Nestled by its namesake lake, Koycegiz is one of Mugla’s peaceful hidden gems. Known for its natural surroundings, thermal springs, and cultural richness, it’s a great choice for those seeking a slower-paced getaway. Whether you love nature or cultural sightseeing, this lakeside town offers a refreshing change from the typical coastal holiday.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about what to expect in Koycegiz, its pros and cons, and useful tips if you’re visiting for the first time.
Koycegiz at a Glance: What to Expect?
Located in eastern Muğla, about 55 km north of Marmaris, Koycegiz is a small yet charming town built around a large freshwater lake. The area offers bike paths, walking trails, tea gardens, and lakefront cafés, all surrounded by pine forests and mountains.
What makes Koycegiz unique is its mix of freshwater and coastal air, offering a rare combination of inland calm with a maritime feel. The friendly locals and relaxed pace make it a top pick for anyone wanting to escape city life.
Unlike the beach-heavy areas of Marmaris, Koycegiz offers a different kind of holiday. Visitors quickly discover the area’s stunning nature, including the tranquil lake, forested mountains, and even a small island in the lake called Hapishane Island.
Seven rivers feed into the Koycegiz Lake, one of which connects to the famous Dalyan Delta. The town is also known for its clean, drinkable spring water and diverse lodging options.
Compared to other destinations around Marmaris, Koycegiz maintains a stable population year-round. The town center is organized and lively, with all necessary amenities and plenty of local eateries worth trying.
Pros and Cons of a Holiday in Koycegiz
Pros
Close to Nature: Surrounded by a lake, forests, and thermal springs like Sultaniye Hot Springs.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Ideal for a restful lakeside retreat.
Affordable Prices: Lodging and food are more budget-friendly than in major tourist zones.
Wellness Benefits: Thermal waters and mud baths make it a destination for health-focused visitors.
Great Base for Day Trips: Easy access to Dalyan, Ekincik Beach, and Yuvarlakçay.
Cons
Limited Nightlife: The town is quiet, which may not appeal to those seeking evening entertainment.
No Direct Access to the Sea: You’ll need to take a short boat trip to swim in the sea.
Public Transport is Limited: Traveling by private vehicle is more convenient.
High Summer Temperatures: July and August can exceed 35°C, so plan accordingly.
Our Best Tips for First-Time Visitors to Koycegiz
Walk or Cycle Around the Lake: Morning or evening walks by the lake are especially enjoyable.
Try the Mud Baths at Sultaniye Hot Springs: It’s great for the skin and helps you relax.
Take a Boat Trip to Ekincik Beach: A day trip by boat lets you enjoy the sea in a peaceful setting.
Visit the Monday Market: A great place to find fresh produce and local handmade goods.
Bring Comfortable Walking Shoes: The trails around the lake are perfect for casual hikes.
Carry Cash: Small local businesses may not accept cards.
Top Places to Visit and Things to Do in Koycegiz
Koycegiz offers a holiday focused on nature, wellness, and peace. It’s a destination rich in outdoor activities and scenic spots.
Must-See Places
Koycegiz Lake: Perfect for a peaceful walk, a cycling tour, or a relaxing boat ride.
Sultaniye Hot Springs: Known for thermal waters and mud baths—great for skin and stress relief.
Ekincik Beach: A Blue Flag beach with clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Yuvarlakçay: Cool mountain spring with riverside restaurants and swings, ideal for a refreshing break.
Kaunos Ancient City and Rock Tombs: Historical ruins easily accessible via Dalyan boat tours.
Popular Activities
Daily Boat Trips: Including lake tours and visits to the Dalyan canal.
Mud Baths and Thermal Spas
Kayaking or Paddleboarding on the Lake
Cycling around the Lake
Nature Walks and Picnics
Extra Tips for Nature Lovers
Walking trails around Koycegiz Lake are a great way to take in the landscape. The area is ideal for eco-tourism enthusiasts. You can also enjoy non-motorized water sports like paddleboarding and windsurfing.
Other local activities include fishing, or exploring the lake by rowboat. Don’t miss the Prison Island and remains of a Genoese-era fortress.
Nature trails leading to Gölgeli, Sandras, and Beşparmak Mountains, plus Cankurtaran Peak (elevation ~2300m), offer high-altitude hikes with epic views.
Yuvarlakçay, along the slopes of Sandras Mountain, is another must-visit spot. Lined with restaurants, it’s perfect for spending time immersed in nature.
Another popular day trip is to Ağla Plateau, located at 800 meters elevation. Known for cool drinking water, local food, and 600-year-old oak trees, it’s a peaceful getaway. Continue your hike to reach Kartal Lake, a hidden mountain gem surrounded by untouched beauty.
The Kazancı Picnic Area is a great place for a relaxing day outdoors, with natural scenery all around.
Boat tours from Koycegiz also reach nearby coves and beaches. You can join trips to Dalyan, Kaunos, Iztuzu Turtle Beach, local waterfalls, Ağla Plateau, Twelve Islands, Sarıgerme, and Ekincik Beach.
What to Eat in Koycegiz
The local cuisine focuses on freshwater fish, garden-grown produce, and traditional home cooking.
Lake Fish: Carp and mullet are popular choices from Koycegiz Lake.
Village Breakfast: Generous spreads with homemade jams, eggs, cheese, and fresh bread.
Olive Oil Dishes: Aegean mezes like green beans, artichokes, and stuffed zucchini flowers.
Gözleme & Ayran: Perfect light meal available around the lake.
Tandır Kebab: A slow-cooked lamb dish for meat lovers.
Traditional Desserts: Try local favorites like fig dessert, pumpkin dessert, or sweet curd cheese desserts.
Shopping in Koycegiz – What to Buy
Shopping here revolves around natural and handmade goods.
Pine Honey: One of the area’s most famous products—definitely worth trying.
Olive Oil: Locally pressed, high-quality oils are widely available.
Homemade Jams & Pomegranate Molasses: Available at local organic markets.
Handmade Soaps: Lavender, bay leaf, and other scented natural soaps.
Woven Textiles & Pestemals: Found at small stalls and local markets.
Koycegiz at Night
Koycegiz is calm after dark. Nights are more about nature, peace, and quiet than entertainment.
Lakeside Walks: Enjoy the cool breeze while strolling along the water.
Dinner by the Lake: Small restaurants with lake views offer a cozy dining experience.
Live Music: Some cafés and eateries may feature soft acoustic performances in summer.
Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night sky is exceptionally clear.
Where to Stay in Koycegiz: Accommodation Tips
Accommodation in Koycegiz leans toward eco-friendly and intimate stays. Rather than large hotel chains, you’ll find boutique hotels, bungalows, and family-run apartments.
Lakeview Boutique Hotels: Offer peaceful stays surrounded by nature.
Guesthouses and Apartment Hotels: Affordable and friendly options for a homely experience.
Bungalows in Nature: Located near the lake or tucked into nearby forests.
Campsites: Great for travelers with tents or caravans who prefer a closer connection to the outdoors.
Thermal Hotels: In the Sultaniye area, accommodations near hot springs are available for wellness-focused travelers.
Good to Know Before Your Trip to Koycegiz
Thanks to its natural setting, Koycegiz has a mild and sunny climate for most of the year. Even during summer, it remains comfortable and breezy.
Weather and Climate
Summer temperatures range between 30–36°C.
Spring and autumn bring cooler weather—perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration.
Winter is mild with occasional rain, and the lake view in winter has its own unique charm.
Travel Tips for Koycegiz
Start your day with a lakeside walk: Morning air is refreshing and ideal for relaxation.
Visit Sultaniye Hot Springs early: Go in the morning to avoid the midday crowds.
Book boat tours to Ekincik Beach in advance: Especially in summer, spots may fill up fast.
Consider renting a bicycle: The lake’s flat surroundings make it easy and enjoyable to explore on two wheels.
Bring some cash: Small local markets and cafés may not accept credit cards.
How to Get there?
Location
Koycegiz is about 55 km from Marmaris, with regular bus connections available. Its proximity to Dalaman Airport also makes it a convenient holiday destination.
From Dalaman Airport
The airport is roughly 35 km away from Koycegiz.
You can take a HAVAŞ shuttle to Ortaca, then transfer by minibus to Koycegiz.
A taxi or rental car offers direct access, taking around 40 minutes.
By Road
From Muğla city center, Koycegiz is approximately 60 km or a 1-hour drive.
The town is located between Fethiye and Marmaris, with both towns about 1 hour away by car.
Minibus connections are available from Marmaris, Ortaca, and Dalaman throughout the day.
Google Map
Koycegiz & Dalyan Day Tour by Bus
Dalyan village is a very unique place situated in Ortaca, the Dalaman region of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, about 90 km. from Marmaris. You can visit Dalyan via daily boat trips, but day trips to Dalyan by bus has recently become very popular with the tourists in Marmaris. And you’ll also be able to see Koycegiz lake.
FAQs
Where is Koycegiz located?
Koycegiz is in eastern Muğla, neighboring the districts of Dalaman and Ortaca, and sits along the shores of Koycegiz Lake.
How do you get to Koycegiz?
You can reach Koycegiz by renting a car from Dalaman Airport or by taking a minibus from major centers like Marmaris or Fethiye.
Can you swim in the sea in Koycegiz?
Koycegiz doesn’t have a direct seafront. To swim in the sea, you’ll need to take a boat or drive to Ekincik Beach.
Is Koycegiz suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Its peaceful environment, clean natural setting, and lakeside parks make Koycegiz a great destination for families with kids.
What is Koycegiz famous for?
The town is well-known for its pine honey, Sultaniye Hot Springs, Koycegiz Lake, and homemade natural jams.
Is there nightlife in Koycegiz?
No. Koycegiz is very quiet at night. Evenings are typically spent enjoying the peace by the lake.
Where do boat tours depart in Koycegiz?
Boat tours around the lake and trips to Dalyan depart from the pier on the Koycegiz waterfront.
Can you shop in Koycegiz?
Yes. You’ll find local markets and small shops selling natural products, handmade soaps, honey, and regional specialties.
When is the best time to visit Koycegiz?
The best times are April to June and September to October, ideal for nature walks and enjoying the lake’s beauty.