Things To Do
in Avsallar
Avsallar is a small coastal town on Turkey's Turquoise Coast, west of Alanya, known for its long sandy Incekum Beach and pine-fringed shores. It blends a relaxed, family-friendly beach vibe with easy access to ancient ruins and a rugged hinterland. Despite its growing resort infrastructure, it retains a village feel with traditional eateries and friendly locals.
Visitors can enjoy sea, sun, and proximity to both nature and history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters of Incekum Beach, known for its soft golden sands. After your swim, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachside café where you can savor traditional Turkish menemen and fresh fruit. Take a moment to soak in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea while the sun rises higher in the sky.
Spend your afternoon lounging under a parasol, sipping on a cool drink, and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. For the adventurous, try out various water sports like jet skiing or parasailing, offering thrilling views of the coast. As the sun sets, take a stroll along the beach, collecting seashells and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can indulge in freshly caught seafood and local specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the shore, watching the waves lap against the sand under the moonlight. Join in on a beach bonfire if available, where you can meet fellow travelers and share stories.
Travel to the nearby town of Side, where you can explore the ancient ruins that date back to the Hellenistic period. Visit the impressive Theatre of Side, which once held 20,000 spectators, and marvel at its well-preserved structure. Afterward, wander through the charming streets filled with shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes such as kebabs and fresh salads while overlooking the ancient harbor. Afterward, visit the Temple of Apollo, a picturesque site where you can take stunning photos against the backdrop of the sea. Spend some time relaxing at the beach nearby, soaking in the sun and the history.
As evening approaches, return to your accommodation in Avsallar and freshen up before dinner. Head out to a local tavern for a taste of authentic Turkish cuisine paired with live music, creating the perfect atmosphere. Conclude your day with a stroll through the lively streets of Avsallar, soaking up the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🛏️1 night in budget hotel | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚊Local transport (short ride) | $1-4 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs or groceries | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with clear water
- Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
- Easy access to nature and ancient ruins
- Proximity to Alanya for extra activities
- Tourist crowds in peak summer
- Limited nightlife within Avsallar itself
- Some services can be pricey during peak season
- Less variety of large-scale attractions compared to bigger towns
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "İsminiz nedir?" - What is your name?
- "Türk lirası ile ödeme yapabilir miyim?" - Can I pay in Turkish lira?
Places to Visit in Avsallar
Visit one of these nice places.
Long white-sand beach with turquoise water, ideal for wide landscape shots at sunrise.
Ancient fortress ruins perched above the countryside, offering dramatic vantage points and panoramic views.
Charming coastal promenade with fishing boats, palm trees, and sunset views.
Shaded lanes of pine trees near the beach, great for moody nature photography.
Food in Avsallar
Avsallar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly grilled fish served with lemon and olive oil, often accompanied by vegetables.
Must-Try!
A selection of small dishes such as hummus, eggplant salad, yogurt dips, and olives.
Flatbread topped with cheese, spinach, or minced meat, often shared among diners.
Grilled skewers of meat (such as chicken, lamb, or Adana-style) with peppers and onions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can sample fresh fruit, cheeses, olives, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly Merhaba (hello) and a handshake in casual situations.
Respect local customs; women may cover shoulders when entering mosques.
Turkish hospitality is warm; accept tea offered as a sign of welcome.
Safety
Tipping in Avsallar
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if not included in the bill.
Turkish lira is preferred; major credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants; cash is handy for smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry, with peak humidity; expect crowded beaches and long days of sun. Pack sunscreen, hydrate, and book accommodations early.
Milder temperatures, bloom-filled landscapes, and comfortable outdoor exploration; great for hiking and markets.
Warm seas with cooling evenings; pleasant for beach days and cultural sites.
Mild to cool, with occasional rain; some attractions can be quieter and restaurants may have shorter hours.
Avsallar at Night
Hiking in Avsallar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking routes around Alara Canyon with scenic viewpoints and forest trails.
Popular canyon walk with a waterfall and wooden walkways; a bit further away but a common day trip.
Airports
How to reach Avsallar by plane.
Major international gateway about 100-120 km from Avsallar, with frequent domestic and international flights.
Smaller regional airport closer to Avsallar, around 60-70 km away; good for seasonal routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for safe beaches and kid-friendly activities.
A mix of international visitors and Turkish travelers seeking a coastal getaway.
Seasonal residents and retirees drawn to the climate and slower pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Turkey, with local clubs and casual play in parks.
Swimming, snorkeling, boat trips, and parasailing along the coast.
In the Taurus foothills and canyon areas nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Avsallar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh salads, veggie meze, bean dishes, and vegetable-based mains; ask for olive oil and yogurt dips and avoid heavy meat dishes.