Yalikavak is relatively unknown compared to the most popular holiday resorts in Turkey like Mamaris, Olu Deniz or Bodrum. However, this hidden gem is a firm favourite amongst the jet set and Turkish families from Istanbul that come here to enjoy the wonderful beaches, relaxed atmosphere and fantastic restaurants. Here are some of the reasons you should visit Yalikavak.
Quiet Beaches with Free Loungers
Unlike some of the larger beaches in Bodrum or the nearby resort of Golturkbuku where loungers can cost upwards of £30 for a day, it costs nothing to spend a day lounging on the beach with the comfort of a lounger and a parasol. The beach is Yalikavak is long and narrow and lined with restaurants and bars that stretch along the beachside promenade. The loungers belong to each restaurant but as long as you buy the occasional drink from there or enjoy a lunch in the bar that owns the loungers there is no charge for the lounger. Most of the bars also have free WiFi that can be picked up from your sunbed.
It is the Perfect Mix of Old and New
Yalikavak started life as a fishing village but with multi million pound investments over the last few years and the development of the state of the art Palmarina, Yalikavak is now an eclectic mix of traditional charm and new luxury. The old windmills that the town is famous for can still be seen alongside huge luxurious super yachts on the marina. If you want to enjoy a traditional Turkish meal in a tiny beachside restaurant you can, but you can then dance the night away at the Billionaire’s Club on the Palmarina whilst sipping champagne if you so wish.
The Friendly Locals
Unlike larger resorts where the local restaurant and bar owners follow you down the street trying to get you into their place, restaurant owners in Yalikavak have a more friendly approach. You can stroll through town without feeling hassled in any way and once you have visited a restaurant once the locals will not forget your face.
You Can Shop ‘til You Drop
Yalikavak is a great place to shop for local crafts, art, jewellery and home wares. The weekly market is famous on the Bodrum Peninsula with locals and tourists flocking to the village each week to grab a bargain. There is an art gallery in the old part of the village and a market specifically for paintings that is open each evening. You will see pretty lanterns for sale in lots of the village shops and these make great gifts or an unusual addition to your home.
The Bright Lights of Bodrum are Close By
If you want to enjoy a day out in Bodrum or a night experiencing Bodrum’s famous nightlife you can hop on a Dolmus bus from Yalikavak. The journey only takes around 30 minutes and the dolmus run regularly throughout the day and night. Yalikavak has its own bars that stay open until late but you won’t find the large groups of tourists out on the town like you do in Bodrum. Bodrum is well worth a visit to see the sights such as the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus and Bodrum Castle.
