Iztuzu Beach

Iztuzu Beach is located near Dalyan in the Ortaca district of Muğla Province, Türkiye. The beach lies where the Dalyan Delta meets the Mediterranean Sea. It is approximately 10–12 kilometres from central Dalyan and around 95–100 kilometres from Marmaris by road.

The main transport options are:

• By car: Follow the signs for Iztuzu Beach from Dalyan. The journey to the road entrance usually takes approximately 20–30 minutes.

• By minibus: Seasonal minibuses operate between Dalyan and the road-accessible side of Iztuzu Beach.

• By riverboat: Cooperative boats and water taxis depart from central Dalyan and travel through the reed channels to the Dalyanağzı end of the beach.

• By organised tour: Full-day trips from Marmaris may combine Iztuzu Beach with a Dalyan River cruise, rock tomb views, lunch and mud baths.

Boat departures from Dalyan do not always follow a single fixed timetable. Before boarding, confirm the final return time, journey duration, fare conditions and weather-related cancellation arrangements.

The riverboat reaches the Dalyanağzı end of the beach, while cars and minibuses arrive at the road entrance on the opposite side. Facilities and charges may therefore differ between the two ends.

Pedestrian entry to Iztuzu Beach is free under the 2026 seasonal arrangement. Visitors arriving by private vehicle pay a vehicle gate and parking charge.

Sunbed, parasol, minibus and boat fares can change during the season. Charges and services may also differ between the road-accessible section and the Dalyanağzı boat landing.

During the loggerhead turtle nesting period from 1 May to 31 October, the beach is closed to the public between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM. This restriction protects adult turtles arriving to nest and hatchlings attempting to reach the sea at night.

Facilities such as cafés, changing cabins, showers, toilets and equipment-rental points may operate on different schedules. Services can be reduced outside the main summer season.

Iztuzu Beach is one of the Mediterranean’s important nesting grounds for loggerhead sea turtles, known scientifically as Caretta caretta. Visitors must follow all signs and instructions to avoid damaging nests or disturbing wildlife.

• Do not touch marked nests or protective cages.

• Do not dig deep holes in the sand.

• Place parasols only in designated areas.

• Do not enter the beach during restricted night hours.

• Do not use bright lights or create loud noise after sunset.

• Never touch, chase or feed sea turtles.

• Do not carry hatchlings to the water unless instructed by an authorised expert.

• Follow seasonal restrictions concerning pets.

• Remove all rubbish, food packaging and plastic before leaving.

• Follow the instructions of beach staff and DEKAMER specialists.

A visit to Iztuzu Beach does not guarantee that you will see a sea turtle. Loggerhead turtles are wild animals, and sightings depend on natural behaviour, season, time of day and sea conditions.

If you encounter an injured or distressed turtle, do not attempt to move it. Contact beach staff or the Sea Turtle Research, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, known as DEKAMER.

Iztuzu Beach is one of the best-known natural attractions near Dalyan and one of Türkiye’s most important sea turtle nesting beaches. Its approximately 4.5-kilometre stretch of golden sand separates the Mediterranean Sea from the freshwater channels and wetlands of the Dalyan Delta.

This unusual landscape brings together a beach, sand dunes, reed beds, river channels and protected wildlife habitats. Iztuzu is therefore more than a swimming destination. It is an ecologically sensitive area where tourism must remain compatible with nature conservation.

Are Iztuzu Beach and Turtle Beach the Same Place?

Yes. Iztuzu Beach, İztuzu Plajı and Turtle Beach refer to the same protected coastal area near Dalyan. International travellers and tour companies commonly use the name Turtle Beach because loggerhead turtles nest along the shore. The local Turkish name is İztuzu Plajı.

The road-accessible end is commonly called Iztuzu Beach, while the end reached by riverboats is known as Dalyanağzı. Both sections are part of the same continuous protected coastline.

What Is the Sea Like at Iztuzu Beach?

Iztuzu Beach has a long sandy shoreline with sections that deepen gradually. These conditions make it popular with families, although children should always remain supervised.

Because the beach faces the open Mediterranean, the water may be relatively calm in the morning and become choppier as the wind increases later in the day. Visitors should check the sea and follow lifeguard warnings.

Is Iztuzu Beach Sandy?

Yes. Iztuzu Beach is known for its long, fine sandy shoreline. The sand also provides the nesting environment required by loggerhead sea turtles. Visitors must avoid disturbing marked areas, digging large holes or placing equipment close to nests.

How Long Is Iztuzu Beach?

Iztuzu Beach is approximately 4.5 kilometres long. Minor differences may appear between sources depending on the exact points used in the measurement. Walking the entire beach can take considerable time, especially in summer, so early morning is usually the most comfortable period.

Is It Better to Reach Iztuzu Beach by Car or Boat?

Travelling by car is faster and more direct. From Dalyan, visitors can follow the road signs to the main entrance, where parking and basic facilities are available.

Travelling by boat offers a more scenic experience. Boats from central Dalyan pass through narrow reed channels and may provide views of the Lycian rock tombs and the wider delta landscape before reaching Dalyanağzı.

What Facilities Are Available at Iztuzu Beach?

Seasonal facilities may include cafés or snack bars, toilets, showers, changing cabins, sunbed and parasol rental, parking, lifeguard services and conservation information areas.

Iztuzu is a protected beach rather than a heavily developed resort. Facilities may differ between the road entrance and the Dalyanağzı boat landing. Bringing water, sun cream, a hat, swimwear and a towel is recommended.

Can You Camp at Iztuzu Beach?

Camping and overnight stays are not permitted on Iztuzu Beach. Tents, fires, artificial lighting and overnight activity can disturb nesting turtles and disorient hatchlings. Hotels, guesthouses and apartments are available in Dalyan.

What Is the Story of Iztuzu Beach?

During the 1980s, plans for a large tourism development raised concerns that an important loggerhead turtle nesting ground could be damaged. Environmental campaigners, scientists and local supporters worked to protect the beach. One of the best-known figures in this campaign was June Haimoff, remembered as Captain June.

The wider Köyceğiz–Dalyan area received protected status in 1988. Monitoring, rescue, rehabilitation and visitor-education programmes continue to protect the turtles and their nesting habitat.

Can You Visit the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre?

The Sea Turtle Research, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, commonly known as DEKAMER, is located near the road-accessible end of Iztuzu Beach. The centre treats injured and sick turtles and carries out scientific research, beach monitoring and environmental education.

DEKAMER is a working rescue and rehabilitation centre rather than a zoo. Treatment areas and visiting conditions may change according to the needs of the animals.

Are Loggerhead Turtles Easy to See?

Sea turtle sightings are never guaranteed. Adult turtles usually approach nesting beaches at night, when public access is restricted. Visitors should not enter closed areas or interfere with nests in an attempt to see turtles.

What Do Iztuzu Beach Reviews Usually Mention?

Visitor reviews frequently highlight the long sandy coastline, natural delta scenery, riverboat journey, shallow shoreline and turtle conservation work. Common concerns include summer crowds, windy-afternoon waves and additional facility, transport or equipment charges.

Is Iztuzu Beach Ranked Among the Best Beaches in the World?

There is no single current official global ranking that gives Iztuzu Beach a permanent position. Claims describing it as the world’s number one beach usually refer to past travel lists, environmental awards or user-voted surveys.

Its lasting importance comes from the combination of natural beauty, the Dalyan Delta ecosystem and its role as a loggerhead turtle nesting ground.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Iztuzu Beach?

Late spring, summer and early autumn are the most popular periods for swimming. July and August offer the warmest conditions but also bring the largest crowds. May, June and September can provide a more comfortable balance between warm weather and lower visitor numbers.

Early morning often offers cooler temperatures, calmer sea conditions, easier parking and fewer crowds.

Planning an Iztuzu Beach Tour from Marmaris

Iztuzu Beach is approximately 95–100 kilometres from Marmaris by road, so the journey should be planned as a full-day trip. Programmes may include a Dalyan River cruise, Lycian rock tomb views, the Kaunos area, Iztuzu Beach, mud baths, Lake Köyceğiz and lunch.

Before booking, check whether the programme includes hotel transfers, boat transport, lunch, mud bath admission, sufficient time at Iztuzu Beach, a guide and insurance. Seeing a loggerhead turtle can never be guaranteed.

You can compare Marmaris tours and activities, explore the best places to visit in Marmaris and discover more options in the best beaches and bays in Marmaris guide.