Finike

Finike: A Historic Port Town on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast

Situated on the southern Teke Peninsula, Finike is a charming coastal town that has retained its authentic character despite the rise of tourism in southwest Turkey. Located just a 90-minute drive west of Antalya, Finike offers a rich history, scenic landscapes, and a thriving agricultural economy.

A Port with a Resilient Past

⚓ Originally known as Phoenicus, Finike was founded in the 5th century BC by the Phoenicians, becoming an essential trading hub under Persian rule.
🏛️ Over the centuries, the city fell under the control of Alexander the Great, the Roman and Byzantine Empires, the Seljuk Turks, and finally the Ottoman Empire.
⚔️ Throughout history, Finike endured invasions from Syria, Egypt, Rhodes, and even temporary Arab occupation.
🏔️ Today, historical sites and ruins remain scattered across the rugged mountain backdrop, providing glimpses into the town’s fascinating past.

A Modern Marina & Agricultural Hub

🚢 The ancient port of Finike has evolved into a modern marina, home to a fleet of fishing boats and traditional Turkish gulets.
🍊 Agriculture remains the town’s main industry, with endless orange orchards stretching across the flat plains east of the town.
🛍️ Every Saturday, a bustling agricultural market brings together vendors selling fresh local produce, including:
✅ Juicy oranges 🍊 (Finike’s symbolic fruit)
✅ Olives, nuts, and cheeses 🧀
✅ Fresh meats and seafood 🐟

A Coastal Paradise for Nature & Wildlife Lovers

🏖️ Finike’s coastline stretches for over 20 kilometers, offering wide sandy beaches and rich marine life.
🐢 Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta Caretta) nest on these shores, while the Mediterranean monk seal, one of the world’s rarest marine mammals, is also found in the area.
🐠 The sea here is abundant with sea bass, sardines, sea bream, and even swordfish, making it a paradise for fishing and diving enthusiasts.

Getting to Finike & Nearby Attractions

🚌 Finike is well connected by local buses to other major coastal towns, making it an easy stop for travelers exploring the Turquoise Coast.
📍 Less than an hour away from:

Demre – Famous for its ancient Lycian city of Myra and links to Saint Nicholas.
Kas – A bustling holiday town known for diving, Blue Cruises, and lively nightlife.

Why Visit Finike?
✅ A historic town with a rich maritime legacy
✅ Untouched natural beauty & wildlife conservation
✅ A paradise for agriculture, fresh seafood, and local markets
✅ Less crowded than other tourist hotspots, offering a truly authentic experience

📍 Plan your trip today and explore the timeless charm of Finike! 🚤🍊✨