Gulf of Gökova
Set between two peninsulas in the Aegean Sea—Bodrum to the north and Datça in the south—and hemmed in by the dramatic sea cliffs, sandy coves and rocky islands of the Gulf of Gökova (also known as the Ceramic Gulf) make up some of the most picturesque landscapes of Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast.
The Basics
The Gulf of Gökova boasts quiet coves surrounded by green forests, clear turquoise water, and mountains that turn red and yellow at sunset. Exploring Gökova Gulf is traditionally done by cruising along the shoreline, though it’s also possible to hike along the coastal Carian Trail, which runs from Cape Crio to Bodrum and through the sleepy resort town of Akyaka and the Kiran Mountains. From here, you can explore Cleopatra Island, famous for its seashell beach and an ideal spot for activities such as kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, kite surfing, and paragliding.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Gulf of Gökova is an ideal spot for nature and beach lovers.
Drop into Akyaka, a charming beachfront village known for its kite surfers and distinctive Ottoman architecture.
Enjoy the restaurants serving seafood and Mediterranean cuisine along the banks of the Azmak river.
Remember swimwear, sun protection, and water for hydration.
How to Get There
The Gulf of Gökova is located on Turkey’s southwestern Aegean coast, tucked in deep where the Bodrum Peninsula and the Datça Peninsula meet. The most popular way to reach the gulf is by cruise boat from Bodrum. Otherwise, fly from Istanbul to Dalaman (just over an hour away by plane) and take a taxi or drive an hour to Akyaka at the mouth of the gulf.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
Gulf of Gökova is busiest during July and August. Visit during autumn to catch temperate weather and beat the crowds, or in May for the Marmaris Maritime and Spring Festival or the larger Marmaris Yacht Festival—celebrated with yacht races and street performances. In June or July the Marmaris Cinema Festival takes over, and in October Marmaris hosts yet another maritime festival, the International Race Week.
Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island)
Just off the Gulf of Gökova is Cleopatra Island, also known as Sedir Island, an enchanting spot with a romantic legend attached. Said to be the clandestine meeting place of Cleopatra and Marc Antony, the island is also famous for its unusually textured sands, made up of ground white seashells. The sand is so special, visitors must leave their shoes at the entrance to the beach, as sullying or removing the sand is strictly prohibited.
- Things to do in Turkish Riviera
- Things to do in Sarigerme
- Things to do in Rhodes
- Things to do in Bodrum
- Things to do in Kos
- Things to do in Pamukkale
- Things to do in Kusadasi
- Things to do in Selçuk
- Things to do in Izmir
- Things to do in Antalya
- Things to do in Santorini
- Things to do in Alanya
- Things to do in Larnaca
- Things to do in Dodecanese
- Things to do in Western Anatolia