The little resort town of Belek, on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. While it’s well-known for its top-notch golf courses, there’s much more to explore. Here are some fun things to do in Belek, beyond just sports.
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Spend a day at the beach
Belek boasts 10 miles of untouched white sands that meet the peaceful, turquoise Mediterranean Sea, making it a perfect spot for a beach vacation. Thanks to the wide range of water sports available for hire, it’s a hit with families.
According to the Beach Inspector website, which assesses beaches globally, Belek Beach scores a 9 out of 10 for relaxation and an 8 out of 10 as a family-friendly place. The Kumkoy area is a local favorite, whereas Dogazkent, Bogazkent, and Kadriye draw visitors from various countries. Kadriye even offers a picnic spot. Belek Beach Park features places like Mambo White Beach Club, which gets rave reviews for its tasty food and beverages.
Have fun in The Land of Legends Theme Park
Just a short distance from Belek, away from the shoreline, lies the immense entertainment complex known as the Land of Legends.
As soon as you step into the resort, you’re plunged into a fairy tale world, a theme that’s echoed throughout the venue. It’s aptly nicknamed the Disneyland of Antalya for this reason.
The vast water park boasts 55 slides alongside an adventure park filled with every kind of ride you can think of, from peaceful gondola journeys along the canal to snack stands selling popcorn and donuts, not to mention the array of fairy tale characters roaming around. It’s a dream come true for kids. The evening shows, featuring dazzling lights and lasers, and the expansive shopping mall with over 100 stores, are particularly noteworthy.
This destination draws millions of visitors annually and has been the top choice for tourists since its inauguration.
Play Golf
Belek, about 30 kilometers from Antalya, is a top spot for golf in Turkey.
It’s sunny here for more than 320 days a year, making it great for golf, which has been getting more popular.
Belek has over 20 high-quality golf places, more than any other spot on the Mediterranean coast, making it a perfect place for golf lovers.
Many resorts have their own golf courses, and you can even play at night under lights.
Observe the turtles
Belek’s beaches are a favorite not just for people but also for the giant Caretta Caretta turtles. These turtles, also known as loggerhead sea turtles, are endangered and choose the soft, white sands to lay their eggs on the Turkish Mediterranean coast during early summer.
Relax, revitalize and rejuvenate
Belek isn’t just famous for its beaches; it also boasts some of Turkey’s finest spa and wellness centers located within its luxurious hotels. You don’t need to stay in the hotel to enjoy these spa services. If you’re visiting Belek for golf, it’s the perfect chance to indulge in some “me time.”
The Kempinski hotel chain has a special branch in Belek named “The Dome,” known for its exceptional spa treatments. They offer a broad selection of massages, facial treatments, and body care, including ancient Ayurvedic practices from India and unique body treatments. They even have spa packages designed for kids.
Many other luxury hotels in Belek offer similar spa services, ensuring that anyone looking for pampering and a full-body refresh can find just what they need.
Explore beyond…
In Belek, the main activities revolve around relaxation, rest, and sports. Yet, travel agencies across the town offer tours to well-known sights and attractions in the Antalya area. Another option is to rent a car for more flexibility to visit these places, as navigating is straightforward, especially with the main D400 road nearby.
Key tours and must-see attractions include…
Aspendos Theater and Historical Ruins
Located just 23 kilometers from Belek, Aspendos Theater and Historical Ruins are among Antalya’s top sights. The theater stands out as one of the best-preserved Roman structures globally.
Jeep Safari and Water Rafting
Jeep safari and rafting adventure, often called a mountain safari, offers a day trip in an open vehicle into the mountains, exploring lesser-known spots. The trip includes a tasty lunch and a beginner-friendly whitewater rafting session, making it an exciting day out for families and friends.
Demre Myra Kekova Sunken City
On this day trip, visitors travel west to explore the ancient ruins of Myra and the Church of Saint Nicholas, known as Santa Claus in Western culture. The journey includes a boat ride over the sunken ruins of Kekova to Simena, offering breathtaking views from the castle.
The Temple of Apollo and Side Town Ruins
A quick 50-minute bus journey east will bring you to the quaint seaside town of Side. The Apollon Temple here is especially stunning at sunset. Side’s unique charm lies in how the modern town intertwines with ancient ruins, creating a fascinating, almost dreamlike setting.
Antalya City Center
Our final suggestion for Belek visitors is a trip to Antalya’s city center, the bustling hub of the region. Dedicate a day to exploring key attractions like the Duden Waterfalls, the Archaeological Museum, and Europe’s longest tunnel aquarium. For a memorable lunch, head to the Old Town (Kaleici), where you can dine by the sea near Hadrian’s Gate, offering a magical backdrop.
