Yalıkavak Travel Guide 2027: Marina, Market, Bays and Getting There

What to see in Yalıkavak and how to get there from the airport? Yalıkavak, in the northwest of the Bodrum Peninsula, was once a small fishing village that lived from sponge diving. Today, with its world-famous marina, stone-paved bazaar and sunsets, it is one of the most sought-after resorts on the peninsula. Its breezy climate, even in summer, makes it Bodrum's cool corner.

In this guide we cover the sights in Yalıkavak, the best bays for swimming, the Thursday market and how to get there from Milas-Bodrum Airport.

Where Is Yalıkavak?

Yalıkavak is about 18–20 km from Bodrum town and about 52–55 km from Milas-Bodrum Airport. Gümüşlük lies to the west, Gündoğan and Göltürkbükü to the east. It is a good base for exploring the bays on the peninsula's north coast.

Things to Do in Yalıkavak

Yalıkavak Marina

The marina, Yalıkavak's landmark, is an international yacht harbour that serves superyachts. Around the yacht quay there is a shopping street of restaurants, cafés and boutiques. An early-evening stroll around the marina is one of Yalıkavak's favourite rituals. Note that it gets very busy on summer evenings, while daytime is much quieter.

Old Bazaar and Harbour

Right next to the marina, the old bazaar keeps the village's original character with its narrow lanes paved in black-and-white pebble patterns, small cafés and boutique shops. The restaurants along the old harbour, where the fishing boats moor, are a good choice for dinner at sunset.

Windmills

The windmills you see on the hill as you enter Yalıkavak are symbols of the peninsula's farming past. Around sunset, this is one of the best spots for photos.

Thursday Market

Yalıkavak market is held on Thursdays and is one of the most famous markets on the peninsula. Besides local produce such as fresh fruit and vegetables, olive oil and cheese, there are clothing and accessory stalls. It is ideal for self-catering holidaymakers and villa guests; don't leave without trying gözleme.

Sunset

Yalıkavak is known as one of the best places in Bodrum to watch the sunset. The restaurants along the seafront and the western end of the marina look out over the sun sinking into the sea.

Where to Swim in Yalıkavak

The long beach in the centre is a practical option if you are staying within walking distance. For calmer water, head to the surrounding bays:

• Tilkicik Bay: Close to the centre, a calm bay with clear water.

• Pafla Bay: West of Yalıkavak, a less crowded alternative.

• Ağaçbaşı Bay: Sheltered from the wind and suitable for families.

Some beaches in the area are run as beach clubs and charge an entrance fee; check the conditions before you go. Because Yalıkavak gets a good breeze, it is also a good spot for windsurfing.

When to Go

June and September are the months when the sea is warm but the crowds have not yet peaked. July and August are the liveliest; you may need to book restaurants and beach clubs. In winter Yalıkavak quietens down, but the marina and part of the bazaar stay open all year.

Day Trips from Yalıkavak

• Gümüşlük: About 15 minutes to the west. For Rabbit Island and the fish restaurants, see our Gümüşlük travel guide.

• Göltürkbükü: To the east, known for its beach clubs on wooden piers: Göltürkbükü travel guide.

• Bodrum town: About a 30-minute drive for the castle and marina.

How to Get from Bodrum Airport to Yalıkavak

There is no direct bus from the airport to Yalıkavak. You need to take Havaş or Muttaş to Bodrum Bus Station and change there to the Yalıkavak dolmuş; with the waiting time for the connection, the journey can take a while. We compare all the options and journey times in our guide how to get from Bodrum Airport to the Bodrum peninsula.

The most convenient option is a private transfer planned around your flight. Your driver waits at the terminal exit with a name sign and takes you straight to your hotel or villa. The price is per vehicle, not per person, and baby and child seats are free. You can book on our Bodrum Airport – Yalıkavak transfer page.

Some villas in Yalıkavak are on hillsides reached by steep, narrow roads. Sharing a location link when you book helps the vehicle get as close to your door as possible. If you want to know what to expect at the airport, have a look at our Milas-Bodrum Airport guide.

Conclusion

Yalıkavak combines a luxury marina with the character of an old fishing village and stands out for its sunsets and cooling breeze. Add the Thursday market, the old bazaar and the surrounding bays to your plans. To get there from the airport without changes, see the per-vehicle price and book on our Yalıkavak transfer page.