Things To Do
in Karataş

Karataş is a charming coastal town located in the Adana province of Turkey, known for its picturesque beaches and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The town is relatively small, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the local culture, which is rich in history and tradition.

Karataş is also a great base for exploring the surrounding areas, including historical sites and natural parks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Coast
morning
:

Start your day with a walk along the beautiful Karataş beach, soaking in the sun and the sea breeze.

afternoon
:

Visit the local fish market for a fresh seafood lunch and explore the nearby historical site of Magarsus.

evening
:

Enjoy a seaside dinner at one of the local restaurants, followed by a relaxing stroll along the promenade.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Take a morning trip to the nearby ancient city of Tarsus, visiting the Tarsus Waterfall and St. Paul's Church.

afternoon
:

Return to Karataş for lunch, then spend your afternoon hiking in the nearby Taurus Mountains.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with dinner at a traditional Turkish meyhane (tavern) and enjoy some local music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$15
Coffee$2-$4
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$5-$8
🥖Bakery item (bread)$0.50-$1
🍺Beer (local)$3-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and beautiful beaches.
  • Rich history and cultural experiences.
  • Less crowded compared to major tourist destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some areas may lack English-speaking locals.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes
  • "Hayır" - No

Places to Visit in Karataş

Visit one of these nice places.

Karataş Beach

A stunning stretch of coastline perfect for sunset photos.

Tarsus Waterfall

A beautiful natural site surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for nature photography.

Old Harbor

The picturesque old harbor with boats and colorful buildings makes for charming photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Karataş

Karataş offers a delightful array of local dishes and flavors that reflect its coastal heritage and vibrant culture.

Karataş Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Adana Kebab

A spicy minced meat skewer grilled to perfection, served with flatbread and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Seafood Meze

An assortment of small dishes featuring fresh seafood, perfect for sharing.

Pide

A Turkish flatbread often topped with cheese, meats, and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Karataş Fish Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh fish and seafood, along with local produce.

Street Corn Vendors

Roasted corn on the cob is a popular street snack, especially during the summer months.

Climate Guide

Weather

Karataş enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures typically hover around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Rainfall is most common from November to March, while summer months see very little precipitation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

While on the beach, swimwear is acceptable, but cover up when leaving the beach area.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting; it is polite to greet everyone in a group.

Respect Traditions

Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during religious holidays.

Safety Guide

Safety

Karataş is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. Emergency numbers are easy to access, and locals are friendly and willing to help.

Tipping in Karataş

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is customary in restaurants, usually around 10-15% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and sunny, perfect for beach lovers, but crowded during peak tourist season.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures provide a pleasant backdrop for exploring historical sites.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; a quieter time to visit with fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Karataş at Night

Karataş has a relaxed nightlife scene with beachfront bars and restaurants that offer live music, especially during the summer. Most venues close around midnight, making it a more laid-back experience compared to larger cities. Enjoying a drink while watching the sunset is a popular evening activity.

Hiking in Karataş

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Aladağlar National Park

A stunning area for hiking, featuring diverse flora and fauna, with trails suitable for all levels.

Kozan Canyon

Offering breathtaking views and a variety of trails, this canyon is perfect for hiking and nature photography.

Airports

How to reach Karataş by plane.

Adana Şakirpaşa Airport (ADA)

Located about 60 km from Karataş, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Karataş is quite walkable, especially around the beach and town center. Sidewalks are available, and most attractions are within a reasonable distance of each other. Walking is a pleasant way to explore the coastal views and local shops.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population consists of Turkish locals who are friendly and welcoming.

Tourists

During the summer months, the town attracts a mix of domestic and international tourists looking for a beach getaway.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local teams and community leagues.

Water Sports

Various water sports, including windsurfing and jet skiing, are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Karataş is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses and minibusses, which connect to nearby towns and cities. It's advisable to check schedules as they may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Karataş.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options are limited, fresh salads and grilled meats are safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Karataş is available through local clinics and pharmacies, with larger hospitals located in nearby Adana. Emergency services can be accessed by dialing local emergency numbers. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance for comprehensive coverage.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide