There are two related stories regarding where the cove's name derives from. The first is from World War I, wherein supposedly a ship belonging to the British navy was fleeing either Russian or German foes and discovered this hidden paradise. The ship hid out and was left undiscovered, known only to the locals who never alerted the enemy.
The second story is similar, as ships belonging to the British navy were known to lay anchor in this cove. They were known to attack German ships in open waters and then retreat to the cove where they felt they were safe from detection, with tree tops sheltering them from sight, even from the planes flying overhead.
-- AKBÜK COVE --
Akbük Cove is in a class by itself along the Gulf of Gökova. It's a little slice of peace, silence, and calm amidst clear blue waters. This pristine cove sits on the northern side of the gulf, and there are even a few small restaurants and a little pier waiting for you.
Another thing that sets Akbük apart is its proximity to the history of the region, with the ancient city of Caria just around the corner and from the cove itself you can walk to the ruins of Keramos nearby. It's also accessible by car, along the coast of Akyaka or from the town of Ören 20 kilometers away.
It's still easiest to arrive by boat, the roads are hardly highway-quality, but if a boat is out of the question then Akbük may well be the cove for you. It's better developed than a lot of places, and even has camp grounds or small hostels to stay at.
-- LACIVERT COVE --
The name for this cove comes from the deep blue color of the sea. Boat trips are made regularly from Akyaka, and it makes for a nice break from the usual turquoise waters. There are caverns to explore all around the cove and adventure-seekers may want to try to climb some of the rocks and jump off into deep blue waters that remind you of the wine-dark sea more than some of the white sand beaches you see in this stunning gulf.
-- INCEKUM COVE --
This cove also has no sand (despite it's name) but is set amidst rocks, making the sure the sea is clean, clear and beautiful. There's even a few sunbeds set amidst the trees, with a picnic table or two as well for anyone who plans on spending the day.
Cars can't reach the cove, which makes it all the more private - it's just boats here. The beach is, however, reasonably close to the nearby village of Çamlı, which is famous for its golden sands and beautiful beaches (and thus the name of the cove). Incekum Cove's waters sparkle with the color of turquoise, and really is a great spot to stop off for lunch before continuing your journey.
-- KANDILLI COVE --
While this cove doesn't have any sand, it makes up for it in lush greenery along the shore as you swim in pristine blue waters. The sea is calm and lovely and you'll feel like you're swimming where nobody's swum before.
-- ZEYTINLI COVE --
This is one of the most popular coves in the gulf, due to its proximity opening up onto the sea. And, of course, the beautiful pale blue color the sea takes here. When you come, you'll see one or two private yachts anchored here with owners dining on board or swimming in the sea.
