10 Most Beautiful Bays for Swimming in Muğla in October

19.09.2025 - 12:03

October is one of the most enjoyable times to swim in the sea along the coast of Muğla. The scorching heat of summer is behind us, the tourist crowds have largely thinned out, and nature is beginning to recover. Despite this, the sea is still warm; the waters, heated throughout the summer, remain between 23–26°C in October, creating an ideal environment for swimming. While you can enjoy the beach with daytime air temperatures reaching 25–28°C, evenings bring a cooler and more peaceful atmosphere. So, where to swim in Muğla? Where are the best bays to swim in Muğla? And can you swim in Muğla in October? Let's explore the blue beauty of Muğla together!

Why Visit Muğla?

Muğla is one of Turkey's provinces with the longest coastline, boasting approximately 1,100 kilometres of shoreline. It is home to tourist centres such as Bodrum, Marmaris, Datça, Fethiye, Göcek and Gökova, as well as unspoilt and lesser-known coves. This vast geography offers numerous options for those wishing to swim in the sea in October.

1. Ölüdeniz (Fethiye)

Ölüdeniz is not only Muğla's but Turkey's most iconic beach. Thanks to its lagoon structure, the sea is usually calm and offers a clear turquoise appearance. In October, it is still touristically active; however, as the summer crowds have largely dispersed, you can swim in a much more peaceful atmosphere. Paragliding from Babadağ continues, adding a different visual spectacle to the bay's scenery. The water temperature in October is around 24–25°C, making swimming comfortable for most of the day.

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2. Butterfly Valley (Fethiye/Faralya)

This unique cove, hidden among steep cliffs, is a natural wonder accessible by boat or via a steep footpath. In October, after the summer crowds have departed, the valley takes on a much more tranquil atmosphere. It is an excellent choice for camping, viewing the waterfall, and swimming in the quiet of the early morning. The water is clear and cool, with an average temperature of around 24–25°C in October. The rocky structure surrounding the sea and the steep slopes of the valley add a dramatic atmosphere to the swimming experience.

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3. Kabak Bay (Faralya)

Located east of Ölüdeniz, Kabak Bay is a hidden paradise for those seeking to commune with nature. Surrounded by pine forests, this bay can be reached via steep paths or by boat. As there are camping areas and bungalow facilities in the cove, tourism remains active even in October. Swimming here is much more peaceful in the milder weather, away from the summer heat. The water temperature stays around 24–25°C in October, and the morning hours are quite pleasant for swimming.

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4. Kıdrak and Gemiler Bays (Fethiye)

Kıdrak Bay, located near Ölüdeniz, preserves its unspoilt nature as it has the status of a nature park. This beach, which is crowded in the summer months, is much more peaceful in October. It attracts attention with its wide sandy beach, pine tree shade and turquoise sea. Gemiler Cove stands out with its historical ruins. It offers a fascinating experience to see the ruins of a church from the Byzantine period and then swim in the crystal clear sea. The sea temperature in October is around 24–25°C in both coves.

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5. Gümüşlük (Bodrum)

Located at the western tip of the Bodrum peninsula, Gümüşlük is known for its peaceful fishing village atmosphere. After the bustling days of summer, October brings a much calmer, more tranquil atmosphere. The sea experience, combined with the sunset in the evening, is unforgettable here. The coast is shallow and the water is usually calm, making it suitable for families and those seeking tranquillity. The water temperature in October ranges between 23–24°C. Eating seafood at the restaurants around the bay is also a great way to top off the day.

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6. Palamutbükü (Datça)

One of the most famous bays on the Datça Peninsula, Palamutbükü stands out for its clear sea and long sandy beach. In October, it is free from the summer crowds, but small guesthouses and beach establishments are still open. The beach, which is sunny all day long, and the rocky terrain make the clarity of the sea quite impressive. The sea temperature in Palamutbükü in October averages around 24°C. Its proximity to the centre of Datça also makes it easy to visit for the day.

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7. Sarsala Bay (Göcek/Dalaman)

One of the most popular bays in Göcek, Sarsala has a wide bay accessible both by land and by boat. Surrounded by pine trees, its clean sea and tranquil atmosphere appeal especially to nature lovers. While the bay is bustling with boats in summer, it is much quieter in October. The sea water temperature is around 23–24°C, making swimming particularly enjoyable at midday. Furthermore, the shallow seabed creates a safe swimming area for families.

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8. Selimiye (Marmaris/Hisarönü Bay)

Selimiye is one of Muğla's most peaceful coastal villages. Thanks to the sheltered nature of Hisarönü Bay, the sea is generally calm. The small hotels and restaurants lining the village's coastline make the area particularly appealing to those seeking tranquillity. It is still possible to swim in Selimiye in October; the average water temperature is around 24°C. Completing your day with dinner at one of the fish restaurants also makes this place not just a swimming spot, but a gastronomic destination.

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9. Bozburun Peninsula (Marmaris)

Bozburun is one of the areas that still retains its tranquil and natural character. There are numerous small coves and inlets along the peninsula. The area, which comes alive with yacht tourism in the summer months, is much quieter in October. Swimming in the coves here is almost like a private experience because silence reigns supreme. The sea temperature averages around 23–24°C. This area, which stands out for its natural beauty, is also a popular stop for boat tours.

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10. Akyaka and Akbük (Gökova Bay)

Located at the northern end of Gökova Bay, Akyaka stands out for its shallow beach and natural atmosphere. In addition to the cool waters where the Azmak River flows into the sea, Akbük Cove attracts attention with its crystal clear sea. Popular for windsurfing, Akyaka has a water temperature of around 23–24°C in October. The crowds thin out considerably, making it much easier to enjoy nature. The scent and tranquillity of the pine forests make for a unique swimming experience.

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Things to Consider When Exploring Muğla's Bays in October

Swimming in Muğla in October requires different preparations than in the summer months. Although it is warm during the day, evenings can be cool; it is advisable to bring a light cardigan. The sea water is generally between 23–25°C; therefore, a short-sleeved lycra or thin wetsuit provides comfort for long swims. Also, some beach establishments may have closed for the season, so it is important to bring basic necessities such as water and snacks with you. If you are planning a boat tour, tours generally continue in October, but it is advisable to confirm the day before.