Even though the name ‘Oludeniz’ literally translates to ‘dead sea’, there’s absolutely nothing dead about this gorgeous Turkish beach resort. This vibrant coastal town is brimming with things to do that are sure to keep you entertained for days on end. With its beautiful scenery and an endless array of activities, this town is the perfect place for a beach getaway packed with action.
Whether you want to hit up some of the gorgeous beaches, jump off the side of a 2000-meter mountain (quite literally), or explore the charming streets and bustling shops of this busy beach town, there’s something for everyone. Here is our ultimate list of the best things to do in Oludeniz.
17 Things to do in Oludeniz
Oludeniz has become an extremely popular beach resort for tourists, thanks to its stunning natural scenery and abundance of things to do.
From outdoor activities like hiking or diving, to relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches or lagoons, or shopping til you drop along the promenade, we promise you’ll find something here to keep you busy.
Our top picks for things to do in Oludeniz are:
1. Take an Oludeniz Boat Tour
First on our list is a Boat Tour which is one of the most unmissable things to do in Oludeniz, as it allows you to fully experience the stunning beauty of the turquoise waters and surrounding coastline.
With several boats vying for tourists’ attention, it can be difficult to choose which to go with. We opted for Deep Blue, as their tours are not the typical party boats you’ll normally find, and provide a far more relaxing yet enjoyable experience.
One of the highlights was stopping at secluded bays only accessible by boat (such as Butterfly Valley), where we had the chance to swim in the crystal clear water and soak up the sun on the deck. The crew were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, pointing out various landmarks and sharing interesting facts about the area. And the bathroom facilities were some of the best we have ever experienced on these types of tours!
Overall, we highly recommend a boat tour in Oludeniz.
If you’re looking for a laid-back yet unforgettable day out on the water, Deep Blue is a fantastic choice at 550TL per person including lunch. For party-goers, there are a plethora of Pirate Boats that you cannot miss located right on the main beach!
2. Go Hiking in the Mountains
In addition to the beautiful beaches, Oludeniz also offers plenty of opportunities for mountain hiking. The Babadag Mountain range provides stunning views of the vivid turquoise water and lush green landscapes below.
There are a variety of trails suitable for both beginner and experienced hikers, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. For those looking for a truly adventurous experience, there are also options for paragliding off the summit of Babadag.
So if you’re planning a trip to Oludeniz and fancy a little adventure, include some mountain hikes on your list of things to do.
3. Experience Your First Paraglide
When it comes to things to do in Oludeniz, paragliding stands out as a unique and exhilarating experience for people of all ages. The region’s incredible scenery and thermal winds make it a top destination for paragliding, with flights offering spectacular views of the beach, mountains, and surrounding areas.
Even for experienced flyers, there’s nothing quite like taking off from Babadag Mountain and soaring over the crystal-clear waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. Plus, Oludeniz is also home to some of the best tandem pilots in the world, making it the perfect place for both beginners and experts alike to try their hand at paragliding.
So if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity while in Oludeniz, don’t miss out on the chance to soar above it all with a breathtaking paragliding experience.
We used Reaction Paragliding as they had the best photos on Instagram, plus it helps that they’ve over 20 years of experience without any catastrophes!
4. Spend a Day at a Blue Lagoon Beach Club
While there are plenty of things to do in Oludeniz, spending a day at a beach club right on the Blue Lagoon offers an unparalleled experience.
Sitting just steps away from the water’s edge, you can soak up the sun on comfy lounge chairs or take a refreshing dip in the lagoon. And with many beach clubs offering a variety of activities, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun in the water.
On top of that, many beach clubs also offer delicious food and drinks, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
For the ultimate way to spend a day in Oludeniz, head to one of its beach clubs on the lagoon for a truly unforgettable experience.
Our favorite was Seahorse Beach Club which costs 150TL. The facilities and food & drinks were spot on, and the staff are super friendly and helpful.
5. Explore Ancient Ruins
Oludeniz offers a wealth of historical and cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy. Exploring the ancient ruins scattered throughout the area is one of the best things to do in Oludeniz. From the hillside ruins of Tlos, an Ottoman Fortress, to Kayakoy Ghost Village, an abandoned Greek village dating back to the 1400s, these sites offer a view into the rich history of the region.
Visiting these ruins also provides unique opportunities for photography and further insights into local culture and traditions. So while lying on the beach may be tempting, make sure not to miss out on discovering Oludeniz’s fascinating past by exploring its ancient ruins.
Xanthos, Letoon, and Pinara are just a few of the many sites you can explore on a day trip.
6. Go Scuba Diving
When it comes to things to do in Oludeniz, scuba diving shouldn’t necessarily be at the top of your list, but for avid divers, it does offer great diversity.
With fairly calm waters from April through to November, and visibility up to 40 meters, Oludeniz is quickly becoming a popular spot for keen scuba divers. From coral reefs teeming with marine life, to caverns and ancient ruins, Oludeniz offers a wide range of underwater experiences that cater to most people, offering their own unique set of challenges and rewards.
And let’s not forget the famous Blue Cave, an impressive sunken cave filled with dazzling shades of blue thanks to sunlight reflecting off the white sand bottom. Experienced divers can even take a dive off the coast of nearby Butterfly Valley, where they may spot rare Mediterranean Seahorses or Octopi hiding among the coral reefs.
If you’re a beginner and want to try your hand at diving for the first time, then Deep Blue Yamac is a great choice.
7. Go on a Buggy Safari
If you’re looking for a fun day out in Oludeniz, then a Buggy Safari should definitely be at the top of your list! Not only does it provide a thrilling and action-packed adventure, but it also allows you to explore the stunning landscape of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.
These off-road expeditions take you through parts of the region that can’t be reached by car or foot. Plus, with options for half or full-day safaris, there’s plenty of time to stop and take in the beauty of your surroundings – whether it’s taking a refreshing dip in the beach or enjoying a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant.
This Buggy Safari is extremely popular and is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Oludeniz, offering an unforgettable experience that you’ll remember for years to come!
8. Indulge in Local Cuisine
This will come as no surprise, but one of the most enjoyable things to do in Oludeniz is to indulge in its local cuisine!
The region boasts a range of diverse and delicious dishes, each with its own unique blend of flavors and ingredients. From the common street food known as “balik ekmek” to the warm and satisfying “kuru fasulye,” there is something to suit every taste.
However, it’s important to note that not all restaurants offer authentic local cuisine. Be sure to seek out establishments that use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and have strong ties to traditional recipes and cooking methods.
By indulging in authentic local dishes, you can truly immerse yourself in Oludeniz’s vibrant culinary culture and experience the rich flavors of the region.
9. Shop-til-you-drop at Fethiye Market (every Tuesday)
Located in the center of town, Fethiye Market offers a unique shopping experience with its eclectic mix of stalls and vendors.
From handmade jewelry and pottery to local spices and fresh produce, there’s something for everyone at the Fethiye Market. The prices are also unbeatable, as bargaining is encouraged and often expected.
But what sets this market apart is the atmosphere: friendly vendors, delicious food stands, and vibrant energy provide a glimpse into authentic Turkish culture.
So next time you’re exploring things to do in Oludeniz, be sure to stop by the Fethiye Market on a Tuesday for a truly memorable shopping experience.
10. Visit Local Museums and Galleries
While the beautiful beaches and stunning turquoise waters of Oludeniz might be the main reason for visiting this Turkish town, it would be a mistake to overlook the diverse and rich cultural heritage on display at its local museums and galleries.
With exhibitions ranging from ancient archeological findings to contemporary works of art, there is something for everyone to appreciate and marvel at. Visiting these cultural institutions not only offers an opportunity to escape the heat and appreciate history and artistic expression, but it also gives visitors a chance to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the area.
From Ottoman-era artifacts to modern interpretations of traditional Turkish motifs, a trip to Oludeniz’s museums and galleries can truly enhance your experience. Fethiye Museum displays a wealth of Lycian artifacts, including coins, ornaments, and statues.
11. Go White Water Rafting
For thrill-seekers looking for some adventure, White Water Rafting on the Dalaman River is a must.
The river’s swift currents and rocky terrain provide plenty of thrills, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to prove your mettle as you navigate the churning waters. And while navigating the rapids will definitely get your adrenaline pumping, the views along the way are truly spectacular.
Each section offers its own level of difficulty, making it suitable for both first-timers and experienced rafters alike.
Choose a guided tour to ensure safety, and don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera to capture all the excitement!
A day out White Water Rafting truly adds an exhilarating twist to any Oludeniz vacation.
12. Enjoy The Nightlife
Oludeniz may be known for its gorgeous beaches and turquoise waters, but the town also has an incredibly vibrant nightlife on offer. You can find a wide variety of bars and restaurants along the beachfront, on the promenade, and in the bustling town of Hisaronu.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate spot to sip cocktails or a fun bar with live music, there’s something to suit every taste.
And even if you’re staying at an all-inclusive hotel, a night out in Oludeniz is not to be missed. The atmosphere is electric, with the sound of music and fun times filling the air as the sun sets over the ocean. There are also plenty of rooftop bars and restaurants dotted around the place, all with fabulous views of the sparkling waters below.
Whether you want a laid-back evening with friends or an exciting night on the town, there’s something here for everyone.
13. Catch the Amazing Sunset
Oludeniz has some stunning sunsets, and what better way to experience them than from the top of Babadag Mountain?
The cable car ride up offers breathtaking views of the town below and the ocean beyond. At the top, you can take in the panoramic vistas, have dinner at the restaurant, or even paraglide back down to Oludeniz beach! But the main event is undoubtedly the sunset.
As the sky transforms into a canvas of orange and pink hues, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world. And the sunset views from the beach can be just as amazing too!
Whether you’re watching it from the shore or up on a mountaintop, Oludeniz’s sunsets are truly magical and not to be missed.
14. Experience a Turkish Bath
Visiting a Turkish Bath, or hammam, provides a unique cultural experience in Oludeniz. It is an opportunity to relax and detoxify your body, just as it has been done for centuries in this part of the world.
The hammam starts with a heated room to open up pores, followed by a full-body wash and exfoliation using traditional black olive soap and a Kese Mitt, before laying on a warm marble slab for an invigorating foam massage, leaving you feeling completely refreshed and rejuvenated.
Visiting a Turkish Bath is definitely one of the must-do things during your time in Oludeniz – just be careful about laying in the sun the following day!
15. Spend a Day Relaxing on the Beach
When it comes down to it, relaxing on the beach may just be one of the best things to do in Oludeniz. The sandy shores are lined with cafes and restaurants serving up delicious food, and the warm clear waters make for a perfect spot to swim or float lazily on a raft.
Plus, with picturesque mountains in the backdrop and breathtaking sunsets over the water, there’s nothing quite like soaking up all that natural beauty while taking in some Vitamin D on Oludeniz’s beaches.
When you’re in this idyllic location, make sure to carve out plenty of time for simply unwinding on its beautiful beaches.
16. Rent a Car and find Secret Spots
Renting a car for the day in Oludeniz is a fantastic way to make the most out of your getaway.
The area surrounding the town offers plenty of things to do and see, from historical sites like the ancient city of Tlos to the Blue Lagoon, where you can relax on a pristine beach and swim in crystalline water.
Having your own car means that you don’t have to rely on public transportation or tour groups, allowing you the flexibility to go at your own pace and visit any destinations that catch your interest.
Plus, with car rental prices starting as low as £20 per day, it’s an affordable option for exploring all that Oludeniz has to offer.
17. Get a Daily Dose of Serotonin from the Local Dogs
If you’re an avid dog-lover, then you’re in for a treat in Oludeniz!
Although you probably won’t be going to Oludeniz just for the cute dogs, it’s well worth stopping to give some love to one of these furry companions when you’re out there – you’ll quickly see how they will instantly improve your mood!
We could have never imagined just how gorgeous and friendly all of the dogs are in this town. They are so sweet and playful, and seem to have the best attitudes to life! While stray animals are not uncommon in Turkish cities, the locals of Oludeniz have made it a point to care for these pups so well.
It turned out that one of our favorite things to do in Oludeniz was simply walk along the promenade at the end of the day and spend time with these local pups.
Not only did they bring a smile to our faces, but we also felt that getting regular doses of serotonin from them was a great way to boost our moods and unwind after a long day in the sun!
Our Experience of the Best Things to do in Oludeniz
Oludeniz caters to a wide range of people and there’s truly something for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re looking to spend your days lounging on the beach, paragliding in one of the most beautiful places on earth, or exploring ancient ruins, Oludeniz is sure to have what you’re looking for.
Did we miss anything? If you think there’s something we should add to this list of the best things to do in Oludeniz, let us know in the comments below!
