Demre, located on Turkey’s southern Mediterranean coast, offers a unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance. With its calm beaches, ancient ruins, and quiet villages, the region is well-suited for travelers looking to experience the outdoors. This guide highlights the best camping locations in and around Demre, along with practical information on facilities, accessibility, and suitability for different types of campers.
1. Andriake Camping (Çayağzı Beach)
Location: Next to the ancient port of Andriake, approximately 4 km from Demre town center
Type: Private campsite
Facilities: Toilets, showers, electricity, shaded areas, small café
Suitable for: Tent camping and campervans
Highlights: Direct beach access, walking distance to Andriake ruins and the Lycian Civilization Museum.
This site is ideal for travelers who want to combine a beachside camping experience with proximity to historical landmarks.
2. Sülüklü Beach (Wild Camping Area)
Location: About 3 km southwest of Demre center
Type: Free, wild camping
Facilities: None
Suitable for: Experienced tent campers
Highlights: Quiet, undeveloped beachfront, open views of the sea
This beach is popular with locals for day visits and offers a peaceful setting for self-sufficient campers. Visitors must bring their own water, food, and camping equipment. Open fires are not allowed.
3. Roadside Camping Between Demre and Üçağız
Location: Along the coastal road leading to Kekova and Üçağız Village
Type: Wild roadside camping
Facilities: None
Suitable for: Campervans and travelers looking for scenic, remote stops
Highlights: Elevated sea views, minimal traffic, stargazing opportunities
There are several flat, accessible areas where vehicles can stop overnight. These are not official campsites, so campers should practice Leave No Trace principles.
4. Üçağız Village Guesthouse Gardens
Location: Üçağız Village, near the Kekova region
Type: Informal camping in private gardens
Facilities: Toilets, showers, occasional meal service (depending on the host)
Suitable for: Tent campers, especially beginners or those seeking basic amenities
Highlights: Village atmosphere, access to boat tours and kayaking routes in Kekova
Some local guesthouses allow campers to pitch tents in their gardens for a small fee. This offers a balance between outdoor experience and basic comfort.
Additional Information
- Campfires: Open fires are restricted in many areas during summer due to wildfire risk. Always check local regulations.
- Waste Management: Campers are expected to take all waste with them. Public bins may be limited in remote areas.
- Water and Supplies: Not all areas have access to fresh water or food shops. Stock up in Demre town before heading out.
- Connectivity: Mobile reception is generally good, but some remote spots may have limited signal.
Demre remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking for a quiet, authentic camping experience. Whether you prefer a structured campsite with amenities or an isolated coastal spot under the stars, the region offers a variety of options suitable for different preferences and experience levels.
