Çıralı is one of the most peaceful and natural corners of the Mediterranean coast. Located just north of Olympos, this small village is famous for its 3.2-kilometer unspoiled sandy beach and for being a nesting ground for Caretta caretta sea turtles. It is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil camping experience, away from the crowds of Olympos. Plus, you can easily hike to the legendary Chimera (Yanartaş) right from here.
Çıralı is especially preferred by families and eco-conscious campers. The small guesthouses and organic restaurants lined up along the coast also provide convenience for free campers. In this guide, you will find all the details about free camping on Çıralı beach, from sea turtle protection rules to the best camping spots.
Where is Çıralı Beach?
Çıralı is a small coastal village in the Kemer district of Antalya. It is located about 75 kilometers from Antalya city center and 45 kilometers from Kemer. It shares the same bay with Olympos, situated right next to it as its northern neighbor.
Location and GPS Coordinates
The GPS coordinates for Çıralı beach are: 36.4097° N, 30.4742° E. These coordinates will take you directly to the village center. From there, it takes about a 5-10 minute walk to reach the beach.
Çıralı is protected under the Beydağları Coastal National Park and holds the status of a Special Environmental Protection Area, primarily as a breeding ground for Caretta caretta sea turtles. Because of this, access to the beach can be restricted during night hours (usually between 20:00 and 08:00 from May to October).
Getting There by Car
The drive from Antalya Airport to Çıralı takes about 1.5 hours. While driving towards Kaş on the D400 highway, you turn left at the Çıralı/Olympos junction. You then descend along a 7-kilometer mountain road, accompanied by the magnificent views of the Taurus Mountains.
At the end of the road, you turn left (north) and enter the village of Çıralı. You can easily drive around the village. There are a few free parking areas along the beach, but they can fill up quickly during the summer season. Some guesthouses and restaurants offer free parking to their customers.
Unlike Olympos, you can park your car much closer to the beach in Çıralı, which is a huge convenience when it comes to carrying camping gear.
Getting There by Public Transport
You can take buses heading towards Kaş or Fethiye from the Antalya bus terminal and get off at the Çıralı/Olympos junction. From there, minibuses (dolmuş) depart for Çıralı village, running about once an hour during the summer season. The minibus fare is around 30-50 TL.
Keep in mind that minibus services decrease or may even stop completely during the winter months. In this case, you can take a taxi from the junction (250-350 TL) or hitchhike.
Private transfer or taxi services are also available from Kemer. A taxi ride between Kemer and Çıralı costs around 350-500 TL. If you are traveling in a group, sharing the ride makes it quite affordable.
Alternatively, some guesthouses and camping facilities offer transfer services from Antalya Airport or Kemer; be sure to ask before making a reservation.
Camping Area Features and Facilities
Çıralı beach offers a more organized and protected camping environment compared to Olympos.
Free Camping Spots
There are a few different options for free camping in Çıralı:
1. Beachside Camping Areas: You can pitch your tent right on the beach in the southern part of the village, near the Olympos border. This area has a mix of sand and pebble ground, making it relatively easy to set up a tent. However, since beach access is prohibited at night during the sea turtle nesting season (May-October), you have to stay inside your tent from evening until morning.
2. Wooded Area: There are shaded camping spots under the pine and juniper trees just behind the beach. This area is not affected by the sea turtle regulations, so you can move around freely at any time. The ground can be a bit rooty and uneven, so a thick sleeping pad might be necessary.
3. Village Garden Camps: Some guesthouses offer free or very low-cost (50-100 TL per day) camping spaces in their gardens. This comes with the advantage of having access to electricity, water, and toilet facilities.
The most popular free camping spot is by the beach, but you must pay close attention to the sea turtle protection rules. You should pitch your tent outside the nesting areas and be careful with light usage at night.
Water and Toilet Facilities
Water and toilet facilities in Çıralı are better than in Olympos. There are fountains in the village center that provide drinking-quality water. You can use these fountains to fill up your water jugs.
There are public toilets at the beach entrance, which are generally clean and well-maintained. Additionally, there are restaurants and cafes along the beach where you can use the restrooms (buying a drink is common courtesy).
For showers, you can pay a small fee (50-100 TL) at nearby guesthouses. Some campers use solar-powered portable showers or wash in the sea and then rinse off at the fountains.
Garbage collection is done regularly throughout the village, and there are trash cans at the beach entrance. Please remember to separate and dispose of your trash properly.
Campfire Rules
Since Çıralı is also within the National Park boundaries, lighting open fires is strictly prohibited. The risk of forest fires is extremely high, especially during the summer months.
Always use a portable camping stove for cooking. Barbecuing is also forbidden. Those who do not follow these rules face heavy fines and cause irreversible damage to nature.
For evening socializing, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the beach. Some places offer organic meals and local products. Alternatively, campers often cook on their own stoves and then gather on the beach to chat.
Is There Cell Phone Reception?
Mobile communication in Çıralı is quite good. Turkcell and Vodafone provide strong 4.5G signals, and Türk Telekom generally works without issues. You won't experience signal problems in the village center or along the beach.
For Wi-Fi, restaurants and cafes offer free internet. Some guesthouses and campsites also provide Wi-Fi access to their guests.
Best Camping Season and Weather
Camping in Çıralı is possible year-round, but each season has its own unique advantages and challenges.
Seasonal Recommendations
May-June: The most ideal period. Temperatures range between 22-28°C, and the sea becomes swimmable by late May (19-22°C). Nature is green and blooming, and the crowds haven't arrived yet. Sea turtles begin nesting during this time; if you're lucky, you might spot turtles coming ashore in the evening (from a distance, without using lights).
July-August: The most crowded and hottest period. Air temperatures can soar to 30-38°C, with nights around 24-26°C. The sea is very warm (26-28°C). Sleeping in a tent can get difficult, so good ventilation is a must. This is also the time when baby turtles make their way to the sea—a magnificent experience, though nighttime beach use is completely banned.
September-October: The second best period. The sea is still warm (23-26°C), the air has cooled down (25-30°C), and the crowds have thinned out. In September, baby turtles are still making their way to the sea. By the end of October, the turtle season ends, and nighttime beach access restrictions are lifted.
November-April: The low season. Rainy days increase, and temperatures drop to 14-20°C. The sea is cold (16-19°C) but still swimmable. This period offers a quiet, authentic experience for experienced campers. There is hardly anyone on the beach.
Temperature and Precipitation Info
Çıralı exhibits typical Mediterranean climate characteristics. The average annual precipitation is 900-1000 mm, mostly occurring between November and March. The summer months are almost completely dry.
The day-night temperature difference can be 8-12°C in the summer. Sea breezes provide cool air, making the beach quite comfortable in the afternoons. A light jacket or cardigan might be needed in the evenings.
Winds are generally light to moderate, blowing from the southwest in the afternoons. Sudden storms are rare, but when they happen, it's important to have your tent securely pegged down.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Çıralı is not just about beach camping; there are many beauties to explore in the surrounding area.
Hiking Trails
Chimera (Yanartaş) Hike: The most popular activity in Çıralı. A marked trail starting from the village center takes you on a 30-40 minute climb to natural gas flames that have been burning for 2,500 years. The route is shorter and slightly easier than the one from Olympos.
The entrance fee is 150 TL as of 2026. Hiking up before sunset and coming down in the dark offers the best experience. Bring a flashlight, water, and light snacks with you. There are trail markers along the way, but the rocky sections require caution.
Lycian Way - Çıralı/Olympos Section: This part of the world-famous Lycian Way stretches from Çıralı to Olympos. It is about 5 kilometers long and takes 1.5-2 hours. Along the way, there are sea views, pine forests, and ancient rock tombs. It is a moderately difficult hike.
Mount Musa Climb: For experienced mountaineers, Mount Musa (2,480 m), rising behind Çıralı, offers a challenging climb. It is recommended to do this with a guide, and it takes 1-2 days.
Exploring the Village: Çıralı village is famous for organic farming and sustainable tourism. You can walk around the village, visit citrus orchards and organic farms, and buy local products.
Water Activities
Swimming and Snorkeling: Çıralı beach is shallow and calm, making it ideal for swimming. The underwater richness isn't as dense as Olympos, but there are still fish and plant species you can explore with a mask and snorkel.
Sea Kayaking: You can rent kayaks on the beach (100-150 TL per hour). In calm weather, you can kayak along the coastline.
SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding): SUP board rentals, which have become popular in recent years, are also available (100-200 TL per hour).
Diving: There is no diving school in Çıralı, but diving opportunities are available in nearby Kemer and Kaş. Certified divers can explore the shipwrecks and reefs in the region.
Boat Tours: You can take daily boat tours departing from the village to visit Olympos, Adrasan, and surrounding bays (400-600 TL per person).
Camping Equipment Recommendations
Choosing the right equipment is important for a comfortable camping trip in Çıralı.
Must-Bring Items
Tent and Ground Gear:
- A well-ventilated, double-layer tent (for mosquitoes and humidity)
- A high-quality, comfortable sleeping pad (the ground can be rocky and rooty)
- Sleeping bag (a 5-15°C comfort range is ideal for summer)
- A tent footprint/tarp (to prevent ground moisture)
- Extra pegs and guy lines (standard pegs might not be enough in sandy soil)
Kitchen Supplies:
- Portable gas stove and spare canisters (sold in the village but a bit pricey)
- Pots, pans, and dinnerware
- 20-30 liter water jug
- Cooler or cooler bag
- Dish soap and sponge
- Trash bags (definitely bring them and pack out your trash)
Personal Items:
- High SPF sunscreen (the Mediterranean sun is very harsh)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Water shoes (there are small pebbles on the beach)
- Flashlight or headlamp (for night walks)
- First aid kit
- Mosquito repellent (they are active in the evenings)
- Sea turtle-friendly red light flashlight (for night walks; white light disorients hatchlings)
Region-Specific Recommendations
For Sea Turtle Protection:
- Red light flashlight (white light disorients turtles)
- Dark-colored tent (to reduce light reflection)
- Quiet camping gear (noise at night can disturb the turtles)
For the Chimera (Yanartaş) Hike:
- Comfortable hiking boots (the trail can be slippery)
- Small backpack
- Water bottle (at least 1 liter)
- Camera or action camera
Comfort Enhancers:
- Beach umbrella or sunshade (the midday sun is very harsh)
- Camping chair (for sitting on the beach)
- Book or e-reader (Çıralı is great for relaxing)
- Snorkel mask
- Hammock (ideal for setting up between trees)
- Solar charger
- Portable speaker (at low volume, without disturbing other campers)
Safety Tips and Rules
Çıralı is a safe area, but there are some important points to keep in mind.
Wildlife Warnings
Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta): The most important residents of Çıralı. During the nesting season from May to October, you must strictly follow these rules:
- Do not use white lights on the beach at night (between 20:00 and 08:00)
- Do not approach nesting areas
- Do not disturb the turtles, and do not take flash photography
- Do not interfere with the hatchlings' walk to the sea
- Always pack out your trash (plastics are deadly to turtles)
Foxes: There are foxes in Çıralı, and they are used to humans. Store your food in sealed containers inside your tent, and never feed them.
Snakes: Harmless snake species live in the area, though venomous ones can rarely be seen. Avoid stepping into tall grass, check before lifting rocks, and use a light when walking at night.
Scorpions: They can be found under rocks and in dark places. Check the area before pitching your tent, and shake out your shoes before putting them on in the morning.
Mosquitoes: Active in the evening hours. Mosquito repellent cream and a tent mosquito net are necessary.
Marine Life: Jellyfish can sometimes approach the shore. Be careful and stay away if you spot them.
Emergency Information
Nearest Healthcare Facility: Çıralı Family Health Center, located in the village center. It is sufficient for minor interventions. For serious cases, head to Kemer State Hospital (45 km) or Antalya (75 km).
Emergency Phone Numbers:
- 112 - Ambulance
- 155 - Police
- 110 - Fire Department / Forest fire reporting
- Sea Turtle Research, Rescue and Rehabilitation Center (DEKAMER): 0242 825 7334 (if you find an injured turtle)
Communication: Cell phones work throughout the village. In emergencies, you can seek help from guesthouses and restaurants.
Security: Çıralı is a very safe village. However, still do not leave your valuables unattended. Do not leave valuables visible in your car.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Çıralı beach free?
Some parts of the beach are free, while others are paid. You can camp for free in the southern part of the village, near the Olympos border. However, the official beach entrance (closer to the village center) charges a fee of around 150-200 TL per day. If you want to camp for free, opt for the southern section.
Do I need permission to pitch a tent?
No official permission is required, but since the area is a National Park and a sea turtle protection zone, there are certain rules. You can camp in designated areas, but pitching a tent in nesting zones is forbidden. Lighting fires, cutting trees, and leaving trash are strictly prohibited.
Where is the nearest grocery store/gas station?
There are small grocery stores in Çıralı village where basic needs can be met. Prices are a bit high, but you can find organic and local products. For more affordable shopping, head to the Çıralı-Olympos junction (7 km) or Kemer (45 km). The gas station is around the junction, on the D400 highway.
Can I camp with children?
Absolutely. Çıralı is very suitable for families. The beach is shallow and calm, and the sea is usually wave-free. Seeing the sea turtles is a wonderful experience for children (from a distance, quietly). There are places in the village selling organic ice cream and healthy foods. However, you might need to explain the nighttime beach ban to the kids.
Can I see the sea turtles?
If you are lucky, you can see them between May and October. Turtles usually come ashore at night to lay their eggs, so you must keep your distance to avoid disturbing them. Between July and September, you might see hatchlings walking to the sea, usually at sunrise. Absolutely do not use a flash, do not turn on white lights, and do not interfere.
Can I camp with my dog?
Theoretically yes, but there are some restrictions because it is a sea turtle protection area. Your dog must be on a leash, must not approach nesting areas, and must not go on the beach at night. Picking up their waste is mandatory. Some guesthouses do not accept dogs, so check in advance.
Can I go to the beach at night?
Between May and October (sea turtle nesting season), going to the beach at night is prohibited, usually from 20:00 to 08:00. This rule is crucial for protecting the turtles. If you pitch your tent on the beach, this restriction will affect you. If you camp in the wooded area, you have more freedom of movement, but you still cannot go down to the beach.
Can I stay in an RV/campervan?
There are a few RV parking spots in Çıralı, but most of them are paid. It is difficult to park an RV for free camping, as the areas are narrow. Paid RV camps offer electricity, water connections, and waste disposal facilities. They cost around 200-400 TL per day.
Çıralı is one of Turkey's most special camping destinations. This unique beach, which you share with sea turtles, offers both nature conservation awareness and a peaceful holiday. With its organic lifestyle philosophy, calm atmosphere, and magnificent nature, Çıralı is a place every camper should experience.
For other great nearby Mediterranean camping spots, visit our Olympos Beach Camping Guide, Patara Beach Camping Guide, and Kabak Bay Camping Guide pages.
You can check out our Mediterranean Free Camping Areas Guide page for all free camping areas in the region.
To discover free camping spots across Turkey, review our Turkey's Top 30 Free Camping Areas guide.
For our free camping equipment recommendations, read our What to Bring for Free Camping article.
Happy camping, and please let's protect our turtles!
