Small and relatively close to Antalya, the Mediterranean town of Okurcalar was only recently developed into a tourist destination. Although it’s quiet and has a rustic charm, it’s far from boring – perfect for families looking for to entertain but not overwhelm their young ones.
The Beach
The most important thing about any family holiday destination is the beach. It’s where you’ll spend most of your time, relaxing and sunning yourself, reading in the shade or splashing around with the kids.
Luckily, Okurcalar has a fantastic shoreline that is all smooth stones leading into clear, turquoise water – not to mention it’s shaded by palm trees and decked out with sunbeds and footpaths. The hotels that have developed the town into a resort tend to decorate their own area of the shore according to their theme, price range and customers’ desires. The upshot of this for families is that you’re unlikely to have to share your beach with raucous lads’ holiday types or disapproving child-free groups.
The tight security also helps ensure that no unwanted interlopers come in to the hotels’ sections. This keeps both the water and the shore clean, clear and safe, and also prevents overcrowding. The coast is busiest from July to August, but even this is relative: refreshingly, just about everyone has enough space for themselves and their family no matter the season.
All this adds up to the perfect beach for families – and those who have visited tend to agree, giving it an overall 9/10 ranking on Beach-Inspector.
Sealanya Sea Park
It’s nice to relax, of course – that’s what you came here for. But after a few straight days of lounging even that can get a little monotonous. And if that’s true for parents, it’s doubly true for kids, whose short attention spans mean they never seem to stop looking for more thrills.
And thrills are exactly what’s in store at Sealanya Sea Park. This aquapark boasts the standard large pool areas, decked out to resemble the archetypal Turkish beach with white sand and blue water, as well as free lockers, changing rooms, and parasols for shade. But the real attraction is its variety of marine life. The ‘tropical reef’ area teems with exotic fish and more, and the spectacular dolphin show is truly something to behold.
For an unforgettable experience, consider swimming with dolphins or diving with sharks. It’s humbling and awe-inspiring to be that close to either of those powerful, intelligent creatures. Your kids will never forget it.
Where to Stay
Justiniano Club Alanya – As with all hotels in Okurcalar, the Justiniano Club Alanya has its own private section of beach reserved just for guests. It also boasts an outdoor pool, WiFi throughout and a spa complete with Turkish bath. All rooms have a sea or garden view, a minibar and a seating area, and a buffet breakfast is available. The restaurant serves a mix of international and local food, and sports and games facilities include a football pitch and a kids’ playground and club.
Justiniano Theodora Resort – Also with its own private beach, the Justiniano Theodora Resort boasts access to diving and pedalo boats as well as a beach volleyball court and table tennis. A buffet breakfast is available every day, with an à la carte restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Rooms come with sea, pool or garden views, air-conditioning and satellite TV, as well as WiFi, a safety deposit box and a minibar and fridge.
Orange County Resort Hotel Alanya – The Orange County Resort Hotel is proud of its 1,000m2 beach area and large, expansive sun terrace. It also has two à la carte restaurants, with one featuring the local seafood and the other perfect for sampling a variety of international fare. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all available buffet-style for an easier evening meal.
Each room comes with air conditioning, satellite TV and a minibar. In the evening, you can indulge in entertainment by various professional groups provide. During the day parents can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna and massage while kids make the most of the outdoor pool and its slides.
How to Get to Okurcalar
Turkey is an increasingly popular holiday destination, and Antalya is the largest and most used airport in the country. A flight from the UK takes around four hours. Once you land, a Shuttle Direct transfer gets you to Okurcalar in around 25 minutes, with none of the fuss and worry of local public transport or airport cabs.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is one of Europe and North Africa’s best-rated airport transfer operators. We pride ourselves on out friendly, experienced drivers and fantastic booking system. We’re dedicated to helping holidaymakers get from the plane to their place to stay as quickly and easily as possible, and we do so with a smile and in style.
