Moonlight Beach

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Moonlight Beach Vacation & Travel Guide

Moonlight Beach, also known as Kemer Ayışığı Beach, is a popular coastal destination located in the Kemer district of Antalya, Turkey. This beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and tourist amenities that make it stand out among the region's coastal attractions.

What Sets Moonlight Beach Apart

  1. Unique Landscape: The combination of sandy shores, rocky formations, and crystal-clear waters creates a distinctive coastal environment.
  2. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The protected natural area and safe swimming conditions make it particularly appealing for families.
  3. Central Location: Its proximity to Kemer's city center and marina provides easy access to urban amenities while enjoying a beach setting.
  4. Extended Beach Season: The beach is suitable for swimming and sunbathing from May to October, with peak conditions in July and August when water temperatures reach 28°C.
  5. Diverse Ecosystem: The presence of marine life, including dolphins and sea lions, adds to the beach's ecological value.
  6. Integrated Tourism Infrastructure: The beach is seamlessly connected to Moonlight Park and nearby hotels, offering a comprehensive holiday experience

Moonlight Photos

Videos

Beach infrastructure

Parking
Showers
Toilets
Gastronomy
Lifeguards
Beach Loungers

Occupancy

There are usually quite a few people on the Moonlight Beach from November to March.

Moonlight Beach Weather

Moonlight Beach in Kemer, Turkey, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Here's a detailed breakdown of the climate throughout the year:

Temperature and Precipitation Averages

Spring (March to May)

  • March: 12-19°C (54-66°F), 95mm rainfall
  • April: 15-21°C (59-70°F), 46mm rainfall
  • May: 19-25°C (66-77°F), 28mm rainfall

Summer (June to August)

  • June: 23-30°C (73-86°F), 11mm rainfall
  • July: 26-33°C (79-91°F), 4mm rainfall
  • August: 26-33°C (79-91°F), 3mm rainfall

Autumn (September to November)

  • September: 23-30°C (73-86°F), 13mm rainfall
  • October: 19-26°C (66-79°F), 69mm rainfall
  • November: 14-21°C (57-70°F), 125mm rainfall

Winter (December to February)

  • December: 11-17°C (52-63°F), 190mm rainfall
  • January: 9-15°C (48-59°F), 215mm rainfall
  • February: 10-16°C (50-61°F), 135mm rainfall

Best Seasons for Swimming

The best time for swimming at Moonlight Beach is from May to October, with peak conditions in July and August. During these months, the water temperature is most comfortable:

  • May: 21°C (70°F)
  • June: 24°C (75°F)
  • July: 27°C (81°F)
  • August: 28°C (82°F)
  • September: 27°C (81°F)
  • October: 24°C (75°F)

The sea temperature remains above 20°C (68°F) from May to November, making it suitable for swimming and water activities during this extended period.

Weather-Related Phenomena

  1. Rainy Season: The wettest months are from November to February, with December and January receiving the highest rainfall. Visitors during this period should be prepared for occasional heavy showers.
  2. Wind Patterns: The region experiences the "Poyraz" (northeasterly wind) in winter and the "Meltem" (northwesterly wind) in summer. These winds can affect sea conditions and water sports activities.
  3. Heat Waves: During July and August, Kemer can experience heat waves with temperatures occasionally rising above 35°C (95°F). Visitors should take precautions against heat exhaustion and sunburn.
  4. Storms: While not common, occasional thunderstorms can occur, especially during the transition seasons (spring and autumn).
  5. Humidity: Summer months are generally dry, but humidity levels can increase in late summer and early autumn, which may affect comfort levels for some visitors.

Additional Climate Considerations

  • Sunshine Hours: Kemer enjoys abundant sunshine, with an average of 300 sunny days per year. July and August have the most sunshine, with about 12-13 hours of daylight.
  • UV Index: The UV index is high during summer months, peaking in July and August. Sun protection is essential year-round but particularly crucial during these months.
  • Sea Breezes: Coastal breezes often provide relief from the heat during summer afternoons, making the beach more comfortable.
  • Visibility: Water clarity is generally excellent throughout the year, with the best underwater visibility during the summer months when rainfall is minimal.

Moonlight Beach in Kemer offers a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time for beach activities and swimming is from late spring to early autumn, with July and August being the hottest months. Visitors should be prepared for occasional rainfall if traveling in winter and take necessary precautions against heat and sun exposure during summer months. The absence of extreme weather phenomena like hurricanes or monsoons makes Kemer a relatively stable and predictable destination in terms of climate.

Air and water temperature

From May to October the air temperature at Moonlight Beach is perfect for sunbathing.

Some people feel that the water at Moonlight Beach is too warm in August.

Average Monthly Rainy Days

In December and January Moonlight Beach has rainy season. This is something to keep in mind when planning your trip since it is quite possible that you may be unable to sunbathe.

Sports on the Beach

Diving

Kiting

Surfing

Windsurfing

How to get to the Moonlight

Public Transit

  1. Bus Services
    • The KA07 bus is the primary public transit option to Moonlight Beach.
    • The last KA07 bus to Moonlight Beach stops nearby at 1:06 AM.
    • Another bus line, AK03, is the first bus that goes to Kemer Moonlight Beach, stopping nearby at 6:38 AM.
    • Dolmushes (minibusses) are available in Kemer, stopping at designated bus stops marked with a "D" sign.
    • The fare for dolmush is 2 TRY (Turkish Lira).
  2. Hotel Shuttle Services
    • Some hotels offer shuttle bus services to the beach, running every half hour.

Car Rentals

  1. Europcar
    • Offers a range of vehicles from compact cars to spacious vans.
    • Multiple locations in Kemer for convenient pick-up and drop-off.
    • Flexible rental options available for various durations.
  2. Other Rental Companies
    • Various car rental companies like Alamo, Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, and National operate in Kemer.
    • It's advisable to compare prices and terms across different providers.

Taxi Services

  • Taxis are available in Kemer, with fares calculated based on an initial fee plus a per-kilometer rate.
  • Taxis can be a convenient option for direct transportation to Moonlight Beach.

Walking

  • Moonlight Beach is approximately 10 minutes away from Kemer Center by foot.
  • This option is suitable for those staying in nearby accommodations.

Parking Facilities

  • Free parking is available at the entrance to Moonlight Beach, though spaces are limited.
  • Additional street parking can be found nearby.

Accessibility for Visitors with Disabilities

  • Moonlight Beach offers accommodations for people with disabilities.
  • The beach has a wooden walking path suitable for wheelchairs.
  • However, there are no special facilities for wheelchair users to change clothes or shower.
  • Beach wheelchairs are not provided, so visitors should bring their own if needed.

Seasonal Transportation Changes

While the search results don't provide specific information about seasonal changes in transportation, it's worth noting that:

  • The beach season in Kemer generally runs from April to mid-autumn.
  • Transportation services may be more frequent during peak tourist seasons (typically summer months).
  • It's advisable to check current schedules and availability, especially during off-peak seasons.

Additional Transportation Tips

  1. Currency: While dolmush fares can be paid in various currencies, it's most advantageous to use Turkish Lira.
  2. Boat Tours: Although not direct transportation to the beach, boat tours are available from Kemer and can be an alternative way to enjoy the coastline.
  3. Rental Car Requirements: If renting a car, remember to bring a valid driver's license and a major credit card in the driver's name.

Visitors to Moonlight Beach in Kemer have several transportation options, including public buses, hotel shuttles, rental cars, taxis, and walking for those staying nearby. While the beach offers some accessibility features for visitors with disabilities, it's important to note that facilities are limited. Parking is available but may be restricted during peak times. For the most up-to-date information on schedules and services, especially during off-peak seasons, it's recommended to check with local transportation providers or your accommodation.

Sights

Natural Landmarks

  1. Tahtalı Dağı (Mount Olympos)
    • A prominent mountain in the Beydağları Coastal National Park
    • Offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline
    • Accessible via cable car (Olympos Teleferik)
    • Popular for hiking and paragliding activities
  2. Göynük Canyon
    • Located about 15 km from Kemer
    • Features a picturesque waterfall and stunning natural scenery
    • Offers activities like hiking, swimming, and canyoning
    • Has a dinosaur park with life-sized sculptures
  3. Beldibi Cave
    • A prehistoric cave with ancient rock paintings
    • Provides insights into early human settlements in the region
  4. Yanartaş (Chimaera)
    • Natural eternal flames emerging from the rocky ground
    • Associated with the mythological Chimaera
    • Located near the ancient city of Olympos

Historical Sites

  1. Phaselis Ancient City
    • One of the top attractions in Kemer
    • An ancient Lycian city with well-preserved ruins
    • Features Roman baths, agora, and a theater
    • Surrounded by beautiful beaches and pine forests
  2. Olympos Ancient City
    • Ruins of an ancient Lycian city
    • Located in a picturesque valley near the coast
    • Known for its connection to the Chimaera flames
  3. Idyros Ancient City
    • Ruins located within Kemer town
    • Includes remnants of city walls and a necropolis

Popular Tourist Spots

  1. Moon Light Park (Moonlight Park)
    • Adjacent to Moonlight Beach
    • A protected natural area with recreational facilities
    • Popular for picnics and leisurely walks
  2. Kemer Marina
    • A modern marina near Moonlight Beach
    • Offers boat tours and water sports activities
    • Surrounded by restaurants and shops
  3. Dinopark
    • An amusement park featuring life-sized dinosaur models
    • Educational and entertaining for families with children
  4. Kemer Cumhuriyet Meydanı (Republic Square)
    • The main square in Kemer town center
    • Surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes
    • A hub of local life and events
  5. Tekirova Ecological Complex
    • A nature reserve near Kemer
    • Offers hiking trails and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna
  6. Folklorik Yoruk Park
    • An open-air museum showcasing the traditional lifestyle of Yoruk nomads
    • Features traditional tents, crafts, and cultural exhibits
  7. Kemer Art Gallery
    • Showcases works of local artists
    • Hosts regular exhibitions of contemporary Turkish art

These attractions offer a diverse range of experiences for visitors to Moonlight Beach and Kemer, from natural wonders and historical sites to modern entertainment and cultural experiences. The combination of Mediterranean coastline, ancient ruins, and natural landmarks makes the area around Moonlight Beach a rich destination for tourists with varied interests.

Food

The culinary scene near Moonlight Beach in Kemer offers a diverse array of options, from local Turkish specialties to international cuisine.

Local Specialties

Turkish cuisine in Kemer features a blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Some local specialties include:

  1. Pide: A Turkish flatbread topped with various ingredients
  2. Kebabs: Various types of grilled meats, including Adana and Shish kebabs
  3. Meze: A selection of small dishes served as appetizers
  4. Gözleme: A savory Turkish flatbread filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables
  5. Seafood: Fresh fish and seafood dishes, given the coastal location
  6. Baklava: A sweet pastry dessert made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup

Popular Restaurants

  1. Liman Restaurant
    • Located near the marina
    • Specializes in seafood and Turkish cuisine
    • Mid-range pricing
    • Offers vegetarian options
  2. Kemer Steak House
    • Known for high-quality steaks and grilled meats
    • Upscale dining experience
    • Also offers seafood and vegetarian dishes
  3. Cemali Restaurant
    • Traditional Turkish cuisine
    • Family-friendly atmosphere
    • Affordable pricing
    • Vegetarian options available
  4. Panorama Restaurant
    • Located on a hilltop with stunning views
    • Serves a mix of Turkish and international cuisine
    • Mid to high-range pricing
  5. Dolphin Restaurant & Bar
    • Beachfront location
    • Offers a mix of Turkish and international dishes
    • Known for its seafood and cocktails

Beach Bars

  1. Moonlight Beach Club
    • Located directly on Moonlight Beach
    • Offers drinks, snacks, and light meals
    • Popular for its cocktails and sunset views
  2. Paprika Beach Bar
    • Casual atmosphere with beachfront seating
    • Serves drinks and simple beach food
  3. Aura Bar
    • Known for its music and lively atmosphere
    • Offers a variety of cocktails and snacks

Food Markets

  1. Kemer Bazaar
    • Open-air market held on Mondays
    • Offers fresh local produce, spices, and traditional foods
    • Great for experiencing local flavors and ingredients
  2. Migros Supermarket
    • Large supermarket chain with a wide selection of local and international products
    • Convenient for self-catering options

Dietary Requirements

  1. Vegetarian/Vegan Options
    • Many Turkish dishes are naturally vegetarian-friendly (e.g., stuffed vine leaves, lentil soup)
    • Falafel and hummus are widely available
    • Most restaurants offer salads and vegetable-based meze
  2. Gluten-Free Options
    • Grilled meats and fish are generally safe choices
    • Many vegetable dishes are naturally gluten-free
    • It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly, as awareness of gluten-free diets may vary
  3. Halal Options
    • Most meat served in Turkey is halal
    • Many restaurants cater to halal dietary requirements

Budget Ranges

  1. Budget-Friendly Options
    • Street food vendors selling simit (Turkish bagels), kebabs, and gözleme
    • Local pide and lahmacun restaurants
    • Self-catering options from markets and supermarkets
  2. Mid-Range Options
    • Most traditional Turkish restaurants fall into this category
    • Expect to pay around 100-200 TRY per person for a full meal
  3. High-End Options
    • Upscale restaurants in hotels and resorts
    • Specialty seafood and steak restaurants
    • Prices can range from 200-500 TRY per person or more

Additional Tips

  1. Breakfast: Many hotels offer traditional Turkish breakfasts, which are a must-try experience.
  2. Tea and Coffee: Turkish tea (çay) and coffee are integral to the culture and widely available.
  3. Seasonal Specialties: Look for seasonal fruits and vegetables, which are often incorporated into local dishes.
  4. Tipping: While not mandatory, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated in restaurants if service charge is not included.
  5. Reservations: During peak season, it's advisable to make reservations at popular restaurants, especially for dinner.

The culinary scene near Moonlight Beach in Kemer offers a rich variety of options to suit different tastes, dietary requirements, and budgets. From traditional Turkish cuisine to international flavors, beachfront dining to local markets, visitors can enjoy a diverse gastronomic experience in this coastal resort town.

Hotels near Moonlight

Luxury Resorts

  1. Maxx Royal Kemer Resort
    • 5-star luxury resort
    • Rating: 4.7/5 (2049 reviews)
    • Price: $5,662
    • Features: Private beach, aquapark, children's bay, outdoor and indoor pools
  2. Barut Kemer
    • 5-star resort
    • Rating: 4.8/5 (2479 reviews)
    • Price: $627
    • Located in central Kemer
  3. Crystal De Luxe Resort & Spa
    • 5-star resort
    • Rating: 4.6/5 (3889 reviews)
    • Price: $218
    • Features: Spa facilities

Mid-Range Hotels

  1. PGS Kiris Resort
    • Rating: 4.6/5 (6445 reviews)
    • Price: $334
    • Beachfront location
  2. L'ancora Hotel
    • Rating: 4.2/5 (1266 reviews)
    • Price: $179
    • Located near the beach

Budget-Friendly Options

  1. Ozkaymak Marina Hotel
    • Rating: 3.6/5 (1361 reviews)
    • Price: $170
  2. Miranda Moral Beach Hotel
    • Rating: 3.8/5 (234 reviews)
    • Price: $79
  3. Kemer Babel Residence
    • Rating: 3.5/5 (5 reviews)
    • Price: $113

Beachfront Properties

Many of the luxury resorts and mid-range hotels offer beachfront locations or private beaches. Specific examples include:

  • Maxx Royal Kemer Resort (private beach)
  • PGS Kiris Resort (directly on the beach)
  • Crystal De Luxe Resort & Spa (private pebble beach)

Vacation Rentals

  1. VILLA SEA
    • Rating: 5/5 (3 reviews)
    • Price: $373
    • Offers a more private, home-like experience

Unique Lodging Experiences

  1. Glamping Options
    • Merry Bungalow & Tent
      • Price: From $157 per night
      • Rating: 9.4/10 (38 reviews)
    • Campo Portakal Eco Glamping
      • Price: From $66 per night
      • Rating: 9.7/10 (23 reviews)
  2. Boutique Hotels
    • Sea Front Pansiyon
    • Rose Garden Boutique Hotel
    • Amore Boutique Hotel
    • Hotel Beydagi Konak

Additional Accommodation Notes

  1. All-Inclusive Options: Many resorts in Kemer offer all-inclusive packages, which can be good value for families or those looking for a comprehensive resort experience.
  2. Seasonal Pricing: Prices can vary significantly between peak summer season and off-season, with many hotels offering discounts during quieter months.
  3. Family-Friendly Resorts: Several of the larger resorts cater specifically to families with kids' clubs, water parks, and family-oriented activities.
  4. Adults-Only Options: Some resorts, like ROBINSON CAMYUVA, cater exclusively to adults, offering a more tranquil environment.
  5. Eco-Friendly Accommodations: While not explicitly mentioned in the search results, the presence of eco-glamping suggests a growing trend towards more environmentally conscious lodging options in the area.
  6. Location Considerations: While some properties are directly on Moonlight Beach, others may be a short distance away but still within easy reach of the beach and other attractions.

The area around Moonlight Beach in Kemer offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. From luxurious all-inclusive resorts with private beaches to budget-friendly hotels and unique glamping experiences, visitors have plenty of choices. The abundance of beachfront properties and the presence of both family-oriented and adults-only resorts provide options for different types of travelers. For those seeking a more local or eco-friendly experience, boutique hotels and glamping sites offer alternative lodging experiences.

Things to do / Activities

Moonlight Beach in Kemer offers a wide range of water-based and land-based activities for visitors.

Water-Based Activities

  1. Swimming and Sunbathing
    • The beach features soft golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
    • Rental sunbeds and umbrellas are available.
  2. Snorkeling
    • Kemer is known as a diving paradise, offering exceptional snorkeling opportunities.
    • Visitors can explore vibrant marine life and coral reefs.
  3. Water Sports
    • Jet skiing
    • Parasailing
    • Banana boating
  4. Boat Tours
    • Private yacht tours are available from Kemer.
    • Options include visits to nearby bays and attractions like Turkish Maldives (Suluada), though this is a longer trip.
  5. Diving
    • Full-day cruises suitable for beginners and advanced divers are available.
    • Opportunities to see vivacious sea life, caves, colorful corals, and potentially sunken ruins.
  6. River Rafting
    • While not directly at Moonlight Beach, river rafting tours are available from Kemer, particularly at Koprulu Canyon.

Land-Based Activities

  1. Moonlight Park Attractions
    • Walking paths
    • Playgrounds for children
    • Mini zoo
    • Tennis and basketball courts
    • Shopping center with 4 shops
  2. Moonlight Aqua Park
    • Water slides and aquatic adventures
  3. Beach Volleyball
    • While not explicitly mentioned, many beaches in tourist areas offer volleyball facilities.
  4. Sunset Tours
    • Guided tours to watch the sunset over the Mediterranean

Equipment Rentals

  1. Beach Equipment
    • Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent.
  2. Water Sports Equipment
    • Jet skis, parasailing equipment, and banana boats are likely available for rent from beach vendors or water sports centers.
  3. Snorkeling Gear
    • Given the popularity of snorkeling, equipment rentals are likely available.

Guided Tours

  1. Boat Tours
    • Private yacht tours from Kemer to various bays and attractions.
  2. Diving Excursions
    • Full-day cruises with guided diving experiences.
  3. Sunset Tours
    • Guided tours to watch the sunset over Kemer Moonlight Bay.
  4. River Rafting Tours
    • Guided rafting experiences at Koprulu Canyon.
  5. Kekova, Myra and St Nicholas Tour
    • A combination of boat trip and historical site visits.

Seasonal Activities

While specific seasonal activities aren't mentioned for Moonlight Beach, it's worth noting:

  1. The beach season in Kemer generally runs from May to October, with peak conditions in July and August.
  2. Water temperatures are most comfortable for swimming and water sports from May to October.
  3. Off-season activities might focus more on land-based tours, historical site visits, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
  4. Winter tours to nearby attractions like Pamukkale and Hierapolis are available.

Moonlight Beach and the surrounding area of Kemer offer a diverse range of activities catering to various interests. From relaxing on the beach to adventurous water sports and cultural tours, visitors have plenty of options to enjoy their time. The availability of equipment rentals and guided tours enhances the experience, allowing both novices and experienced enthusiasts to participate in different activities.

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