Located just next to Marmaris, Icmeler is a charming coastal town known for its lush green nature, long sandy beach, and clear sea, making it a favorite for those seeking both relaxation and fun. The name “Içmeler” comes from the natural springs in the area, and over the years it has remained a top choice for travelers thanks to its peaceful atmosphere, high-quality hotels, and water sports facilities.
In this guide, you’ll find essential information on places to visit, activities, beaches, dining, nightlife, shopping, transportation, and accommodation options in Icmeler — giving you a clear idea of what to expect from this beautiful resort town.
Icmeler at a Glance: What to Expect?
Icmeler is considered the most popular area near Marmaris, especially due to its wide range of accommodation and beach facilities. In fact, Marmaris and Icmeler are often seen as a seamless extension of each other. Located just 8 km from Marmaris, Icmeler is easily accessible by regular minibuses that operate throughout the day and night.
Surrounded by pine-covered hills, Icmeler features a clean, gently sloping shoreline with a calm and crystal-clear sea, making it especially suitable for families and those seeking a peaceful vacation. At the same time, its proximity to the vibrant center of Marmaris allows for easy access to nightlife and entertainment when desired.
Combining the tranquility of nature with the comfort of a resort town, Icmeler appeals to travelers who want to unwind yet stay connected to urban conveniences.
This olive and honey farming community is home to the best plant for producing oxygen in the world, the Sigla (or Gunnuk), which only found here and in California. This plant and the pristine forests and the beach (which has been given the Blue Flag eco-award) create one of the most revitalizing surroundings for a beach holiday.
Icmeler’s exemplary tourist facilities, which include a great many water sports, are harmoniously incorporated into the natural habitat of the area. The nightlife is vibrant and there are plenty of restaurants, bars and nightclubs to choose from, and just down the road, the many Marmaris nightclubs provide nights not far off those found in Ibiza.
There are numerous luxury hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in Icmeler, making it a key player in the tourism scene of Marmaris. Thanks to its inviting bay and beach, even those staying in Marmaris often visit Icmeler just to swim and spend the day. It has become one of the top beach choices for both local and international tourists.
Pros and Cons of Holidaying in Icmeler
Pros:
Clear and calm sea: Ideal for families with children and those learning to swim thanks to its shallow and peaceful waters.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Surrounded by nature: The town is nestled between pine forests and mountains, offering a serene and green atmosphere.
Close to Marmaris: Easy access to the city center for shopping, nightlife, or any other needs.
Plenty of water sports options: Activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving are widely available.
Accommodation for every budget: From luxury resorts to boutique hotels, Içmeler offers a wide range of lodging options.
Cons:
Crowded during peak season: July and August can be quite busy, especially on the beaches.
Prices can rise: Hotel and restaurant prices may spike during the high season.
Proximity to Marmaris has a downside: While it’s peaceful, the crowd from Marmaris can occasionally spill into Icmeler during busy periods.
Our Best Tips for First-Time Visitors to Içmeler
Choose accommodation close to the beach: One of Icmeler’s biggest draws is being able to walk to the sea from your hotel.
Try at least one water sport: With a wide variety of options, it’s the perfect place to try something new on the water.
Don’t skip a visit to Marmaris: For more lively nightlife and shopping options, Marmaris town center is only minutes away.
Take a coastal walk: The scenic walking path between Icmeler and Marmaris is perfect for an evening stroll.
Book early: Beachfront hotels fill up quickly in summer — early booking ensures better prices and availability.
Be ready for hiking: The nearby mountains have nature trails and trekking routes worth exploring.
Top Things to See and Do in Icmeler
Icmeler offers a well-balanced mix of nature, sea, and relaxing activities. Here are some top recommendations:
Icmeler Beach: With its golden sand and shallow waters, this beach is perfect for both swimming and sunbathing. It’s especially popular with families and those seeking a calm seaside experience.
Icmeler Coastal Path: Stretching from Icmeler to Marmaris, this scenic seaside path is ideal for walking or cycling, offering beautiful views along the way.
Water Sports: Icmeler is a hub for water-based activities. You’ll find plenty of options including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides right along the beach.
Marmaris Boat Tours: Join a daily boat tour departing from Icmeler to discover untouched bays and nearby islands — a great way to spend a day on the water.
Turunç and Amos Ancient City: Located just a short drive or boat ride away, Turunc village and the ruins of Amos offer a mix of natural beauty and ancient history — perfect for day trips.
Our Tips
You can collect yourself and the sun on the superb Icmeler beach which lies next to clear and azure waters, which host a myriad of different water sports. The Icmeler beach offers 6 km of fine sand in peaceful surroundings, and the beach is cleaned every night ensuring that it’s immaculate every morning.
The beach offers quality services, great water and fine sands and holidaymakers may find the water sports centres on the beach promenade via the yellow points in yellow tents.
Hire a parasol to relax on the beach, or jump on the back of a jet ski, banana boat, ringo, pair of water skis or any of the other water sports equipment available here. Admire the scenery from a parasail in the sky or hire out a small boat for some fishing.
You can also scuba dive whether you’re a beginner or an expert, which is also an excellent way to get your kids off the beach for a day.
If you’re an adrenalin junkie, take to the off-road with some quad biking. You’ll head up, around and down some of the forested hills around Icmeler, and the highest points will offer breath-taking views. If you’re a devout thrill-seeker, this is the best way to admire what this area has to offer.
If you can’t wait to take some impressive photos but don’t fancy hanging onto the back of a quad-bike, take the scenic route on a 4×4 off-road safari. Get driven through the wilderness and into quiet, traditional villages. The safari also stops off at untouched bays for a few swimming breaks.
If you like get as pampered as possible or need a bit of refreshment after a day on a beach or on safari, a trip to a Turkish bath is all that’s needed to fully recharge you. Relax in one of the bath alcoves surrounded by traditional Turkish architecture, before getting a sublime massage or body scrub. Definitely not to be missed on any Turkey holidays.
In Icmeler, after dark, holidaymakers go out in a frenzy of football shirts, heavy drinking and holiday romances. The bustling nightlife in Icmeler attracts its visitors with the wide selection of bars and cafes.
Where to Eat in Icmeler – What to Try
Icmeler offers a wide variety of dining options, catering to many tastes:
Fresh Seafood: Many beachfront restaurants serve daily-caught fish and seafood as the highlight of their menus.
Turkish & International Cuisine: You’ll find everything from kebabs and mezes to pizza, burgers, and dishes from around the world.
Aegean Appetizers & Olive Oil Dishes: Light and healthy mezze platters are a popular choice, especially during dinner.
Sweets & Coffee: Take a break at seaside cafés with Turkish coffee, ice cream, or baklava.
BBQ Restaurants: Open-air spots serving grilled meats and fish are also a hit among visitors.
Shopping in Icmeler – What to Buy
Icmeler is a pleasant place for casual shopping, with local stalls and small markets offering unique finds:
Handmade Souvenirs: Look for jewelry, soaps, and handcrafted items along the beach promenade.
Beachwear & Summer Clothing: Light fabrics, colorful pareos, and peştamals (traditional Turkish towels) are widely available.
Spices & Turkish Delight: Local shops and small grocery stores often carry regional treats and ingredients.
Replica Goods: You’ll also find bags, watches, and sneakers at budget-friendly prices in local markets.
Handmade Leather Items: Quality leather belts, wallets, and sandals can be found in shops around Icmeler and Marmaris.
Nightlife in Icmeler
İCompared to Marmaris, Icmeler offers a quieter but enjoyable nightlife scene:
Beach Bars: Spend your evening at laid-back bars along the beach with background music and cocktails.
Live Music Venues: Some bars host acoustic sets or Turkish pop music during the summer months.
Restaurant Bars: Ideal for a relaxed drink after dinner with soft lighting and calm ambiance.
Marmaris for More Action: If you’re craving a more vibrant night out, Bar Street in Marmaris is only a 25-minute ride away.
Peaceful Evenings: Prefer quiet? Enjoy a walk along the beach or relax at a quiet café under the stars.
Where to Stay in Icmeler
Icmeler hotels and apartments offers a wide range of accommodations, from all-inclusive 5-star hotels near the beach to budget-friendly pensions and apartment hotels tucked into quieter corners:
Beachfront Hotels: Stay just steps from the sea and enjoy easy access to the beach each morning.
Family Hotels: Many hotels feature children’s pools, playgrounds, and kid-friendly amenities.
Boutique Hotels: For a quieter, more intimate experience, small-scale boutique hotels are a great choice.
All-Inclusive Resorts: Ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience, these resorts offer everything under one roof.
Apartment Hotels: Perfect for longer stays, with in-room kitchens and more living space.
Tip: During the summer season, book early if you want a beachfront or centrally located hotel—this helps secure better prices and more choices.
Things to Know Before Your Icmeler Holiday
Icmeler enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, making it a great destination for a summer getaway.
Weather and Climate:
Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and rainy.
Swimming season typically runs from late May to mid-October.
Average temperatures in July and August range from 32°C to 37°C.
Travel Tips:
Don’t forget your sunscreen, hat, and plenty of water—the heat can be intense in peak summer.
Early morning walks along the beach are a great way to enjoy the coolest part of the day.
Use water shoes or beach sandals to stay comfortable on the pebbly parts of the shore.
For better prices and more variety, shop at the larger markets in Marmaris.
Dolmuş minibuses to Marmaris Bar Street are available even at night, but it’s smart to check the latest departure times in advance.
How to Get to Icmeler
Location and Transportation
Icmeler is located just 8 km southwest of Marmaris, and dolmuş minibuses run frequently between Marmaris and Icmeler throughout the day. You can also reach Icmeler from Marmaris via water taxi along the coastline.
From Dalaman Airport to Icmeler:
The journey takes approximately 90 minutes by car.
You can take a HAVAŞ shuttle from the airport to Marmaris, then transfer to a taxi or dolmuş to reach Icmeler.
Private transfers and rental cars are available for a more direct and comfortable option to your hotel.
From Marmaris Center to Icmeler:
Minibuses from central Marmaris take about 15–25 minutes to reach Icmeler.
It’s also possible to walk along the scenic coastal path, which takes about 45 minutes.
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FAQs
Where is Icmeler located?
Icmeler is a holiday town in the Marmaris district of Muğla province, only 8 kilometers from Marmaris town center.
How do I get to Icmeler?
After arriving at Dalaman Airport, take a shuttle to Marmaris, then continue by taxi or minibus to Icmeler.
What is the sea like in Icmeler?
The sea is shallow, clear, and very clean, making it ideal for children and beginner swimmers.
Who is Icmeler ideal for?
It’s perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for a peaceful holiday surrounded by nature.
What activities can be done in Icmeler?
Enjoy the beach, try water sports, take coastal walks, join boat tours, or explore nature trails.
Are there shopping options in Icmeler?
Yes, you’ll find gift shops, boutiques, and local markets near the beach and in the town center.
What is the nightlife like in Icmeler?
Nightlife is relaxed and pleasant. Those looking for something livelier can easily head to Bar Street in Marmaris.
Is Icmeler suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The shallow sea, safe beaches, and family-friendly hotels make it an excellent choice for families.
When is the best time to visit Icmeler?
The most suitable months are June through September, when both sea and weather conditions are perfect.
What are the accommodation options in Icmeler?
You can choose from beachfront hotels, boutique hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and apartment hotels.