Camel Beach (Kargı Bay)

Beach / Bay

A golden-sand cove in Ortakent facing Kargı Island — named after the camels walked along its shore, an ideal family beach.

On the Ortakent-Yahşi shore very close to central Bodrum, Kargı Bay stands out for its soft golden sand and shallow, clear water, and is popularly known as “Camel Beach.” This curious name comes from the camels that have long been walked along the shore for visitors to photograph; these camels, which have become the cove’s emblem, especially delight families with children. Because the sea stays shallow for a long stretch, the beach is safe for small children.

Kargı Island, rising just offshore, lends the view a characteristic silhouette and is a short swim from shore for a strong swimmer. The fine sand along the beach, the low hills behind it and the day-long sun make Camel Beach one of the most relaxed day beaches on the Bodrum peninsula. Ortakent’s historic stone houses, tangerine groves and the nearby Dibeklihan arts-and-culture village add a cultural note to a beach break. Thanks to its closeness to the hotel, it is ideal for a short half-day escape.