Marmaris to Dalyan: Turtle Beach, Lake & Mud Baths Tour

Summary

Boat rides, ancient tombs and turtles along the Dalyan river

You’ll float down Dalyan’s winding canal by boat, get messy at Sultaniye Mud Baths, taste riverside lunch while hearing stories of ancient tombs, and maybe catch sight of turtles on Turkey’s famous Turtle Beach. This tour from Marmaris is full of small surprises—the kind that stick with you long after you’ve rinsed off the last bit of mud.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway caked in grey mud when our guide, Cem, grinned and handed me a handful more—he swore it’d make me look five years younger. The air around the Sultaniye Mud Baths smelled sharp, almost like boiled eggs (sulfur, Cem explained), but after a few minutes you stop noticing. There was laughter everywhere—kids slipping, adults pretending not to care about their hair. I didn’t expect to enjoy the feeling of drying mud on my arms so much; it’s gritty but oddly soothing.

The boat ride down the Dalyan Canal was quieter than I thought it’d be. Water birds darted past us, and the light bounced off the reeds in that lazy way it does when you’re not in a rush. Lunch was served right by the water—a simple plate of grilled chicken and rice, nothing fancy but somehow perfect after all that mud. Our guide told us stories about the rock tombs carved into the cliffs across the river; he pointed out one shaped like a temple and said locals still leave flowers there sometimes. I tried to imagine what it would’ve been like building those with just hand tools—my mind wandered for a minute.

When we finally reached Turtle Beach, everyone scanned the sand for signs of movement. We did spot one Caretta caretta turtle paddling near the shore—hard to say who was more excited, us or Cem (he actually clapped). The water was cool and salty, and there’s this faint smell of pine from somewhere inland. I lay back on my towel for a while just listening to kids shout in Turkish and English. On the bus back to Marmaris I realized my skin really did feel softer—maybe Cem wasn’t joking after all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day tour to Turtle Beach and Dalyan

• Hotel pick-up in Marmaris
• Bus ride to Dalyan mud baths
• Enjoy mineral mud bath
• Lunch near river canal
• Boat ride on Dalyan River
• Swim and relax at Turtle Beach
• Return bus to Marmaris hotel

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Marmaris to Turtle Beach?

The tour starts around 8am with hotel pickup and returns by about 6pm.

Is lunch included on this Dalyan & Turtle Beach tour?

Yes, a local lunch by the river is included in your booking.

Are entrance fees for mud baths and Turtle Beach included?

All entrance fees for Sultaniye Mud Baths and Turtle Beach are covered.

Can I see turtles at Dalyan Turtle Beach?

You might spot Caretta caretta turtles near the shore if you’re lucky.

Is hotel pickup provided from Marmaris?

Yes, round-trip hotel transfer is included in both directions.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

The tour is suitable for all ages; infants can join with an adult’s lap or stroller.

What language does the guide speak?

The main guiding language is English; Polish-guided tours run on select days.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Marmaris both ways, entry fees for Sultaniye Mud Baths and Turtle Beach, guiding service in English (or Polish on certain days), plus a riverside local lunch before heading back in the evening—all covered so you can just relax into each moment.