İçmeler

Beach in Marmaris

CC BY-SA 3.0 / wull_how

Nestled in a picturesque bay just southwest of Marmaris, İçmeler is the quieter, more refined sister resort to its lively neighbor. With its pine-covered hills, calm turquoise sea, and long golden beach, it's one of the best places to visit from Marmaris for those who want to unwind without straying too far from the action.

İçmeler Beach is known for its wide stretch of sand and clear, shallow water — perfect for swimming and safe for children. The promenade that runs the length of the bay is lined with cafés, shops, and beach bars, creating a relaxed yet polished seaside atmosphere. The scenic coastal path connecting the two resorts offers breathtaking views and plenty of photo opportunities.

History and Character
Things to See and Do
Practical Tips
How to Get There
Is İçmeler Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Character

Once a small fishing village surrounded by citrus groves, İçmeler has grown into one of the Turkish Riviera's most beloved coastal escapes. Despite its development, it has managed to retain its village charm. The town sits against a backdrop of lush forested mountains that tumble down toward the sea, creating a perfect blend of nature and relaxation.

The name “İçmeler” comes from the Turkish word for “mineral springs,” a nod to the region's reputation for its fresh, health-giving water. Visitors still come here for the area's serene ambiance and gentle rhythm — a refreshing contrast to the high-energy nightlife of Marmaris.

Things to See and Do

The main draw is the beach itself: long, wide, and beautifully maintained. Sun loungers and parasols line much of the shoreline, and the water stays shallow for quite a distance, making it ideal for paddling or swimming.

Water sports are popular here, with everything from jet skiing and banana boats to paddleboarding and parasailing on offer. The bay's calm waters also make it one of the top places to visit from Marmaris for kayaking or a leisurely boat ride.

Inland, the small market area offers local crafts, jewelry, and textiles — perfect for browsing after a day in the sun. As evening falls, the promenade comes alive with soft music and seaside dining, offering a romantic backdrop for dinner by the water.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: May to October for swimming and sunshine.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free public access.
Opening hours: Open all day; beach services typically 8 AM – 7 PM.
Official website: Not applicable.
How long to spend: Half a day to a full day.
Accessibility: Flat promenade suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Facilities: Showers, restrooms, sunbeds, lifeguards, and beach cafés.
Photography tip: Capture the curve of the bay from the far western end, especially at sunset.
Guided tours: Daily boat trips from Marmaris and İçmeler include swimming stops in nearby coves.
Nearby food options: Fresh seafood, Turkish grills, and international menus along the beachfront.

How to Get There

İçmeler is just 8 km from Marmaris and easy to reach by dolmuş (shared minibus), which runs every 10–15 minutes between the two resorts. The scenic drive takes about 10 minutes, following the coastline. Alternatively, you can walk or cycle along the promenade — a flat, 8 km path that hugs the shore and offers stunning sea views.

Is İçmeler Worth Visiting?

Definitely. İçmeler offers a calm, family-friendly contrast to Marmaris's bustling center while keeping all the convenience and beauty of a coastal resort. It's one of the places close to Marmaris that perfectly captures the essence of the Turkish Riviera — warm, welcoming, and effortlessly relaxing. Whether you visit for a few hours or a few days, this peaceful beach town is sure to charm you.

Nearby Attractions

Marmaris Marina – A short drive away, with boutique shops and waterfront dining.
Barlar Sokağı (Bar Street) – For lively nightlife back in Marmaris.
Amos Ancient City – Ruins with sea views just a few kilometers past İçmeler.
Turunç Bay – A tranquil cove further along the coast, ideal for a quiet beach day.
Marmaris Museum – Historic castle with panoramic views over the harbor.

The İçmeler appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Marmaris!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!