Gökçeada Beaches

Gökçeada's coastline is surprisingly varied: sandy beaches that stretch for kilometres on one side, hidden coves that begin where the tyre tracks end on the other. As a family who run a holiday home on the island, the question we hear most often is: "Which beach should we go to?" The answer depends on what you're looking for — and that's exactly what this guide is for.

Aydıncık (Kefalos)

The island's best-known and longest sandy beach. Its shallow, crystal-clear water makes it ideal for families with children. It's also the place that makes the best use of Gökçeada's wind: the bay is one of Türkiye's leading kitesurfing and windsurfing spots, with schools for beginners. Just behind the beach lies the Salt Lake, where you can take a mineral mud bath — and, in season, spot flamingos. About 15 minutes from town.

Laz Koyu

A small, sheltered cove on the island's south coast, reached by steps down from the roadside. Even on windy days the water here is usually calm — when the wind picks up, it's one of the first coves locals think of. It can fill up in the afternoon; go early.

Yıldızkoy (Mavi Koy)

A protected bay on the island's north coast, home to Türkiye's first underwater national park. The clarity of the water is astonishing; even with just a snorkel you'll see a rich world below the surface. Dive centres run discovery dives from here. You don't come to Yıldızkoy just to swim — you come to see what's beneath.

Gizli Liman

A wide, natural sandy beach at the island's western tip that truly earns its name ("Hidden Harbour"). There are next to no facilities around it, so bring your own umbrella, water and food. What you get in return: fine sand, turquoise water, and outside high season a shore that's almost entirely yours. You may well want to stay for the sunset.

Kapıkaya Koyu

A small pebble cove tucked between the rocks. The water is deep and remarkably clear — the address of choice for escaping the crowds with a good book. The path down needs a little care; water shoes will serve you well.

Marmaros

A wild pebble cove on the island's northwest. Its real surprise is the Marmaros waterfall, reached by a short walk — at its fullest in spring and early summer. The cove-plus-waterfall combination is perfect for anyone who wants to pair a beach day with a nature walk.

Uğurlu Beach

A wide, calm sandy beach stretching in front of Uğurlu village in the west. It's easier to reach than Gizli Liman, and there are places to sit down and eat in the village. A favourite of families who prefer to avoid crowds.

Kuzulimanı and Yuvalı

The area around Kuzulimanı, where the ferry docks, and Yuvalı beach to the north are for those after "park the car, jump in the sea" convenience. Ideal for one last swim on the day you arrive on — or leave — the island.

Which cove for whom? A quick summary

• Families with children: Aydıncık, Uğurlu
• Calm sea (on windy days): Laz Koyu
• Snorkelling / diving: Yıldızkoy
• Secluded natural beach: Gizli Liman, Kapıkaya
• Windsurfing / kitesurfing: Aydıncık
• Combined with a nature walk: Marmaros

Know before you go

• The western coves (Gizli Liman, Kapıkaya, Marmaros) have no or very limited facilities: bring water, snacks and an umbrella.
• For the pebble coves, water shoes make a real difference in comfort.
• Gökçeada is a windy island; picking your cove based on the day's wind is the best strategy. In a north wind, the southern coves (Laz Koyu, Aydıncık) are calmer; in a south wind, the northern ones.
• Most beaches are a 15–30 minute drive from town; bringing a car across or renting one on the island makes life much easier.