The coastline around Bodrum was recently described as “the chicest seaside spot in the Med” by Forbes, who believe Türkiye’s shoreline is attracting “a smart new set of luxury travellers”. Escape also suggests Türkiye is “setting the new standard of high-end luxe”. It’s true, Türkiye is a fabulous destination for the wealthy, but aside from award-winning marinas, 5-star resorts, and luxury spas, there are also countless beautiful bays offering the ideal crowd-free escape. Here’s a look at a few of the best bays in Türkiye to add to your itinerary.

THE BEST BAYS IN TURKEY

Bencik Bay, Marmaris 

Found on the peninsula separating the Gulf of Gokova and the Gulf of Hisaronu is Bencik Bay. It’s one of the most picturesque sheltered bays in the region and a location favoured by superyachts as it’s tricky to access overland, so normally quiet. Take shelter here, or stop off, then head on to D Maris Hotel in Datça for some fine food, rest, and relaxation.

Aquarium Bay, Datca 

Pop on the snorkel or take to the paddle board to discover the sea life in the depths of Aquarium Bay, a famous yacht stop in the Bodrum region. Crystal clear waters reveal shoals of fish, sea turtles, moray eels, and all manner of other marine life, along with a growing number of ducks and geese that like to join the bay’s guests for a swim. The bay, although popular with blue cruisers, is one of the highlights of the Turkish coast and worth a visit if you’re cruising in the area.

Kisebuku (Alakisla Buku), Bodrum 

The large cove of Kisebuku is a great place to anchor, with the mountains to the north of the bay offering shelter, Oleander trees cladding the slopes, and beaches making for an Instagram-worthy snapshot. If you like history, head on land to see the ruins of watchtowers, bathhouses, and churches dating back to between 200 B.C. and 600 A.D. The area was once an important port and Byzantine settlement.

Cleopatra’s Bath (Hamam Bay), Monastir Bay, Gocek 

We have often mentioned Cleopatra Bay in our blogs and newsletters as it’s such a popular place to visit and certainly one of the best bays in Türkiye. Found in Monastir Bay, the home of many beautiful anchorages, Cleopatra’s Bath is the most famous. Many myths surround the bay and the ruins that lie within it, but all the stories suggest that Queen Cleopatra swam in the clear waters here sometime around 40 B.C. Some suggest she was gifted the bay as a wedding present by Marc Anthony. Others that she loved the beauty of the bay and asked to stop off every time she sailed along the coast. Either way, it’s easy to see why she loved to visit, so do add Hamam Bay to your cruising itinerary.

Bozukkale Bay, Loryma, Marmaris

Bozukkale is easy to find due to the ruins of an ancient citadel seen on approach. Bozukkale means “broken castle,” and that aptly describes the bay. The bay was once home to a large naval base where troops used to defend the area from enemies that gathered in the large natural harbour. Many sections of the ruins of the fort are still evident. The stone walls stretch for 334 meters and are 2 meters thick in places. The remains of eleven watchtowers offer spectacular views over the bay and its natural harbour. The ancient city of Loryma is another interesting aspect found to the north of the bay. Unfortunately, little restoration has been carried out, and nature has reclaimed much of the site. Nonetheless, Bozukkale is a beautiful large and sheltered bay worthy of our list.

Butterfly Valley, Fethiye 

Butterfly Valley is conveniently located just across the bay from Oludeniz, known for its famous sandbank and blue lagoon. The valley can only be accessed safely by sea, but its beauty ensures shots of the bay grace the covers of many travel magazines. The valley is protected and an area of natural beauty due to the many butterflies and moths found during the summer months. Take a trip ashore and enjoy a cold beer in a rustic, hippy-style cafe that’s popular with backpackers who pitch tents, practice yoga or stay a few nights in makeshift tree houses. Alternatively, walk along a path to the back of the valley, where a small waterfall can be found. Butterfly Valley is a beautiful location, but avoid 10.30 am to 2 pm as that’s when all the day-trippers arrive in the daily boats.

Hopefully, this has given you a few pointers on some of the best bays in Türkiye to visit this season. If you would like to add any of the suggestions to your cruising itinerary, please CONTACT US.

(This post was updated in May 2023).