Located to the south of Marmaris, Turunc is one of the top choices for travelers seeking a peaceful holiday thanks to its calm atmosphere, clear sea, and natural beauty. Surrounded by mountains, this small coastal town offers a laid-back escape from city life, with clean beaches, boutique hotels, and a warm, village-like charm.
In this guide, you’ll find a summary of everything you need to know about things to do in Turunc, places to visit, beaches, dining options, nightlife, shopping, transport, and accommodation—so you can get a clear idea of what Turunc is really like.
Turunc at a Glance: What to Expect?
Located about 20 kilometers south of Marmaris and 120 km. from the Dalaman Airport (DLM), Turunc is a peaceful coastal village surrounded by pine-covered mountains and clear blue waters. Once a quiet fishing town, Turunc has become a beloved destination for those seeking a tranquil holiday close to nature. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Marmaris, and the scenery is stunning the entire way.
The crooked road with ramps and downhills to Turunc is very exciting with the forest area, hills and beautiful landscape along the Marmaris Gulf. After an half an hour trip you will suddenly see Turunc behind the hills by the seaside with a wonderful view.
The sea has all variations of the blue colour. The hills behind the village are covered with pine trees. The region also has a huge variety of fruits and covered with pomegranate, berry, fig, plum, locust and sour orange trees. “Turunc” is the Turkish name for “Sour Orange” and the village’s name comes from its quality of sour oranges.
Being an old fisherman village, Turunc, is also a very popular pit-stop for the yachts and blue voyagers. You may see lots of anchored yachts and boats in the night and the restaurants are full of visitors.
The Turunc Cove has a blue flag which means the beaches and the sea are in great condition, has infrastructure for the yachts and clean.
The Turunç Bay and Turunç Public Beach have both been awarded the Blue Flag, guaranteeing clean water and a well-maintained shoreline.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Despite being a small settlement, Turunç offers a relaxing and authentic vacation experience, far from the hustle of urban life.
Pros and Cons of a Holiday in Turunç
Pros:
Crystal-clear sea: Ideal for swimming thanks to its Blue Flag beach.
Peaceful environment: Great for those who want to escape the crowds.
Nature-focused setting: Enjoy views of pine forests and mountains.
Proximity to Marmaris: Easy access to urban conveniences while staying close to nature.
Family-friendly: Calm waters and a quiet setting make it safe for children.
Cons:
Limited nightlife: Those seeking vibrant evening entertainment may find it too quiet.
Public transportation is limited: Minibuses and boats run at set times only.
High demand in peak season: Small accommodations fill up fast in summer.
Our Best Tips for First-Time Visitors to Turunç
Book early: Boutique hotels and apartments get fully booked during high season.
Consider renting a car: It’s the easiest way to explore nearby attractions like Amos Ancient City and secluded bays.
Go to the beach early: The sea is calmest and the beach is less crowded in the morning.
Bring walking shoes: There are nature trails and hiking paths around the village.
Carry cash: Some small businesses only accept cash.
Join a boat tour: Discover hidden beaches and secluded bays on daily boat excursions from Turunç.
Video Tour
Top Things to Do & See
If you’re looking for fine golden sands to relax on while you take in the historic atmosphere on your Turkey holidays, the beach in Turunc is exactly what you’re looking for. The thyme, bay leaf, garden sage and carob plants which grow around here give this place an aromatic air, which is what brought the first settlers, known as yoruks, down from the mountains to turn this place into a home.
It’s hard to find a tourist who isn’t dozing in the sun on the beach during the day, or admiring the view across the water from a bar at night. The peaceful stretch of sand and shingle has light and cooling breezes and a small quay for visiting yachts.
There are no nightclubs here and the nights are serene and can placate even the most highly-strung, so most of the tourists here are those looking for peace and quiet. However, if you’re the type who wants an undisturbed stroll along the seafront during the day but also alleviates stress under speakers and lasers, Marmaris, which is packed with nightclubs, is only a 40 minute bus or boat ride away.
If you travel to Turunc, you’ll have to spend at least a day on a 4×4 off-road safari, hiking or biking around the area, which all traverse through pristine, untouched and luscious forests to achieve breath-taking views of the rolling pine-forested hills and mountains for as far as the eye can see.
The safaris will also stop off for a bit of swimming at waterfalls which plummet into crystal-clear pools. They travel through traditional Turkish villages which haven’t fallen prey to the influx of tourists, and head to mosques, Turkish tea houses and will show you the art of hand-made carpet weaving.
Another highlight of these safaris is the group of olive trees which are claimed to be the oldest on the planet, which are said to bring you luck if you walk around them three times and make a wish. If you want a quieter, less restricted or more romantic journey around the views, you can independently hire cars and scooters in Turunc.
If you want to watch the scenery pass by in a more relaxed setting, head out on a boat trip. Onboard you’ll relax in the sun, have a cocktail and enjoy a barbeque, all interspersed with a few stops allowing you to have a dip in the crystal clear and turquoise water.
You can charter your own boat and even take boats which go quite far afield, to the peaceful bays of Kumlubuk and Amos which have beautiful sites such as a fish farm (where fish gather for no apparent reason) and the Phosphorous Caves, in which minerals in the rocks and water emanate haunting light patterns through the water and around the cave.
For the energetic, a great number of water sports are available in Turunc, as the calm bay waters allow a greater freedom for jet skis, paragliding, motor boating, scuba diving and snorkeling than most seas.
The scuba diving centre offers classes for first timers to experts, all at affordable rates. Get eagle-eye views and pictures of the surrounding mountains and bays on a parasail, which is pulled with a motor boat.
Horse-riding, trekking, cycling, river rafting and fishing are all fantastic ways to spend your Marmaris holidays in Turunc, and the afternoon is a superb time to take a stroll around the markets and haggle for some souvenirs. The area called “Palamut Tepesi (Oak Hill)” is a nice place for a nature walk and trekking.
You may also participate the daily boat trips made to the side coves and beaches such as Kumlubuk, Ciftlik and Gebekse. Dalyan and Iztuzu beach trips are also organized in Turunc. You may also hire a boat and organized your own trip.
Fishing is also popular in the region. Especially in the season during April-October, fish population is high.
Turunc Food & Dining Guide – What to Eat
Dining in Turunc centers around simplicity and flavor, rooted in natural ingredients and local recipes:
Fresh Fish & Seafood: Enjoy the catch of the day at seaside restaurants.
Traditional Turkish Cuisine: Dishes like gözleme, kebabs, and olive oil-based appetizers are widely available.
Seafront Dining: Sunset dinners by the sea are a highlight of any evening in Turunc.
Local Flavors: Popular choices include Aegean-style mezes, herb-based dishes, and organic village-style breakfasts.
Desserts & Coffee Breaks: Small cafés offer homemade sweets and Turkish coffee—a great way to relax during the day.
You’ll find some of the best Aegean and Mediterranean dishes along Turunc’s waterfront and central market area.
Highlights include fresh fish, mezes, wild herbs, pine honey, orange jam, and locally grown thyme and sage from higher elevations. Popular meals like kebab, pide, lahmacun, and gözleme are also easy to find, alongside homestyle Turkish cooking in smaller eateries.
Shopping in Turunc – What to Buy
Though small, Turunc offers a pleasant local shopping experience:
Handmade Products: Jewelry made from seashells, handmade soaps, and decorative crafts.
Local Markets: Weekly open-air markets sell fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs, and organic goods.
Beachwear & Towels: Lightweight peshtemals and beach clothing are common souvenirs.
Natural Products: Homemade jams, organic olive oil, and local honey are top picks for gifts.
Art & Crafts: Local galleries and shops showcase artwork and crafts by regional artists.
Don’t miss the Monday market, which is great for local specialties like pine honey, orange jam, wild thyme, bay leaves, carob, and sage grown in the nearby hills.
Turunc Nightlife
Nightlife in Turunc is calm and peaceful—perfect for those who enjoy relaxed evenings:
Seaside Bars: Unwind with light music and drinks at small bars along the shore.
Restaurant Bars: Some restaurants offer live music after dinner, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
Strolls by the Sea: One of the best ways to end the day is a quiet walk under the stars.
Alternative: Marmaris: If you’re looking for more vibrant nightlife, Marmaris town center is just a short drive away.
Live Acoustic Music: Occasionally, small venues host acoustic performances, especially during the summer season.
Where to Stay in Turunc
Turunc hotels and apartments offer a range of accommodation options that blend comfort with nature, suitable for various budgets:
Seafront Hotels: Ideal for those who want direct beach access just steps from their room.
Boutique Hotels: Small, family-run properties that provide a peaceful, nature-rich setting.
Family Hotels: Child-friendly hotels and apart-style rooms are perfect for families.
Apart Hotels: Equipped with kitchenettes, these are a great choice for longer stays or travelers who prefer cooking.
Guesthouses (Pensions): Budget-friendly options that offer a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.
Tip: Booking early—especially for central or seafront hotels—during the summer ensures better rates and more variety.
Things to Know Before Your Trip to Turunc
Turunc is a tranquil Mediterranean resort town with ideal weather for a relaxing summer break.
Weather and Climate:
Summer is hot and sunny, with average temperatures between 30–35°C.
Sea temperatures are perfect for swimming from late May until mid-October.
Winters are mild and rainy; early autumn is a pleasant alternative for those avoiding peak season crowds.
Travel Tips:
Always carry a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen for sun protection during hot days.
Start your day with a morning walk to enjoy the fresh mountain air and cooler temperatures.
Since large supermarkets are limited, plan a quick trip to Marmaris for essentials.
Bring water shoes—they’re helpful for navigating the rocky beach areas comfortably.
If you’re joining a daily boat tour, reserve your spot early in the morning to avoid missing out.
How to Get to Turunc
Location & Transportation
Turunc is located about 20 km southwest of Marmaris (after Icmeler) and approximately 15 nautical miles by sea. Regular minibus services operate between Marmaris and Turunc, especially during the summer.
From Dalaman Airport to Turunc
The journey takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.
You can take a HAVAŞ shuttle from Dalaman Airport to Marmaris, then switch to a taxi or minibus to reach Turunc.
Private transfer or car rental is a convenient option if you have luggage or prefer more comfort.
From Marmaris Center to Turunc
During the high season, minibuses from Marmaris Center take about 30 minutes to reach Turunc.
Alternatively, you can take a scenic boat ride from Marmaris Marina, which offers a pleasant sea journey.
Tip: The road between Marmaris and Turunc is mountainous and winding, so if you’re driving, it’s best to travel during daylight hours for both safety and views.
Google Map
FAQs
Where is Turunc located?
Turunc is a holiday town in the Marmaris district of Muğla, about 20 km from Marmaris center.
How do I get to Turunc?
Reach Marmaris from Dalaman Airport, then continue to Turunc by minibus or taxi. Private transfers are also available.
What is the sea like in Turunc?
The sea in Turunc is clear, calm, and blue-flag certified. Thanks to the pebbly shoreline, the water stays clean and transparent.
Who is Turunc ideal for?
Perfect for couples, families with children, and anyone looking to relax in nature away from crowds.
What activities are available in Turunc?
Popular options include swimming, boat tours, nature hikes, and visiting the ancient city of Amos.
Are there places to shop in Turunc?
Yes, the town center has handmade crafts, souvenir shops, and small stores for everyday essentials.
How is the nightlife in Turunc?
Turunc offers a peaceful nightlife—expect cozy seaside cafés and bars with soft music.
Is Turunc suitable for families with children?
Yes, Turunc’s calm sea, quiet setting, and safe environment make it very family-friendly.
When is the best time to visit Turunc?
June, July, and September are the best months for enjoying the beach and exploring the natural surroundings.
What are the accommodation options in Turunc?
You’ll find everything from seafront hotels and boutique guesthouses to apart hotels and family-friendly lodgings.