Secret Swimming Spots & Natural Springs Near Side and Antalya: Local Hidden Gems

If you're planning a trip to Side or Antalya and want to experience more than the usual tourist spots, it’s time to go off the beaten path. While the region is famous for its sandy beaches and luxury resorts, locals often head to more secluded places to cool off during hot summer days. Here are some hidden swimming spots and natural springs near Side and Antalya that most tourists never hear about — but should!

🏞 1. Sorgun Forest River Spot (Side)

Just a few kilometers east of Side, Sorgun Forest hides a peaceful freshwater river where locals escape the crowds. Surrounded by pine trees and birdsong, it’s the perfect picnic and swimming location if you're looking for peace and quiet.

Tip: Bring water shoes — the bottom is rocky but clean.
How to Get There: Just 10 minutes by bike or car from Side Old Town.

💧 2. Kapuz Canyon (Antalya)

This is a natural canyon located in the Kepez district of Antalya. It offers crystal-clear spring water flowing between dramatic rock formations. Tourists rarely find this spot, but locals often come to cool off during hot summer weekends.

Tip: The water is very cold — even in July!
Entrance: Free (as of 2025)

🌿 3. Karpuzkaldıran Waterfall Cove (Antalya)

While Düden Waterfalls are well-known, the beach cove underneath the Lower Düden Waterfall is often missed. Locals love to swim here, where fresh waterfall mist meets the Mediterranean Sea.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or after 5 PM to avoid the heat and crowds.
Instagram Tip: Great for dramatic waterfall shots!

🏊‍♂️ 4. Manavgat Spring Pools (Near Side)

If you're exploring Manavgat Waterfall, take a detour 3 km upstream to find smaller spring-fed pools that are shallow and family-friendly.

Why It’s Special: It's surrounded by orange groves and you can smell citrus in the air during spring!
Local Food Nearby: Look for gözleme stalls run by local women.

Why These Spots Matter:

  • 🗺 They’re not overcrowded like main tourist beaches.

  • 🚫 Not listed on most major travel websites.

  • 📸 Great for unique content on Instagram or travel blogs.

  • 🔑 High SEO potential with keywords like “local spots in Antalya,” “hidden swimming places near Side,” “off the beaten path Turkey.”

🌐 Need Directions?

 

We recommend adding these spots to your Google Maps "Favorites" list before your trip.