Where the pine-covered slopes of the Taurus Mountains run down to the clear Mediterranean, Kemer is the best-loved holiday area on Antalya’s western coast. But “Kemer” is not a single town; it is a stretch of coast from Beldibi to Çıralı, and each part has its own character. This guide answers the question of where to stay in Kemer area by area and explains which part suits you.
Kemer Centre: Marina, Bazaar and Nightlife
Kemer centre, with its marina, palm-lined promenade, Moonlight Beach and busy bazaar, is the heart of the area. Restaurants, bars and shops are all within walking distance. For couples and groups of friends who like to go out in the evening, hotels and aparthotels in the centre are practical. Another advantage of staying here is that most boat trips leave from the marina.
Beldibi: The Coast Closest to the Airport
Beldibi, the Kemer village nearest to Antalya, is a narrow strip of coast where the mountains drop most steeply to the sea. Large resorts line the shore. It is a good choice if you want a short transfer or are on a short break; large properties such as Dosinia Luxury Resort are here.
Göynük and Çamyuva: Resorts for Families
Göynük draws nature lovers with its canyon and hiking trails, and is also popular with families thanks to the all-inclusive resorts on its beach. Çamyuva stands out for its calm setting among orange groves and its spacious properties. Most hotels here offer pools, water parks and kids’ clubs, and the all-inclusive concept makes it easy for families to plan their budget.
Tekirova: Neighbour of Phaselis
Tekirova is known for being close to the ancient city of Phaselis and the Olympos cable car. Large resorts and smaller hotels sit side by side along the beach. Swimming in the pine-fringed coves of the ancient city is one of the great pleasures of staying here.
Çıralı and Olympos: Nature and Peace
South of Kemer, Çıralı has a completely different feel, with a protected beach where loggerhead turtles nest, wooden bungalows and small guesthouses. There are no big hotels; small, friendly places such as Çıralı Orange Motel or Kara Kedi Beach Bungalow set the tone. An evening walk up to the eternal flames of Yanartaş and the ruins of Olympos are must-dos.
Which Area Suits Whom?
- Nightlife and shopping: Kemer centre.
- Short transfer: Beldibi.
- Families: resorts in Göynük, Çamyuva and Tekirova.
- Nature and quiet: Çıralı and Olympos.
- Boutique and smaller hotels: options such as Himeros Beach Hotel in Kemer or San Simon Hotel in Çıralı.
Things to Do in Kemer
Kemer’s most popular activity is a boat trip around the Phaselis, Paradise and Cleopatra bays. Jeep safaris in the Taurus Mountains, hiking in Göynük Canyon, riding the Olympos cable car up Mount Tahtalı and a city tour of Antalya are also favourites. Add some action to your holiday with the Mega Star boat trip or a Taurus Mountains jeep safari; all options are on the Kemer tours page.
Tips for Choosing a Hotel in Kemer
Most beaches in Kemer are pebbly, so check the hotel description for the type of beach and whether there is a pier. Rooms with mountain views and sea views can differ, so choose your room type carefully. The area is very busy in summer: book early for July and August, and plan more flexibly for spring and autumn, when the weather is still warm and the coast is quieter.
Think about how you want to spend your days, too. If you plan to join several boat trips and excursions, staying near Kemer centre saves time; if you want a pool-and-beach holiday, a resort in Göynük or Tekirova keeps everything on site. For a back-to-nature break, Çıralı’s guesthouses are hard to beat.
When to Go to Kemer
Kemer’s swimming season runs from mid-May to the end of October. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, when boat trips and beaches get crowded. June and September strike the best balance between warm water and calm. In spring the mountains turn green and are perfect for walking; the stretches of the Lycian Way around Kemer are beautiful at that time of year.
Getting There and Getting Around
The nearest airport is Antalya Airport. You can reach Kemer by pre-booked transfer or taxi, and there are regular buses and minibuses from Antalya bus station. Dolmuş minibuses run between Kemer centre, Göynük, Çamyuva and Tekirova. For Çıralı and Olympos, your own car or a pre-arranged transfer is more practical. Most boat trips include pick-up from your hotel. If you plan to explore the mountain villages and the ancient sites at your own pace, a hire car for a day or two gives you the most freedom.
How to Book
On the hotels in Kemer page, enter your check-in and check-out dates and the number of guests to see the available room types and board options. Compare bed and breakfast, half board or all inclusive, and read the cancellation terms before the payment step. Card payments are processed securely. Your card is not charged now; the amount is taken once your booking is confirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Kemer from Antalya Airport?
Kemer centre lies south-west of Antalya Airport along the coast road; Beldibi is closer to the airport, while Tekirova and Çıralı are further away. Arranging your transfer in advance makes arrival easier.
Which part of Kemer is the quietest?
Çıralı and Tekirova offer a quieter holiday close to nature, while Kemer centre is livelier with its marina, bazaar and nightlife.
Is Kemer good for families?
Yes. The all-inclusive resorts in Göynük, Çamyuva and Tekirova, with their pool areas and kids’ clubs, are popular with families.
What tours can I take from Kemer?
Boat trips to Phaselis and Cleopatra Bay, Suluada, jeep safaris in the Taurus Mountains and Antalya city tours are the favourites.
Are Kemer’s beaches sandy?
Most of Kemer’s coast is pebbly, with very clear water. If you prefer sand, check the beach description for the hotel.
