This large bay is a popular stop for those heading between Marmaris and Gocek Bay and also provides the base for the popular boat trip to the famous Turtle Beach and Dalyan village.
Ekincik village itself is rarely seen – it’s on the far side of the bay away from the yacht moorings provided by the My Marina restaurant. The restaurant, sited up the hillside, offers excellent views across the bay. It presents a rather up market image with uniformed staff and photos on the walls of famous visitors.
The food is excellent but comes at a price and menus are hard to come by. A wide selection of fish is offered but note that if you ask the price, you will usually get the per kilo cost. Likewise, unless you specify local spirits, you will be served imported brands.
Portions are generous and the desert trolley is superb so don’t over order. Most meals come with a generous side salad so don’t order a separate salad unless you’ve not eaten for a week. I don’t think I’ve ever seen one finished and most go back to the kitchen untouched!
For those of limited mobility, the climb up to the restaurant (and half way down again if you want the loo) can be daunting. If you’re lucky, the small funicular railway will be working (though it often seems to be broken) and the staff will arrange to take you up on that.
If it’s your birthday or you have anything else to celebrate, let the staff know – they have a special party piece. If you haven’t, don’t worry, they usually find an excuse to do it most nights!
For many, the main attraction is the day trip to Dalyan (a half day trip is also offered but isn’t worth it – you need a day). These boat trips are organised by the local co-operative (aka cartel) so prices are fixed. However, Flotilla groups sometimes manage to negotiate a deal so if there’s a Flotilla in, ask the Lead Crew if you can tag on to their group.
You travel by small boat (it’s too shallow for yachts) through the reed beds up to the picturesque if rather twee village of Dalyan for lunch.
En route, there’s the chance to sample the mud baths (make sure you remove any jewellery as it wrecks it) and visit the famous Turtle Beach (Iztuzu), breeding ground of the Loggerhead Turtle, where you can have a swim.
You’re unlikely to see a turtle at the beach itself but you may get lucky and see one during the boat trip, or whilst sailing in the area. All in all it’s pleasant day out and though between them the restaurant and the trip may put a dent in your wallet, it’s one of those things you really should do while you’re there.