The Hidden Paradise of Gökova Bay: A Guide to Akyaka

As you drive eastward toward Gökova Bay, the winding roads of Sakartepe are slightly tiring, but at the same time give you the feeling that you are almost there. When you round the final bend and see the view, you can't help but take a deep breath: the deep blue sea, the green mountains, and the Azmak River flowing quietly through the middle... Akyaka is just such a place: a small but soulful coastal town. You wake up to the sound of birds in the morning, and in the evenings, the sweet coolness from the sea accompanies your conversations. As you eat your fish by the river or stroll slowly along the beach, you realize how unnecessary the hustle and bustle of the city is. Akyaka reminds you not only of the sea but also of the importance of listening to yourself.

Places to See in Akyaka

Akyaka is not flashy, but it has a depth all its own. Every corner reminds you to slow down, look around carefully, and be at one with nature. On one side, you have ancient stories from mythology, and on the other, the Azmak River with its clear waters and calm flow. Every corner you see while walking around this town stays in your memory not only for its scenery but also for the feelings it evokes. A short walk along the riverbank or a few minutes spent in the cool shade makes you realize that time flows differently here.

Azmak River and River Walk: When you start walking along the stone path by the river early in the morning, you will hear the fish swimming in the water, the birds singing among the reeds, and the sound of the gentle breeze rustling the leaves. Taking a break at a small cafe on the corner and sipping a cold drink is one of the best ways to step into the rhythm of Akyaka. As the day progresses, the river retains its coolness, and in the evening light, it takes on a completely different beauty.

Gökova Bay Viewpoint: A path winding through pine trees leads you to a quiet spot overlooking the bay. As the sky paints itself in shades of blue, orange, and pink at sunset, both the sea and the river stretch out below in all their splendor. Sitting on a bench at the top of the hill, breathing in the scent of pine trees and watching this view is one of the most peaceful moments in Akyaka.

Ula Stone Houses and Wooden Architecture Streets: As you walk through the narrow streets, the warm color of Ula stone and wooden details made from local pine accompany you. Courtyards with vines growing on their steps, whitewashed houses with flowers in their windows, clearly convey the spirit of the town. Sitting on a veranda and chatting will help you understand how calmly time flows here.

Yoga Forest and Nature Therapy Points: This natural area near the Azmak River is a wonderful place to meditate or simply take a deep breath. Even a short walk in the shade of the trees is relaxing. Nature walks and guided breathing exercises allow you to feel the tranquility of the town more deeply.

Akyaka Beach: Stretching from the marina to the Azmak outlet, the beach offers a peaceful area with pebbles and calm waves. You can read your book in the shade of the trees and listen to the sound of the water lapping against the shore. Enjoying a lemonade or iced tea at the small cafes along the beach is another delightful way to extend your day.

Dining Recommendations in Akyaka

Sitting down to eat in Akyaka is not just about filling your stomach, but about immersing yourself in a moment of harmony with your surroundings. Breakfasts begin in the morning on the banks of the Azmak River, followed by long meals accompanied by conversation throughout the day, and peaceful dinners in the evening with the scent of the sea in the air. In this town that lives in harmony with the sun's movements, every meal represents a new connection with nature. The freshness of local ingredients is preserved in the simplicity of the recipes. Freshly caught fish, newly picked herbs, and good olive oil add a refreshing flavor to the table. In Akyaka, the venues are unpretentious but meticulous in their attention to detail. From rustic boats along the riverbank to carefully designed small restaurants, every place offers memorable meals with character.

Vira Vira Restaurant: Located on the reed-lined banks of the Azmak River, Vira Vira offers simple, nature-inspired service. During the day, you can enjoy breakfast while watching canoes glide across the water. In the evenings, you can enjoy a delicious meal of seafood accompanied by the sound of the river. The menu features octopus carpaccio, stuffed squid, baked shrimp casserole, and seasonal Aegean appetizers. Completing the meal with homemade coral dessert is a delight. We recommend making a reservation for sunset hours on summer evenings.

Time Gökova: Offering an energy that contrasts with the tranquility of Akyaka, Time Gökova is the place to spend an evening filled with cocktails and music after sunset. Its atmosphere combines events and gastronomy, with signature burgers and seasonal specialties catching the eye. A light cocktail at sunset takes on even more meaning here. The venue is a social gathering spot, especially on summer evenings.

Pizza Fellas Akyaka: Located on Liman Street, Pizza Fellas is known for its thin-crust, crispy-edged pizzas and stays open late into the night. Its menu ranges from classic Margherita to vegetable and meat varieties, with homemade hot sauce taking center stage. On hot days, homemade lemonade or Gara Guzu beer completes the pizza experience. A cozy alternative to the stylish riverside restaurants.

No 22 Riders’ Inn & Kitchen: No 22 Riders’ Inn, which brings the passion for kitesurfing and a free spirit into its kitchen, offers flavors throughout the day, from breakfast to evening cocktails. The menu features bowls, burgers, smoked meats, and creative breakfast plates made with local ingredients. In the evenings, dining becomes a social gathering accompanied by DJ performances. Ginger cocktails or ice-cold local beers are the signature drinks here. It’s a good idea to reserve a spot in advance for live performances during the summer months.

Akyaka's Kite Schools & Water Sports

Life in Akyaka is not just about sitting by the river and watching the water flow. Here, there is a completely different energy that blends with nature and is shaped by the rhythm of the wind and water. Thanks to the geography of the Gökova Bay, Akyaka is known as one of Turkey's best kiteboarding destinations. The thermal winds that begin at noon, the shallow and calm sea, the soft sandy bottom, and the spacious working area provide an unparalleled environment for both beginners and experienced athletes.

Several good schools stand out in the region for kitesurfing enthusiasts. Kiteboard Gökova by BTCTurk is a reliable option with its internationally certified instructors and one-on-one lessons supported by radio communication. Equipment is renewed every season, and lessons can be adapted from beginner to advanced levels. Kiteboard Turkey, which stands out for its environmentally conscious approach, operates with a carbon-neutral infrastructure and combines sustainability with sports. Kite Club, founded by national athlete Bilge Öztürk, not only provides technical training but also creates a social community environment for kite enthusiasts. Mobile teams like Ford Kite Academy (Windtrain) also offer services with IKO-certified instructors. Those who wish can receive one-on-one training, while others can enjoy group lessons.

For those seeking more peaceful moments on the water, morning paddleboarding or canoeing tours on the Azmak River are a great option. As you head towards the bay coast, you feel time slow down in the waters where blue and green intertwine. Some centers offer more comprehensive experiences by combining these tours with yoga, breathing exercises, or guided nature walks.

Tiny House Kite & Water Sports, which offers many different activities besides kiteboarding, is another colorful spot in the region. Here, you can enjoy kitesurfing, windsurfing, canoeing, horseback riding, and nature walks all in one place. You can take guided horseback riding tours around Azmak, walk along shaded forest paths, or join nighttime canoe tours to see a different side of Akyaka.

When planning your sports experience in the region, it is important to choose centers that offer safe, nature-friendly, and professional services. For those new to kiteboarding, schools with IKO-certified instructors are the best choice. Programs that can be adapted to age, level, and weather conditions make learning easier and increase enjoyment. The wind typically starts in the afternoon, so morning hours are the best time for calmer sports like paddleboarding or canoeing. Moving in harmony with nature’s rhythm enhances both safety and the quality of the experience.

How to get to Akyaka?

Getting to Akyaka is much easier and more enjoyable than you might think. If you plan to arrive by air, the closest option is Dalaman Airport. From here, Akyaka is approximately 70 kilometers away, and the journey takes about an hour, depending on traffic conditions. You can easily reach Akyaka from the airport with Havaş shuttle services, private transfers, or a rental car.

There are also plenty of options for those who prefer to travel by road. Akyaka is only 30 kilometers from the city center of Muğla, and you can reach it from Muğla by minibus or bus. After taking a bus from different cities in Turkey to Muğla, you can reach Akyaka with a short journey. If you are thinking of traveling with your own vehicle, you can reach your destination by following the Muğla-Antalya road or by coming from the Aegean and Mediterranean regions and enjoying the natural beauty along the way. For example, you can reach Akyaka in approximately 3 hours from Izmir, 7 hours from Ankara, and 8-9 hours from Istanbul.

Once you arrive in the town, getting around is quite easy. Akyaka is small and perfect for exploring on foot. The best way to see its historic streets, coastal paths, and the beauty surrounding the Azmak River is on foot. You can rent a bicycle to get around a little faster or take a boat tour along the river. Public transportation is generally not needed within the town, but if you wish, you can explore the nearby villages and beaches by minibus or taxi.