Last Minute Holidays to Dalaman

Turquoise tranquillity paired with sunshine

Situated on the southwest coast of Turkey, the Turquoise Coast of Dalaman offers astounding vistas as well as being a protected area for marine life.

In around four hours you could be visiting the plentiful bazaars of Marmaris or taking it easy in Olu Deniz at one of the serene 16th-century Turkish bathhouses. It’s also known for it’s unusual thermal spas, Incebel and Kapikargin in particular have sulphurous, warm waters that are associated with rejuvenating health benefits.

Marmaris offers a whole host of activities you don’t need to book in advance, ranging from lounging along the vast stretch of pebbled beach to heart-pounding watersports. Its eclectic mix of charming architecture – including the historic Marmaris Castle – and its modern bars and nightlife ensure that this busy town pulls in visitors all year round. But if you’d like a change of pace from the bustling entertainment of the strip you can easily catch a low-cost bus to Long Beach in the neighbouring Icmeler where the tempo is a little slower.

The purpose-built town of Icmeler cuddles an arched bay that’s bristling with marine life, as well as being home to some of the most spectacular forest mountains in the region. The old town is just a stroll away and has a weekly market where you can buy authentic Turkish delight for a bargain price, then inland Icmeler becomes an ideal playground for hikers through fragrant pine trees and eucalyptus. On the water, this town has every sport to offer – snorkelling, pedalos, diving and more, so you’ll never be short of activities.

If being immersed in nature is right up your street then Olu Deniz and Fethiye have a common ground in the nature reserve, Butterfly Valley, as well as astounding clear waters and cave formations. The smaller of the two towns, Olu Deniz is known for its blue lagoon and Fethiye for its natural harbour and rock tombs. You can also take a water reasonably priced taxi to a nearby ghost town.

The best time of year to book your last minute holiday

Dalaman has a fantastic climate from spring right through until autumn, so if you love the heat then it’s best to visit in the summer months. If a cooler climate is for you then the shoulder months are recommended and it’s still great beach weather. Autumn is the perfect time to see the marine life – the turtles are more likely to pop out for the weather too. If you book last minute, from eight weeks prior up until the last moment, you can find some incredible deals.

Other popular holidays in Turkey

If you love the idea of booking a last minute holiday but haven’t decided where in Turkey, there are plenty of other places you’ll love. Take a look at similar destinations, like the Bodrum, Antalya and Izmir regions.

Or for more information on Dalaman, take a look at our travel guide to plan your last minute holiday in the Turkish sun. In the meantime, here are the top last minute Dalaman hotels for you to check out.

Club Cettia

Situated in a blissful part of Marmaris, this complex is the perfect place to unwind while taking in the glorious surroundings. There’s a lot of fun to be had here from its luxurious Turkish baths to football pitches and variety of kids’ clubs and facilities. All Inclusive holidays provide buffet meals, drinks, snacks, daily entertainment and even a patisserie. In just a few minutes’ walk you can embrace the sunshine on the marina and soak up the nightlife.

Orka Sunlife Resort and Spa Villas

A large resort set in Hisaronu’s hillside, overlooking Olu Deniz bay, as the name suggests, Orka Sunlife has serene Turkish baths and sauna to indulge in, as part of the All Inclusive offering. Also covered are meals at the buffet restaurant, snacks and drinks. There’s a large pool as well as one with big slides for family fun. The hotel provides an array of activities to choose from, and make sure you don’t miss the acrobatic shows.

Majesty Club Tuana Park

The Majesty Club Tuana Park is home to blooming gardens right on your doorstep, as well as a private beach. Activities include water polo, mini-golf or going to the gym, and kids get organised fun at the clubs. There’s nightly entertainment as well as a beach bar, club bar and disco bar, but if that isn’t enough Fethiye resort centre is just a short bus hop away.