Palamutbuku

Palamutbuku is both an island and a coastal town located 25 km from Datca proper on the southern side of the Datca Peninsula. It is the last of the coves known as the Three Beauties in the heart of the Aegean: Haitbuku, Ovabuku, and Palamutbuku. Its name derives from the Palamut tree or Valonia oak which is native to the area. Before the farming of olives and almonds, it was found in abundance locally. It is one of Datca’s most visited spots by tourists and locals alike and in particular is popular among Blue Cruise trips, as it has its own port and many stunning nearby coves and beaches such as Akcabuk Beach, Aquarium, and Hubup Bay. Surrounded by nature and untouched beauty with glistening beaches and coves that are enclosed by cliffs full of almond trees, olive trees, and native pines, it is a perfect location for those looking for a quiet, peaceful holiday away from the noise of the city. For those that prefer to spend time away from the sea, the historic ruins of Knidos and Old Knidos are both a short distance away. There are also bars, pubs and clubs most of which are located along Palamutbuku’s coast and have wonderful views of the sea.

History

Palamutbuku, which holds a number of small villages, is located on the southern coast of the Datca peninsula and has been a point of human settlement for centuries. Although human traces have been found that date as far back as the 12th  century BC, the Hellenistic ancient city of Old Knidos was located in the area and was founded in the 8th century BC by the Dorians. It is a seperate site to the main ancient ruins and set east of Palamutbuku. The famous site of Knidos we know today however,  is located on the western tip where it is believed to have developed in the 4th century BC. An agora, odeum, ancient theater, the Port of Knidos, the Temple of Aphrodite, and the Temple of Muses are just some of the extraordinary monuments that can be found here. Other early Christian sites set within the ruins of Knidos can also be found, which are remnants from the Byzantine era. Byzantine style churches and dwellings were found during excavations, and so historians believe that a large population that consisted of merchants, sailors, farmers and potters were still present during this era. During the Medieval Era the great city was abandoned and a new settlement was established by the Seljuks and Ottomans, which developed into the Datca we know today.

What is Palamutbuku Famous For?

The most common activities in Palamutbuku revolve around the turquoise waters accross its shores. Palamutbuku Beach is a much loved spot due to its long stretch of partly sandy and partly pebbled beach, beautiful surroundings, and private port for yachts and boats to dock at. The area has many different beaches and coves for visitors to choose from such as Aquarium Beach, Hubup Buku, Akcabuk, and Kurubuk to name a few. Visitors can also find a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes all of which have private beach clubs with deck chairs and umbrellas along the coast for maximum convenience. At the end of Palamutbuku’s stretch, there is a camping facility, Akcabuk Camping, for visitors to experience. The surrounding villages, Sindi, Yaka and Cumali, sell locally made olive oil, almonds, wild oregano, and other locally produced items. Visitors are recommended to also visit the ancient ruins of Knidos found west of Palamutbuku where many great monuments can be visited.

Best Time to Visit Palamutbuku

Located on the southern end of Datca Peninsula, Palamutbuku is a sunny area famous for almonds and olives. The area is great for those wanting to enjoy the coastal wonders as well as explore historic sites such as the ruins of Knidos and Old Knidos. The long summer season allures tourists for over half the year, between April and October.  Additionally, the incredible three-day Badem Cicegi Festival, which translates to ‘Almond Blossom Festival’, takes place in February and attracts both locals and tourists.

The most popular time to visit Palamutbuku for Blue Cruises and swimming is during the summer months which span between early April until late October. As most visitors are drawn to the incredible waters surrounding the area, the peak months are July, August, and early September, when the sea is warm and the weather is hot. For those wanting to explore the surroundings on land and partake in hiking activities, it is best to visit in April and October, when the sun isn’t too hot and there is a slight breeze.

Weather in Palamutbuku

Palamutbuku has a northern Mediterranean climate. The summer days are dry and hot with the peak season starting in June and crossing into September. Peak temperatures hit an average high of 84.2°F (29°C) in August which is the hottest month. Although the peak hot season runs for four months, the weather starts warming up as early as April and cools down in November, which gives the area over half a year of warm weather. During the summer, there is barely any rainfall, with August averaging less than an inch.  June is the month with the longest hours during the day, averaging on nearly 16 hours of sunlight. The winters are mild and wet, dropping to 51.4°F (10.8°C) in January which is the coldest month. The wet season starts in December until February with January being the wettest month with around 14.3 days of rainfall, accumulating to 5.24 inches. The highest humidity levels can be found in February with 68% humidity, whilst July is the least humid at 57%. 

Before Visiting Palamutbuku

Palamutbuku is a relatively dry and warm location which attracts visitors due to its beautiful bays and beaches along the coast, and naturally many of the recreational activities that take place in this region revolve around the sea. During the warm months it is vital that visitors pack sun cream, whilst items such as sunglasses and a hat are also recommended. For those that are planning on enjoying the coastal region, suitable clothing will be required and sea shoes are also recommended. For visitors that will be exploring the region on land and taking part in ventures such as hiking and sightseeing, suitable shoes are a top priority as well as suitable clothing that keeps the body cool.  

Festivals & Special Days in Palamutbuku

During the month of February, the Almond Blossom Festival hosts three days of cultural events and live music across sites in Palamutbuku and the Datca township. The festival honors the importance of the almond tree and takes place when the trees begin to blossom, which starts just before spring. Palamutbuku is calmer outside of the tourist season, so this festival, which takes place in February,  is a great chance to experience the town in a different light. The festival is free of charge and is action packed with local cultural, agricultural, and musical events focusing on the significance of not only the almond tree, but the ecosystem in general. Live music and DJ sets are found on two separate stages where additional workshops also take place. Another element of the festival which is set in a separate location to the music stages, holds a mix of different cultural events such as seminars, local dance shows, and small gigs to name a few.