Phaselis Beach

Set on the aptly named Turquoise Coast and backed by pine covered mountain slopes are the three little sheltered bays which make up Phaselis beach. This area between Kemer and Olimpos is part of a protected national park and the scenery is everything you would expect. The beaches at Phaselis are a welcome relief from the somewhat overdeveloped package resorts along this stretch of coast. There is a distinctly peaceful feel on the crescents of sand here with plenty of shade in the pine copses behind.

What really makes Phaselis special are the ruins of the ancient city; two thousand years ago this was a bustling port where perfumes, oils and timber were shipped to the Roman Empire. Hidden among the trees behind the beach are the well-preserved remains of a theatre, and a large Roman aqueduct, allegedly one of the largest in the empire. Transecting the neck of the promontory between the two beaches is a wide paved avenue which opens out into the remains of the ancient market.
There are a plethora of other ruins and monuments scattered around the coast, many of which can be seen from the beach. If you are feeling a little more adventurous than lying on the beach pondering the ancient world then its worth getting your snorkel and mask and exploring the Roman breakwater off the middle harbour.

As a protected site Phaselis has very little in the way of facilities. There are toilets and snacks available from the small museum but be aware that picnicking is apparently prohibited within the park. Also note there is a small charge for admission into the park, which also includes the beach.