The 14 Best Bodrum Beaches (Maps and Directions Included)

Bodrum has plenty of great beaches to choose from, but you’ll still want to pick the best one(s) for your needs.

Turkey is full of incredible attractions, from stunning landscapes to magnificent buildings and cities. It also has one of the richest histories in the world, one that has left behind ruins that attract millions of tourists every year.

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But between these, one aspect of the country always manages to slip under the radar; its wondrous coasts.

Bordered by four seas, Turkey is home to some stunning beaches, some best of which sits in the Bodrum peninsula.

Here, visitors enjoy sessions under the sun on the white sandy beaches and warm subtropical turquoise waters of the Aegean.

And even better, no two beaches are completely alike. Instead, every location offers something unique, so you can hop from one coast to another without the whole experience feeling repetitive.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Beach

How easy is it to get to the beach? If you’re staying in central Bodrum, you’ll probably want a beach that’s close by. But if you’re staying further out, you may be willing to travel a bit for a better beach experience.
What is the quality of the sand and water? Beaches in Bodrum vary widely in terms of both sand and water quality. If you’re looking for crystal clear water, you’ll need to do some research to find the right spot.
Is the beach crowded or secluded? Some people prefer a busy beach where they can people watch and socialize, while others prefer a more secluded spot where they can relax in peace.

Keep reading for the 12 best Bodrum beaches on the Turkish Riviera and the reasons why they are so popular among locals and tourists alike.

Best Bodrum Beaches

1. Yahsi Beach

Yahsi Beach offers a great seaside experience near Bodrum, thanks to its clean and clear waters, along with a very accessible strip of sand.

The beach has many amenities and things to do in the surrounding area. There’s no shortage of places to eat, drink and sleep close by, so you can turn your phone off and relax knowing that everything you need is close by.

This popular beach on the Bodrum peninsula is long and winding, so be sure to keep walking until you find the spot that’s right for you.

Location: Ortakentyahşi, Bodrum-yalıkavak Yolu, 48420 Bodrum, Muğla, Turkey

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2. Gümbet Beach

Gümbet Beach is a 1-km-long stretch of fine golden sand against moderate shallow waters and is popular with those seeking an adrenaline rush in Bodrum.

The main draw of this beach is the array of water activities available, which includes scuba diving, windsurfing, water skiing, jet skiing, and parasailing.

Gümbet Beach is one of Bodrum’s best diving spots – the Big Reef dive site is right in front of the beach. Under the crystal-clear seas (7 to 40 meters deep), you’ll be able to come up close to a large coral reef, sea urchins, starfish, and vibrantly colored fish.

If you want to just chill on the beach, many beach bars offer free sunbeds with an order of some food or drinks.

Location: Gümbet, Osman Nuri Bilgin Cd., 48400 Bodrum, Muğla, Turkey

3. Aspat

Aspat beach is a hidden gem on the peninsula that receives fewer visitors than other beaches in the area. This makes it ideal for lonely travelers looking for a quiet place to relax.

The beach is located among the mountains, a setting that gives it a welcome injection of scenery and nature. It also features fine-pebble sand and crystal blue waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Location: Akyarlar, Tuzla Aspat Mevki No.1, 48960 Bodrum, Muğla, Turkey Phone: +90 (0)252 331 0711

4. Bitez Beach

Bitez Beach offers the perfect atmosphere for those looking for a relatively peaceful Aegean experience. This is because it’s one of the few beaches in the area with fewer restaurants and nightclubs.

So, visitors looking for a quiet, less-crowded beach with stunning views of the Aegean have made Bitez their sweet retreat.

If you have had enough of the sand and water, the lounge chairs provide an excellent place to relax and watch the day go by. Some of these chairs go right into the sea, so you can always jump right into the water and back out when it suits you.

Bitez beach is a short ten-minute drive from Bodrum.

5. Kumbahce Beach

If you are in town and looking for a nice place to relax, the Kumbahce bridge may be the perfect place. It is an excellent location with a 300-meter stretch of sand, incredible peninsula views, and Bordrum’s iconic castle.

6. Ortakent Beach

Ortakent Beach is on the eastern end of the Ortakentyahşi municipality, around 12 km from central Bodrum. The beach is less touristy than the other beaches in the municipality, even though it’s lined with boutique hotels and resorts.

This perhaps contributes to the cleanliness and beauty the beach is adored for. Various watersports are available here, with windsurfing especially popular.

While you’re in Ortakent, you can also make a splash at Bodrum Aqua Park or check out Dibeklihan Culture and Art Village, both located in Ortakent Town.

To get to Ortakent Beach, take the dolmuş (share taxis) that runs every 10–15 minutes from Bodrum to Ortakent-Yahsi. Alight at the dolmuş stop located on the Ortakent side of the beach.

Location: Ortakent Plajı, Ortakentyahşi 48420 Bodrum, Muğla, Turkey

7. Yalıkavak Public Beach

Even from afar, Yalikavak beach screams luxury. This is because many boats and yachts coming out of the harbor slowly pass through here, resulting in an impressive display of wealth and luxury.

So, if you are super into yachts, whether you own one or not, this is the beach to be. There are also several high-end resorts and restaurants in the area with top-quality sun loungers.

Yalıkavak Public Beach is a pebble beach with clear blue waters on the Kudur Peninsula, around a 30-minute drive from Bodrum’s city center.

From the coast, you can take in a view of the Yalikavak Merkez Mosque and the Yalikavak bay. Several superyachts are moored on the marina as it has the deepest bay in Turkey.

The laidback atmosphere of Yalıkavak Public Beach makes it a pretty decent spot for a picnic, so go get some fresh produce at Yalikavak’s weekly market before making your way here.

Sun loungers are free to use, but there aren’t any cushions, so lay your towels on them to get comfy.

Location: Yalıkavak, 48990 Bodrum, Muğla, Turkey

8. Küdür Beach

Küdür Public Beach is one of the 2 public beaches in Yalıkavak. It sits on a protruding piece of land on the northern part of Kudur peninsula.

Like Yalıkavak Public Beach, its sister beach, Kudur Public Beach is simple and offers a no-frills seaside experience. Locals can be seen barbecuing and picnicking on this beach.

The main difference between these beaches is that instead of facing the marina, Küdür Public Beach faces the Aegean Sea, making it a prime spot for spectacular sunset views.

As the beach can get windy and the waters choppy, Küdür Public Beach is ideal for windsurfing. While you’re there, explore the Panormus Rock Caves, located to the left of the beach.

Location: Yalıkavak, 48990 Bodrum, Muğla, Turkey

9. Karaincir Municipal Beach

Karaincir Municipal Beach is a 500-meter white-sand beach within a small village resort around 16 km from Bodrum town. It’s tucked in the corner of a cove near Aspat Hill and Koca Point, sheltered by hills on both sides.

The water is clear, calm, shallow, and kid-friendly. To have a proper swim, head 100 meters out into the sea for the water to reach shoulder height.

While there aren’t sun loungers here, the beach is lined with rows of umbrellas which you can sit or lie under with a towel on the sand. The overwater wooden jetties are also excellent for sunbathing.

Location: Akyarlar, 48960 Bodrum, Muğla, Turkey

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10. Gümüşlük Port Beach

Gümüşlük Port Beach is nestled in a seaside village and fishing port that’s set on the ruins of the ancient city of Myndos.

On this sandy beach, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the hillsides and the bay, which are protected from future developments.

Unlike most beaches on the Aegean coast, Gümüşlük Port Beach will remain unspoiled in time to come. You can even walk to Rabbit Island which is inhabited by wild rabbits.

Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner in one of the many beachfront restaurants while watching the sunset over the Aegean. Gümüşlük Port Beach is within a 40-minute drive from Bodrum’s city center.

Location: Gümüşlük, 1120. Sk., 48970 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

11. Turkbuku Beach

Turkbuku is a beautiful beach on the Bodrum peninsula that caters to a high-end crowd. It features fine-dining restaurants serving delicious foods and more refined wines from some of the finest vineyards in the country.

So, if you want a taste of the high life, Turkbuku beachfront is the place to be.

12. Camel Beach

Also known as Kargi Bay, the area redefines seaside indulgence thanks to its incredible restaurants, sunbathing lounges, and swimming-friendly and watersports conditions.

But what brings visitors here is the promise of a camel ride along the beautiful Aegean shore. This has made Camel Beach one of the most family-friendly locations on the peninsula.

13. Turgutreis Beach

Turgutreis is all about relaxation and views. One of the top attractions of the peninsula’s second-largest town, the area is famous for its numerous cafes and restaurants serving Turkish seafood recipes and drinks.

Here, you can enjoy your meal on the diners’ tables or carry it to a beach lounger or parasol and dine your way to satisfaction while enjoying incredible views of the sea and the Greek Island of Kos.

Saturdays offer beachgoers a little something to remember their trip with. This is the market day, where local artisans bring lots of interesting crafts to buy and take back home with you.

14. Kadikalesi Beach

Kadikalesi is a beautiful coast backed by a quaint rural village with several restaurants and cafes serving delicious home-cooked Turkish recipes.

Its white sands are often unpopulated, making it a sweet spot for those searching for a quiet location to bask or chill out with a book in hand.

But don’t let its calm nature fool you; the beach offers lots of opportunities to inject an adrenaline boost into your day. This comes in as kite surfing since Kadikalesi has some of the best weather conditions for kite surfers.

The mornings feature mild winds, which attract beginners interested in kite surfing lessons.

However, the afternoons are better left to the pros. The stronger winds allow them to put on a show for the other beachgoers who prefer to spend that time relaxing and enjoying the beautiful Aegean scenery.

Bodrum’s beaches, nightlife, activities, water sports, luxury accommodation, unique attractions, and many other day excursions make it one of the best places to visit.

5 Insider Tips for Finding Free Beach Access

If you’re looking for secluded beaches in Bodrum, your best bet is to head to the east side of the peninsula.
One of the best ways to find free beach access is to ask a local. They’ll be able to point you in the right direction.
Once you’ve found a spot, look for signs that say no trespassing or private property. These usually indicate that the beach is open to the public.
Another good tip is to look for beaches that are less crowded. These are often easier to access without having to pay a fee.
Finally, remember that some of the best beaches in Bodrum are only accessible by boat.

Additional Mentionable Beaches in Turkey

One of our favorite secluded beaches in Bodrum is Ortakent Yahsi Beach. It’s well-known among locals, but still relatively unknown to tourists.

The water is clean and clear, and there are plenty of beach umbrellas and sun loungers for everyone. Plus, there’s a great playground for the kids.

Blue Lagoon – Dalyan, Turkey

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most beautiful places in all of Turkey. The water is crystal clear and the beach is surrounded by mountains. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views.

D-Marin Turgutreis Marina Beach (five sentences): D-Marin Turgutreis Marina Beach is one of the best beaches in Bodrum for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.

The beach is well-maintained and the water is clean and clear. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby for grabbing a bite.

Butterfly Valley – Fethiye, Turkey

Butterfly Valley is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in all of Turkey. It’s only accessible by boat, which makes it feel like your own private oasis. The water is crystal clear and the cliffs that surround the beach are covered in bright flowers.

There are a few restaurants and cafes at the top of the cliff, but they’re all pretty basic. If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun, Butterfly Valley is definitely the place for you.

1+1= Paradise – Milas, Turkey

This is my favorite beach in Milas and it is only a 20-minute drive from the city center. The water is crystal clear, the sand is white and there are plenty of sun loungers and parasols for everyone. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby for when you need a break from the sun.

So, if you’re planning to visit Turkey soon please check out the beaches listed above.

Top 5 Places To Stay Near A Beach

The Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum – This five-star hotel is located on its own private beach, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views. Plus, there are plenty of activities nearby if you want to explore. Book Now!
The Villa of Saint Tropez – This secluded beachfront villa is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its own private pool and direct access to the beach, you’ll never want to leave. Book Now
The Ceylan InterContinental Hotel – Located on one of Bodrum’s most beautiful beaches, this hotel offers stunning views and plenty of activities to keep you busy. from windsurfing to sailing, there’s something for everyone.
The Bodrum EDITION – Is just steps from the bay, 3 kilometers from Yalikavak Marina at the western point of the Bodrum peninsula, and minutes from Bodrum Castle and Bodrum Amphitheatre. The boutique hotel features 108 guest rooms, suites, and villas, most with views of the Aegean Sea — some with private pools, balconies, and gardens.
Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum – This property is 3 minute’s walk from the beach. Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum enjoys a quiet location, overlooking Gokova Bay. It provides luxury rooms with private balconies, 2 swimming pools, restaurants with sea views, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a blue-flagged private sandy beach.

Best time to visit Bodrum

Average monthly temperatures

Bodrum has a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. If you’re a sunseeker the best time to visit Bodrum is between June and September.

The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 36 C and an average low of 20 C and the coolest month of the year is January with an average daily maximum of 14 C and an average low of 4 C.

Sunshine and rainfall

The driest month is July with 0 mm of rainfall and 31 perfect sunny days. The wettest month is January with 57 mm of rain over 5 days.

Best time to be on the beach

You should be able to enjoy the beach with sea temperatures averaging 23 C or above from June to October.

How to get to Bodrum, Turkey

Flight: If you’re flying into Bodrum from the states you’re most likely coming via a layover from Istanbul before flying into Bodrum, Turkey.

Milas–Bodrum Airport has located about 30 km from the actual city.

Ferry: If you are adding Bodrum, Turkey to your Greece trip, it’s easy to take the ferry to Bodrum from nearby Greece.

Day trips from Greece are to take the 20-minute boat over for the day and explore Bodrum.

Bodrum, Turkey Travel Planning

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Conclusion of Best Bodrum Beaches

Is there anything better than laying around all day on a lovely beach and crystal clear waters in the luxury town of Bodrum? Of course not!

And you’ll find a variety of beautiful blue-flagged golden beaches on the Bodrum peninsula and Turkish Riviera. You’ll also find a wide variety of water sports activities at the Bodrum beaches such as parasailing, jet-skiing, banana boat rides, windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and many more.

If you are vacationing in Bodrum make sure you check out these luxury beaches for a day of self-care.

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ADDITIONAL ARTICLES

Is Bodrum, Turkey Safe for Tourists

Luxury Guide to Exploring the Turkish Riviera

Best Luxury Hotels in Bodrum, Turkey

Are you traveling to Bodrum, Turkey in 2022? Did I miss your favorite beach in Bodrum if so drop the name of the beach in the comments and I will add it to my list?

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