Located in Muğla’s Marmaris district, Selimiye is one of the most peaceful and scenic spots along the Hisaronu Gulf. Known for its calm atmosphere, crystal-clear sea, and stylish waterfront restaurants, this coastal village is ideal for those seeking a quiet, boutique-style getaway. In recent years, Selimiye has become one of the rising stars of the Aegean region, drawing visitors who prefer tranquility over crowded tourist resorts.
In this Selimiye travel and holiday guide, you’ll find concise information on places to visit, activities, beaches, food and drink options, how to get there, and accommodation — along with a general overview of what to expect from Selimiye.
Selimiye at a Glance: What to Expect?
Selimiye, located on the Bozburun Peninsula about 45 minutes southwest of Marmaris, is a peaceful coastal village known for its tranquil atmosphere, crystal-clear sea, and boutique charm. Situated just 10 kilometers from Orhaniye, it’s a favorite stop for blue cruise yachts and private boats exploring Hisaronu Gulf.
The village is ideal for those seeking a quiet holiday in nature. Surrounded by pine-covered hills and stone houses, Selimiye village offers a serene escape far from the bustle of typical tourist resorts.
Although there are no wide sandy beaches in the immediate vicinity, the calm bay and clean water make it perfect for swimming.
Selimiye’s charm lies in its seafront restaurants, boutique hotels, and local art galleries that line the small marina. It’s a top destination for travelers who prefer a slow-paced, quality-focused vacation experience.
You’ll find only a few modest beaches nearby, the closest being about 2 km away, but they’re scenic and inviting.
Historically, the area falls within the boundaries of ancient Hydas, and some archaeological ruins can still be found in the hills and surrounding trails.
Pros and Cons of a Holiday in Selimiye
Pros:
Calm and clean sea: Ideal for families with children and those who enjoy swimming in quiet waters.
Excellent dining options: A wide range of seaside restaurants offering fresh seafood, Aegean mezes, and locally sourced ingredients.
Tranquil setting: A great spot for those who want to escape crowds and enjoy a relaxing vacation in Marmaris.
Charming boutique hotels: Perfect for travelers looking for small-scale, personalized accommodation.
Natural beauty: The combination of green hills, coastal scenery, and hiking opportunities offers a refreshing environment.
Cons:
Limited transportation options: Minibus service exists but is infrequent; having a rental car is highly recommended.
Higher prices in summer: Both accommodation and food prices tend to rise during the peak season.
Minimal nightlife: Not suitable for travelers seeking bars or nightclubs.
Small beach areas: Expect pebble shores or wooden piers instead of classic sandy beaches.
Our Best Tips for First-Time Visitors to Selimiye
Book early: Especially in July and August, Selimiye hotels and guesthouses can sell out quickly.
Make dinner reservations: The best waterfront restaurants get full in the evenings.
Arrive by car: A rental car in Marmaris makes it much easier to explore nearby coves and historic ruins.
Bring water shoes: Many of the swimming spots in Selimiye have rocky entries.
Pack smart-casual outfits: Locals and visitors tend to dress up a bit for dinner by the sea.
Take a boat tour: Don’t miss the chance to join a Selimiye boat tour to discover untouched bays, hidden beaches, and nearby islands.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Selimiye
Though Selimiye is a small seaside village, it offers plenty of experiences thanks to its surroundings. Sea, nature, and local culture come together here. Below are some highlights not to miss:
Top Places to Visit:
Selimiye Bay: The heart of the area, with calm turquoise waters and scenic views, perfect for spending the entire day.
Selimiye Shipyard: A historic shipbuilding area dating back to the Ottoman period.
Sarı Ana Tomb: A symbolic local site with spiritual importance to the village residents.
Turgut Waterfall: Just 15–20 minutes away, ideal for a refreshing break and a walk in nature.
Orhaniye & Kızkumu Beach: If you have a car, these iconic coastal spots nearby are worth a visit.
Activities in Selimiye:
Boat tours from Selimiye: Explore Bencik Bay, Kamelya Island, and Dislice Island on half-day or full-day boat tours.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Calm waters make these activities especially enjoyable.
Hiking in Selimiye: Local trails and village paths are great for peaceful morning walks.
Fishing: Enjoy casual shore or boat fishing in tranquil settings.
Historical Sites in Selimiye
The region is home to ancient ruins of Hydas, including three hilltop castles. The best-preserved castle overlooks Selimiye Bay and the nearby village of Turgut.

In the hills southeast of the bay, you can also find Hellenistic city walls. Other remnants include a lighthouse, church ruins, and an ancient theater just 100 meters inland from the coast.
Don’t miss Kamelya Island, where you’ll find the ruins of a Byzantine-era church, one of the region’s hidden gems.
Make sure to stop by the seafood restaurants in Selimiye, and if you’re visiting in summer, join one of the daily boat tours to the islands and untouched coves. Dislice Island and Kamelya Island are the most popular stops.
Selimiye Food Guide – What to Eat
The food culture in Selimiye is rooted in Aegean cuisine and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Seafront restaurants cater to gourmet travelers seeking quality dining in Marmaris.
Fresh fish and seafood: Red mullet, sea bream, octopus, calamari, and grouper are the stars of the menu.
Olive oil mezes: Must-try appetizers include stuffed zucchini flowers, sea beans, fava, and Cretan cheese spread.
Homemade desserts: Popular options include fig dessert, pumpkin dessert, and mastic pudding.
Traditional Turkish breakfast: A full village breakfast with olives, honey, homemade jams, local cheeses, and eggs is a staple here.
Wine & rakı pairings: Enjoy your meal with a view and a drink—rakı and meze are a local ritual.
Shopping in Selimiye – What to Buy
Selimiye is known for its handmade and locally crafted items. You won’t find large shops here, but you’ll discover unique and meaningful souvenirs.
Handmade jewelry: Accessories made from natural stones and nautical-themed elements.
Olive oil & soap: Locally produced cold-pressed olive oil and artisan soaps make perfect gifts.
Peştamal towels and summer wear: Lightweight fabrics and beach clothing are available in boutique shops.
Local art: Small galleries sell paintings, ceramics, and handwoven textiles by local artists.
Jams and honey: Try the region’s signature citrus jams, carob molasses, and pine honey.
Selimiye Nightlife
Nightlife in Selimiye is calm, elegant, and centered around long dinners by the sea.
Dinner with a view: Fresh fish, chilled wine, and sea breeze make dinner on the coast a memorable experience.
Live music spots: Some boutique bars and restaurants offer acoustic guitar or light jazz performances in summer.
Selimiye Marina area: Sip on cocktails or wine at cozy cafes with peaceful waterfront settings.
No loud nightlife: There are no clubs or bars with loud music, so it’s best for those seeking relaxation and romance.
Where to Stay in Selimiye
Accommodation options in Selimiye are mostly small-scale, charming, and designed in harmony with nature.
Seafront boutique Selimiye hotels, apartments: Quiet bayside properties offering scenic views and well-designed rooms.
Stone house guesthouses: Family-run places with local architecture and a warm, welcoming vibe.
Boutique apartments: Ideal for long stays, equipped with kitchens and spacious interiors.
Bungalows in nature: Garden accommodations perfect for those seeking peace and a natural setting.
Village homestays: Located farther from the beach but quieter and usually more affordable.
Things to Know Before Your Trip to Selimiye
The summer season in Selimiye is long, and the village enjoys sunshine most of the year. Humidity levels are moderate, and breezy evenings make the sea even more refreshing.
Weather & Climate:
Summer temperatures range from 30–34°C.
Sea temperatures are suitable for swimming from late May through October.
Evenings may get breezy—bring a light shawl or jacket just in case.
Travel Tips:
The beachfront is narrow and parking limited—arrive early for a good spot.
Water shoes are recommended for comfort on pebbled beach sections.
Reserve boat tours at least one day in advance to ensure availability.
Restaurants get busy in peak season—book your dinner table ahead of time.
On Sundays, check out the local village market for handmade crafts and organic produce.
How to Get to Selimiye
Selimiye is located in the southwest of Marmaris, about 38 km away. It’s accessible via the Marmaris-Datça road, with public minibuses running from Marmaris.
The route offers stunning views of pine forests and coastal scenery, making the drive a pleasure in itself.
From Marmaris:
Minibuses from Marmaris Bus Station reach Selimiye in about 1 hour.
In summer, service is frequent; in winter, schedules may be limited.
From Dalaman Airport:
Dalaman Airport is the closest airport to Selimiye (approx. 135 km).
You can take a HAVAŞ shuttle to Marmaris, then transfer to a minibus or taxi. Or you can take airport transfer which will be fastest.
Car rental is the most comfortable and flexible option, taking around 2 hours.
By Private Car:
Follow the D400 highway from Marmaris, then turn toward Bozburun to reach Selimiye.
Though winding, the road is well-paved and offers breathtaking coastal views.
Google Map
FAQs
Where is Selimiye located?
Selimiye is a small, peaceful coastal village in Hisarönü Bay, within the district of Marmaris, Muğla.
What is the nearest airport to Selimiye?
Dalaman Airport is the closest, about 2 hours away by car.
Can you swim in Selimiye?
Yes. Selimiye Bay is calm, clean, and shallow—great for swimming.
Who is Selimiye ideal for?
Perfect for couples, families, and travelers seeking a quiet holiday in nature, away from crowded tourist zones.
What activities are available in Selimiye?
You can enjoy boat tours, seaside walks, swimming, village markets, photography, and seafood dining.
What is the nightlife like in Selimiye?
Peaceful and elegant. Aside from a few live music venues, there is no loud nightlife.
Is shopping available in Selimiye?
Yes. Small boutiques offer handmade jewelry, olive oil, soaps, and traditional textiles.
Is Selimiye expensive?
Compared to other seaside villages, Selimiye is more upscale, with boutique services and high-quality restaurants raising the overall cost.
How many days should I stay in Selimiye?
A 3–5 day trip is ideal for both relaxing and exploring the area.
When is the best time to visit Selimiye?
June to September is perfect. July and August are busiest and most expensive.