The sea tourism in Marmaris is not limited to just the city. There are bays, beaches and small islands all around the Peninsula. Most of those bays can be reached both by land and sea. Let’s take a tour around the Gökova Gulf coast.
It is a well-known fact that the Gökova Gulf which comprises a part of Bodrum-Milas-Marmaris and Datça coasts is the most beautiful gulf in Turkey. The sea and the pine trees integrate well with the bays sometimes running amongst the pine trees like a river. The ropes of boats can be fastened to the pine trees on the shore. There are multiple roads to the Gökova Gulf from Marmaris.
It is possible to get to other bays by going alongside the Gulf. Although it seems that visiting those bays by boat is the best way, a land trip gives and offers a different perspective. The bays that can be reached are Okluk, English Port, Löngöz, Seven Islands, Gücük Port and Bördübet Bay. There are other large and small bays amongst these
There is an abundance of simple but high quality restaurants offering fresh fish, seafood and appetizers made from different herbs found in the bays.
Amazon Camping at Bördübet Bay is the last stop.
Gökova Gulf Shores
Selimiye
Selimiye is another stopping point for boats traveling between Marmaris and Bodrum. The village is very green with little restaurants gathered around the bay servicing mostly boats. They have a variety of fish as it is abundant here. Pure olive oil and laurel leaves give a unique taste to steamed fish. Stuffed courgette flowers are a specialty of the Aegean kitchen.
The old name of Selimiye is Hydas. There are remains of three castles around Selimiye. Hellenistic city wall remains are frequently visited and they are located on a hill southeast of the bay. There are boat tours to Kamelya and Dişlice Islands.
Daily boat tours to nearby bays and islands are available from Selimiye. The first stop is Kamelya Island. There is a monastery on the island which is an easy climb. A mosaic, formed from black, white and gray sea stones decorates the base of the monastery.
Another stopping point is Dişlice Island. There are volcanic rocks which create a monumental lookout of the island. The rocks are so indented that the island is very convenient for lovers who want some privacy. This has given the island the name “Love Island” among locals.
