Gulf of Gökova Travel Guide: Where Blue Meets Green Along a String of Quiet Coves
The Gulf of Gökova, one of the most visited corners of Muğla on Turkey's southwestern coast, is known for its sheltered coves and the way pine-green hills run straight into blue water. Also called the Gulf of Kerme, it lies between the Bodrum and Datça peninsulas. Because of the shape of the land, much of the shore sits far from the main road, which has helped it keep its natural character. Here is what to know before you go.
The Gulf of Gökova runs for about 100 kilometers between the Bodrum and Datça peninsulas.
About the Gulf
The Gulf of Gökova is an inlet of the Aegean Sea in southwestern Turkey. Bodrum, Milas, Muğla, Ula, Marmaris and Datça all have shores on it, and the settlement of Gökova, a neighborhood of the Ula district, sits at its eastern end.
Low hills line the gulf to the north and south. Geologically it is the southernmost of the Aegean grabens, basins that sank through tectonic movement. On the southeastern side the coast takes the ria form: half-circle coves separated by small peninsulas, which is why the area matters so much for yachting.
Amateur fishing, sunbathing, diving, water skiing and windsurfing are all part of local tourism.
Where It Is and How to Get There
The gulf is in Muğla Province. Gökova can be reached by intercity bus or by car from anywhere in Turkey. If you are flying, Dalaman Airport is one option and Milas-Bodrum Airport is another.
You can find the location on Google Maps.
Akyaka is the gulf's most popular resort town and a good base for exploring it.
Things to Do
Take in the view over the roughly 100-kilometer-long gulf.
Visit Akyaka, the area's most popular resort town.
Photograph Akyaka's houses covered in bougainvillea.
Join a boat trip on the Azmak from Akyaka.
Go on one of the boat tours around the gulf.
Walk or drive along Lovers' Road (Aşıklar Yolu).
Swim in the coves and at the beaches.
Try kitesurfing.
Taste the local oranges and lemons.
Stop by the local markets.
The Azmak River, Sedir Island and Lovers' Road are among the places to see around the gulf.
Azmak
The Azmak River is one of Muğla's best-known sights, with clear water framed by green banks. You can eat at the riverside restaurants or take a boat tour on the river.
Sedir Island
Sedir Island, home to the famous Cleopatra Beach, is one of the most visited spots in the gulf. The island also has the remains of an ancient city, an ancient theater and a sanctuary of Apollo. Boat tours cover both the ruins and the beaches around the island.
Lovers' Road
Turning toward Marmaris at the Gökova junction, you reach a road lined with eucalyptus trees. This is the gulf's well-known Lovers' Road, valued for its nostalgic look.
Akçapınar
Akçapınar is known for its local toasted sandwich and for its beach, where you can try kitesurfing, also called kiteboarding.
Rock Tombs
The rock-cut tombs in the area are worth a stop for anyone interested in archaeology and history.
What to Eat
Gözleme, a thin stuffed flatbread cooked on a griddle, is a local favorite, and stalls serving it are common around the gulf. In Akyaka, restaurants along the water serve meals with a view.
Keşfet ile ziyaret ettiğin tüm kategorileri tek akışta gör!
Test
Gündem
Magazin
Video
Send Comment