There are sunbeds and umbrellas aplenty for holidaymakers to rent on Altinkum's lovely beaches, where the turquoise waters shelve gently allowing for safe bathing. Those who are more energetic can try their hand at windsurfing, jet-skiing, pedaloes, a banana boat ride or perhaps a scuba diving lesson: all these activities and more are available on the beaches. A variety of tours, boat trips and excursions to surrounding resorts, islands, towns and historic sites are available, or visitors can hop on a dolmus (mini-bus) and explore on their own places like the Roman ruins at Ephesus, the Pamukkale spas and calcium deposits, or the lively resorts of Kusadasi and Bodrum. For a peaceful yet active afternoon, take a stroll around the scenic Bafa Lake.

Turkish is the official language, but English is widely understood in the main tourist areas.

The official currency is the New Turkish Lira (TRY), which was introduced on 1 January 2005, whereby six zeros were dropped from the TL and the sub-unit New Kurush was created. Currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange booths, post offices, airports and ferry ports; banks have the worst rates and highest commissions, but will exchange lesser known foreign currencies. Banks open mainly Monday to Friday, but some are open daily in tourist areas. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas, but Turkish ATM keypads usually do not have letters of the alphabet on their keys. Most bank branches have ATMs which accept Cirrus and Plus. Major credit cards are widely accepted; the most popular are Visa or MasterCard, but American Express is accepted in many of the more expensive places. Travellers cheques can be exchanged at some banks and currency exchange offices, but are not as welcome as cash or credit cards. US dollars or Euros are preferred. Some pensions and hotels in the most popular destinations accept US dollars as payment.

During the local Turkish summer break in August, Altinkum is a favourite destination and can become rather overcrowded. Visitors should also be aware that temperatures can be extremely high in the height of summer.

While it is not as rowdy as the major Turkish holiday resorts, those who wish to indulge will find plenty of after-dark entertainment and fun in Altinkum, where nightlife is centred mainly in Dolphin Square and in the bars along the sea front promenade. Everything from disco dancing, karaoke and belly-dancing to bingo and pool is on offer, the entertainment fuelled by cheap drinks and cocktails. Clubbers are catered for during the height of the summer season at Medusa, an open-air night club that is regarded as Altinkum's most hectic party point. Another hot favourite for young people is the Dolphin Bar.

Altinkum is bursting with good restaurants serving most forms of international cuisine, although Turkish and traditional English predominates to cater to the demand of holidaymakers. With such a feast of eateries it is difficult to single out any particular establishment, but for the best of British it is hard to beat Ali Baba's for friendliness, price and quality. The Mercury Restaurant serves top-notch English breakfasts, while Barney's Restaurant prides itself in introducing visitors to the delights of Turkish cuisine. For a family group or party of varied tastes opt for The Grand Restaurant in Dolphin Square, where the menu consists of Turkish, Indian, Chinese and English dishes, all of high standard.

Holidaymakers should brush up on their haggling skills as shopping opportunities abound along the pedestrianised seafront of Altinkum, which is packed with souvenir shops, jewellery stores and boutiques selling copies of designer clothing. The main centre is Dolphin Square, and there is a modern shopping complex called the Didyma Shopping Mall not far away. Self-caterers will find all the provisions they need at the two main supermarkets, Gima and Migros, between the seafront and town centre.