manageable for most visitors, but those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

Best Time to Visit

Kaputas Beach is a popular destination throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on whether you prefer warm weather and lively crowds or a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere.

- Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak season at Kaputas Beach, with the warmest weather and busiest atmosphere. This is the best time for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the full beauty of the beach’s turquoise waters. However, it can also be crowded, especially in July and August, so visitors should arrive early to secure parking and a spot on the beach.

- Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October): The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are ideal for those looking to enjoy Kaputas Beach with fewer crowds. The weather is still warm enough for swimming and sunbathing, but the beach is less busy, making it a more peaceful experience. These months are also great for exploring the nearby towns and hiking trails without the intense heat of summer.

- Winter (November to March): While winter is the off-season for beach activities, Kaputas Beach remains a stunning destination year-round. The cooler weather means that swimming is less appealing, but the beach’s natural beauty can still be enjoyed through walks along the shore or simply relaxing and taking in the views. Winter is also the quietest time to visit, making it perfect for those seeking solitude.

Summary

Kaputas Beach is one of Turkey’s most beautiful and iconic beaches, offering visitors a stunning blend of turquoise waters, golden sands, and dramatic cliffs. Its unique location at the mouth of a gorge makes it a must-see destination for those exploring the Turquoise Coast. Whether you’re looking to swim in the clear Mediterranean waters, enjoy a relaxing day on the beach, or explore the nearby towns of Kalkan and Kas, Kaputas Beach offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. With its basic facilities, easy access, and proximity to several other attractions, Kaputas Beach is a highlight of any visit to the Turkish Riviera.