Finike

Finike is a small harbor town and a district located in the west of Antalya, between the foothills of the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean. Known for its orange groves, unspoiled nature, endless sunny beaches such as Godliman Beach, and turquoise coves, this is the perfect place to relax. Boat trips offer a remarkable experience to explore the many coves, such as Andrea Doria Bay, on the glittering sea border of the Mediterranean. It is also a great place for history lovers to discover the ruins of many ancient cities nearby such as Limyra, Arykanda, Trysa, and others.

History

For centuries Finike, previously named Phoenix, was a port town of ancient Lycia, near the mountain of the same name. It served as a port where Limyra, the capital of Lycia, exported agricultural products and became the most famous trade center of the period. Extraordinary ruins can be seen today including amphitheaters and some stunning examples of ancient tombs on the slopes of the hills. The area has witnessed many civilizations since Lycia including Alexander the Great, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Seljuks, and the Ottomans. Exploring the remarkable ruins of the nearby ancient cities of Limyra, Arykanda, Trysam, Gagai, and Rhodiapolis is a favorite of history buffs.

What is Finike Famous For?

Finike’s most popular activity is to enjoy the sea, sand, and sun. Visitors can swim and cool off on the uniquely beautiful beaches of Finike, such as Finike Public Beach, which is one of the longest beaches in the region and consists of a completely sandy area. The ancient cities of Arykanda, Limyra, and others are where visitors can explore the history of Finike in detail. There are cafes and restaurants along the coast with magnificent harbor views and the smell of orange blossom from all over the city in the orange season. Fascinating Antalya treasures such as Andrea Doria Bay, Suluin Cave, and the small traditional village of Turuncova make the area a truly enjoyable experience.

Places to Visit in Finike

Finike is an agricultural harbor town located along the Turkish Riviera on the southern shore of the Teke Peninsula. One of the first things to do in Finike is visit the crystal clear beaches such as Gokliman Beach, which is popular for its deep blue waters and convenient amenities. The town has hosted many civilizations from Lycia to Byzantium, so there are historical riches such as the rock tombs of Limyra and the ancient theater of Arykanda. In addition to these, visitors can experience the historical and natural beauties along the Lycian Way, one of the longest hiking trails in the world which passes through Finike.

Finike is a place where history and nature meet, and it is also a region famous for its oranges. While visiting, guests can breathe in the scent of oranges and spend the most beautiful moments of the summer seasons with its clean air and Mediterranean climate. Reached on foot, Suluin Cave is one of the most interesting activities with its natural beauty, mysterious structure, and attractive atmosphere, but only professional divers are allowed to dive here. Another popular activity is a daily boat or Blue Cruise to explore the paradisiacal bays around Finike, such as Suluada Island and Korsan Bay.

Best Time to Visit Finike

Finike, formerly known as Phoenix, is a unique destination for those who want to have a good time with its ancient cities that emerged from the dusty pages of history, fascinating coves, and beaches such as Gokliman and Andrea Doria. In the district where the Mediterranean climate prevails, there is a long and hot summer season from April to October, and the winters are mild and rainy. Whether swimming in unspoiled bays like Andrea Doria or hiking among the ancient cities like Arykanda and Limyra, preparations such as comfortable shoes and sun protection should be made. Visitors can add color to their holidays with festivals such as the Orange Festival held in June every year.

For beach lovers, the best time to visit Finike is from the beginning of June to the end of September, and the hottest months are July, August, and September. In addition to the sea and the beach in Finike, orange flowers bloom in the first days of April and the dazzling beauty of nature emerges. Tourism starts in April and most shops are closed between November and March. April and June are the best times for festivals and events that make the city busiest.

Weather in Finike

In Finike, the Mediterranean climate is hot and dry in summers and mild in winters. The warm season lasts from April to September with an average daily high of over 84°F (28°C) and the cool season lasts from November to March with an average daily high temperature below 65°F (18°C). The hottest time of year is usually mid-July, when temperatures regularly hover around 95°F (35°C) and rarely drop below 75°F (24°C) at night. It's a humid region with the highest relative humidity in August at 64% and the lowest humidity in February at around 16%. The clear skies come with the warm Mediterranean climate which gives Finike up to 14 hours of sunshine a day in peak summer. On average, December is the wettest month of the year, and tourism ends from November to March with cold wet weather.

Before Visiting Finike

Finike is a hot place with abundant sunshine and long days in the summer season. For this reason, it is a good idea to wear comfortable clothes to keep cool, use plenty of sunscreen, and seek shade from the sun at midday. It may be necessary to bring comfortable shoes for walking the local trails such as the Lycian Way or visiting historic ruins. Since there are stony beaches such as Gokliman Beach, it may be helpful to use water shoes. Although Finike is a small town, all needed items can be bought in the shopping areas in the city.

Festivals & Special Days in Finike

Finike is famous for its oranges, which are a staple of their agricultural industry and also the symbol of its municipality. There are events that aim to promote the region such as the Finike Orange Festival, which lasts for 7 days in June and July. The festival features sculptures made of oranges, exhibitions, theatrical performances, and food competitions. Additionally, there are concerts of famous Turkish artists. In addition, concerts are regularly held at the ancient Arykanda Amphitheater, which was first established in 2000 BC.

Nightlife in Finike

Finike is a coastal town in Antalya which has a rich history dating back to 3000 BC. Much of the nightlife here is set along the coast by the marine and the beach, where visitors can find cafes open late and restaurants that offer wonderful views. Fink Pub & Bar is the main nightlife spot in the town, and focuses on offering guests an exciting nightlife experience. 

-    Fink Pub & Bar Restaurant

Located in the heart of Finike, just steps away from Setur Finike Marina, Fink Pub is host to the most popular music nights in the town. Being so close to the marina, the bar looks out onto the sea and has wonderful views, particularly during sunset. The establishment specializes in Turkish music, famous acts, and DJs. They also host private parties and celebrations such as birthdays and anniversaries. The establishment has a fully stocked bar as well as a functioning kitchen, for those that wish to compliment their drink with a snack or meal.

Luxury / Fine Dining Restaurants in Finike

Finike is an ancient town that runs along the Antalya Mediterranean coast by the Turkish Riviera. The area is best known for the native Finike orange, which is also the symbol of the town. Much of the fine dining spots are located along the coast, along the promenade or by Setur Finike Marina. These locations have some of the best views in the town, perfect for catching the sunset or watching the open sea. Most of the food here revolves around either fish or local and Mediterranean classics. Mezes, a traditional Turkish type of appetizer, are a  popular choice and can be found in many of the restaurants here as well.

-    Kasap Murat Et Restaurant Steak House

    One of the most popular dining spots in Finike, Kasap Murat Steak House specializes in specially selected cuts of meat, paired with a wonderful view of the open sea. Set right alongside the main stretch of beach in Finike, visitors get firsthand views of the sunset and the open Mediterranean. The restaurant has outdoor terraced seating and a section on the upper floors that has incredible views of the lush greenery. Serving classic Turkish grills such as adana kebab, shish kebab, and kofte, the steakhouse also specializes in prime cuts such as t-bone steak and Dallas steak. Alongside the main dishes, they also serve a selection of freshly made mezes, which can be enjoyed with a glass of wine or Turkey’s national drink, raki. 

-    Neseli Balik

    Regarded as the best fish restaurant in town, Neseli Balik is set in the back streets of Finike within a historic stone building, and has an authentic, local atmosphere to it. The restaurant has a choice of seating in the main indoor seating area and outdoors along the street. The kitchen specializes in freshly caught fish and seafood dishes, featuring favorites such as fish soup, fish and chips, deep fried squid, and a street food favorite known as balik ekmek. It is worth noting that Wednesday is sushi day for those that enjoy freshly made sushi.  There is also a selection of mezes to compliment guests' main dish, which can be enjoyed with a glass of wine or raki. 

-    Neseli Balik Bistro

    The popular establishment Neseli Balik, has recently opened a more luxurious twin restaurant just next door.  This section has a more modern feel to it compared to the original Neseli Balik, and its menu comprises Turkish and Mediterranean classics. The interior features crisp, off white velvet seating and white marble table tops, blue mosaic shell tiles along the walls, and a large plant feature in the center of the restaurant. Some of the most popular dishes include house made pizza and kofte with rice. 

-    Orange Cafe & Brunch Finike

    Set a close distance away from Setur Finike Marina, Orange Cafe has some of the best views in town. It is named after the Finike orange, which is what the town is best known for and largest form of economic capital after tourism. It has both indoor and outdoor seating, designed with large glass paneled walls, glass top tables and comfortable garden seating. Favorites from the menu include the pulled beef sandwich, pizza selection, and the traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Guests can enjoy a range of herbal teas, coffees and soft drinks with their meal.