The Çamaltı Bird Sanctuary, 15 kilometres west of Karşıyaka, is a protected area of coastal salt marshes, lagoons, and reedbeds covering around 8,000 hectares. It is one of the most important wetland habitats in Turkey, providing breeding and wintering grounds for over 200 species of birds, including greater flamingo, glossy ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, and a range of waders, waterfowl, and raptors.
Access is restricted to the perimeter paths and observation points, which are enough to see the main attractions. Flamingos are visible from the roadside in summer. Serious birdwatchers should visit in spring (April–May) for peak diversity; winter brings large flocks of waterfowl including pelicans and ducks. The sanctuary is reached by car or, with some difficulty, by local bus from Karşıyaka.