Paddle Boarding & Canoeing in Bitez Bay

Bitez Bay is the easiest place around Bodrum to try paddle sports. The bay is naturally sheltered from wind and waves, the water near the beach is shallow, and the whole inlet stretches about 2 kilometers, which leaves plenty of room to explore without going far from shore. Stand-up paddle boarding suits complete beginners here; most people are standing within 15 minutes on the flat water. More experienced paddlers can follow the coastline toward Gümbet or work along the shore into small coves. Canoes come in single and double versions, stable enough to climb in and out of for a swim, which makes them a good option for couples and families with children. Beach clubs handle rentals, life jackets, and basic instruction, and they have food, drinks, and changing rooms for the rest of the day. Mornings bring the calmest water.

What to do in Bitez

• Stand-up paddle boarding and canoeing in calm water.
• Windsurfing: afternoon breezes and schools for beginners.
• Beach cafés with sunbeds right on the sand.
• Orchards: Bitez is known for its tangerine groves behind the beach.

Tips

• Go in the morning for the calmest water.
• Rent equipment from the beach clubs and water sports centres.
• Getting there: dolmuş minibuses run from Bodrum in about 15 minutes.

What’s nearby

Bodrum town is minutes away: see Bodrum Castle, or take a Bodrum boat tour.

Photos: Tamer BÜKE, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons