Discover the hidden treasures of the Turkish Riviera. Diving in Okurcalar (Alanya) offers a perfect mix of calm, warm water, impressive rock formations, and surprisingly diverse marine life.
🌊 Visibility and Clarity: Up to 40 Meters
Okurcalar is famous in the region for its crystal-clear water and excellent visibility.
- Visibility Range: On average, you will enjoy visibility between 20 and 30 meters. On top days during the high season, this can reach up to 40 meters.
- Currents: Thanks to the sheltered location of the bay, there is virtually no current. This ensures a stable and relaxed diving experience, making it an absolute favorite for beginners.
- Our Tip: We recommend booking a morning dive. In the afternoon, the wind can shift, causing light surface waves that may slightly affect visibility.
🌡️ Water Temperature by Season
The diving season in Okurcalar runs from April to November. The water remains very comfortable:
- Spring (April – May): The season kicks off with a refreshing 18°C to 21°C.
- Summer (June – August): High season with temperatures between 24°C and 28°C. A thin shorty or 3mm wetsuit is usually more than enough.
- Autumn (September – November): The sea retains its summer heat; the water fluctuates comfortably between 22°C and 25°C.
🏛️ Archaeological Treasures on the Seabed
The region around Okurcalar breathes thousands of years of history, even below the surface. The seabed is literally scattered with ancient remains from the Roman and Byzantine eras:
- Amphorae: Ancient jars once used for transporting olive oil and wine. Many are partially buried in the sand or encrusted onto the rocks.
- Ancient Pottery: Beautiful, centuries-old earthenware bowls and fragments of pottery that have stood the test of time.
- Historical Artifacts: Massive ancient ship anchors and fragments of old cargo that have now become a natural part of the reef.
🐢 Unique Marine Life
While the Mediterranean doesn’t have coral reefs like the Red Sea, the rocky bottom of Okurcalar is bursting with life:
- Sea Turtles: The impressive Caretta caretta (Loggerhead) and Green Sea Turtles frequently rest and feed along these coastlines.
- Octopuses & Cuttlefish: Various camouflaged octopuses and curious cuttlefish hide within the rocky crevices.
- Colorful Schools: Groups of Damselfish, Peacock Wrasse, Cardinalfish, and the striking Trumpetfish.
- Predators: Encounters with Barracudas and Moray Eels lurking between the rocks are very common.
🐬 Exclusive Highlight: Face to Face with Wild Dolphins!
The waters around Okurcalar and Alanya are home to pods of wild Bottlenose dolphins. While they are often spotted from the boat, we have been lucky enough to encounter them underwater! They are very curious about divers’ bubbles. Keep your eyes open during your safety stop; it’s an unforgettable experience.