Everything About Phaselis Bay: Ancient City, Sea, and Access Guide

Phaselis is undoubtedly the most special stop of the Antalya gulf. This is not just a sea break; it is an open-air museum where Alexander the Great spent the winter and pine trees blend into ancient aqueducts.

As Limancepte.com, there is one thing we always tell our guests: "If you go to Phaselis by land, you visit a museum; if you go by sea, you swim inside history."

Here are the answers to all questions about this unique bay:

1. Where Exactly is Phaselis Bay Located?

Phaselis is located in the Kemer district of Antalya. It is situated between Kemer center and Tekirova town, at the foothills of Mount Tahtalı (Olympos). It is approximately 45 km from Antalya center and 15 km from Kemer center. The ancient city is built on a peninsula extending to the sea and has three separate harbors (North, Battle, and South). The favorite of boats and swimmers is the South Harbor.

2. Transportation Options: Land or Sea?

The way you choose to reach Phaselis completely changes the experience you will have.

• By Private Boat (Most Enjoyable): You reach the bay with a 30-40 minute cruise with a boat you rent from Kemer Marina. No traffic trouble, you anchor directly at the most beautiful view.
• By Land: You can enter the ancient city through pine forests by turning from the sign on the Antalya-Kumluca highway. You have to walk to the beach after leaving your car in the parking lot.

3. Is There an Entrance Fee? Is Museum Card Valid?

This issue varies depending on your mode of transport and is the most confusing part.

• For Land Arrivals: Yes, there is a fee. Phaselis has the status of an "Archeological Site". You need to buy a ticket or use a Museum Card at the entrance.
• For Sea Arrivals: If your boat anchors in the bay and you do not go ashore (into the ancient city), you do not pay any fee. However, if you want to get off the boat and visit the ancient theater or the street, officials on the beach may check tickets/Museum Cards.

4. How is the Sea and Beach? (Pebbly or Sandy?)

Antalya shores (Kemer, Beldibi, etc.) are usually large pebbles; however, Phaselis South Harbor is an exception.

• Ground: Soft, golden fine sand.
• Sea Condition: Since the bay is in the form of a wind-sheltered natural pool ("C" shaped), it is waveless and shallow.
• Water Temperature: Since it is shallow, the water is warm compared to the Antalya average.

5. A Day in Phaselis: What to Do Besides Swimming?

This is not just a place to swim and leave.

• History Tour: You can walk on the 2000-year-old Ancient Street with your wet swimsuit and see the magnificent Hadrian's Gate and Ancient Theater.
• Snorkel: You can examine the submerged parts of the ancient harbor ruins with a snorkel.
• Photography: The view of aqueducts gliding through pine trees is one of the most iconic frames of Antalya.

6. Are There Restaurants, Toilets, and Sunbeds?

It is useful to go prepared.

• Facilities: There are no restaurants or cafes inside the ancient city (on land). There is only a small kiosk selling snacks (toast, ice cream, drinks).
• Equipment: There is no sunbed or umbrella service on land. You should bring your own chair.
• Toilet/Shower: Toilets and showers are available at the museum entrance and at certain points. (This is not a problem for those coming by boat; food, WC, and shade are ready on the boat).

7. Is It Suitable for Families with Children?

It is definitely the most child-friendly bay in the region. The shallowness of the sea, the sandy ground, and the absence of waves allow children to play safely. Trees descending to the beach create natural shade areas.

9. What are the Ideal Times for a Visit?

Phaselis is a place loved by both tourists and locals. On Sundays, the beach can be very crowded due to picnickers coming from land. The most beautiful time is between 09:00 - 11:00 in the morning when the water is clearest. If you go by boat, your captain allows you to catch peace by entering the bay before or after crowded hours.

10. What Other Bays are Nearby?

The most beautiful neighboring bay completing the Phaselis route is Cennet Bay (Alacasu). Switching to the pristine nature of Cennet Bay after the historical texture of Phaselis is a great combination. Also, Cleopatra Bay and Mehmet Ali Buku are nearby stops accessible by boat.

Phaselis Bay FAQ

• Is there an entrance fee to Phaselis Bay?
  Yes, it has the status of an archeological site. Museum Card is valid or you need to buy a ticket. (It is free if you come by boat and do not go ashore).
• Is the beach sand or stone?
  Unlike Antalya, the ground is soft, fine sand. The sea is shallow and waveless.
• Is there a restaurant or cafe inside?
  No, there is no restaurant. There is only a small kiosk selling toast/drinks. You should bring your food with you.
• Is camping allowed in Phaselis?
  No. Since it is an archaeological site, setting up a camp and lighting a fire is strictly prohibited.
• Are there shower and toilet facilities?
  Yes, showers and toilets are available at the entrance points and in the middle part of the ancient city.
• Where do boat tours depart from?
  The nearest point is Kemer Marina. It is reached in 30 minutes with boats departing from Kemer.
• Are sunbeds and umbrellas rented?
  No, there is no sunbed service on the beach. You must bring your own chair or towel.