Just a few minutes` walk from the center of Kemer, behind the yacht marina, lies one of the most picturesque corners of the resort — Moonlight Park, known to Turks as Ayışığı Parkı. This is a place where mountains, sea, and centuries-old pine trees create an amazing atmosphere that attracts both tourists and locals.
The park occupies an impressive area of 55 thousand square meters, spread out in a bay between the port and the town of Çalış. Ancient pine trees grow here, and shady alleys provide life-saving coolness even on the hottest afternoon. In the evening, the park transforms — soft lighting creates that very romantic "moonlight" atmosphere that gave this place its name.
Moonlight Beach: Rare Sand in Kemer
The main pride of Moonlight Park is its namesake beach, which many consider the best in all of Kemer. This is a true rarity for a resort where pebbles predominate: golden sand has been specially brought here, creating ideal conditions for a comfortable holiday.
Moonlight Beach stretches along a picturesque bay, reliably sheltered from the winds, so there are almost never strong waves here. The entrance to the sea is gentle and convenient — this is an ideal place for families with small children who can safely splash near the shore. True, near the water`s edge, there are occasional patches of fine pebbles, especially in the part farthest from the marina. On the other hand, the water here is crystal clear and has been awarded the prestigious international "Blue Flag" for environmental cleanliness and safety.
The infrastructure of Moonlight Beach is thoughtfully designed. There is both a paid zone with sunbeds and umbrellas, where a ticket is valid for the whole day, and a free area where you can settle with your own towel. If you get hungry, a beach bar with fast food and soft drinks is at your service, and in the shade of the park, restaurants and cafes serving Turkish and international cuisine operate.
Entertainment for the Whole Family
"Moonlight" is not just a park, but a real family entertainment center where everyone can find an activity to their liking.
Water activities. For active recreation enthusiasts, there is a huge selection here: water skiing, scooters, paragliding, catamarans. You can rent a motorboat and go on a mini trip to neighboring bays. A special atmosphere is created by the yachts moored at the pier, stylized as ancient galleons — they are very interesting to watch, and it`s hard to resist the temptation to go on a sea excursion.
Dolphinarium. One of the park`s main magnets is the dolphinarium, where bottlenose dolphins and a sea lion perform. Shows take place twice a day and provide unforgettable emotions for both adults and children. Here you can not only watch the show but also swim with the dolphins — a unique experience that lasts a lifetime.
Water Park. For those who can`t imagine a holiday without water slides, there is a small but cozy water park with pools and waterfalls. Its main advantage is the absence of queues, so children can have plenty of fun.
Sports and Recreation. On the territory of Moonlight Park in Kemer, there are tennis courts, a basketball court, and a mini-golf course. For the little ones, there are play areas with attractions and a mini-club with animators. And if you just want to relax, you can stroll along the shady alleys, browse souvenir shops, or sit in a cozy cafe with a sea view.
Ruins of Idyros: An Ancient City in a Modern Park
Near Moonlight Park are the ruins of the ancient city of Idyros. This is the ancient name of Kemer itself. The city was part of the Lycian civilization and was located north of the famous Phaselis. In the 7th century BC, this territory was settled by the Lycians, and later Persians, Romans, and Byzantines were here.
In 1976–1977, archaeologists conducted excavations and discovered an early Byzantine complex from the 4th–6th centuries here. The most impressive find is a basilica with a mosaic floor made of stones in orange, brick-red, white, and gray colors. Geometric patterns are bordered by floral borders shaped like hearts — this is surprisingly delicate work, testifying to the high skill of ancient craftsmen.
Near the church, a small chapel was found, as well as Byzantine walls and other buildings. The ruins stretch along the entire coast of Moonlight Bay — here you can see the remains of another church with a trefoil plan.
According to tourists who visited here a few years ago, the excavations are gradually expanding. Archaeologists are digging, uncovering new fragments of the ancient city. True, access to the excavations is currently restricted due to ongoing work, and not much can be seen. But the very fact that right in the park, among well-kept alleys and palm trees, lie stones that remember Byzantine emperors is intriguing.
A curious detail: locals recall that a film with the legendary Turkish actor Cüneyt Arkın was shot here. And a large family of turtles has settled on the excavation site — they feel like the rightful owners here.
Practical Information
How to get there. Moonlight Park is located in the southern part of Kemer, behind the yacht marina. Getting there is very simple: on foot from the center of Kemer — just a 15–20-minute leisurely walk, landmark — the port. By dolmuş, any bus heading towards the marina will take you to the right place. By taxi, it fast and comfortable, especially if you have children.
Opening hours. The park is open 24 hours a day, but the main attractions, such as the dolphinarium and water park, operate during daylight hours. The best time to visit is in the morning, when it`s not so hot, or in the evening, when the lights come on and the daytime heat subsides.
Tips. Bring your swimsuits and towels — the beach here is excellent. If you plan to visit the dolphinarium, check the show schedule in advance. During the peak season, the beach can be crowded.
Moonlight Park is a must-visit item on the program for everyone vacationing in Kemer. Its convenient location within walking distance of the center, developed infrastructure, clean beach with a "Blue Flag," and many entertainment options make it an ideal place for a family holiday. And the presence of historical ruins near the park allows you to combine business with pleasure — both swimming and touching the history of the Lycian civilization. Set aside at least half a day for a visit.
