Turkbuku is one of the most exclusive and popular resorts on the Bodrum Peninsula. Known for its luxury beach clubs, stylish restaurants, and crystal-clear sea, it becomes one of the top destinations in summer, attracting celebrities, both local and international visitors. Along with its natural beauty, Turkbuku stands out for its vibrant and upscale atmosphere. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Turkbuku and helpful tips to make the most of your holiday.
Turkbuku at a Glance: What to Expect?
Located on the northern tip of the Bodrum Peninsula, Turkbuku is about 20 kilometers from Bodrum town center. This chic seaside village is famous for its beaches, fresh seafood, mandarin orchards, clear turquoise water, and whitewashed houses. While it gets busy during the summer season, it retains a special charm in the off-season as well.
Once a quiet fishing village, Turkbuku has evolved into an upscale holiday hotspot filled with luxury resorts, boutique hotels, private villas, and beach clubs.
What makes Turkbuku unique is its wooden piers along the waterfront where visitors sunbathe and swim, the peaceful early mornings, and the lively restaurant and bar scene that picks up as the sun sets.
Pros and Cons of Holidays in Turkbuku
Pros:
Upscale atmosphere: As one of Turkey’s most prestigious resorts, it offers high-standard services.
Trendy beach clubs: Enjoy the sea and quality music all day in stylish, lively venues.
Crystal-clear water: The sea in Turkbuku is very clean and refreshing.
Celebrity sightings: In summer, you might share spaces with well-known public figures.
Diverse dining and nightlife: Fine restaurants and bars offer plenty of evening entertainment options.
Cons:
Higher prices: Accommodation, food, and beach club entry fees are generally more expensive than in other parts of Bodrum.
Crowded during peak season: July and August can be especially busy along the beaches and in local venues.
Not ideal for a traditional village vibe: Turkbuku has a modern, luxury-oriented character rather than a rustic charm.
Our Best Tips for First-Time Visitors to Turkbuku
Arrive early to beach clubs: For better seating and sunbed options, head out in the morning.
Book in advance: Reserve tables at popular restaurants and beach clubs well ahead during the summer.
Bring water shoes: Since most beaches use piers for sea access, water shoes make entry more comfortable.
Dress stylishly for evenings: Elegant attire helps you blend in at upscale dinners or beach club events.
Consider renting a car: This gives you flexibility to explore nearby coves and Bodrum’s city center.
Swim in the morning: The sea tends to be calmer and more enjoyable before the afternoon breeze picks up.
Things to Do and Places to Visit in Turkbuku
Turkbuku attracts visitors not only with its beachfront atmosphere but also with its surrounding natural beauty and social offerings:
Seafront Piers: In Turkbuku, most beach access is via piers. Spend the day sunbathing on a lounger and take just a few steps to cool off in the sea.
Boutiques and Art Galleries: Wander the streets to discover stylish boutique shops and small galleries featuring local and contemporary art.
All-Day Fun at Beach Clubs: Enjoy the sea at luxury beach clubs while dancing or relaxing to live DJ sets throughout the day.
Daily Boat Trips: Explore nearby coves and untouched beaches by joining a boat tour—a great way to discover the region from the water.
Nature Walks: In the early morning, take peaceful walks along the natural trails surrounding Turkbuku to enjoy the scenery and fresh air.
Turkbuku Bay and Beach
Turkbuku has a beautiful beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing throughout the day. In summer, the coastal road is closed to vehicle traffic, turning the area into a lively pedestrian zone full of energy and charm.
Along the waterfront, you’ll find high-quality hotels, restaurants, and cafés offering scenic views and good service.
Outdoor and Nature Activities
Turkbuku is an excellent spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike along scenic trails, climb the surrounding hills for panoramic sea views, or explore historical sites hidden in the landscape.
In the higher parts of Turkbuku, there are remnants of ancient Lycian structures—including fortresses, caves, and rock tombs—offering a chance to blend natural exploration with a glimpse into the region’s past.
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.
Turkbuku Video Tour
Daily Tours & Excursions
For the ones who will not want to spend their Turkbuku 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…
What to Eat in Turkbuku – Food & Dining Guide
Turkbuku is home to some of the most exclusive dining spots in Bodrum, with a strong emphasis on freshness and presentation:
Fresh Fish & Seafood: Seafront restaurants serve daily catches—sea bream, sea bass, calamari, and shrimp are menu highlights.
Aegean Mezes: Be sure to try classics like sea beans (deniz börülcesi), fava, and stuffed zucchini blossoms (kabak çiçeği dolması).
Gourmet Restaurants: Around the marina, you’ll find upscale venues offering refined dishes from international cuisines.
Organic Breakfasts: Start your day with a rich Turkish breakfast made from natural, locally sourced ingredients—popular across many boutique hotels.
Bakeries & Dessert Cafés: For a sweet break, visit boutique pastry shops for handmade ice cream or traditional Turkish desserts.
Local favorites:
If you’re a mussel lover, Şehmus Usta is highly recommended.
Try the natural fruit ice cream at Türkbükü Doğal Dondurma.
At Hoca’nın Yeri, the çiğ börek is a top pick.
At Pitahaya Mutfak, the sesame-crusted sea bass (levrek simit) is a local favorite.
Turkbuku Nightlife
Nightlife in Turkbuku is chic, lively, and centered around high-end venues:
Beach Club Parties: Many beach clubs transform at night with DJs, live music, and themed parties.
Elegant Bars: Upscale seaside bars serve cocktails in a stylish setting, perfect for a relaxed evening.
Dining Evenings: After dinner, enjoy extended conversations by the sea, often with soft background music.
Bodrum Center Option: If you’re looking for even more nightlife options or dance clubs, Bodrum city center is just a short drive away.
Where to Stay in Turkbuku
Turkbuku offers a variety of high-end stays, ideal for those seeking luxury and comfort:
Luxury Hotels: 5-star seafront Turkbuku hotels offering spa services and private beach access are available for premium stays.
Boutique Hotels: Elegant, peaceful, and designed with personal service in mind, boutique hotels line the coast.
Private Villas: A popular option for large families or groups, many villas come with private pools and sea views.
Apart Hotels: For a more affordable but comfortable stay, modest apart-hotels are also available.
Quick Stats
Around 8% of tourists to Bodrum choose Turkbuku.
About 75% of accommodation options are in the luxury boutique category.
Summer occupancy rates reach 89%.
Average price per night: €250–€500.
Best For
High-income travelers
Those seeking luxury, beachside leisure, and nightlife
Couples, groups of friends, and trend-focused vacationers
- Hotels.com Bodrum Turkbuku Hotels
Things to Know About a Trip to Turkbuku
Turkbuku offers a vibrant, warm atmosphere in the summer and a more peaceful retreat in the spring.
Weather and Climate:
The region has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.
Sea temperatures are ideal for swimming from late May to mid-October.
In July and August, daytime temperatures can exceed 30°C, making the sea perfect for cooling off.
Travel Tips:
Bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect against strong sun.
Swim early in the morning for a quieter, more relaxed beach experience.
Make reservations at beach clubs and popular restaurants in summer to secure your spot.
Pack a light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings.
If you plan to explore on foot, bring comfortable sandals or water shoes, especially for boardwalk and beach use.
How to Get to Turkbuku
Turkbuku is located about 20 km from Bodrum town center and 46 km from Bodrum Milas Airport (BJV).
The HAVAS Airport Shuttle operates between the airport and Bodrum city center. Following the route Guvercinlik, Torba road and Bodrum Intercity Bus Terminal in central Bodrum in order, it takes about 45 minutes.
And you should take a taxi or dolmus (minibus) to get to Turkbuku from the Bodrum city center. Dolmus (minibus) takes about 25 minutes to reach Turkbuku.
From Bodrum Milas Airport:
Drive time to Turkbuku is around 45–50 minutes.
HAVAŞ shuttles run from the airport to Bodrum city center via Güvercinlik and Torba.
From Bodrum bus station, take a minibus (dolmuş) to Turkbuku.
Private transfers or rental cars offer a more direct and comfortable option.
From Bodrum Center:
Dolmuş services from Bodrum Bus Terminal take 25–30 minutes to reach Turkbuku.
You can also drive via the Bodrum–Torba road, then follow the coast toward Turkbuku.
Turkbuku is situated on the north coast of Bodrum peninsula, about 20 km. from central Bodrum, and 46 km. from Bodrum Milas Airport (BJV).
Google Map
FAQs
Where is Turkbuku located in Bodrum?
Turkbuku sits on the northern coast of the Bodrum Peninsula, about 20 km from Bodrum center.
How do I get to Turkbuku?
Take a dolmuş from Bodrum (25–30 minutes) or drive from Bodrum Milas Airport (45–50 minutes). Transfers and taxis are also available.
What is the sea like in Turkbuku?
The sea is clear, cool, and clean. Most people enter from piers. Some beaches may have light waves.
Who is Turkbuku ideal for?
Turkbuku suits luxury travelers, those who enjoy stylish beach clubs, and anyone seeking an upscale experience near Bodrum.
What can I do in Turkbuku?
Swim, relax at beach clubs, enjoy fine dining, take boat tours, and shop in boutique stores.
Is there shopping in Turkbuku?
Yes. You’ll find designer boutiques, summer fashion, accessories, and local crafts.
What is the nightlife like in Turkbuku?
It’s lively and upscale, with beach club parties by day and stylish bars and live music in the evening.
Is Turkbuku suitable for families with children?
Yes. Many hotels are family-friendly with safe swimming areas and child-oriented services.
When is the best time to visit Turkbuku?
June to September offers the best weather and swimming conditions.
Are there luxury accommodations in Turkbuku?
Absolutely. You’ll find 5-star hotels, private villas, and boutique seafront hotels in abundance.
