Kaputas Beach next to Kalkan and Kaş
- Written by Portal Editor
Kaputas beach is a truly wonderful spot on earth, almost untouched by tourist influences, and when we discovered it, we weren't aware that it was already an insider tip among some "permanent Turkiye holidaymakers" who live in Kaş or Kalkan.
The beach is usually not very busy, as it is located directly on a sharp curve without many parking spaces. However, it is sometimes difficult to find a parking space. This is especially true during the Turkish holidays in July and August.
Beach section created by the Kaputas River
The name of this wonderful beach section comes from the Kaputaş River, which normally flows into the Mediterranean in this bay, unless it has dried up completely because its water has already been used up by the region's huge greenhouses.
A narrow path leads from the beach into the deep, narrow Kaputaş Gorge, which begins below the road bridge on the other side of the road.
The gorge was formed over thousands of years from the abrasion of the water of the Kaputaş flowing through the rocks.
This gorge ends after about 200 meters, but the view of the spectacularly steep rock faces is worth the walk, although it is a little arduous due to the loose rock and the lack of any construction. In contrast to the nearby Saklıkent Canyon, there is no entrance fee here.
Due to tight curves, Kaputas Beach is impossible to miss
Kaputas Beach is located about 20 kilometres west of Kaş and about 7 kilometres south of Kalkan at a point where the extremely narrow gorge of the Kaputaş Canyon is crossed by a bridge from the "D400 expressway" (due to the numerous serpentines, you can't really call it a expressway).
When we first encountered it, we felt the same as many other drivers: You can't help but stop the vehicle immediately, get out and are overwhelmed by the wonderful little bay with a narrow sandy beach at the foot of the gorge. But how could it be otherwise, with this water quality and the brilliant turquoise-blue colour.
Tip for those passing through and those on holiday in the region
In any case, you should not miss Kaputas if at all possible.
It is only a short stretch on the road from Kas to Myra, even the dolmus only takes 10 minutes, as the responsible bus company has set up a stop between Kaş and Kalkan.
Come and swim in the crystal clear, turquoise-blue water and enjoy the wonderfully soft sand.
Our following tip used to follow here: Please remember to bring drinks and a parasol with you, as there is neither a restaurant nor sun loungers or other amenities. All of this would only destroy this natural spot.
Today there is at least a small restaurant, but without permanent facilities such as toilets or showers. The steps leading down to the beach have also been significantly improved. In the season, loungers and parasols are rented out. Some street vendors sell souvenirs and refreshments.
The beach is supervised by the Kalkan municipality, but there is no lifeguard station and the sea gets very deep very quickly near the beach. The beach is considered one of the 20 best beaches in Turkey and one of the most beautiful on the Lycian coast.
The bay is also a popular destination for excursion boats from Kaş or Kalkan.
By the way: there is a hiking trail initiated by Kate Clow along the Lycian coast that we can highly recommend: The Lycian Way!
Please read as well:
Metropolitan hiking trail GR 2013 - also right through Marseille