Golturkbuku, formerly Golkoy, is one of the most popular holiday resorts in Bodrum between Turkbuku and Torba, on the middle north coast of Bodrum peninsula. Formed by the merger of the former villages Turkbuku and Golkoy, this upscale destination combines serene coves, crystal-clear waters, luxury hotels, and a relaxed natural ambiance. It offers the perfect balance for both peace-seekers and style-conscious travelers.
Golturkbuku at a Glance: What to Expect?
Previously known simply as Golkoy, Golturkbuku sits about 23 km northeast of Bodrum town center. The name reflects the unification of Turkbuku’s lively sophistication and Golkoy’s laid-back charm into a single, stylish destination.
Built on the ruins of an ancient Carian settlement, Golturkbuku is nestled in one of the greenest areas of the Bodrum Peninsula. It’s also among the region’s fastest-developing towns, thanks to its growing popularity among local and international visitors.
The area is famous for:
Mandarin orchards and natural landscapes
A stylish marina and beach clubs
Stone houses and boutique architecture
A shallow and exceptionally clear sea, ideal for swimming
Golturkbuku’s dual nature makes it unique. The Golkoy side is quieter, preferred by locals and those seeking relaxation, while the Turkbuku side is more energetic, attracting visitors with beach parties, DJ events, and nightlife during the summer season.
With its scenic seaside promenades, tranquil coves, and elite crowd, Golturkbuku is a top choice for those wanting both serenity and sophistication in a single holiday spot.
Pros and Cons of Holidays in Golturkbuku
Pros:
Clear and calm sea: The water in Golturkbuku is exceptionally clean and ideal for swimming.
Nature-focused ambiance: Surrounded by stone houses, greenery, and natural beaches, the area offers a peaceful setting.
Balance of luxury and simplicity: You’ll find both upscale resorts and more modest, nature-integrated accommodations.
Variety of restaurants and beach clubs: From elegant venues to casual seaside cafés, there’s a broad range of options.
A calmer alternative to Turkbuku: Ideal for those who want a refined experience without the high energy of nearby Turkbuku.
Cons:
Higher prices: Accommodation and dining tend to be above Bodrum’s average.
Seasonal crowds: During the summer, the beachfront can get quite busy.
Limited nightlife: Those seeking more vibrant evening entertainment may need to head to Turkbuku or central Bodrum.
Our Best Tips for First-Time Visitors to Golturkbuku
Book in advance: Hotels and restaurants fill up quickly during the high season, so plan early.
Reserve beach clubs: If you want to spend a full day at a beach club—especially on weekends—reserve your spot ahead of time.
Bring comfortable footwear: Sandals or water shoes are helpful for rocky beaches and dock access.
Enjoy evening walks: A post-sunset stroll along Golturkbuku’s coastline is a relaxing and scenic experience.
Consider renting a car: To easily explore nearby areas like Golkoy, Turkbuku, and other coves, car rental offers flexibility.
Make the most of mornings: The sea is typically calmest and clearest during the early hours.
Top Things to Do & See in Golturkbuku
Golturkbuku offers a relaxing yet enriching holiday experience, combining natural beauty with opportunities for exploration:
Golturkbuku Beachfront: Spend the day along the coast enjoying the wide promenade and piers. Sunbathe on lounge chairs or take a dip in the sea at your leisure.
Golkoy Bay: For a quieter and more untouched beach experience, take a short walk to Golkoy’s peaceful shoreline and unwind in nature.
Historic Windmills: Scenic walking trails in the area lead to old Bodrum windmills, offering a touch of local history and panoramic views.
Nature Walks: Early morning hikes along nearby trails are perfect for discovering the region’s lush landscapes and coastal charm.
Daily Boat Tours: Hop on a boat departing from Golturkbuku to visit nearby islands and hidden coves, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Golturkbuku beach
Golturkbuku beach is a beautiful one situated in a stunning cove. The beaches here are very clean, crystal clear and very ideal for swimming.
Nearby Sights
We recommend you not to leave the town without seeing the lake that gives the town its name. You’ll enjoy the natural beauty by hiking or nature walking by the lake and taking lots of photos. The Cennet (Paradise) Cove is also an amazing place. The ancient city of Madnasa is another nearby point of interest.
Boat Trips
Boat trips along the stunning coastline of the Bodrum peninsula coasts is one of the best things to do in Bodrum. 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 Golturkbuku 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…
Shopping in Golturkbuku – What to Buy
Golturkbuku stands out with its small but stylish shopping options:
Designer Boutiques: Along the seafront, you’ll find unique boutiques offering limited collections from local designers.
Beach Essentials: Pareos, summer dresses, beach bags, and accessories are available in seaside shops.
Organic Products: Olive oil, handmade soaps, and lavender-based goods make for thoughtful souvenirs.
Art & Crafts: Small galleries sell handmade ceramics, miniature artworks, and artisan jewelry.
Where to Eat in Golturkbuku – What to Try
Golturkbuku is one of Bodrum’s top culinary spots, offering delicious dishes prepared with natural ingredients:
Fresh Fish and Seafood: Enjoy the catch of the day at seaside restaurants, where the seafood is both fresh and flavorful.
Aegean Mezes: Light and healthy options like sea beans, stuffed artichokes, and olive oil dishes feature prominently on the table.
Organic Breakfasts: Rich Turkish breakfasts made with local ingredients are a perfect way to start your day.
Boutique Patisseries: For an afternoon break, visit a coastal café for a coffee and light dessert.
Beach Club Menus: Trendy beach clubs offer international cuisine, gourmet snacks, and signature cocktails.
Nightlife in Golturkbuku
Golturkbuku’s nightlife is more serene and laid-back compared to the vibrant scene in nearby Turkbuku:
Beach Club Evenings: Some beach clubs transition into calm lounge spaces with soft background music at night.
Elegant Seaside Restaurants: After dinner, linger at beachfront restaurants that offer a quiet ambiance with soft music.
Seaside Walks: Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the quiet coastal promenade.
Turkbuku Alternative: For a livelier night out, Turkbuku is just a 5–10 minute drive away.
Accommodation – Where to Stay in Golturkbuku
Golturkbuku offers a mix of luxury and nature-friendly stays that appeal to those seeking both comfort and peace:
Boutique Hotels: Stylish, quiet Golturkbuku hotels with architecture in harmony with nature and personalized service.
Luxury Hotels: High-end resorts with private beaches and spa services, perfect for those seeking a premium experience.
Private Villas: Ideal for large families or groups of friends, these villas often come with private pools and sea views.
Seaside Guesthouses: Budget-friendly and simple guesthouses near the beach provide a more modest yet scenic stay.
Statistics:
5% of Bodrum tourists choose to stay in Golturkbuku.
78% of accommodations are boutique hotels or private villas.
Summer occupancy rate is around 82%.
Average nightly rates range between €200–€400.
Best For: Travelers who want luxury with tranquility.
Things to Know Before Your Golturkbuku Holiday
Golturkbuku is an excellent destination for those who want to experience Bodrum’s natural beauty in a serene and stylish setting.
Climate:
Golturkbuku has a typical Mediterranean climate: hot and dry in summer, mild and rainy in winter.
The swimming season usually lasts from late May to mid-October.
Temperatures during July and August range between 30–34°C. Sea temperatures are great for swimming.
Travel Tips:
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water-friendly sandals to stay comfortable in the summer sun.
For the calmest experience, go swimming in the early morning hours.
Enjoy a seaside sunset walk in the evening for a peaceful end to your day.
Make reservations in advance for beach clubs and popular restaurants during the summer.
If you plan to swim in secluded coves, it’s worth packing goggles and snorkeling gear.
How to Get to Golturkbuku?
Golturkbuku is located about 17.6 km from Bodrum city center and 44 km from Bodrum Milas Airport (BJV).
From Bodrum-Milas Airport, you can take HAVAŞ shuttle buses that pass through Güvercinlik and Torba, eventually reaching Bodrum Bus Terminal. The ride to Bodrum center takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic. From Bodrum, minibuses to Golturkbuku run regularly, with the ride taking around 25–30 minutes.
From Bodrum Airport to Golturkbuku:
The journey takes about 50–55 minutes by car.
You can take a HAVAŞ shuttle to Bodrum Bus Terminal, then continue by minibus to Golturkbuku.
Private transfer or car rental options are available for direct access.
From Bodrum City Center to Golturkbuku:
Regular minibuses from Bodrum Bus Terminal reach Golturkbuku in 25–30 minutes.
If you’re driving, take the coastal route via Torba for an easy and scenic trip.
Google Map
FAQs
Where is Golturkbuku located in Bodrum?
Golturkbuku lies on the northern coast of the Bodrum Peninsula, about 20 km from Bodrum Center.
How do you get to Golturkbuku?
You can reach it in 25–30 minutes by minibus from Bodrum. Direct access via car rental or private transfer from the airport is also convenient.
What is the sea like in Golturkbuku?
The sea is clear, cool, and very clean. You can swim from wooden piers or natural beaches.
Who is Golturkbuku ideal for?
Perfect for those seeking luxury and elegance, or for anyone looking for a peaceful holiday close to nature.
What activities can you do in Golturkbuku?
Swimming, nature walks, dining at upscale restaurants, boutique shopping, and daily boat tours are popular.
Is there shopping in Golturkbuku?
Yes, you’ll find designer boutiques, beachwear shops, local markets, and art galleries.
What is nightlife like in Golturkbuku?
Nightlife is elegant and low-key. Enjoy soft music at seaside restaurants or beach clubs. For a livelier scene, Turkbuku is just a short drive away.
Are there family-friendly hotels in Golturkbuku?
Yes, there are family-friendly hotels and safe beach areas suitable for children.
What’s the best time to visit Golturkbuku?
The best time to visit is between June and September, when both sea and weather conditions are ideal.
Are there luxury accommodations in Golturkbuku?
Absolutely. Golturkbuku offers a wide range of seafront boutique hotels, luxury resorts, and private villas.
