Kaş and Kalkan have a classic Mediterranean climate, with hot dry summers, mild wet winters and warm shoulder seasons. The best time depends on what you want to do. Swimmers and boat-trip fans want the warm months, walkers want spring and autumn, and anyone who dislikes crowds should avoid peak summer. Here is how the year breaks down.
Spring: April to early June
The hills are green and wildflowers bloom, the air is mild and the crowds are small. The sea is still cool in April but warms by late May. Hiking on the Lycian Way is excellent, and sightseeing at Myra, Tlos and Patara is comfortable. Boat trips begin running regularly from about April or May, and diving centres open. The Saklıkent river runs high with snowmelt, so wading may be limited to the first section. Hotel prices are lower than in summer.
Early summer: June
June is one of the best months, with warm sea, long days and a lively but not packed atmosphere. Most restaurants and boats are running. Midday heat is strong but not extreme. This is an excellent month for the full programme of boat trips, kayaking, diving and beach days.
Peak summer: July and August
These are the hottest and busiest months. Daytime temperatures are high, the sea is at its warmest and everything is open, with the longest choice of boats and events. Prices peak and popular tours and restaurants need booking ahead. Sightseeing and walking are best done early in the morning or late in the day, with the middle of the day given over to swimming and shade. Wind can build in the afternoon, which is good for sailing but can make swimming rougher at exposed beaches.
Early autumn: September and October
Many regulars consider this the best time. The sea is at its warmest after a summer of heat, the air is more comfortable, crowds ease and prices fall. Boat trips, diving and kayaking continue, and the light is beautiful for photography. By late October the days shorten and some seasonal boats and beach clubs wind down.
Late autumn: November
Weather becomes changeable, with the first rain and cooler seas. Many seasonal operators stop, Kalkan starts to close down and Kaş goes quiet. It is a good time for walkers, history lovers and anyone who wants peace, but swimming is chilly and boat trips run only on request.
Winter: December to March
Winters are mild by northern standards, with sunny days that can be warm and rainy spells that bring storms. The sea is cold, and most boat trips, diving and beach services stop. Kaş remains alive with locals and long-stay visitors, and the Lycian ruins and old town are uncrowded. Pack layers and a rain jacket, and check that your hotel and restaurants are open.
Sea temperature in broad terms
The sea is coolest in March and April, warms through May and June, peaks in August and September and stays comfortable until late October. If you plan to swim without a wetsuit, aim for late May to October. Divers can dive year-round with a thicker suit.
Events and crowds
Summer weekends are busy with Turkish holidaymakers, and school holidays in Turkey bring extra crowds. International holiday periods also raise prices. Booking ahead for Easter, summer and religious holidays is wise. During Ramadan, some restaurants adjust hours, though tourist areas remain open.
Choosing your month
For swimming and boat trips with fewer crowds, choose late May, June or September. For hiking and ruins, choose April, May or October. For the lowest prices and a quiet pace, accept limited services and choose late autumn or winter. Whatever the month, pack sun protection, a hat, water shoes and a light layer for the evening.
Packing by season
In spring and autumn pack layers, a light rain jacket and walking shoes. In summer pack breathable clothes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and water shoes. In winter bring a fleece, a waterproof coat and a sense of adventure. At any time of year, carry sun protection and a refillable water bottle, and respect local dress standards when visiting religious sites.
Weather to expect
Daytime summer highs often reach the mid-thirties Celsius, with sea breezes in the afternoon, while spring and autumn days are typically warm and comfortable. Winter days can be mild and sunny but nights are cool. Rain is concentrated between November and March, and thunderstorms can occur in autumn, so check forecasts before boat days.