Orak Island

The basics

Most travelers visit Orak Island as part of a boat cruise from nearby Bodrum, and there are several different options. Hop aboard a private boat, traditional gulet, or pirate ship and set sail on a full-day cruise along the Mediterranean Coast. Pass by Bodrum Castle, stop to swim at German Bay or bathe in the Black Island hot springs along the way, and then enjoy swimming and snorkeling around Orak Island. Some tours also stop on the island, where you can head ashore to hike through the olive groves.

Things to know before you go

• There are no amenities on Orak Island, so bring everything you need on the boat with you and choose a tour that includes lunch and refreshments.

• Bring reef-safe sunscreen if you plan to swim or snorkel around the island.

• Many boat tours are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, but it’s best to double-check what facilities and assistance are available.

How to get there

The only way to reach Orak Island is by boat, which takes about 45 minutes from the Bodrum port. Most travelers visit the island as part of a guided full-day boat tour from Bodrum, usually with hotel pickup included.

When to get there

Boat tours typically run to Orak Island from April through October. The island is busiest during the summer, with lots of boats and people in the water. For a quieter experience, visit during the shoulder season when there are fewer crowds.

Snorkeling and scuba diving around Bodrum

There are several renowned snorkeling and scuba diving sites around Bodrum. Dive to Bubble Cave off the coast of Black Island, known for its Champagne-like bubbles and vibrant sponges; snorkel or dive along the nearby Big and Small Reefs, where you can spot grouper and scorpionfish; or explore the caves and walls around Orak island, where lobster and thornback rays hide. For more experienced divers, there is also a shipwreck and sunken plane wreck.