Taşucu Coast and the Silifke Plain

Why Taşucu and Silifke?

Tucked between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean, the Taşucu coast and the Silifke Plain remain pleasantly under the radar compared to Turkey's flashier riviera resorts. Here you'll find a string of calm, pebbly beaches, a working harbour and a friendly town where life moves at a gentle pace. The air is scented with citrus and the sea breeze keeps even high summer comfortable.

Silifke itself is a lively agricultural town, famous for its strawberries and its Friday market, while the coastal strip around Taşucu is dotted with simple guesthouses and fish restaurants. It's a place to slow down, eat well and explore without the crowds.

Beaches and the harbour

The coastline north of Taşucu is a series of small coves and longer pebble stretches, lapped by clear, warm water. The sea is generally calm, making it good for swimming and snorkelling, and many spots are backed by shady trees – ideal for a lazy afternoon.

Taşucu harbour is the departure point for ferries to Northern Cyprus, but it's also a lovely spot to watch the fishing boats come in. The waterfront promenade is lined with simple cafes where you can sip tea and admire the view.

Fresh fish and local flavours

Seafood is the star here: sample grilled sea bream, fried calamari or the local speciality, karides güveç (shrimp casserole). Many restaurants are family-run and use the day's catch, so ask what's fresh. The Silifke Plain produces excellent fruit and vegetables – look out for strawberries in spring, and citrus in winter.

Don't miss the chance to try Silifke yoğurdu, a thick, tangy yogurt, or the local tantuni, a spicy wrap that's a favourite street food.

Göksu Delta: a birdwatcher's paradise

The Göksu Delta, just south of Silifke, is a protected wetland and an important stopover for migratory birds. It's a peaceful place to walk or cycle, with birdwatching hides and sandy dunes. The delta is also home to loggerhead turtles, which nest on the beaches in summer.

Visiting the delta is easy: you can drive or take a dolmuş from Silifke, and it's a great half-day trip. Bring binoculars and plenty of water.

Roman ruins and ancient sites

The area is rich in history. Just outside Silifke, the ancient city of Uzuncaburç (Diocaesarea) boasts a impressive temple of Zeus Olbios and a Roman theatre. Closer to the coast, the ruins of Kızkalesi (Maiden's Castle) sit on a small island and are linked to the mainland by a causeway. Further afield, the Cennet and Cehennem (Heaven and Hell) sinkholes are a natural wonder worth the trip.

Many of these sites are uncrowded and atmospheric, perfect for history lovers who want to explore at their own pace.

Getting there and getting around

Taşucu is well connected by bus from Mersin, with frequent services taking about 1.5 hours. From Silifke, dolmuşes run regularly to Taşucu and nearby villages. If you're driving, the coastal road offers stunning views.

For a day trip, consider a boat tour from Taşucu harbour to the nearby bays and islands – a relaxing way to see the coast. And if you're heading to Northern Cyprus, the ferry from Taşucu is a convenient option.

When to go and how long to stay

The best time to visit is from May to October, when the sea is warm and the days are long. Spring and autumn are ideal for exploring the delta and ruins without the heat. Two to three days is enough to enjoy the beaches, the delta and a couple of ancient sites, but a week allows for a truly relaxed pace.