The Bodrum peninsula is a world of contrasts packed into a small area: glamorous marinas and beach clubs, sleepy fishing villages, windmill-crowned hills, ancient ruins and dozens of bays with clear turquoise water. Seen from the deck of a private yacht, it is one of the most enjoyable cruising grounds in the Mediterranean, because every bay has its own personality and the distances between them are short. Many guests spend a few days exploring the peninsula at the start or end of a longer charter, while others devote an entire week to its beaches, restaurants and nightlife.
Because the peninsula is surrounded by sea on three sides, there is almost always a sheltered side when the summer wind blows. Your captain will choose the bays according to the conditions, moving between the north coast, with its chic resorts and marinas, and the south and west coasts, with their sandy beaches and relaxed villages.
Yachts around the Bodrum peninsula
Yalıkavak: Glamour and Superyachts
On the north-west of the peninsula, Yalıkavak has become one of the most fashionable addresses in Turkey, centred on its luxurious marina, which welcomes some of the world’s largest superyachts. Around the marina you will find designer boutiques, international restaurants and stylish bars, and the surrounding hills are dotted with elegant villas. Arriving by yacht for dinner and an evening stroll is a highlight for many guests, and several of our motor yachts are based here.
Gümüşlük: Sunset and Seafood
At the western tip of the peninsula, the village of Gümüşlük is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, its waterside fish restaurants and its spectacular sunsets. The ancient city of Myndos once stood here, and remains of its walls and harbour can still be seen, some beneath the water. Anchoring off Gümüşlük for dinner, with your table at the water’s edge and the sun sinking behind Rabbit Island, is an unforgettable evening. See our Gümüşlük and Gündoğan stops guide.
Turgutreis, Akyarlar and Aspat
On the south-west coast, Turgutreis has a large marina and a lively town, and is a popular starting point for charters heading to the Greek islands. Nearby, the bays of Akyarlar and Aspat offer sandy beaches, clear water and a laid-back atmosphere, and the little island of Karaada (Black Island) off Bodrum town has hot springs and caves said to have rejuvenating mud.
Türkbükü, Gündoğan and Bitez
The north coast is home to Türkbükü, once the summer haunt of Istanbul’s jet set, with elegant beach clubs on wooden piers, and to the quieter village of Gündoğan. On the south coast, Bitez is a long, family-friendly bay with calm water and beach restaurants. Each offers a different flavour of peninsula life, and your captain will suggest the best combinations for your group.
Combining the Peninsula With Gökova or Greece
A popular plan is to spend two or three days around the peninsula before heading into the calm Gulf of Gökova or across to Kos and Kalymnos. Read our Bodrum yacht charter guide, Gökova bays and Greek islands articles.
More Bodrum yachts
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we start our charter in Yalıkavak?
Yes, several yachts are based in Yalıkavak Marina.
Is the peninsula good for families?
Yes – bays such as Bitez and Akyarlar are calm and sandy.
How long does it take to cruise around the peninsula?
A relaxed circuit can be done in two to three days.
Planning your own week at sea? Discover our yacht charter in Turkey – private gulets, motor yachts and superyachts from Bodrum, Göcek, Marmaris and Fethiye, arranged by our team since 2001.