kyaka is an idyllic beach resort at the head of the Gulf of Gökova, nestling in deep pine forests and eucalyptus woods, with a backdrop of the majestic Sakar Tepe mountains. Akyaka beach is in a sheltered bay and is long and sandy with shallow waters - ideal for children. There are plenty of restaurants on the seafront promenade and a couple of relaxed bars, but on the whole you will find that a traditional way of life continues here much as it has done for hundreds of years.As you take in the breathtakingly beautiful scenery which surrounds you, you can watch the local fishermen mending their nets, moored to the jetty from which they leave every morning, returning with the day's catch. If you feel inclined, you can take a boat trip to explore the crystal-clear waters and many untouched bays on this beautiful stretch of coast.As you drive out of Akyaka you pass the 'Lycian' rock tombs, which were uncovered by chance when the road to bypass the village was being built. They are virtually all that remains of the ancient city of Idyma, and date from the Carian period of 330-30 BC. A winding road leads through the forests to the next bay, and the attractive Çinar Beach with its fine pebble bay. Fresh mountain springs run down from the hillside, past the picnic areas amongst the pine trees, until the cold waters mingle with the warm clear Mediterranean waters. The forests are crossed with tracks, making the area perfect for keen walkers. The houses here are all built in the traditional 'Mugla' style of architecture: many are constructed out of pine in a distinctive octagonal shape; others have whitewashed walls and hand-carved wooden balconies and decorative features. The whole region is protected against modern style development, so anything new has to blend in with the old. This policy makes Akyaka a truly wonderful place to holiday as it has retained an old world charm rarely seen elsewhere.View Larger Map
Countryside walking in the natural park - it is said that because of the springs and many eucalyptus trees in and around Akyaka it makes a very therapeutic atmosphere.
Beaches (Akyaka & Çinar Beach) - Akyaka has two beaches, the main one lying at the base of the foothills where the village meets the sea. A winding road leads through the forests to the next bay and the attractive Çinar Beach with its fine pebble bay.
Just half an hour from the busy shopping resort of Marmaris, perfect for buying all your holiday souvenirs in the labyrinth of shops, from jewellery to carpets, to textiles - all at very reasonable prices.