Kidrak Natural Park, often referred to simply as Kidrak Beach, is a protected natural area offering a serene coastal escape just a short distance from the popular resort town of Ölüdeniz. Managed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, it provides a more natural and less commercialized beach experience, making it a favored spot for those looking to avoid the crowds.
Visitors consistently praise the park for its stunning natural beauty, clear turquoise waters, and peaceful ambiance. Many describe it as a "cozy paradise" and a "magnificent clear and calm beach," highlighting its appeal for relaxation. The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebbles, with some areas being quite stony, so sea shoes are highly recommended for comfortable entry into the water. Reviewers frequently mention the beautiful rocks and pine trees at the entrance, adding to the picturesque setting. However, a recurring concern among visitors is the cleanliness of the sea, particularly in the afternoons, with some reporting murky or dirty water, possibly due to tourist boats. There are also mixed reviews regarding the cleanliness of the beach itself, with some noting cigarette butts and discarded tissues.
For a comfortable visit, it's advisable to arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot and enjoy the calmest waters. While sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, they can be expensive, and some reviewers describe them as old or falling apart. Bringing your own parasol is a good money-saving tip, as shaded areas on the beach are limited. The park offers basic facilities including showers, toilets, changing rooms, and a cafe/restaurant. However, service at the cafe receives mixed reviews, with some finding it slow or the food overpriced. Many visitors recommend bringing your own picnic and drinks to save money and ensure a satisfying meal. The sea here can be wavy and deepens quickly, which might not be ideal for very young children, so parents should exercise caution.
Kidrak Natural Park is located on the State highway D400, approximately 2-3 km from Ölüdeniz lagoon. It's easily accessible by taxi, with a ride from Ölüdeniz taking about 5-10 minutes and costing around 30-50 TL. Alternatively, many visitors opt for the local dolmuş (minibus) from Ölüdeniz, which is a more economical option, costing around 6-8 TL per person. For those feeling adventurous, it's also a pleasant 30-minute walk from Ölüdeniz. There's a paid entrance fee for both pedestrians and vehicles. Pedestrian entry typically costs around 30-40 TL per person, while car entry is about 120 TL. Parking is available but also incurs a fee.
The most common complaints revolve around the cost of sunbeds and umbrellas, the occasional dirty water (especially in the afternoon), and inconsistent service at the on-site restaurant. To mitigate these issues, consider bringing your own beach gear, arriving early to enjoy cleaner waters, and packing your own food and drinks. Despite these minor drawbacks, many visitors find Kidrak to be a worthwhile alternative to the more crowded beaches in the area, offering a more relaxed and natural environment.
