Bodrum Bays and Beaches: Which Coast Suits Whom?

When choosing a beach on the Bodrum peninsula, the first question is which coast: Türkbükü, Gölköy and Gündoğan on the north coast are generally more sheltered and calm, while Bitez, Ortakent, Gümbet and Turgutreis in the south are known for their long sandy beaches and wind. For sunsets, Gümüşlük and Turgutreis at the western tip stand out; for families with children, the shallow, sandy beaches of Ortakent and Bitez. Since the wind direction changes from day to day, deciding on your coast in the morning is a good habit.

Get to know the coasts first

The Bodrum peninsula stretches westwards like a finger. Its north and south coasts differ not only in scenery but also in the character of the sea.

• North coast: Türkbükü, Gölköy, Gündoğan, Torba and Yalıkavak. The bays are more indented and the sea is usually clear and cool. Many of the beaches are jetties rather than sand.
• South coast: Gümbet, Bitez, Ortakent, Yahşi, Kargı and Turgutreis. Long sandy and fine shingle beaches, wind that picks up in the afternoon and warmer water.
• Western tip: Gümüşlük and its surroundings. The area where the sun sets into the sea, known for its fish restaurants.

Bays of the north coast

Türkbükü and Gölköy

The best-known examples of Bodrum's jetty culture. Instead of a sandy beach, you swim from wooden jetties that reach out into the sea. The sea is calm most days; be careful with children who cannot swim, as the water off the jetty can be deep.

Gündoğan

A more local and quiet village in the north. Small beaches and jetties line the shore. A good choice for families and couples who want to escape the crowds.

Yalıkavak

Known for its marina, Yalıkavak lets you swim, stroll along the shore, sit in cafés and enjoy the view from the windmill ruins on the hill.

Beaches of the south coast

Bitez

A long bay surrounded by tangerine groves. It is popular with windsurfers because of the wind that picks up in the afternoon. In the morning the sea is usually calmer, and the shallow parts suit children.

Ortakent and Yahşi

Known as one of the longest sandy beaches on the peninsula. Its shallow, sandy entry makes it a favourite with families. There are many facilities and public beach areas along the shore.

Gümbet

A lively bay close to the centre that appeals to a young crowd. Water sports and beach clubs are common. If you are looking for peace and quiet, you may want to skip it.

Turgutreis

Close to the west, with a long stretch of coast and sunset views. Being near the town centre, it has plenty of places to eat and drink.

The western tip: Gümüşlük

Gümüşlük is a bay built on the remains of the ancient city of Myndos. The sea is shallow and calm, and fish restaurants line the shore. Rabbit Island (Tavşan Adası) opposite is the village's symbol. Swimming here and then spending the evening on the shore until sunset is one of Bodrum's classic experiences. Gümüşlük's tranquillity and its archaeological site have kept building here limited.

Bays reached by boat

Some bays are difficult or impossible to reach by land. Day boat trips leaving from Bodrum harbour usually stop around Kara Ada (Black Island) and at bays on the south coast. The cave on Kara Ada is known for its hot spring and its mud, believed to have healing properties. When choosing a boat:

• Ask how many bays you will stop at and how long the swimming breaks are.
• Find out whether lunch is included.
• On windy days, check which coast the boat will switch its route to.
• Check whether life jackets are available for children.

Practical notes for your beach day

• Follow the wind: If there are waves in the south, head north; if a cool wind is blowing in the north, head for a sheltered spot in the south.
• Go early: In summer, sunbeds and parking spaces at popular bays fill up in the morning.
• Bring sea shoes: Some bays have stony or rocky entries.
• Ask about public beaches: Many bays have free public areas; you can find out from the municipality or local shopkeepers.
• Respect the environment: In shallow areas with Posidonia seagrass meadows, boat anchors and litter harm marine life.

If you are wondering what the sea and wind are like in each month, see our article when to go to Bodrum, and for planning a holiday with children, our guide Bodrum with children.

Choosing a beach by season

Your choice of beach also depends on the month. In early June the sea is still cool, so the shallow, sandy bays in the south warm up faster and are easier to get into. In July and August the northerly wind can whip up waves on the south coast; on those days the sheltered bays in the north are calmer. In September the sea keeps the warmth it has stored over the summer and almost every bay is enjoyable; with fewer crowds, it also becomes easier to find a spot at popular places such as Türkbükü or Gümüşlük. In October, with shorter days, swimming around midday is more comfortable.

Frequently asked questions

Which bay in Bodrum has the calmest sea?

Türkbükü, Gölköy and Gündoğan on the north coast have a calmer sea on most days. This can change, however, depending on the wind direction.

Are there sandy beaches in Bodrum?

Yes. Ortakent, Yahşi, Bitez and Turgutreis have long sandy beaches. On the north coast, the beaches are mostly jetties and small strips of sand.

Which beach in Bodrum is suitable for children?

Ortakent and Bitez, with their shallow, sandy entries, are popular with families. Gümüşlük's calm sea is also comfortable for young children.

Do you organise tours to the Bodrum bays?

We do not have a ready-made catalogue programme for this route; if you would like us to plan one for your group, you can write to us via our contact page.