Located in Muğla’s Marmaris district, Orhaniye is a peaceful coastal village known for its natural charm and the iconic Kızkumu Beach, a unique sandbar that lets you walk across the sea. This rare formation, combined with a serene setting where forest meets sea, makes Orhaniye a standout destination for an Aegean-style vacation.
On this Orhaniye travel guide page, you’ll find information on top places to visit, Kızkumu Beach, activities, beaches, where to eat, how to get there, and where to stay.
Orhaniye at a Glance: What to Expect?
Orhaniye is one of the must-see places near Marmaris, especially famous for Kızkumu Beach. It lies about 30 km southwest of Marmaris, just 2.5 km past Turgut. It also serves as one of the important yacht and sailing stops in the Hisarönü Gulf.
Retaining its traditional village atmosphere, with dense pine forests and crystal-clear waters, Orhaniye offers a tranquil escape. Its most iconic feature, Kızkumu, is a natural sand path that stretches into the sea, giving the illusion of walking on water.
With quiet bays, a small harbor, and low-rise stone guesthouses, the area has largely escaped mass tourism and overdevelopment.
Orhaniye’de doğa muhteşem. Etrafı çam ormanlarıyla ve güzel plajlarla dolu. Ormanların suya yansımasıyla birlikte panoramik bir manzara ortaya çıkmakta. Deniz her daim sakin.
The surrounding nature is stunning, with pine forests, hidden beaches, and panoramic reflections of the trees on calm waters. The sea here is consistently calm and clear.
Pros and Cons of a Holiday in Orhaniye
Pros:
Kızkumu Beach: A rare natural formation where you walk through the sea instead of swimming.
Peaceful and uncrowded: Despite being close to Marmaris, it stays calm and quiet.
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Immersed in nature: A blend of pine forests, mountains, and the sea.
Ideal for yacht tourism: The Orhaniye Marina is a stop for small boats and gulets.
Great for families: The sea is shallow and safe for children.
Cons:
Limited public transport: Minibuses from Marmaris are available but infrequent.
No nightlife: Very quiet in the evenings, not suitable for party seekers.
Few stores or facilities: No big markets or chains—most needs must be met in Marmaris.
Even quieter off-season: Many businesses close after October.
Our Best Tips for First-Time Visitors to Orhaniye
Visit Kızkumu early in the day: Enjoy this unique experience before the crowds arrive.
Bring water shoes: The seabed at Kızkumu can be rocky in some parts.
Travel by car: It’s the best way to explore nearby bays, villages, and access Marmaris comfortably.
Join a boat tour: Daily tours from Orhaniye take you to untouched hidden coves.
Carry cash: Some small businesses do not accept credit cards.
Book your accommodation early: Hotels and guesthouses within walking distance to Kızkumu Beach fill up fast during the season.
Things to Do and Places to Visit in Orhaniye
Though Orhaniye may seem like a small village, the surrounding area offers plenty of natural sights and activities worth exploring.
Top Places to Visit in Orhaniye
Kızkumu Beach: The village’s main attraction, famous for its walkable sandbar in the sea.
Bybassos Ancient City: Hike among ancient ruins just outside Orhaniye.
Turgut Waterfall: A peaceful, shaded area about 10 minutes away by car—perfect for cooling off.
Hisarönü: A neighboring bay known for its beach and local restaurants.
Selimiye Village: About 15 minutes from Orhaniye, with seafront restaurants, a marina, and a tranquil vibe.
Things to Do in Orhaniye
Join a daily boat tour to explore nearby bays and islands.
Take a morning walk at Kızkumu Beach.
Enjoy a forest hike along the pine-covered trails.
Have breakfast or dinner at seaside restaurants.
Watch or photograph the yachts moored in the bay.
Kızkumu Beach
The main reason most travelers visit Orhaniye is to experience Kızkumu, a rare natural formation where you can walk across the sea. The long, narrow sandbar stretches into the middle of the bay, allowing people to stroll through shallow water that resembles a path.
According to local legend, the daughter of the King of Bybassos tried to escape pirates by walking into the sea, spreading sand from her skirt to create a path. She eventually drowned when she ran out of sand and got lost in the darkness. The beach was named Kızkumu, meaning “Maiden’s Sand,” in her memory.
The water is very shallow—ideal for walking, not swimming.
Water shoes are recommended as the seabed can be rocky.
The busiest time is between 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
A water sports center offers jet ski, banana boat, and other marine activities.
The sunset view from here is stunning.
Bybassos Fortress and Island
In the center of the gulf, there’s a small island with hilltop ruins believed to be from the ancient Kingdom of Bybassos. You can rent a boat or canoe to reach it. The view from the top is absolutely worth the effort.
Boat Tours from Orhaniye
From Orhaniye Bay, you can take part in full-day boat tours exploring Hisarönü Gulf and surrounding areas. Destinations typically include Selimiye, İnbükü Bay, Kamelya Island, and Dişlice Island—all known for their pristine beauty and turquoise waters.
Martı Marina
Located at the entrance of Orhaniye Bay, Martı Marina is one of the most prestigious marinas in the area, offering space for 300 yachts at sea and 100 on land.
The marina features:
A restaurant, bar, and market
A swimming pool
Full boat maintenance and repair services
Ruins of an old church, with mosaic floors in the garden area worth seeing
What to Eat in Orhaniye?
Orhaniye, as a coastal village, offers both fresh seafood and traditional Aegean cuisine. Simplicity and local ingredients take center stage.
Fresh fish and seafood: Along the coast, restaurants commonly serve sea bass, sea bream, red mullet, calamari, and octopus.
Olive oil mezes: Dishes like sea beans, zucchini with yogurt, atom dip, and artichokes are typical starters on almost every table.
Homemade gözleme: These Turkish flatbreads with cheese, potato, or herbs are a quick and budget-friendly option, found near the beach or in local cafés.
Village breakfast: A classic Turkish spread of olives, goat cheese, local honey, butter, and homemade jams, especially popular in boutique guesthouses.
Desserts: Light and traditional options such as pumpkin dessert, semolina halva, or ice cream are favored after dinner.
Shopping in Orhaniye – What to Buy?
Though Orhaniye lacks large stores or malls, it offers authentic local products and handcrafted goods.
Handmade jewelry: Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings crafted with sea stones and natural materials.
Olive oil and soaps: Locally-produced olive oil and natural olive oil soaps are among the most sought-after souvenirs.
Local honey and jams: Products like pine honey, carob molasses, and homemade citrus jams can be found at guesthouses or village markets.
Wooden items: Hand-carved kitchenware, small decor pieces, and eco-friendly toys are offered by local artisans.
Peshtemal and summer clothing: Lightweight cotton towels and boho-style dresses, ideal for the beach, are available at nearby stalls.
Nightlife in Orhaniye
Orhaniye offers a peaceful atmosphere rather than a vibrant nightlife. It’s best suited for those seeking quiet evenings close to nature.
Seaside dinners: Enjoy a calm dinner by the sea at sunset – the most popular and fitting way to spend an evening in Orhaniye.
Live music: Occasionally, especially in summer, some boutique hotels or restaurants may host acoustic performances.
Campfire gatherings: At campgrounds or bungalows, guests often enjoy relaxed conversations around a fire.
Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, areas around Kızkumu Beach or forest trails are perfect for watching the stars.
Where to Stay in Orhaniye?
Accommodation in Orhaniye blends nature with simplicity. Options range from boutique hotels to budget guesthouses and campgrounds.
Boutique Orhaniye hotels, apartments: Small, stylish places close to the sea, ideal for couples.
Family-run guesthouses: Cosy, often with breakfast included, and friendly hospitality.
Bungalows: Wooden cabins in forested settings, perfect for those craving silence.
Campgrounds and RV sites: Nature lovers can set up tents or park their campervans at designated sites.
Apartments near the marina: Great for long-term stays with kitchen facilities.
Things to Know Before Your Trip to Orhaniye
Orhaniye enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with plenty of sun. Humidity is lower than in Marmaris town.
Weather & Climate:
Summer temperatures (June–September): 28–34°C.
The sea temperature is perfect for swimming and warms quickly in shallow areas like Kızkumu.
Evenings may get cool – a light jacket or shawl is useful.
Travel Tips:
Bring water shoes: Kızkumu’s bottom can be rocky in places.
Swim early: The beach is quieter in the morning before crowds arrive.
Carry cash: Not all small businesses accept cards.
Rent a car: This gives you easy access to nearby coves and villages.
Be environmentally mindful: Protect the area’s natural charm by minimizing waste and respecting water usage.
How to Get to Orhaniye
Location & Transport
Orhaniye is located 30 km southwest of Marmaris and just 2.5 km past Turgut Village. Minibuses run from Marmaris to Orhaniye daily.
You can also visit via daily Jeep Safari Tours or Village Tours departing from Marmaris.
From Marmaris:
Minibuses from Marmaris Bus Station take about 40–45 minutes.
Service frequency increases in summer but drops in the evenings.
From Dalaman Airport:
Dalaman Airport is the closest, about 120 km away. Airport transfers is the best option.
You can take HAVAŞ or Muttaş shuttles to Marmaris, then a minibus to Orhaniye.
Car rental is the most comfortable and direct option (1.5–2 hours total).
By Car:
Drive via D400 highway, then turn off toward Hisarönü.
The route features scenic views of pine forests and coastal bays.
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FAQs
Where is Orhaniye located?
Orhaniye is a small coastal village on the shores of Hisarönü Gulf, in the Marmaris district of Muğla province.
What is Kızkumu Beach?
Kızkumu is a natural sandbank in Orhaniye that gives the illusion of walking on water. It’s the most famous spot in the area.
How do you get to Orhaniye?
You can reach Orhaniye by minibus or private car from Marmaris. From Dalaman Airport, take a shuttle to Marmaris, then transfer.
Is there nightlife in Orhaniye?
Nightlife is very quiet and low-key. Apart from seafront dinners, there are few entertainment options.
Is Orhaniye suitable for families with children?
Yes. The shallow and calm sea, peaceful setting, and safe environment make it a great option for families.
Can you swim in Orhaniye?
Yes. Kızkumu Beach and nearby coves and shorelines are great for swimming.
What are the best accommodation options in Orhaniye?
Top choices include boutique hotels, family-run guesthouses, and bungalow-style lodgings.
How long should you stay in Orhaniye?
2–3 days is ideal for a short escape, but 4–5 days allows time to explore nearby villages as well.
When is the best time to visit Orhaniye?
June to September is the best period. June and September offer the best balance of good weather and smaller crowds.
What are the top things to do in Orhaniye?
Popular activities include walking along Kızkumu Beach, joining boat tours, hiking in nature, exploring hidden coves, and enjoying seafood at waterfront restaurants.