Night Access to Gazipaşa and Alanya Beaches Prohibited: What Are the Rules and Penalties?

Every summer, the beaches of Gazipaşa and Alanya become not only popular destinations for visitors but also important nesting grounds for endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). To protect these animals during the nesting season, several restrictions are imposed along the coastline.

From May through the end of September, special measures are in place, especially during nighttime hours. Female sea turtles come ashore after dark to lay their eggs, and weeks later hatchlings emerge from the sand and head toward the sea. Artificial light, noise and human activity can disrupt this natural process and threaten their survival.

Nighttime Access Is Prohibited

Access to protected beaches is prohibited between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. During these hours, beaches are expected to remain dark and quiet to provide suitable conditions for nesting sea turtles.

The beaches of Gazipaşa, Demirtaş and Alanya are among the most important nesting areas for Caretta caretta turtles along the Mediterranean coast.

What Is Prohibited?

During the nesting season, the following activities are not allowed:

• Entering the beach between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.;

• Lighting fires or barbecues;

• Organizing picnics;

• Camping or setting up tents;

• Driving cars, motorcycles, ATVs or any motor vehicles onto the beach;

• Operating vehicles on the sand;

• Damaging protective signs or cages placed around turtle nests;

• Disturbing sea turtles, eggs or hatchlings;

• Using bright lights or creating excessive noise.

According to experts, vehicle tracks can destroy nests hidden beneath the sand, while artificial lighting may disorient both nesting females and hatchlings trying to find their way to the sea.

Heavy Fines for Violations

Violating environmental protection regulations may result in significant administrative fines.

As of 2026, penalties for damaging sea turtles, nests or eggs can reach up to 699,245 Turkish lira. For companies and legal entities, the amount may be tripled.

Why Are These Rules Important?

Turkey's Mediterranean coast is considered one of the world's most important nesting areas for loggerhead sea turtles. Every year, thousands of turtles return to the same beaches where they themselves hatched.

Thanks to the efforts of local authorities, volunteers and environmentally conscious citizens, the number of nests has been increasing in some areas. Respecting these regulations plays a vital role in protecting this endangered species.

If you encounter a sea turtle, tracks in the sand or a nesting site, experts recommend avoiding any interference and notifying local authorities or volunteer conservation groups.