Yalikavak

Yalikavak is a simply stunning, elegant resort town with an incredibly wide range of points of interest. It is situated on a medium sized crescent bay with the Greek isles of Leros and Patmos in the near distant view and so importantly, it has a walkable "Plaz Cadd" (beachfront walkway) all the way around the bay, making "strolling" the past time of most who stay here. It has won the hearts of many hard core fans as the top spot on the peninsula. It has a super relaxed atmosphere, sunsets that postcards are made of, a lovely old village of many unique shops, plenty of artists selling their wares, and local shopkeepers and residents who pride themselves on talking with you and even offering a cup of tea so you might sit down with them for a rest and a chat.  Even though it is incredibly popular, it has managed to maintain a slow paced way of life throughout the village and yet, you can skip over to the ultra-hip Palmarina for some fast-paced nightlife and some of Turkey's best chain restaurants and bars.

Life in Yalikavak centers itself mainly around the busy harbor front and "Plaz Cadd", yet fabuously hidden gems lie in the surrounding hills just waiing for someone to discover them.  One such hidden spot are some carved out caves on the far side of the bay, near the Kudor area. You can take a day trip there (only a few hours necessary, but the whole day is possible with a picnic lunch--as no restaurants in this area)) and you can climb and explore in the hills, then take a refreshing dip in the ocean, which is easily accessed through many of the small, less well-known coves surrounding the hills there. It is a great family excursion.

The Pamarina is popular with many for its very sleek and sophisticated feel, its amazing array of either "rather famous" or "incredibly famous" international yachts ,whose owners travel the summer circuit of all the "best marinas", and its tantalizing selections of shops and restaurants, which seem as as if you were walking through a large city's malls or restaurant rows with all the "right names" on the doors. 

Impressive Turkish village architecture runs throughout Yalikavak and the old style gardens surrounding the houses with olive and tangerine groves and chickens running loose in them really tell a story of century old village life. The peaceful ambience of these houses fit in perfectly with the lush green hills and crystal blue coastline of the Aegean Sea. 

Where is Yalikavak and how to get there?

Yalikavak is situated on the north west of the Bodrum Peninsula and is a distance of 18km from the center of Bodrum. The nearest airport is Bodrum and the transfer time is approximately 1 hour. There are two kinds of direct bus transport  from the Otogar center in Bodrum to Yalikavak's small otogar; a larger "municipality" bus and the small and reuglar Dolmuses (mini-buses) will both take you ... and either takes approximately thirty minutes. 

Hotels 

Holiday makers will be delighted to learn that hotel accommodation in Yalikavak is definitely in the latest century and most hotels have all the modern cons that you need in the height of summer such as cool air conditioning and a cold mini bar. If you want to be located close to the beach, there are many hotels on the beach front and they are all located within easy walking distance of the bars and restaurants.  Search our hotels booking database to find cost saving rates and the latest deals. 

Things to do

  • Enjoy a day soaking up the rays of the Turkish sun on the long sandy Yalikavak beach.
  • Explore the old windmills that Yalikavak is famous for.
  • Head to the local and traditional market on Thursday to barter for those shopping bargains.
  • Yalikavak is well known for its vibrant sunset. Grab a cold beer and get the camera ready. 
  • Explore the bay and inland through the many adventurous walking routes.
  • Buy fishing equipment from any of the shops and head to the jetties to catch dinner!
  • Hire a boat and spend the day out at sea, sunbathing and snorkeling are both on the agenda.
  • Kids will have great fun at the nearby aqua park on Ortakent, just 15 minutes’ drive away.
  • The new port marina has an ampitheatre seating 2500 people and often hosts great events.

Eating Out and Nightlife

Choices are colorful and varied when it comes to choosing a good establishment for an excellent meal. Most restaurants serve a variety of cuisines but fish of the day is a popular choice served with a fresh salad and the traditional glass of Raki. You can buy large fish from the harbor and many restaurants will cook it for you at a small charge. Nightlife in Yalikavak is centered on good company and fun so if you are looking for the large nightclubs, head to the main resort of Bodrum instead.

Weather in Yalikavak

Most of the rainfall in Yalikavak will come during the months of January to March. After that, the months slowly get hotter until the height of summer in August and September. During these months, temperatures will be in the thirties however due to the geographical position of Yalikavak; a cool breeze is often a welcome relief from the hot summer days. Please check our weather page for further details.

Property

Property purchasers looking for a wise investment will also be delighted to learn that Yalikavak is considered an elite location to buy property, however if you are not ready to make such a large purchase yet, long term rentals are available by searching our comprehensive list of real estate and rental agencies dealing with property in Yalikavak.

Yalikavak Bodrum Video