The 7 Most Beautiful Bays to Visit in Hisarönü Gulf

2026 Blue Cruise Routes

Hisarönü Gulf is one of the most beloved blue cruise regions around Marmaris. With its rich flora, crystal-clear waters, calm bays, and unique small islands, it is a favorite for boat holiday lovers. This guide, prepared for the 2026 season, details 7 must-see bays in Hisarönü Gulf. Each bay includes activities, anchoring and overnight tips, nature and marine life, nearby services, photo & drone tips, safety suggestions, and recommendations for the ideal boat type. At the end of the article, you will also find links for yacht/gulet/trawler charter and price information from Platin Yachting.

Booking and info links used in the guide: Platin Yachting Blue Cruise.

Before diving into the guide, here are a few quick planning tips. Hisarönü Gulf bays are generally sheltered, but wind, currents, and peak season can affect anchoring plans. Early booking, correct boat choice, and good communication with the crew ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday.

• Boat selection: For short trips, gulets and motor yachts are preferred; for calmer, long-range sailing, a trawler may be suitable. Check boat types here: Gulet Charter, Motor Yacht Charter, Trawler Charter.
• Budget: Prices vary based on boat type, season, route, and service level. See examples and rates: Gulet Charter Prices, Yacht Charter Prices.
• Anchoring: If planning to stay overnight in the bay, discuss with your captain the safest, non-shallow, and wind-protected anchoring spots.

1) Orhaniye Bay (Nature’s gem at the southern entrance)

Orhaniye is one of the popular yet still calm corners of Hisarönü Gulf. Surrounded by pine trees, small beaches, clear waters, and rocky-pebble seabed, it is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Orhaniye Bay also offers nature walks and short land explorations; you can stroll through the small coastal village.

Activities & Experiences

• Swimming: Shallow entrances and calm water; ideal for families with children.
• Snorkeling: Small schools of fish, shellfish, and rich flora around rocky areas.
• Canoeing & Paddleboarding: Great for water sports on calm days.
• Nature Walks: Coastal paths suitable for short explorations; late afternoon walks recommended.

Anchoring, Safety & Accommodation

Orhaniye Bay is generally wind-protected, but north winds may leave boats exposed. Anchor in the non-shallow points recommended by your captain. Overnighting is usually more comfortable on the boat; there are also small guesthouses ashore.

Nature & Local Flavors

Olive trees, juniper, and maquis surround Orhaniye. Try fresh fish and seasonal salads in small cafes; local village markets offer fresh produce. Photographers find early morning and sunset lighting ideal.

2) Turgut Bay (Safe harbor and diving spots)

Turgut Bay is often chosen for boat anchoring due to its depth and sheltered structure. Divers are attracted to rocky formations and small reefs along the coast. The underwater life is rich; diving can be planned on days with controlled currents.

Activities

• Diving & Snorkeling: Dramatic rocky formations, small caves, and crevices along the coast. Small exploration spots for experienced divers.
• Fishing: Suitable corners for amateur fishing at night or early morning (observe local regulations).
• Photography: Rocks provide great contrast; perfect for drones and underwater photography.
• Overnighting: Deep and sheltered, safe for staying on the boat.

Anchoring & Practical Tips

Check with your captain for wind direction, seabed type, and other boats before anchoring. Adjust chain length appropriately. Proper positioning of lights at night reduces collision risk with other boats.

3) Karacasöğüt Bay (Calmness & forest scent)

Karacasöğüt is known for its clear water and surrounding forests. The bay provides a calm and quiet stop; early morning water is almost mirror-like. The shoreline is usually a mix of pebbles and small rocks; comfortable water shoes are recommended.

Activities

• Swimming & Sunbathing: Enjoy the clean and peaceful water.
• Paddleboarding & Canoeing: Calm waters suitable for water sports.
• Walking: Short exploration walks in pine forests nearby.
• Macro Photography: Coastal plants and small marine life perfect for macro shots.

Accommodation & Services

Limited services onshore; generally stay on the boat. Nearby small guesthouses exist. Low light pollution makes star gazing delightful.

4) Selimiye Bay (Village atmosphere & quiet harbor)

Selimiye is known for its deep blue waters, quiet village atmosphere, and friendly harbor. It offers basic services, small restaurants, fishmongers, and shops, ideal for a few days’ provisioning.

Activities

• Cultural Walk: Observe local life with short village walks.
• Boat Tours: Small island tours around Selimiye are popular.
• Dining: Evening meals at seaside fish restaurants recommended.
• Photography: Small boats and coastal homes are perfect photo subjects.

Anchoring & Safety

The harbor provides a generally safe anchoring spot. In summer, it can get busy; call ahead or use Platin Yachting contact for info: Contact Platin Yachting.

5) İçmeler Bay (Services, thermal waters, activity)

İçmeler is a “serviced” bay: equipped with coastal facilities, restaurants, cafes, and small markets. Known for thermal springs; suitable for water activities, beach walks, and evening socializing. Ideal for day-trippers or crews needing provisioning.

Activities

• Water Sports: Jet skiing, waterskiing, canoeing, and motorized activities.
• Thermal & Spa: Available in some facilities.
• Beach Dining: Evening meals and walks along the coast.
• Sunset: Watch the sunset along the shore.

Boat & Provisioning

Good for refueling, water supply, shopping, and coastal services. Recommended for long-route provisioning. Onshore shopping and relaxation available after overnight stay.

6) Bayır Bay (For exploration & privacy seekers)

Bayır Bay is smaller and more secluded. Less crowded, ideal for calm and nature-focused stays. Shore consists of pebbles and small rocks.

Activities

• Swimming & Snorkeling: Calm, clear waters; excellent swimming.
• Nature Photography: Quiet and natural bay, perfect for landscape shots.
• Short Walks: Short trails around the bay.
• Camping Alternatives: Nearby areas may allow caravans or camping (check legality).

Privacy & Overnighting

Stay on boat for a calm night. Let the captain handle anchoring and maintain safe distances from nearby boats.

7) Orhaniye – Gökkaya (Best sunsets of the day)

Gökkaya is a favorite spot for sunset photography in Hisarönü Gulf. Considered an extension of Orhaniye, it offers stunning silhouettes during evening light, small beaches, pine areas, and ideal photo platforms.

Activities

• Sunset Watching: Ideal views in the evening; drone-friendly angles.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Shallow, calm areas suitable for families.
• Picnic & Rest: Small beach areas allow pleasant breaks.
• Best Photo Hours: Golden hour (just before and after sunset) yields best results.

Boat Type Selection – Which Boat to Choose?

• Gulet: Wide deck, social area for families/friends. Comfortable overnight and meal service. See: Gulet Charter.
• Motor Yacht: Speed and comfort; covers short distances quickly. See: Motor Yacht Charter.
• Trawler: Longer calm voyages, economical fuel consumption. See: Trawler Charter.
• Yacht / Private Yachts: Luxury, fast, and individual comfort. See: Yacht Charter.

Charter, Price & Booking Tips

• Price research: Details and sample packages: Gulet Charter Prices, Yacht Charter Prices.
• Booking: Peak season (June–August) requires 2–3 months advance booking. Last-minute deals limited.
• Contact & Info: Direct route, service, and phone info: Contact Platin Yachting.
• Service content check: Confirm inclusions (fuel, meals, port fees, transfers, etc.) before signing contract.

Safety & Environmental Awareness

• Do not throw waste into the sea; reduce plastic use.
• Be cautious around marine life; do not disturb protected species like caretta caretta.
• Anchor responsibly without damaging the seabed.
• No fires on the coast to prevent fire risk.
• Use lights and markers correctly when anchoring at night.

Photography & Drone Tips

• Golden Hour: Sunrise and sunset provide best lighting.
• Drone Altitude: Avoid low flights over busy areas and other boats.
• Underwater Photography: Polarizing filters and proper white balance for clear water.
• Composition: Highlight the green-blue contrast of the bay; include shoreline lines.

Practical Route Packages (3, 5, and 7 Days)

3-Day Suggestion (Short Escape)

• Day 1: Marmaris/Hisarönü departure – Orhaniye – swim – evening dinner (shore or boat).
• Day 2: Turgut Bay – diving/snorkeling – overnight in safe bay.
• Day 3: Karacasöğüt – breakfast and short walk – return to Hisarönü.

5-Day Suggestion (Medium)

• Day 1: Hisarönü departure – Orhaniye – sunset.
• Day 2: Turgut – diving/snorkel – overnight.
• Day 3: Selimiye – village tour & evening coastal dinner.
• Day 4: İçmeler – services & spa / provisioning.
• Day 5: Bayır – calm swimming and return plan.

7+ Day Suggestion (Deep Exploration)

• Explore all bays in Hisarönü in detail, day trips to nearby islets, all diving spots, nightlife + local cuisine combination.

FAQ

Q: Best time to visit Hisarönü Gulf?

A: May–October is blue cruise season. June–September is peak; May and October quieter and better for price/crowd balance.

Q: Which boat type is best for families?

A: Gulets offer wide deck, safe cabins, and social area; most comfortable for families. See: Gulet Charter.

Q: Are fuel and port fees included?

A: Most packages list them as extra; confirm before contract. Price comparison: Yacht Charter Prices.

Making Hisarönü Gulf Unforgettable

With proper planning and the right boat, Hisarönü Gulf offers both calm and adventure. Each bay has its unique vibe: some for nature and quiet seekers (Bayır, Karacasöğüt), some for diving enthusiasts (Turgut), and others for social and serviced experiences (İçmeler, Selimiye). A good route plan, proper boat selection, and open communication with the crew make your trip both safe and unforgettable.

Ready to plan your route or get a quote? Contact Platin Yachting now: Platin Yachting Contact.