Side: Green Lake Boat Tour, Swimming, and Oymapinar Dam

If you’re looking for a day filled with scenic beauty, a touch of history, and a splash of adventure, the Green Lake Boat Tour in Antalya Province might just hit the spot. This full-day excursion offers a mix of boat rides, swimming, and visits to impressive man-made structures like the Oymapinar Dam, with optional stops like the Manavgat Waterfall.

We like how it combines diverse experiences — from relaxing on a boat to exploring engineering marvels — all designed to give visitors a well-rounded taste of the region. What stands out most is the stunning landscapes you’ll encounter, especially during the boat ride through Green Lake Canyon, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

One thing to consider is that the tour schedule and sequence can change depending on weather and operational needs, so flexibility is key. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, scenic views, and a bit of culture, especially those who like combination trips that pack multiple highlights into one day.

Key Points

• Beautiful boat ride through Green Lake Canyon with swimming opportunities.
• Visit to Oymapinar Dam, an impressive feat of engineering.
• Optional stop at Manavgat Waterfall, perfect for scenic photo moments.
• Includes a traditional Turkish lunch, adding local flavor.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Good value for a full-day experience blending nature, history, and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour promises a blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and fun activities—ideal for travelers who want a well-balanced day without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s not a rushed whirlwind but a laid-back exploration suited for those who enjoy diverse environments in one outing.

Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll soon find yourself in a comfortable vehicle heading toward different points of interest. One of the first stops is at a historic mosque, where you can admire intricate designs—an intro to the area’s rich cultural backdrop. Then, you’ll visit Lyrbe Agora, an ancient site that hints at the area’s long history, giving a bit of context before the natural wonders take center stage.

The Green Lake Experience

The main attraction is undoubtedly the scenic boat ride on Green Lake, which lasts about an hour. During this time, you’ll glide through the Green Lake Canyon, surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs. The views are truly special, especially if you’re lucky with good weather, and the calm waters make for a relaxing cruise.

Once on the water, you’ll have the chance to swim in the lake, which many find refreshing after the boat ride. Bring your swimwear and towel, as the water is inviting, especially in warm weather. Guests who have tried this say it’s a highlight, with one reviewer calling it a “good activity, well organized,” and expressing a bit of humor about losing their glasses during the swim — so keep your valuables close!

Lunch and Local Flavors

After the lake adventure, a delicious Turkish lunch is served, offering a chance to relax and refuel. Many tours include local dishes, and here, you’ll likely enjoy traditional flavors that give you a taste of regional cuisine. This meal adds great value, transforming a fun day into a satisfying cultural experience.

Visiting Oymapinar Dam

Post-lunch, your journey takes you to the Oymapinar Dam, a stunning example of modern engineering. This giant structure not only provides hydroelectric power but also offers impressive views and photo opportunities. We loved the way the dam illustrates how humans can craft monumental structures that blend into the landscape.

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Optional Visit to Manavgat Waterfall

For those with extra time or interest, there’s an optional stop at Manavgat Waterfall. Known for its picturesque setting and the soothing sound of cascading water, it’s a favorite for photos and relaxing moments. The entry fee is paid directly to the guide if you choose to visit, so remember to budget accordingly.

Reviews mention that this waterfall adds a lovely natural ending to the day, though participants can skip it if they prefer. The flexibility makes the tour accessible to different interests and energy levels.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is included, with pickups from key areas such as Side, Ilica, Evrenseki, TitreYengöl, Sorgun, and Kızılagac. The vehicles are designed to meet TSE standards, ensuring safety and comfort. The group size is typical for such tours, and the guide provides information mainly at meeting points, sometimes via an audio system if needed.

It’s worth noting that if the number of participants is low, the guide might only travel with an English-speaking host, and there might be no German-speaking guide available. This is common in smaller groups and doesn’t affect the core experience but is good to keep in mind.

Duration and Practicalities

The tour lasts around 6 hours, with multiple stops and activities packed into that time frame. Check the scheduled start times when booking, as they can vary. Be prepared with comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and comfortable clothes, since you’ll be active and near water.

Weather can influence the day’s flow—boat rides might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions aren’t safe, and the sequence of stops may change accordingly. The tour is designed to be flexible, with safety and enjoyment in mind.

Value and Price

Priced as a full-day trip, the tour offers good value given the variety of experiences—boat ride, swimming, cultural sites, and a hearty lunch. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, saving you time and hassle. Additional expenses, like the waterfall entry fee or drinks, are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Authentic moments shine through in reviews. One traveler called it “a good activity, well organized,” while another described it as a “delicious day,” emphasizing the enjoyable mix of activities. The stunning views on the boat ride are often highlighted as a favorite part, confirming that the natural scenery lives up to expectations.

Some minor downsides include the potential loss of personal items like glasses (a humorous reminder to keep valuables secured) and the possibility of schedule adjustments. However, the overall consensus is positive, especially regarding the scenic boat ride, which many agree is the day’s highlight.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour works well for outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy nature and scenic views. It’s suited for travelers who want a full-day adventure without complicated logistics. It’s especially good for families, couples, or groups who appreciate a mix of history, water activities, and engineering marvels.

Those who prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos will find this trip appealing. However, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer more cultural or urban explorations, as the focus is on natural and engineering sights.

Final Thoughts

The Green Lake Boat Tour with a visit to Oymapinar Dam offers a balanced and scenic way to explore Antalya’s natural and man-made wonders. The combination of a relaxing boat ride, swimming, and impressive dam views creates a memorable day out that doesn’t require strenuous effort but rewards with stunning vistas and unique experiences.

For travelers craving a combination of water, nature, and engineering, this trip delivers well. The inclusion of a traditional Turkish lunch and flexible optional stops make it a practical and enjoyable choice. Just be ready for a day that emphasizes beautiful landscapes and fun water activities, perfect for those who love picturesque settings and authentic local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from areas like Side, Ilica, Evrenseki, and others are included, making logistics simple.

How long does the boat ride last?
The boat trip on Green Lake lasts about one hour, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Can I swim in Green Lake?
Absolutely. The tour includes swimming opportunities, so bring your swimwear and towel. Several reviews mention swimming as a favorite part.

Is the Manavgat Waterfall visit included?
It’s an optional addition. Entry fee is paid directly to the guide, so you can choose whether to visit depending on your interest and time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and lightweight clothes are recommended. Weather can vary, so dress accordingly.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users and involves activities that may not be accessible to all mobility levels.

What if the weather is bad?
Boat rides are weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the schedule might change, or activities could be canceled or rescheduled.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Antalya’s beautiful landscapes, impressive engineering, and cultural sights, all wrapped into a full-day adventure. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, natural beauty, or family fun, it’s worth considering for your Turkish itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: