The top things to do in Akyaka are a boat trip on the Azmak, kitesurfing at Akçapınar beach and a walk among the wooden houses built in the traditional Ula style. At the eastern end of the Gulf of Gökova, Akyaka received the Cittaslow (slow city) title in June 2011; a town of a few thousand people in winter, it gets busy with visitors in summer.
What Is the Azmak and How Do You Visit It?
The Azmak is not a river but a karst spring about 2 km long, formed where groundwater rises to the surface; its water stays between 8 and 12 degrees all year. Its clear, cold water, the restaurants on its banks and trips in small boats are Akyaka's best-known experience.
Azmak boat trips are short and easy even for families with children. The water is very cold, so people go more for the view and the cool than to swim; in the summer midday heat, the banks of the Azmak are the coolest place in town.
Why Is Akyaka So Famous for Kitesurfing?
Akçapınar Beach in Akyaka is considered one of the best kitesurfing centres in the world, thanks to the thermal winds of the Gulf of Gökova. The wind usually picks up in the afternoon, and the shallow water suits beginner training.
Kitesurf schools in the area offer everything from beginner lessons to equipment rental. If you are trying it for the first time, plan training over several days; learning basic control in a single day is hard.
Where Do Akyaka's Wooden Houses Come From?
Akyaka's characteristic look began in 1983, when architect Nail Çakırhan built his own house in the traditional Ula style; the same year the house received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. In the years that followed, buildings in the town followed this style of white plaster and wooden balconies.
Today most boutique hotels and guesthouses carry this architecture. On an evening walk, the carved wooden balconies and gardens are the town's loveliest feature.
Where to Stay and Eat in Akyaka?
Accommodation in Akyaka is mostly small boutique hotels and guesthouses in the traditional style; there are no large hotel complexes. For kitesurfers, places near Akçapınar beach are better; for those seeking calm, the banks of the Azmak and the town centre.
For food, the restaurants along the Azmak and the small eateries in the town centre stand out. On summer evenings the tables by the Azmak fill quickly; booking or arriving early avoids waiting.
Who Is Akyaka Suitable For?
Akyaka suits kitesurfers, couples, those seeking nature and calm, and families with small children. Those looking for nightlife and big beach clubs will find Marmaris or Bodrum a better fit.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Akyaka?
The best time for kitesurfing is the summer months, when the wind is steady; for the sea and calm, early June and September are ideal. In July and August the town gets very crowded, so book accommodation early. In spring and autumn the weather is perfect for the Azmak and nature walks around it.
How Do You Get from the Airport to Akyaka?
Akyaka lies between Muğla and Marmaris, in the Ula district. The road from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport towards Muğla is about 230 km and takes about 3 hours on average; Akyaka is further along this road.
If you are coming with kitesurf equipment, say so when booking; the Mercedes Vito vehicles carry 9 passengers and 5 pieces of luggage. For a vehicle, see the Izmir Airport to Muğla and Izmir Airport to Marmaris pages.
What Can You Combine Akyaka With?
Akyaka is a calm stop on a southern Aegean route. Nearby stops include:
- Muğla old town: stone houses and the bazaar.
- Marmaris: bays, the marina and boat trips.
- Datça and Knidos: the ancient city at the tip of the peninsula.
- Stratonikeia: the ancient city with a village inside it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim in the Azmak at Akyaka?
The Azmak's water is 8–12 degrees all year, so it is very cold; most visitors go for a boat trip and the view.
Can you learn kitesurfing in Akyaka?
Yes. The shallow water at Akçapınar Beach suits beginner training; plan a course of several days.
When did Akyaka become a slow city?
Akyaka received the Cittaslow (slow city) title in June 2011.
How long does it take from Izmir Airport to Akyaka?
The road towards Muğla is about 230 km and 3 hours; Akyaka is further along this road.