Where Is Firnaz Bay in Kalkan and How to Get There? The Natural Mud Bath and Turquoise Secret

When you look at the sea from those steep slopes of Kalkan, you see a wide bay towards Yeşilköy where the color of the water turns from dark blue to phosphorescent turquoise. That is Firnaz Bay (Mugar Kuru).

Unlike other bays in the region, this place promises "healing" rather than entertainment to its visitors. The natural clay beds on the shore of the sea, which you can reach with Kalkan boat rental, turn this place into a free open-air spa center.

Here is everything you need to know before visiting Firnaz Bay:

1. Where is Firnaz Bay and Where Does It Belong?

Firnaz Bay is located in the Yeşilköy locality, just west of Kalkan town in the Kaş district of Antalya. It is only 4-5 nautical miles from Kalkan center by sea. Geographically, it is a sheltered area hidden between mountains on the coastal part of the road to Patara Beach.

2. How to Get to Firnaz Bay? (Land or Sea?)

The biggest dilemma of this bay is transportation. Although land access is possible, it is quite arduous.

• By Sea (Recommended): The most comfortable way to enjoy Firnaz Bay is by boat. You can reach the bay with a pleasant cruise of 20-30 minutes with daily tour boats departing from Kalkan Port or private boats you rent via Limancepte.
• By Land (Difficult): There is a dirt and stabilized road descending to the bay via Yeşilköy. However, this road is quite rough for passenger cars. You have to leave your car at the top and walk down a steep path for about 20-30 minutes. Climbing back up that steep slope can be tiring in the summer heat.

3. What is the Famous Mud Bath Ritual?

The feature that makes Firnaz special is the natural clay (mud) formations on its shore. The ritual is as follows:

• Swim to the shore and apply natural clay to the body.
• Wait for the mud to dry for 10-15 minutes under the sun (This clay is believed to tighten the skin and remove toxins).
• Purify the body by jumping into the crystal clear waters of Firnaz.

4. How is the Sea? (Depth, Ground, and Color)

Clarity: The water is so clean that you can count the stones at a depth of 20 meters from the boat.
Color: The coastline is turquoise, and the open sea is dark navy blue called "Kalkan Blue".
Ground: It is not sandy. It has a ground of large pebbles and rocks. Using sea shoes increases your comfort.

5. Are There Facilities, Restaurants, or Toilets?

No. Firnaz Bay is a pristine area. There are no businesses, restaurants, kiosks, sunbeds, or toilets in the bay. If you come by land, you must bring food, drinks, and umbrellas with you. This is not a problem for those coming by boat; all needs are met on the boat.

6. Is Firnaz Bay Suitable for Families with Children?

If going by boat: Yes, very suitable. The sea is usually waveless and children love the mud bath.
If going by land: No, we do not recommend it. The descent path is not suitable for children and strollers. Also, the lack of shade and facilities can challenge families with children.

7. Can You Camp?

It is an option for campers who want to be alone with nature but requires "wild camping" experience. There is no water source or electricity. It is completely desolate at night. Since there is a possibility of encountering wild goats or boars descending from the slopes, it is recommended only for experienced campers.

8. When is the Best Time to Visit?

Firnaz Bay can be crowded during lunch hours (11:00 - 15:00) as it is a stopover for daily tour boats. The most special time is between 09:00 - 11:00 in the morning or after 16:00 in the evening. When you rent a private boat, your captain allows you to catch the quietest moment of the bay by avoiding crowded hours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Firnaz Bay

• Can I drive down to Firnaz Bay?
  No, you cannot go down to the seaside directly by vehicle. You have to leave your vehicle at the top on the Yeşilköy side and walk on a steep path for about 20-30 minutes.
• Is there an entrance fee?
  No, Firnaz Bay is a public, natural bay. There is no entrance fee or "Beach Club" payment.
• Are there sunbeds, umbrellas, or toilets in the bay?
  No. Firnaz Bay is completely pristine. There are no facilities. Those coming by boat can use the facilities on the boat.
• How long does it take from Kalkan center to Firnaz Bay?
  It is reached by a cruise of about 20-30 minutes from Kalkan port by sea.
• Is it safe to take a mud bath?
  Yes. The clay on the shore of the bay is a natural formation and does not contain chemicals. If your skin is very sensitive, it is recommended to try it on a small area first.