Muddy Adventures and Turtle Tales in Marmaris
When the waves of Central America took a break, I found myself in Marmaris, drawn to the allure of Turtle Beach and Koycegiz Lake. The promise of mud baths, river cruises, and turtle encounters was too tempting to resist.
Muddy Beginnings
The day began with a smooth pick-up from our hotel, and we were greeted by our guides, Sonny and Dimitri. Their laid-back demeanor set the tone for the day, and I knew we were in for a treat. As we made our way into the mountains, the coach ride was a relaxing journey through the lush landscapes of Marmaris. The guides shared their knowledge of the area, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for the adventure ahead.
Our first stop was the local mud baths, a unique experience that I was eager to try. With three different mud baths to choose from, I opted for the one known to soothe sunburns—perfect for a surfer like me who’s spent countless hours under the sun. The mineral pool was an added bonus, and I felt rejuvenated as I washed off the mud. A towel and a change of clothes were essential, but the warm weather made drying off a breeze.
River Adventures
After a tasty lunch of meatballs, rice, and salad, we made our way to the riverbank. The sight of the boats waiting to take us down the river to Turtle Beach was a thrill. Before boarding, we had the chance to see a blue crab up close, and for the brave, there was an opportunity to hold one. I couldn’t resist the challenge and found myself holding the crab with a mix of awe and amusement.
As we cruised down the river, the gentle breeze and the sound of the water created a serene atmosphere. We snacked on crab, saving the shells to feed the turtles later. The anticipation of seeing the turtles added to the excitement, and I couldn’t wait to reach the beach.
Turtle Beach Bliss
Arriving at Turtle Beach, we had 1.5 hours of free time to explore. The beach was a stretch of golden sand, and the clear waters beckoned me for a swim. I took a moment to soak in the sun, feeling the warmth on my skin and the saltwater in my hair—a familiar and comforting sensation for a surfer like me.
Before heading back, we tossed our crab remains into the ocean, and the sight of the turtles surfacing was magical. It was a moment of connection with nature that left me in awe. As we made our way back to the boat, I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the day’s experiences.
The Turtle Beach and Koycegiz Lake Tour was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Marmaris. Whether you’re a fellow ocean lover or just looking for a chilled day out, this tour offers something for everyone.
