Sea to Sky 2026 runs from 7 to 10 October in Kemer, Antalya. A round of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship, the race takes riders from sea level on the Mediterranean coast, through pine forest and rocky trails, to the 2,365-metre summit of Mount Tahtalı. This guide covers the race format, how the days unfold, where spectators can watch and how to get around from central Kemer.
Sea to Sky 2026 at a glance
- Dates: 7–10 October 2026
- Location: Kemer, Antalya. The finale is on the summit of Mount Tahtalı (2,365 m).
- Status: Round of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship
- Format: Beach race, forest race and mountain race
- Organiser: Kemer Enduro Motorcycle Club (KEMK)
- Who it’s for: Motorsport fans, photographers and anyone looking for an active October break on the Turkish Riviera
What is Sea to Sky?
Hard enduro is one of the toughest forms of off-road motorcycling. Instead of a prepared track, riders tackle natural terrain: boulders, steep climbs, riverbeds and forest single-track. Balance, fitness and line choice matter as much as speed.
What sets Sea to Sky apart is its story. The race starts on the sand, climbs into the pine forests of the Taurus Mountains and finishes on the summit of Tahtalı. Few international motorsport events climb from sea level to almost 2,400 metres in a single week. The event is supported by Türkiye’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Turkish Motorcycle Federation, Antalya Governorship and Olympos Teleferik.
How the race unfolds
The event is built around three races on three very different types of terrain:
Beach race
Riders meet on the sand first. This is the easiest stage to watch: the start line and packs of riders in a single view. Loose sand tests bikes and bodies from the opening laps.
Forest race
Day two moves into the pine forests behind Kemer. Narrow trails, roots and rocky sections set the pace. This is where the technical battle really begins.
Mountain race and the Tahtalı finale
On the final day riders climb Mount Tahtalı. Sharp, rocky slopes and altitude punish both rider and machine, and simply reaching the top is an achievement. According to the organising club, the course combines sand, gravel, steep climbs, forest tracks and rocky passages.
Note: stage times and spectator zones are published by the organiser during race week. Check the official Sea to Sky and FIM Hard Enduro channels before you go.
Who’s racing?
Sea to Sky is the championship’s autumn round. Leading names in the 2026 season include Manuel Lettenbichler, Mitch Brightmore, Teodor Kabakchiev, Billy Bolt, Wade Young and Mario Roman. Standings published in the Turkish press on 25 September had Lettenbichler leading on 150 points, ahead of Brightmore on 126 and Kabakchiev on 94, so the Kemer round matters for the title fight.
Tips for spectators
- Don’t miss the beach race. It’s the most accessible stage and has the liveliest atmosphere.
- Set off early for the mountain finale. Access to Tahtalı gets busy on race day. Check Olympos Teleferik’s cable car times and tickets in advance.
- Dress in layers. October on the coast is mild, but wind and temperature at 2,365 metres can be very different.
- Wear closed shoes, bring water and sun cream. Viewing spots in the forest and mountain stages are on rough ground.
- Follow marshals’ instructions. In hard enduro, bikes can appear from unexpected directions.
Getting around from central Kemer
Kemer Royal Beach Hotel is in the centre of Kemer, in the Merkez neighbourhood. Venues in central Kemer are within walking distance or a short taxi ride. The Tahtalı side (the Olympos Teleferik lower station) is roughly 25–30 km by road from central Kemer. Plan transport ahead, as traffic picks up during race week. Flying in? Our guide to getting from Antalya Airport to Kemer covers your options.
Where to stay during race week
Sea to Sky brings riders, teams, media and spectators to Kemer at the same time, so October demand rises even though the summer crowds have gone. Staying in central Kemer means restaurants, the marina and the beach are a walk away in the evening, and every part of the course is a short drive.
Kemer Royal Beach Hotel is a practical base between race days: central, close to the beach and with a pool. Browse our rooms or check availability for your dates. Travelling as a team or group? Message us on WhatsApp (+90 532 151 47 67).
Frequently asked questions
When is Sea to Sky 2026?
From 7 to 10 October 2026, in Kemer, Antalya.
Where does Sea to Sky finish?
On the 2,365-metre summit of Mount Tahtalı, within the Kemer district. The race starts at sea level.
Which championship is Sea to Sky part of?
In 2026 it is a round of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship.
Can you swim in Kemer in October?
October is usually still a swimming month in Kemer, and far quieter than summer. It’s a good time to combine race days with time on the beach.
What else is on in Kemer in October?
A few weeks after Sea to Sky, the 17th International Kemer Bocce Tournament begins, and 29 October brings Republic Day celebrations. For the whole year, see our Kemer events calendar.
Cover photo: Sandra Canet, Wikimedia Commons, CC0. Adapted with typography.