Sarsala Bay stands out as a gem within Fethiye-Gocek Special Environmental Protection Area. As a result, there are no unsightly buildings nearby to mar the scenery. This tranquil bay, shielded from large waves, is a picturesque marvel where the hues of blue and green merge seamlessly.
Although Sarsala Bay is located in Dalaman, it is often closely linked with Gocek, the nearest coastal town popular among tourists. As a result, Sarsala is primarily recognized in association with Göcek.
Sarsala boasts a splendid landscape featuring a broad sandy beach enveloped by verdant mountains adorned with trees on three sides. The beach is adorned with numerous trees, offering a delightful spot to bask in the shade while admiring the forested mountains encircling Sarsala Bay and taking a refreshing dip in the turquoise-blue sea. Boats docking in the bay can also find anchorage near these trees, away from the shoreline. The bay's exceptionally clear waters resemble glass, allowing for a mesmerizing view of the seabed no matter how deep you venture. Swimming alongside fish of all sizes adds to the enjoyment of the experience. On the beach, there's a buffet operated by the municipality offering reasonably priced items, although it tends to get crowded during weekends. At the public beach area, you have the option to rent sunbeds, umbrellas, or tables, as well as access to showers and cabins. In essence, you can spend the entire day at Sarsala Bay without the need to bring anything along.
The station without a railway is in Sarsala Bay
In a historical anecdote that brings a smile, Sarsala Bay played a prominent role in a mix-up back in 1905. Abbas Hilmi Pasha II, son of the Egyptian Khedive Kavalalı Mehmet Ali Pasha, arrived in Dalaman, with his boat docking at Sarsala Bay. Enamored by the region, the Pasha intended to erect a hunting lodge on the nearby fertile plain. Simultaneously, he had plans to construct a train station in Egypt. However, a shipping error occurred: the vessel carrying the architectural plans, materials, and workers destined for the station mistakenly arrived at Sarsala Bay, while the materials for the hunting lodge were sent to Egypt. Consequently, a fully equipped station, complete with a ticket office, emerged in Dalaman, despite the absence of a railway at the time. The oversight was only realized during the Pasha's subsequent visit. Presently, the station serves the Dalaman Agricultural Enterprise Directorate, standing as a testament to this amusing historical blunder.
Transportation to Sarsala Bay
There are two ways to reach the bay, which is located in the south of
Siralibuk Bay. By road and sea by boat.
When departing from Gocek for a road journey, the road begins by heading towards Dalaman and then taking the road towards Dalaman Airport. Following the airport, travelers can then follow the signs for Kapukargin, leading them to Sarsala Bay via a narrow asphalt road spanning approximately 17 kilometers. In total, the journey from Göcek covers a distance of 35 kilometers and typically takes around 45 minutes.
Following the airport, the road gradually becomes narrower, winding sharply, particularly as you near Sarsala Bay. However, along the way, you'll encounter the enchanting surprise of Kocagol. Widely regarded as one of Turkey's most exquisite lakes, it's highly recommended to find a suitable spot to pause and savor the breathtaking scenery.
When you reach Sarsala Bay, the road ends but there is no parking problem. You can always find a place.
Transportation by sea is of course much more enjoyable. Especially those who rent a yacht enjoy the sea and the view without mixing with the crowds of the beach in the bay.