Akyarlar, known for having one of the clearest seas on the Bodrum Peninsula, stands out with its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and the charm of a traditional coastal village. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Akyarlar to plan your visit. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy a quiet, sea-focused holiday, Akyarlar is the perfect spot.
On this Akyarlar travel and holiday guide page, you’ll discover key information about places to visit, activities, beaches, food and drink, nightlife, shopping, transportation, and accommodation in Akyarlar—and get a clear sense of what this tranquil town is all about.
Akyarlar at a Glance: What to Expect?
Akyarlar is a small and charming coastal town located on the southwestern tip of the Bodrum Peninsula, about 23 km from Bodrum center, right next to Turgutreis. It’s also recognized as one of the top windsurfing destinations in the region.
Originally a fishing village, Akyarlar has managed to retain much of its natural character while blending in a more modern holiday lifestyle.
It’s famous for its shallow, crystal-clear sea, soft sandy beaches, and breathtaking morning sea views. The wind conditions make it great for windsurfing, while its relaxed village vibe is perfect for those seeking calm and connection with nature.
Situated directly across from Kos Island (its ancient name was Arhialla), Akyarlar has evolved from a quiet fishing village into one of the Bodrum Peninsula’s most beloved holiday destinations. From the hillside homes, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Greek islands, the blue sea, and the unspoiled surroundings.
Although the population increases slightly in summer with visitors and seasonal residents, Akyarlar remains relatively quiet compared to other parts of Bodrum. It’s a favorite among vacation homeowners and is just as pleasant during the off-season as it is in peak summer months.
You’ll also find a variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to friendly boutique hotels, making it suitable for different types of travelers.
Pros and Cons of a Holiday in Akyarlar
Pros:
Clear and calm sea: Ideal for children and those who are not confident swimmers.
Peaceful atmosphere: Compared to busier Bodrum locations, Akyarlar offers a much quieter holiday experience.
Natural beauty: Enjoy beachfront cafés, seaside walks, and unspoiled coves.
Windsurfing and water sports: Especially great conditions in the early morning hours.
Close to Bodrum center: You can easily reach the city for shopping, dining, or day trips.
Cons:
Limited nightlife: Not suitable for those seeking clubs or loud evening entertainment.
Few shopping options: No large malls or a wide variety of stores.
Busy in high season: Especially in July and August, the beach areas can become crowded.
Need for a car: To explore nearby areas, car rental is highly recommended.
Our Best Tips for First-Time Visitors to Akyarlar
Book early: Boutique hotels and seaside guesthouses in Akyarlar fill up quickly, so plan your stay in advance—especially for the summer season.
Consider renting a car: It makes reaching other Bodrum coves and the city center more convenient.
Bring water shoes: Some beaches have a slightly rocky seabed, so water shoes can be helpful.
Try windsurfing: Morning winds are ideal—great for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Don’t miss sunset walks: Strolling along the coastline at dusk is the best way to experience Akyarlar’s peaceful charm.
Taste local dishes: The beachfront restaurants offer excellent fresh seafood and Aegean mezes.
Top Things to Do & See in Akyarlar
Though a small village, Akyarlar and its surroundings offer plenty to explore. Here are the top spots and activities to enjoy:
Karaincir Beach: Located right next to Akyarlar, this shallow and warm beach is especially perfect for families with kids.
Akyarlar Bay: Mornings are serene, with still waters that feel like a lake—perfect for a refreshing start to your day.
Boat Tours: Join daily boat trips departing from Akyarlar to discover secluded Bodrum bays.
Windsurfing: Thanks to the steady morning wind, Akyarlar is a fantastic destination for windsurfing.
Nature Walks: Explore coastal paths or village trails to soak in the region’s natural scenery.
Akyarlar beach & the Bay, Water Sports
Akyarlar beach is one of the best Bodrum beaches and it is amazing with its fine sand and crystal clear waters. The Akyarlar beach is also very ideal destination for windsurfing lovers.
The 2 km. long Karaincir Beach (means Black Fig in Turkish), situated by the Akyarlar coast, is considered to be the Maldives of Turkey and one of the best beaches on the Bodrum peninsula. The Karaincir Beach dazzles with its deep blue sea.
The beautiful bay of Akyarlar, is one of the most popular places for visitors to have a great beach day out, swimming and water sports.
The Small Aquarium Bay is one of the most preferred spots for holidaymakers. And the Kargi Island, located in the south of Akyarlar, is one of the most preferred areas for diving enthusiasts.
Akyarlar has a very peaceful coastline with spectacular views. It is a great attraction for travelers to watch the sunset over Kos Island in the evenings.
Boat Trips
Since Akyarlar has a beautiful sea and blue flag beaches, daily boat tours are frequently organized in the region. You can enjoy the sea and have fun with daily boat trips to the surrounding bays from Akyarlar.
Bodrum coasts are very rich in color with jagged rocks and bright trees, as well as contrasted against the clear, turquoise sea. You’ll definitely experience the beautiful coasts by visiting the various bays by boat.
The tour guides will tell you where you can safely jump into the crystal clear waters to swim and snorkel. You’ll come across plenty of fish and other marine life, and when back on board, you’ll dry off while enjoying the sun. Continue reading…
Sightseeing
You can also have a day out to see the popular sights and historical sites on the Bodrum peninsula, including the Bodrum Windmills on the hills between Gumbet and central Bodrum, Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, the Myndos Gate and an ancient Amphitheater in central Bodrum, and the ruins of Pedasa.
Daily Tours & Excursions
For the ones who will not want to spend their Akyarlar holidays on a routine day out at their hotels, than attending to daily tours and excursions is one of the best options to experience and enjoy the stunning landscapes and natural beauties, crystal clear turquoise sea, historical sites, and charms of the Bodrum peninsula.
Variety of all inclusive daily boat trips, cycling, 4×4 Off-road Safari, Quad & Buggy Safari, scuba diving, day trips to Ephesus, Pamukkale and Dalyan are the top selling and the most popular excursions and daily tours from Bodrum. Continue reading…
Food & Drink in Akyarlar – What to Eat
In Akyarlar, seafood and Aegean cuisine take center stage. Dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and the cozy atmosphere of family-run restaurants offer something for every palate:
Fresh Fish and Seafood: Try the daily catch at seafront fish restaurants, where freshness is the norm.
Aegean Mezes: Classics like olive oil dishes, wild herb salads, and stuffed zucchini flowers are widely available.
Kumru and Gözleme: For a quick bite, small cafés near the beach serve gözleme and kumru sandwiches.
Ice Cream and Desserts: Enjoy fruit-based artisanal ice creams from local shops.
Traditional Breakfasts: Don’t miss a spread-style Turkish breakfast at a beach café in the morning.
Tip: Dining by the sea at night with a fresh fish and rakı meal under the breeze is an unforgettable Akyarlar experience.
Recommended spots include:
Bal Mahmut’un Yeri, especially famous for its çiğ börek (deep-fried meat pastry).
Bitez Dondurmacısı, a favorite stop for delicious ice cream.
Don’t leave without tasting the famous scorpionfish soup, a local delicacy.
Shopping in Akyarlar – What to Buy
Though Akyarlar lacks large shopping centers, its local boutiques and market stalls offer charming, authentic items:
Handmade Jewelry: Find natural stone accessories in small shops along the seafront.
Local Products: Items like olive oil, natural soaps, and lavender sachets make great gifts.
Organic Goods: Take home mandarin jam, homemade olives, and village bread for a taste of the region.
Beach Accessories: Stylish pareos, straw hats, and beach bags are available in local stores.
If you’re looking for more variety, a short trip to Bodrum center or Turgutreis Marina will offer larger shopping options.
Nightlife in Akyarlar
Akyarlar nightlife is calm and soothing, offering a completely different atmosphere than Bodrum center:
Seafront Restaurants: Enjoy dinner by the water with light music and a relaxed ambiance.
Quiet Bars: A few beachfront cafés transform into laid-back bars in the evening, serving cocktails with mellow tunes.
Evening Walks and Conversations: Stroll along the coastline under the stars and enjoy a peaceful night by the sea.
If you’re after a lively party scene with dancing and loud music, Bodrum center or Gumbet are just 30–35 minutes away by car.
Where to Stay in Akyarlar
Akyarlar offers a range of accommodation options including boutique hotels, beach apartments, and small resorts, catering to different budgets and travel styles.
Boutique Hotels: Small, seafront Akyarlar hotels with a cozy atmosphere—perfect for a relaxing stay.
Apart Hotels: Great for families, these Akyarlar apartments come with kitchen facilities for added convenience.
Luxury Resorts: A few higher-end hotels in and around Akyarlar offer premium services and facilities.
Guesthouses: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, beachside pensions are a great option.
Tip: Choose a hotel within walking distance to the beach to enjoy morning swims just a few steps from your room.
Quick Stats:
6% of tourists visiting Bodrum choose to stay in Akyarlar.
70% of accommodations are boutique or apart-style.
Summer occupancy rate: 78%
Average nightly rates: €80–€140
Best For: Nature lovers, families with children, and those seeking peace and quiet.
Tip: Book early to find better rates and get a room close to the sea during the summer.
What to Know Before Your Akyarlar Holiday
Planning ahead by understanding the climate and a few local tips will make your trip to Akyarlar even more enjoyable:
Weather and Climate
Akyarlar has a Mediterranean climate: hot and dry summers, mild and rainy winters.
June to September is perfect for swimming with ideal sea temperatures.
Light morning winds are common—great for windsurfing.
Helpful Tips
Bring a hat and sunscreen, especially in July and August when the sun is strong.
Occasional light currents may occur—watch young children closely when swimming.
While Akyarlar is generally very safe, keep an eye on your valuables at the beach.
Evening breezes can be cool—pack a light jacket or shawl just in case.
Even in summer, take early morning walks along the beach to enjoy the quiet and natural beauty. The cool air, fresh scents, and peaceful atmosphere create an unforgettable start to the day.
How to Get to Akyarlar
Akyarlar is located approximately 23 km from Bodrum center and 59 km from Bodrum Milas Airport (BJV). From the airport, HAVAŞ shuttle buses operate to Bodrum Bus Station, passing through Güvercinlik and Torba.
The trip to Bodrum city center takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic. From the center, you can take a dolmuş (minibus) to Akyarlar, which takes around 30 minutes.
Getting from Bodrum Airport to Akyarlar
The journey from Bodrum-Milas Airport to Akyarlar takes around 60 minutes by car.
You can rent a car or use airport transfer services for a direct trip.
Alternatively, take a shuttle to Bodrum Bus Station, then transfer to a dolmuş heading toward Turgutreis, and get off at the Akyarlar junction.
Getting from Bodrum Center to Akyarlar
From Bodrum Bus Station, board a Turgutreis minibus and get off at the Akyarlar stop.
If you’re driving, it’s an easy 25–30 minute trip from Bodrum.
In summer, private tourism minibuses also run directly to Akyarlar.
Tip: To explore nearby coves and hidden spots, renting a car can be very useful during your stay.
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FAQs
Where is Akyarlar located in Bodrum?
Akyarlar is on the southwest coast of the Bodrum Peninsula, just east of Turgutreis, and about 23 km from Bodrum center—a 30–35 minute drive.
What is the easiest way to get to Akyarlar?
You can reach Akyarlar by dolmuş or car from Bodrum. From the airport, it takes about 1 hour by rental car or private transfer.
What is the sea like in Akyarlar?
Akyarlar has one of the clearest and shallowest seas in Bodrum. It’s safe and ideal for families, especially for children and beginners.
Who is Akyarlar best suited for?
Perfect for peace seekers, nature lovers, families with kids, honeymooners, and those interested in watersports. It’s a great choice for a calm, crowd-free holiday.
What activities can you do in Akyarlar?
Enjoy swimming, windsurfing, nature walks, and daily boat tours to nearby coves. Visit Karaincir Beach for a family-friendly experience.
Does Akyarlar have nightlife?
Nightlife in Akyarlar is relaxed. Seafront cafés offer dinner with soft music, and evening walks along the shore are the highlight.
What accommodation is available in Akyarlar?
You’ll find seafront boutique hotels, apartments, and small family-run hotels. For those seeking more comfort, luxury resorts are also available.
What kind of food can you find in Akyarlar?
Expect fresh seafood, Aegean mezes, olive oil dishes, and traditional Turkish breakfasts. Beach restaurants serve up great dinners with a view.
Is Akyarlar good for shopping?
Akyarlar is a small coastal village, so there are no malls. However, local shops sell natural soaps, handmade jewelry, and regional food products.
When is the best time to visit Akyarlar?
The best time to visit is from June to September for warm sea and perfect weather. For a quieter and more affordable stay, opt for late May or early September.
