Turunç is the most beautiful bay near Marmaris and almost nobody outside the UK package holiday market knows about it. A 20km drive south of Marmaris, this horseshoe-shaped bay is enclosed by pine-covered mountains and has a handful of genuinely excellent small hotels. If you want peace, crystal water, and no Bar Street, this is your place.
Why Stay in Turunç Instead of Marmaris?
Turunç has some of the cleanest swimming water in the Marmaris region, consistently rated excellent for bathing quality.
The bay is enclosed by a national park. No development above the treeline means the backdrop is entirely natural.
Turunç has strict noise regulations. The most thrilling sound at midnight is frogs. This is a feature, not a bug.
Frequent minibuses run every 30 minutes to Marmaris and İçmeler, so you can access restaurants and nightlife without staying there.
Top 5 Hotels in Turunç 2026
Turunc Premium Hotel
The flagship property in Turunç Bay, with 87 rooms spread across terraced gardens descending to a private pebble beach. The infinity pool delivers genuinely postcard-worthy views over the horseshoe bay, and the restaurant sources fresh fish daily from local boats.
✗ Largest hotel in Turunç so loses some of the village intimacy.
Hotel Turunc Resort
A solid 4-star all-inclusive that consistently wins high marks for value. 130 rooms, a kids' club with animation staff, a small water slide area, and an open-buffet restaurant serving Turkish and international dishes three times daily.
✗ More lively atmosphere, less suited to those seeking total serenity.
Turunc Bel Konagi
A 19th-century Ottoman manor converted with care and taste. The shaded vine terrace where breakfast is served every morning is one of the most memorable dining settings in the area. The owners know every guest by name and will organise fishing boat trips on request.
✗ No pool. 38 rooms only.
Club Turunc
The most social hotel in Turunç, popular with British and Scandinavian package holiday groups. Two pools, a lively pool bar, and a beach bar make it the best option for those who want the intimacy of Turunç without isolation.
✗ Older rooms, dated furnishings. Best for those who won't spend much time in their room.
Palmiye Garden
A 16-room family-run pension on a quiet street one block from the beachfront. Basic but clean rooms, a small garden pool, and extraordinarily friendly owners who have been welcoming British guests for over 20 years.
✗ Basic rooms. Best for independent budget travellers who explore most of the day.
Turunç Practical Information 2026
Getting There
- Dolmuş from Marmaris centre: 35 min, £2
- Taxi from Marmaris: 25 min, ~£18
- Water taxi from Marmaris marina in summer: £8
- Dalaman Airport: 75 min by transfer
Beach Info
- Main beach: 600m long pebble and sand
- Blue Flag status: Yes (2025)
- Water quality: Excellent
- Pedalos and kayak hire available
Eating & Drinking
- Around 8 restaurants along the beachfront
- Fresh fish tavernas from £12/main course
- No late-night clubs — bars close by midnight
- Local supermarket and bakery in village
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season: July–August (book 4+ months ahead)
- Shoulder season: May–June, September–October
- Many hotels closed November–April
- Cheapest rates: May and October
Turunç vs Marmaris vs İçmeler — Quick Comparison
| Turunç | İçmeler | Marmaris Centre | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Peace & nature lovers | Families & beach | Nightlife & convenience |
| Beach quality | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Nightlife | ★ | ★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Hotels (budget) | From £55 | From £45 | From £40 |
| Distance from Dalaman | 75 min | 65 min | 60 min |
| Crowds | Low | Medium | High |
| Restaurants | Limited (8–10) | Good selection | Excellent |
Read the full comparison: İçmeler vs Marmaris Centre · Best Area for Couples
Day Trips from Turunç
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James Wilson
Travel journalist who has spent five summers exploring the Turkish Aegean coast. James specialises in uncovering the smaller, quieter resorts that package holidaymakers miss. Turunç is his favourite beach in Turkey.