In Ölüdeniz, the day begins with turquoise water and the shadow of Babadağ — but the most magical moment always arrives at the same time: when the sun touches the horizon. The sky turns gold and copper, the lagoon becomes a perfect mirror, and for a few minutes the whole town seems to slow down. Here are the five best places to catch it.

1. Montana Viewpoint

Located right on the Lycian Way, just below the paragliding landing zone, Montana Hill is Ölüdeniz’s most photographed sunset spot. From here, the Kumburnu lagoon on one side and the open sea at Belcekız on the other fit into a single frame — most of those iconic Ölüdeniz photos you see on social media are taken right here.

To get there, take the road toward the hotels just off the main Hisarönü–Ölüdeniz road, then follow it up; the final stretch is on foot only, no vehicles. Bring a folding chair and water — most visitors end up perched on a rock, simply taking in the view. There are no cafés or facilities up here, so it’s a completely natural, quiet experience.

Tip: Head up about 40 minutes before sunset. You’ll need the time for the climb, and the light starts turning golden well before the sun actually dips.

2. Belcekız Beach

Belcekız is the beach you see in every Ölüdeniz postcard, and it’s the easiest option if you just want to watch the sunset while strolling along the sand. As the afternoon wears on, the sand warms in color, shadows stretch out, and if you walk a little away from the beachfront cafés toward the open shoreline, you’ll have the horizon almost to yourself.

Its biggest advantage is convenience: it’s within walking distance of the town center, entry is free, and right after sunset you can head straight into the market for dinner. It’s ideal if you want beach time, sunset, and an evening stroll all in one go.

Tip: Walk toward the northern end of the beach, away from the hotel section, for a quieter angle and fewer people in your shot.

3. Kumburnu / The Ölüdeniz Lagoon

Kumburnu, inside the Ölüdeniz Nature Park, is known as a calm, family-friendly beach earlier in the day — but it transforms completely in the late afternoon. The lagoon’s still water reflects the setting sun almost perfectly; the silhouettes of the pine trees along the shore fall onto the water, and the whole scene looks like a painting.

Photographers will want to shoot from the slightly elevated spots along the shore, which capture the full curve of the lagoon in one frame. Since it’s a paid entry area, if you’re planning to stay for sunset, check the park’s closing hours in advance.

Tip: Renting a kayak or SUP and being out on the water as the sun goes down is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Ölüdeniz.

4. The Lycian Way Terrace Toward Faralya

If you take the Lycian Way from Ölüdeniz toward the Ovacık–Faralya section, a short hike brings you to terraces with views over both Butterfly Valley and the open sea at sunset. The higher you climb, the wider the view opens up — a peaceful alternative for hikers and anyone looking to get away from the crowds.

This route takes a bit more effort than the others, but in return you get a hike in and a view of Ölüdeniz that very few visitors ever see.

Tip: Wear proper walking shoes and bring a flashlight for the way back — the path gets tricky once it’s dark.

5. The Rocks of Kıdrak Bay

A few kilometers from Ölüdeniz, pine-shaded Kıdrak Bay is a nice surprise for anyone after a sunset without the crowds. The rocks around the bay are great for a bit of scrambling, and they’re a quiet place to watch the sun slip into the sea.

Kıdrak is busy as a camping and picnic spot during the day, but it quietens down by late afternoon — making it a calmer alternative to Montana or Belcekız.

Tip: If you’re driving to Kıdrak, keep in mind the road back has a few winding stretches — it’s best to head out shortly after the sun sets rather than lingering in the dark.

In short: sunset in Ölüdeniz isn’t limited to one spot. Whether you want an easy beach walk or a short climb to a viewpoint, there’s an option to match. Wherever you choose, try to arrive at least half an hour before the sun touches the horizon — the best light doesn’t arrive all at once, it builds slowly.