Contents
Staying in Fethiye and spending the day in Ölüdeniz, or landing at Dalaman Airport and heading straight to Ölüdeniz… Whatever your plan, getting there is actually easy. In this guide we explain every way to reach Belcekız Beach in Ölüdeniz from Fethiye centre, the Hisarönü–Ovacık area and Dalaman Airport, with journey times and practical tips.
- Fethiye centre – Ölüdeniz: about 14 km; about 25–30 minutes by dolmuş.
- Dalaman Airport – Ölüdeniz: about 65 km; about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
- Dalaman Airport – Fethiye centre: about 45–46 km; about 45–55 minutes by car.
- In summer the most practical way is often the dolmuş; parking near the beach can be hard to find.
From Fethiye centre to Ölüdeniz by dolmuş
Dolmuş minibuses from Fethiye to Ölüdeniz run frequently all day in the summer season. The route usually goes via Ovacık and Hisarönü down to Ölüdeniz and ends close to the seafront. The ride takes about 25–30 minutes depending on traffic.
- Where to board? At the dolmuş stops in Fethiye centre and along the route. The easiest thing is to ask your hotel for the nearest stop.
- Payment: As payment methods can change, it’s a good idea to carry cash.
- Return: There are services in the evening too, but always check the last departure at the start and end of the season.
By taxi
A taxi is a comfortable option, especially for a large family or a trip with luggage. From Fethiye centre it takes about 20–30 minutes to Ölüdeniz depending on traffic. Confirm before the trip that the meter will be used.
By your own or a hire car
The main route from Fethiye to Ölüdeniz goes down via Ovacık and Hisarönü. The road is winding but well maintained, and the bay comes into view as you descend to Ölüdeniz.
In July and August, parking near Belcekız Beach can be hard to find around midday. Arriving early, using paid car parks or leaving the car at your accommodation and taking the dolmuş down makes things easier.
From Dalaman Airport to Ölüdeniz
The nearest airport to Ölüdeniz is Dalaman Airport. The distance between the airport and Ölüdeniz is about 65 km, and the journey takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes depending on traffic.
| Option | How? | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Private transfer | A pre-arranged vehicle straight to your hotel | Families, late-night arrivals, travellers with luggage |
| Airport bus + dolmuş | First to Fethiye, then the Ölüdeniz dolmuş | Budget travellers |
| Hire car | Pick up at the airport and drive | Those who want to explore the region |
| Taxi | From the airport taxi rank | Last-minute plans |
Airport bus and dolmuş times can change with the season, so check the current timetable before your flight.
From Hisarönü and Ovacık to Ölüdeniz
Hisarönü and Ovacık are accommodation areas just above Ölüdeniz. As the Fethiye–Ölüdeniz dolmuş passes through them, getting down is very easy; the few kilometres take little time by car. If you’re staying there, you’ll find detailed transport information on our Hisarönü and Ovacık pages.
When you arrive in Ölüdeniz: finding Belcekız Beach
The dolmuş and the main road bring you close to the Ölüdeniz seafront. From there, walk along the long sandy stretch of Belcekız Beach to the hotels, restaurants and water sports stands. The lagoon (nature park) entrance is at one end of the seafront. Our No Name Water Sports stand is on Belcekız Beach; for location and directions, see our contact page.
A suggested day trip from Fethiye to Ölüdeniz
- 08:30 — Dolmuş from Fethiye to Ölüdeniz.
- 09:30 — Parasailing or jet ski while the sea is calm.
- 11:00 — A boat tour or a swim in the lagoon.
- 16:00 — Rest in the shade, coffee by the sea.
- 18:30 — Dolmuş back to Fethiye after sunset.
Final word
Staying in Fethiye and doing water sports in Ölüdeniz couldn’t be easier: a short dolmuş ride and you’re on Belcekız Beach. For information specifically for guests coming from Fethiye, see our Fethiye water sports page, and for other plans in Ölüdeniz, our 20 things to do in Ölüdeniz.
Planning water sports in Ölüdeniz?
