In the 1980s, Gocek was a quaint village. However, it captured the attention of yacht and sailing enthusiasts who began to uncover its treasure trove of stunning bays. Officially designated as a town in 1987, Gocek quickly became a must-visit destination in the nineties. Its allure stemmed from not only its modest marina but also its crystalline waters, coastline embraced by pine forests, and secluded bays and beaches.
Gocek boasts a resident population of approximately six thousand five hundred, swelling to ten thousand during the summer months.
Sailing races, or egattas, are held four times a year, attracting both local and international sailors. The Gocek Bazaar has evolved to cater to the discerning tastes of yachtsmen and sailors, rendering it slightly distinct and more upscale compared to other holiday destinations. Strolling through the bazaar, which is less frequented by day-trippers, or unwinding at a cafe, bar, or restaurant along the waterfront promenade offers a truly gratifying experience.
A small, clean and charming bazaar
Even during the summer months, Gocek's population remains modest, not exceeding ten thousand residents. Consequently, the bazaar is relatively small and can be explored in just 15 minutes. The streets are adorned with trees like palm and magnolia, offering refreshing shade. Low-rise buildings, typically two-story structures, house an array of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, boutiques, markets, and banks. Shopkeepers are courteous and respectful, allowing passersby to browse at their leisure without pressure. Visitors can expect to find quality products with unique designs in these shops. Dining options within the bazaar and along the beachfront are equally commendable, offering a diverse range of cuisine from traditional Antep flavors to international dishes. Additionally, there are trendy coffee shops and modern restaurants and cafes to satisfy varying tastes and preferences.
Walking along the palm-fringed streets from the bazaar to the sea instills a sense of tranquility, evoking dreams of residing in Gocek year-round. A visit to Gocek promises an escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan cities, allowing you to rediscover the serene Mediterranean lifestyle you may have long forgotten.
Gocek's marinas
Gocek stands as a prominent hub for yacht tourism in Turkey, a fact that becomes unmistakably clear upon visiting Gocek Bazaar and the waterfront promenade. The town boasts six marinas strategically positioned to preserve unobstructed sea views and blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural beauty and landscapes, catering to the desires of yacht enthusiasts.
Graceful yachts, sailboats, and gulets, evoking a spirit of adventure, gracefully line the marinas like swans on the water. Particularly enchanting are the views at night, when the underwater lights illuminate the marinas, adding a poetic touch to the scenery. Observing these vessels from the shore in the evening is a delightful experience, best enjoyed while sipping coffee or gathering with friends at a café or bar overlooking the marinas.
D-Marin Gocek, Gocek Marina, Skopea Marina, Gocek Marinturk, Port Azure Marina and Club Marina are the marinas with stylish restaurants around almost all of them. Especially D-Marin offers many services including the beach thanks to its location next to the D-Resort Hotel.
Among these marinas, it is necessary to open a separate parenthesis for two of them.
-Port Azure Marina is a luxury marina where luxury mega class yachts are landed from the stern. Foreigners cannot enter this marina where green and blue are blessed among giant yachts. However, even observing and dreaming about mega yachts from afar is great fun for enthusiasts.
-Club Marina, located at the far end of Gocek Bay, is the first natural marina in Turkey. In this marina integrated with nature, yachts are moored next to the trees in the bay.
To summarize, marinas will always be right next to you when you visit Gocek Bazaar. Enjoy your stay.