Far From the Crowds: Lesser-Known Islands in Turkey

Denizcan Kapıcıoğlu
Oct 8
5 min read

Turkey's coastline is home to a diverse array of islands, many of which have become popular destinations over the years. Yet, beyond the well-known names and crowded tourist routes, there's a quieter, more isolated side to island life. Tucked away along the Aegean and Marmara seas, largely untouched by mass tourism, lie a string of small, obscure islands. These islands are not only geographically unique but also rich in cultural heritage and tourism.

In this article, we take a closer look at these overlooked regions, where time moves slower and local traditions remain vibrant. From rocky coves and tree-covered hills to ancient ruins and small fishing villages, each island offers a glimpse into a different rhythm of life. These are places where you can truly connect with nature, enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, and experience the authentic character of Türkiye's coastal regions.

Let's discover the natural charm and quiet wonders of these unknown islands of Türkiye, rarely visited by humans.

Lesser-Known Islands in Turkey: In Search of Silent Beauties

Turkey is home to many lesser-known islands, some of which have managed to remain quiet and far from the crowds of popular tourist destinations. Among these hidden gems, Kalem Island , Garip Island , and Orak Island offer unique combinations of natural beauty, rich history, and peaceful atmospheres that invite travelers to explore beyond the beaten path.

Kalem Island

Kalem Island is located just off the coast of Bademli, near the Dikili district of Izmir. Approximately 1.5 kilometers long and very narrow, this private island has remained remarkably untouched by large-scale tourism. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine sandy coves create the perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Historically, Kalem Island was one of the three Arginusae Islands, famous for the naval Battle of Arginusae between the Athenian and Spartan fleets in 406 BC during the Peloponnesian War . Today, the island's tranquil surroundings contrast with its dramatic past, making it an interesting destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Visitors to Kalem Island often praise its tranquil beaches and the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Aegean Sea without the crowds. A boutique hotel on the island caters to travelers seeking seclusion and comfort, offering direct access to underwater exploration of vibrant marine life.

Strange Island

Garip Island, located just west of Kalem Island, consists of two small islets overlooking the Greek island of Lesbos. Together with Kalem and an island now connected to the mainland, they form the group known as the Arginusae Islands, as mentioned earlier. The naval battle that took place here has been lost to history, but its legacy remains an important part of the region's cultural heritage.

Unlike Kalem Island, Garip Island remains largely undeveloped and remains a wild natural wonder. Its rocky coastline, sparse vegetation, and quiet shores make it an ideal, peaceful spot for visitors seeking solitude and connection with nature. While less accessible and less well-equipped, Garip Island's historical significance and natural setting make it worth exploring for adventurous travelers and those interested in archaeology.

Orak Island

Orak Island is located in the Gulf of Gökova, near the resort town of Bodrum in Muğla Province. Unlike the smaller islands of Dikili, Orak is known for its abundant marine life and crystal-clear waters, making it a favorite among divers.

This uninhabited island offers a variety of coves with sandy beaches, underwater caves, and rich ecosystems. Loggerhead sea turtles are common sights in the surrounding waters, further enhancing the island's appeal to wildlife enthusiasts. The absence of permanent settlements ensures Orak Island maintains a pristine and untouched environment.

Visitors typically enjoy boat tours around the island, diving trips to explore underwater caves, and quiet moments on its tranquil beaches. The island's combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes it a prime choice for those looking to experience the unspoiled side of the Aegean coast.

Together, Kalem, Garip, and Orak Islands showcase the diverse facets of Türkiye's lesser-known Aegean islands, from their historical past and cultural heritage to their pristine natural habitats and vibrant marine life. These islands remind us that beyond the busy resorts, Turkey's coast holds many quiet corners waiting to be discovered by curious explorers.

Pashalimani Island

Pashalimani Island lies in the southern part of the Sea of Marmara, between the relatively popular islands of Avsa and Marmara. Although Turkey's fifth largest island, it remains relatively unknown to many visitors. The island is home to five small villages, each with its own charm: Pashalimani, Harmanli, Poyrazli, Balikli, and Tuzla.

Life in Pasalimani is slow-paced. Most locals are engaged in farming and fishing. The island is filled with olive groves, vineyards, and melon fields. Visitors can stroll along quiet paths, enjoy simple meals made with local produce, and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. There are no large hotels or tourist crowds; just traditional houses, a few guesthouses, and warm hospitality. This is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a connection with nature and rural island life.

Ekinlik Island

Ekinlik Island is one of Turkey's smallest inhabited islands. Located close to Paşalimanı, it shares a similarly peaceful atmosphere. Following the population exchange of the early 20th century, the island was resettled by communities who rebuilt their homes, traditions, and new beginnings on this small piece of land.

Today, Ekinlik is home to a small fishing community. The narrow streets and stone houses give the island a nostalgic charm, and the locals live quietly, connected to the sea and their gardens. The beaches are clean and the sea is calm, perfect for swimming or simply relaxing. Inspired by Yaşar Kemal's novel "A Story of an Island," Ekinlik has recently seen a renewed interest in preserving its cultural heritage, stories, and traditional way of life. The island may be small, but it has a big heart.

Rabbit Island

Tavşan Island , also called Neandros Island , is the smallest of the Princes' Islands near Istanbul. Unlike Büyükada or Heybeliada, Tavşan Island is uninhabited and has no tourist infrastructure. In 2021, it was officially declared a protected natural area by the Turkish government—the first offshore island in the country to receive this status.

Despite its small size, the island is rich in wildlife. It boasts numerous rare plant species, seabirds, and clear waters with a healthy marine ecosystem. Divers have discovered beautiful underwater life around the island. Now a protected area, construction and other human activity are limited, helping to keep the island's natural beauty safe and pristine. Rabbit Island is an ideal, tranquil destination for anyone interested in scientific research, conservation, nature, and wildlife.

Paşalimanı, Ekinlik, and Tavşan Islands offer a different side of the Marmara Region. These are places where time slows down, where birdsong replaces car horns, where nature, not the clock, shapes the rhythm of daily life. While they may not have the luxury resorts or noisy beaches of the Aegean Region, these islands offer visitors peace, beauty, and the chance to experience island life as it once was.