Iztuzu Turtle Beach: A Visitor's Guide

Iztuzu Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Turkey. This long strip of golden sand separates the Dalyan river delta from the Mediterranean, with calm, warm water on one side and open sea on the other.

Why is it called Turtle Beach?
Iztuzu is a protected nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Every summer the females come ashore at night to lay their eggs in the sand, and weeks later the hatchlings make their way to the sea. A local campaign in the 1980s stopped a hotel being built on the beach, and it has been protected ever since.

Beach rules

To protect the nests, the beach is closed at night during the nesting season. Nests are marked in the sand – never touch or step on them. Sunbeds and umbrellas are only allowed in certain areas, so follow the signs and the beach staff.

How to get there

The most enjoyable way is by river boat from Dalyan, often combined with the rock tombs and the mud baths. Iztuzu can also be reached by road, and at the end of the day the view over the beach from Radar Hill is spectacular.

When to visit

The beach is lovely from May to October. If you hope to see turtle activity, visit during the summer months – but remember that the turtles are wild animals, so sightings are never guaranteed.