10 Hidden Coastal Villages in Turkey for a Quiet Seaside Escape

Ömer Faruk Kino
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Would you like to discover Turkey's hidden paradises? In this guide, we introduce you to 10 authentic locations where you can escape to secluded coastal villages away from the crowds, quiet and peaceful hidden coves, and unique seaside getaways. Stretching from Fethiye to Çanakkale, and from Datça to the Black Sea, these villages will make your holiday plans unforgettable with their natural beauty, crystal-clear sea, and boutique accommodation options. So, where are the best coastal villages in Turkey? Where are the calmest parts of Turkey? Keep reading to discover Turkey's best hidden coastal villages!

1. Kabak (Kabak Bay) — Fethiye / Ölüdeniz Area

Kabak Bay, located near Ölüdeniz in the Fethiye district of Muğla, has been a favourite among nature lovers for years. Situated where a valley surrounded by steep cliffs opens up to the sea, this village is one of Turkey's best-known hidden paradises. Instead of large hotels, you'll find small bungalows, yoga camps, and eco-tourism-focused guesthouses here.

Getting to Kabak is a bit of a hassle: you can take a minibus from Ölüdeniz, or you can drive your own car along narrow, winding roads. However, this ‘difficulty of access’ is actually what makes Kabak Kabak. Because places that are not easily accessible retain their natural beauty.

Things to do in Kabak:

  • Swim in the crystal-clear sea during the day, and spend time around a campfire on the beach in the evening.

  • Go hiking through a section of the Lycian Way.

  • Sample organic food in small cafes, sleep under the stars at night.

  • Kabak is a favourite for those seeking a holiday of ‘silence + nature’.

Source: Hellovillam

2. Faralya & Butterfly Valley — Fethiye

Located just beyond Kabak, Faralya Village boasts views of Butterfly Valley. The valley is a natural wonder surrounded by steep cliffs 350 metres high, accessible only by boat or challenging trails. Hundreds of different butterfly species can be observed in the valley during the summer months.

Faralya offers quiet accommodation above the valley with its guesthouses and small boutique hotels, while Butterfly Valley offers a “minimalist holiday” experience with its tent camps and bungalows.

Visitor tip: You can reach the valley by taking day trips by boat from Ölüdeniz. However, if you wish to stay longer, be sure to bring hiking boots, lightweight camping gear, and insect repellent.

Source: Andrzej Szkopiński

3. Bozburun — Marmaris Peninsula

Bozburun Village is one of the most popular destinations for those seeking to escape the crowds of Marmaris. Located at the tip of the peninsula, this small settlement is known for its tranquillity, gulet-building workshops and crystal-clear sea.

Bozburun is also at the heart of yacht tourism. Gulets departing from here take you to the hidden coves of both Datça and Hisarönü Bay. With small businesses dominating over large hotels, this village is the place to go for those seeking a quiet holiday and sea tourism.

Things to do in Bozburun:

  • Dine on fresh seafood at the fish restaurants at sunset.

  • Swim at the small beaches around the peninsula.

  • Spend the day in tranquil coves by joining short boat tours.

Source: Dmitry A. Mottl

4. Palamutbükü — Datça Peninsula

Palamutbükü is one of the most famous hidden corners of the Datça Peninsula. It is known for its long pebble beach and clear, cold sea. Located at the western tip of the peninsula, it has managed to stay away from the crowds.

Although Palamutbükü gets a bit busier in the summer months with day-trippers from Datça town centre, it still retains its tranquillity. The crystal-clear waters you encounter when swimming here offer a unique experience for underwater enthusiasts.

Accommodation recommendation: There are small family-run guesthouses and boutique hotels. Be sure to book early, especially during the summer months.

Source: Kültür Portalı

5. Ovabükü — Datça's Quiet Paradise

Ovabükü, neighbour to Palamutbükü, is located in the Mesudiye region of Datça. Known as ‘Datça's most peaceful cove’ for its pebble-sand beach and crystal-clear sea.

The main feature that distinguishes it from other bays is that it still retains its village atmosphere. There are only a few guesthouses and family-run businesses along the shore, which gives the area a more intimate feel.

Things to do in Ovabükü:

  • Relax all day on the quiet beach.

  • Enjoy fish at the seaside restaurants at sunset.

  • Walk to neighbouring bays.

Source: Zeytinn

6. Akyaka (Gökova Bay) — Muğla

Although Akyaka has grown in popularity in recent years, it still retains its village character. It is known for its wooden houses with bay windows, long beach and the Azmak River. It is one of Turkey's most important centres for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts.

Located on the northern shore of Gökova Bay, Akyaka offers a holiday experience that combines nature and sport. The sea is shallow and very suitable for families with children.

Things to do in Akyaka:

  • Try kiteboarding and windsurfing.

  • Take a boat tour on the Azmak River and swim in its crystal-clear waters.

  • Dine at seaside restaurants in the evenings with views of the bay.

Source: Enuygun

7. Tepeköy — Gökçeada (Çanakkale)

Gökçeada, Turkey's largest island, holds the title of ‘quiet town’. Tepeköy, located on this island, is known for its stone houses built in the Greek architectural style, its traditional square and its views.

The best thing about Tepeköy is that it offers the most authentic island experience. While the surrounding beaches are accessible by car, the village itself appeals more to those seeking ‘culture and nature’.

Visitor tip: If you happen to be there during the village fair held in the summer months, be sure to attend. The island cuisine, especially goat cheese and olive oil products, is worth trying.

Source: Gökçeada Rehberim

8. Çıralı — Antalya / Kemer

One of Antalya's most beautiful hidden shores, Çıralı is known for its long sandy beach and for being a protected nesting area for loggerhead sea turtles. Instead of large hotels, there are guesthouses, bungalows and family-run establishments.

The most important feature of Çıralı is the intertwining of nature and history. Just behind the beach lies the ancient city of Olympos, and nearby is Yanartaş (the eternal flames).

Things to do in Çıralı:

  • Swim in the tranquil beach during the day.

  • Take a walk to Yanartaş in the evenings.

  • Explore the ancient ruins of Olympos.

Source: Alinihatmataraci

9. Assos / Behramkale — Çanakkale

One of the most unique coastal villages in the Northern Aegean, Assos (Behramkale) stands out for both its historical and natural beauty. Watching the Aegean Sea from the ancient Temple of Athena is an unforgettable experience.

As you stroll through Assos's narrow stone streets, you'll encounter traditional Greek houses, stone guesthouses, and restaurants with sea views. The lower part of Assos, the Ancient Harbour, is a quiet area where small boutique hotels and fish restaurants are clustered.

Things to do in Assos:

  • Climb up to the Temple of Athena and take in the view.

  • Enjoy a fish meal at the ancient harbour.

  • Take photos in the narrow streets.

10. Amasra — Bartın (Black Sea)

Amasra is one of the most impressive harbour towns on the Black Sea coast. It enchants visitors with its two small coves, a fishing harbour and historic houses dating back to the Ottoman period.

Amasra is particularly popular with visitors from the Marmara and Western Black Sea regions due to its cool summer climate and natural beauty. The seafood restaurants lining the coast and the famous ‘Amasra salad’ are also a must-try.

Things to do in Amasra:

  • Watch the sunset from Boztepe.

  • Take a boat tour in the small harbour.

  • Discover handicrafts and local flavours at the local market.

Source: Hotels.com

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