Orak Island: Day Trips and Tours from Bodrum

Orak Island lies in the Aegean Sea, just off the southern coast of Turkey. The rugged isle is uninhabited, with lush olive groves and turquoise bays to charm adventurous explorers. A day trip to Orak Island from Bodrum is enjoyed by boat, so you can easily visit all the best spots.

You’ll anchor at various points along the picturesque coastline for swimming in the clear waters. Tuck into an al fresco lunch on board before returning to the mainland.

Here's all you need to know about Orak Island, one of the most exciting day trips from Bodrum.

How to get to Orak Island from Bodrum?

Orak Island sits off the Turkish mainland in the Gulf of Gokova. It’s just 10 miles away from Bodrum so makes for an easy day trip from this popular resort. The journey to Orak Island from Bodrum can only be undertaken on a guided boat tour – there are plenty to choose from.

Guided boat tour to Orak Island from Bodrum

Taking a guided boat tour is a hassle-free way of discovering Orak Island. You’ll be joined on board by like-minded explorers so it’s a sociable experience. Traveling in a group setting keeps costs down too, making this an affordable option for budget-conscious visitors.

Orak Island day trips from Bodrum last around 7 hours and include multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling. Venturing out by boat with expert locals is a relaxing way to explore one of Turkey’s most beautiful islands.

What is the typical itinerary?

The adventure begins at Halikarnas Harbor in Bodrum – you will need to make your own way there. Some Orak Island day trips do have the option to book a hotel transfer so check this with your provider when making your reservation. The boat departs at 11 AM but you should arrive at the harbor at 10:45 AM to allow time for check-in and boarding.

Find a spot on deck and relax in the sun as you cruise along the coast. On arrival at the island, the boat will anchor in Orak Bay, where you’ll have a couple of hours at leisure. You can swim in the crystal-clear water or enjoy a bit of snorkeling to see what lies beneath the ocean waves.

Your day trip to Orak Island from Bodrum continues with up to three stops in different coves around the island or on the Bodrum Peninsula. The precise locations depend on the sea conditions at the time. There will be plenty of opportunities for more swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing on the boat deck.

Tuck into a delicious local lunch on board the boat while anchored in a sheltered bay. Food always tastes better outside, especially when the views are as epic as this! Meals vary but usually include dishes like salads, pasta and grilled chicken.

Before journeying back to Bodrum, you’ll be offered afternoon refreshments of melon, biscuits and Turkish tea to keep your energy levels high. Then it’s time for your ocean adventure to end, with a boat ride back to the harbor. You’ll arrive in the early evening, just in time for dinner.

What kind of tours are available to go to Orak Island?

The main tours that operate to Orak Island are guided group boat excursions. It’s a cost-effective way to travel with several operators running trips out of Bodrum.

Guided tours to Orak Island from Bodrum

Guided Orak Island excursions are group experiences, usually with a maximum of 50 passengers on board the boat. The trips last a full day so you can make the most of your time out and about. Swimming, snorkeling and lunch are included in the package.

Your day tour to Orak Island departs from the Halikarnas Harbor in Bodrum. Hotel pickups are not usually included, although some providers do offer transfers as an add-on. Make sure you check your joining instructions, so you know what to expect.

Your boat captain and crew will keep you informed about the schedule and look after you during the voyage. The excursions focus mainly on swimming and snorkeling from the boat, but you can remain on deck if you prefer just soaking up the scenery. A highlight of your day tour to Orak Island from Bodrum will be eating lunch on the boat with breathtaking views of the island.

How much does a day trip to Orak Island from Bodrum cost?

A group day trip to Orak Island from Bodrum costs €25 per participant. If you would like to be collected from your hotel, expect to pay €35 for the tour. The boat will have the capacity for around 50 passengers, so it will be a convivial rather than an exclusive experience.

Lunch on board the boat, soft drinks and snorkeling equipment are included in the price. You will be able to purchase alcoholic beverages if required. Note that you are not permitted to take your own drinks on the boat. Some operators also provide Turkish tea and biscuits as refreshments during the day.

What will you see and do?

A jaunt to Orak Island is one of the most popular day trips from Bodrum. You’ll take in some of Turkey’s finest coastlines and coves, with plenty of time to cool off in the inviting water. The island is uninhabited, which makes your experience feel even wilder.

Thanks to its beautiful bays and calm waters, Orak Island is the haunt of the yachting community. You’ll often see boats anchored around the coast, with visitors from near and far taking advantage of the idyllic conditions. Booking a guided Orak Island day trip is the only way to reach this offshore gem, so you’ll be in good company during your adventure.

The island’s main offering is its sheltered bays, where you can swim and snorkel from the boat. The shoreline is mostly rock rather than sand, which makes the perfect habitat for an impressive range of Mediterranean marine species. Keep an eye out for darting fish as you float in the turquoise water.

During your day trip to Orak Island from Bodrum you’ll stop at other coves on the mainland coast. Red Bay and Rabbit Bay are the most common and offer unrivaled swimming opportunities. Some tours also stop at Karaada Island on the way back to Bodrum for more snorkeling.

When is the best time to visit Orak Island?

The best time to visit Orak Island is in the summer months from June to September. This is when the water temperature is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so it might be a bit crowded.

If you prefer a quieter time, consider visiting in late spring (April to May) or early autumn (October). The weather is generally still pleasant during these months, though the sea might be slightly cooler.

What other day trips can you do from Bodrum?

• Kos Island day trips from Bodrum
• Pamukkale day trips from Bodrum
• Ephesus day trips from Bodrum
• Dalyan day trips from Bodrum
• Bodrum Peninsula day trips from Bodrum

Travel tips

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection. Consider a sun umbrella or a beach tent if you plan to stay on the beach for a while.
• While the days can be hot, the sea breeze can make it cooler, especially in the morning and evening. Bring a light jacket or a windbreaker.
• Don't forget your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery and memories of your visit. But remember to protect it from water and sand!
• Respect the environment, take all your trash with you when you leave and don't disturb the local wildlife.