The 5 Best Spots to Watch the Sunset in Yalıkavak (2024)

Yalıkavak lies at the northwestern tip of the Bodrum Peninsula and, thanks to its geographical location, it's a region practically designed for watching the sunset. The west–north-facing coastline gives you the chance to observe the sun's descent towards the sea without interruption. In spring the weather is mild, the crowds are small and the light is quite soft for photography. We've gathered the safe, easily accessible spots for families with children in this guide.

1. Yalıkavak Marina Pier – The Panoramic Classic

The main pier of Yalıkavak Marina is one of Bodrum's most organised sunset platforms. Along the 800-metre-long walkway there are viewing points with iron railings, bench seating areas and green landscaping. You can take a walk as a family and stop wherever you like.

Practical information:

• Transport: A 10-minute walk from the Yalıkavak central minibus stop. If you're coming by car, you can use one of the marina car parks (it's easier to find a spot in spring).
• Child suitability: The pier is flat and accessible. The toilets are clean and centrally located.
• Timing: Arriving 30 minutes before sunset is ideal for finding a good angle. In spring this time is around 19:00–19:30.
• Photo tip: Bring the boat-mast silhouettes into the foreground and use a wide-angle lens to include your children in the frame.

While strolling around the marina, it's also possible to get a drink from the cafés in the area and sip it on the pier—but without naming a specific business, saying "the cafés around the marina" is enough.

2. Tilkicik Cove Coastal Road – Calm and Natural

Located to the west of Yalıkavak, 2 km from the marina area, Tilkicik Cove is a place the locals secretly go to for the sunset. Along the concrete coastal road there are fine pebble beaches and rocky sections. There are very few people and you can hear the sound of the sea clearly.

Practical information:

• Transport: 5–7 minutes by car from central Yalıkavak. Parking is limited; you can pull up along the side of the coastal road.
• Child suitability: You need to be careful on the rocky parts. Suitable for children over 5.
• Timing: You can arrive at 18:45 in the evening; the sun touches the sea around 19:15.
• Photo tip: Compositions with the rocks in the foreground make an impact on Instagram. The golden hour light gives soft tones.

There's no shop or toilet at Tilkicik—prepare in advance. A calm evening in nature with families awaits you.

3. Gökçebel Hills – Panorama from Above

The hills of the Gökçebel neighbourhood, south of Yalıkavak, let you see the distance between the sea and the sun from a bird's-eye view. There are a few small squares and viewing terraces here; there are green spaces maintained by the local authority and seating benches.

Practical information:

• Transport: Going up by car is the most comfortable. 10 minutes' drive from central Yalıkavak towards Gökçebel; the road is paved and safe.
• Child suitability: Open space, no playground, but a picnic is possible.
• Timing: You can head up 45 minutes before sunset and prepare—you can bring things like food and a blanket.
• Photo tip: A wide-angle drone shot gives wonderful results, but you'll capture sufficient depth with a basic camera too.

From the hilltop points you can even see Yalıkavak Marina, the shores of Gümüşlük and the island of Kos. On very windy days the light falls sharply, so take a light jacket with you.

4. Dırmıl Camping Area Beach – Sand and Camping Fun

To the east of Yalıkavak, on the coastal road heading towards Gündoğan, the Dırmıl area has a long beach. There's a free camping area designated by the municipality (pitching a tent is free, and toilet and shower facilities are available). Although the sunset isn't directly to the west, when the sun lowers from the right, wonderful plays of light appear.

Practical information:

• Transport: 3 km from central Yalıkavak; you can also get there by minibus (the "Dırmıl" stop).
• Child suitability: The sand is fine, the sea shallow and very suitable for families. While the children play, you can watch the sunset.
• Timing: You can arrive at 17:00 in the afternoon and go in the sea, then be ready for the sunset by 19:00.
• Photo tip: The silhouettes of children on the sand, the waves and the beams of light make very striking shots.

As it's a camping area, staying overnight is also possible. If you want to try a one-night camp with your family, it's an ideal option.

5. Sandıma Cove Cliffs – A Hidden Paradise

Located between Yalıkavak and Gündoğan, 7 km from the marina, Sandıma Cove is a favourite spot of local fishermen and photography enthusiasts. The small cove surrounded by cliffs creates a natural refraction of light that turns the water into turquoise-purple tones.

Practical information:

• Transport: Reaching it by car is essential; the road is unpaved for the last 500 metres. SUVs or high vehicles will manage more comfortably.
• Child suitability: Due to the rocky terrain, for children over 7. Water shoes are essential.
• Timing: Arriving at 18:30 and settling in is enough to watch the sun sink to the horizon.
• Photo tip: Golden hour portraits shot between the rocks come out at professional quality.

There's no business at all at Sandıma Cove, it's a completely natural environment. Make sure to bring water, food and a rubbish bag with you.

General Tips for the Yalıkavak Sunset

1. Seasonal difference: In spring the weather is between 18 and 22°C. The evening can get cool, so keep a light cardigan with you.
2. Avoiding the crowds: Prefer weekdays. On Monday–Wednesday evenings the spots have minimal crowds.
3. Photography equipment: Your phone is enough, but if you use a tripod you can take long-exposure shots.
4. Planning with children: The sunset lasts 30 minutes. You can bring a small snack, a tablet or a colouring book for the children.
5. Safety: Don't lose sight of the children at the rocky spots, and it's wise to carry a life jacket in places close to the sea.
6. Environmental awareness: Take your rubbish with you. The people of Yalıkavak are very sensitive to nature, and your contribution matters too.

The Yalıkavak Experience with Apartment Accommodation

If you want to discover these 5 spots over a few evenings in Yalıkavak, renting an apartment close to the centre is both a practical and economical solution. Thanks to an apartment with a kitchen, you can prepare dinner and have a sunset picnic, and create special menus for your children. Apartment options within walking distance of the marina give families an advantage in terms of both location and budget. Click here to browse our Yalıkavak apartments—options with balconies and a sunset view await you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What time does the sunset start in Yalıkavak?
In the spring period (March–May) the sun generally starts to set between 19:00 and 19:30. In the summer months this shifts to 20:00–20:30. Check the daily sunset time before you go.

2. Is it safe to go with children?
The marina pier, Tilkicik Cove and the Dırmıl Camping Area are quite safe for children. As the Gökçebel hills and Sandıma Cove are rocky, it's recommended to go there with children over 7.

3. Which day should you go for the Yalıkavak sunset?
Weekdays won't be crowded. On Friday and Saturday evenings the area around the marina is livelier, but it's still not bothersome.

4. Do you need to carry photography equipment?
Your phone camera is enough. However, if you experiment with long exposures using a tripod, you can capture dramatic sky photos.

5. Are these spots free?
Yes, all the spots we recommend are public areas and entry is free. Only the marina car parks charge a small hourly fee; parking is free at the other places.

Yalıkavak's sunset spots offer your family both a visual feast and moments full of peace. On spring evenings, don't head back without stopping at one of these 5 places—years from now, your children will remember those sky colours. When making your accommodation plans, consider the option of an apartment with a kitchen; you can take a look at all our Yalıkavak apartments here. Have a wonderful holiday!

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