Bozcaada Beaches and Coves

The island is ringed with coves, you can swim almost anywhere. A few of our favourites:

The big picture: the southwest coast is fine sand and turquoise, the north side more pebbly and brisk. Most coves sit 4 to 8 kilometres from the centre. In summer, shuttles run from town toward Ayazma, and cycling out is a joy in itself. The island's best trick is that whichever way the wind blows, there is always a calm cove to swim in.

İğdelik Cove

The cove closest to us, just 200 metres away. A private operator runs it, and you can use it for a daily fee. Better still, we have an arrangement with them and Oikos guests get a discount. Just mention at the entrance that you are staying with us. Ideal if you want the sea within walking distance. Grabbing your towel and reaching the water in slippers is no small luxury on a holiday.

Ayazma Beach

The island's most famous beach and its longest stretch of sand. Open to everyone, with cafes and restaurants. The water stays shallow for a long way, which makes it the first choice for families with children. If you like a lively scene, this is it. On busy summer days go early, the sunbeds fill up by noon. Don't miss Ayazma Monastery just behind the beach.

Sulubahçe

The wide beach right next to Ayazma. Mostly favoured by campers and locals from the nearby summer houses. When Ayazma fills up, slide over here, finding a spot is much easier.

Habbele

Run by a private operator. A paid, well equipped spot for those who want to settle in for the day. With its long sand and clear water, one of the darlings of the southwest coast.

Akvaryum Cove

The water is unbelievably clear, you can see straight to the bottom. Snorkellers, this is your spot. The access road was closed a few years ago, so you may need to leave the car on the roadside and walk a little. It is a small and popular cove, don't arrive too late on busy days. On busy days a boat turns up and plays shop, selling food and drinks, but don't count on it. Bring your own water and snacks just in case.

Salhane

On the island's north coast, pebbly and deep. For those who love jumping in off the jetty. Clear, cool, great fun. When the southern coves get choppy in a southwesterly, this place doubles in value.

Katran Cove

One of the coves the islanders keep quiet about. Very close to us, but we won't give directions. Finding it is half the fun. For the adventurous.

Tuzburnu, Beylik, Ayana

Secluded, calm, untouched. But there are no facilities. Bring your umbrella and your water.

Çayır Cove

For windsurf lovers. On the north of the island, and there is even a surf school. On a good windy day, the view here is a show in itself.

Which Beach in Which Wind?

The shortcut to picking a beach in Bozcaada is checking the wind. When the poyraz blows from the northeast (and in summer it usually does), Ayazma, Sulubahçe and Habbele in the southwest stay sheltered and the sea turns to glass. When the lodos blows from the southwest, it is Salhane and Çayır on the north side that go calm. Glance at the wind in the morning and choose your cove accordingly. We cover the wind story in full on our when to visit page.

When Does the Sea Warm Up?

The North Aegean is not as warm as the Mediterranean, but that freshness is the whole point. The sea reaches 21 to 22 degrees by mid June, settles into the 24 to 25 band through July and August, and September's 22 to 23 is still lovely for swimming. Early October is for the brave.

Frequently Asked Questions