bozcaada guide
travel like a local
Beaches
When spending days at the beach in Bozcaada, you need to choose your spot according to the wind. In summer, the prevailing wind is the northerly ‘poyraz,’ so the southern beaches are usually a bit less windy.
Southern beaches:
Ayazma, Sulubahçe, Habbele, Beylik, Ayana, Aquarium
Northern beaches:
Arka Deniz, Çayır, Ova
At Ayazma, there are food & drink facilities as well as sunbed and umbrella services.
In Sulubahçe and Habbele, there are small facilities available.
Since very few beaches on the island have facilities, we recommend bringing your own setup (umbrella, etc.) and your own food & drinks.
Ayana is among the relatively less crowded beaches in summer. Although swimming there can be a bit difficult, you can take advantage of its seclusion to enjoy a perfect sunset. It is also a nice spot for night gatherings.
Aquarium is also one of the most well-known beaches of the island. However, since it has a very small sandy area, it is quite difficult to find space during the summer. Moreover, the road to get there by car is rather rough. If you don’t enjoy crowds, you can experience Aquarium at quieter times, such as late afternoon, instead of the busy swimming hours.
The Mermerburnu area, where Aquarium Beach is located, is also a great option for those who enjoy jumping into the sea from rocks, where small natural pools have formed. And if you’re lucky enough to be there during a full moon, Aquarium is a fantastic spot for moon-watching and even a night swim!
Beylik is another beach with a wide sandy shore, making it easy and comfortable to swim.
Tuzburnu, being slightly to the southeast, is often affected by winds. However, on calm days without wind, it is also a beautiful beach to enjoy.
Food & Drinks
One of the must-visit restaurants on the island is Vahit’s Place in Ayazma. It’s a delightful spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, always serving delicious food. However, in summer it can be hard to find a table. We especially recommend it to our winter guests! During the colder months, Vahit’s is the only place open outside the town center, with its big stove in the middle and fresh, tasty mezes that will warm you up.
In the town center, by the fishing harbor: ASMA6, Şehir, Yakamoz
In the Rum (Greek) Quarter of the town center: Hasan Tevfik, Ada’m, Simyon (we recommend making a reservation in the summer, as these places get very crowded).
On the Arka Deniz side: Yalova Restaurant
Alternative venues outside the town center: Maya and Pavli
For dining with live music and entertainment: Madam Niça
For music and a bit of dancing: Polente and Salhane
For those who love homemade food: Şükrü Usta, Güveç, and Hafız’s Place
For pizza: Tayyare Pizza (next to the gas station), also available for takeaway and delivery.
Hiking & Cycling
You can enjoy a pleasant walk or a bike ride along the forest paths.
There are several forested areas on the island. Just follow the signs for ‘Mesire Yeri’ (picnic area) and you’ll find them. On the way to the wind turbines, you’ll come across another forest. The scent of thyme will accompany you…
(Please do not pick the beautiful plants you see on the island – they are wild and do not grow anywhere else.)
If you visit in spring, you may see flowers unique to Bozcaada, as the island is home to many endemic plant species that cannot be found elsewhere.
For those interested, we can also recommend alternative flower discovery tours, as well as walking and cycling routes.
Note:
If you would like more detailed information about all tours and places, please feel free to contact us.
Sunset Houses, as a new-generation holiday concept, will provide you with transportation and transfer support to your desired destinations.