The nature of Kuşadası: Dilek Peninsula National Park and the beaches

Just half an hour from the busy centre of Kuşadası lies one of the most unspoilt stretches of the Aegean coast.

Dilek Peninsula National Park

South of Kuşadası, the Dilek Peninsula–Büyük Menderes Delta National Park was protected in 1966. On the slopes where Mount Samsun (ancient Mykale) meets the sea there are pine and maquis forests, clear coves and walking trails. İçmeler, Aydınlık, Kavaklıburun and Karasu are the best-known beaches in the park. The tip of the peninsula is only a few kilometres from the Greek island of Samos.

The Büyük Menderes Delta

South of the park, the delta where the Büyük Menderes (Maeander) River meets the sea is known for its wetlands and birdlife. Depending on the season you may see flamingos and pelicans here.

Ladies Beach and Long Beach

South of town, Ladies Beach (Kadınlar Denizi) is the easiest beach to reach from the centre. To the north, Long Beach takes its name from its kilometres of sand.

Visiting tips

There is an entrance fee to the national park and car numbers may be limited on busy days, so it's best to go early. There is little shade in the coves, so bring a hat and plenty of water. Jeep safari tours also follow the park's forest tracks.