Bozcaada beaches, with Turkey's cleanest and bluest waters and coves each with its own character, offer the most beautiful coastline of the Aegean. Ayazma, Habbele, and Sulubahçe beaches, stretching along the southern and western shores of the island, are favourites of swimming enthusiasts with their sandy bottoms, shallow waters, and crystal-clear turquoise colour. In this article, we compare Bozcaada's three main beaches in detail, explaining each one's features, access information, which beach suits which type of visitor, and the activities that complement the beach experience.
Ayazma Beach: Favourite of Families
Ayazma is the best-known and most popular beach of Bozcaada. It is located on the southern coast of the island, approximately 3 km from the centre. With its sandy bottom and water that stays shallow for a long time, it is ideal for families with children. The water does not exceed knee depth even 50-60 metres offshore; with this feature, children can safely enter the sea and parents can enjoy a relaxing holiday.
Ayazma Beach has a fully equipped operation: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, and changing cabins are available. The snack bar and restaurant behind the beach offer fresh seafood, cold drinks, and snacks. There are two beach volleyball courts and a children's playground on the beach. Lifeguard service is active during the summer season, and the beach is certified with the Blue Flag.
Ayazma is accessible by car, bicycle, scooter, or taxi. There is a large free car park in front of the beach. During the busy period of the summer season (July-August), the car park may be full; in this case, backup parking areas within a 5-10 minute walk from the beach are used. By bicycle, it takes 15 minutes to reach Ayazma from the town centre; the road is flat and scenic.
Ayazma's water is extraordinarily clear and famous for its turquoise colour. Small stones can occasionally be seen beneath the sand, so bringing water shoes is recommended. Water temperature ranges from 24 to 26 degrees in July and August; in May and September, it is around 18-22 degrees. Light waves can be seen on days when the wind blows from the opposite direction, but generally, Ayazma offers calm waters.
Habbele Beach: Quiet and Deep
Habbele is a smaller and quieter cove immediately west of Ayazma. With deeper water and finer sand compared to Ayazma, it is the choice of swimming enthusiasts. Since Habbele has no beach operation, it offers a more pristine beach experience; there are no sunbeds or umbrellas, but you can lie on the wide sandy floor with your own towel.
Habbele is accessible by car or bicycle; there is no designated car park on the beach road, but vehicles can be parked by the roadside. Habbele stands out with its natural shade areas; the shrub cover and small trees behind the beach provide shade during the hot hours of the day. Here, you can bring your own picnic basket and enjoy a lunch in harmony with nature.
Habbele's water is deeper and cooler than Ayazma's. The rocks on both sides of the cove create an ideal environment for snorkelling. Around the rocks, schools of small fish, octopus, and occasionally sea turtles can be seen. For diving enthusiasts, Habbele is one of the best snorkelling spots on the island. Underwater visibility reaches up to 15-20 metres.
Habbele has a very special atmosphere, especially in the early morning hours and at sunset. When you arrive at the beach between 7 and 9 in the morning, you are alone with the reflection of the sun rising over the calm sea and the sound of birds. At sunset, the west-facing cove offers the reflection of the orange sky on the Aegean. Taking an evening walk at Habbele and watching the sunset is one of the most romantic experiences in Bozcaada.
Sulubahçe Beach: Safest for Children
Sulubahçe is the most suitable beach of Bozcaada for families with children. It is located in the southwest of the island, further west than Ayazma and Habbele. The most distinctive feature of Sulubahçe is that the water stays very shallow for a long time; even 100 metres offshore, the water may not exceed knee depth. This feature allows children to play safely in the sea and parents to enjoy a relaxing holiday.
There is no beach operation at Sulubahçe; sunbeds, umbrellas, or shower services are not available. Therefore, you need to come to the beach with your own resources: towel, umbrella, water, and snacks should be with you. Behind the beach, there are trees that provide natural shade, and this area is ideal for picnics. Sulubahçe is a beach preferred by nature lovers with its natural beauty and calm atmosphere.
Sulubahçe's water is warmer than Ayazma and Habbele; the heating of the shallow water by the sun raises the water temperature 2-3 degrees above the other beaches. This feature is ideal for small children and those who do not like cold water. The sand of the beach is fine and soft; it provides a suitable surface for building sandcastles. To spend the whole day at Sulubahçe, it is recommended to bring an umbrella and sufficient water.
Sulubahçe is accessible by car or bicycle. There is a small parking area in front of the beach, but it can be full during the summer season. By bicycle, it takes 20 minutes to reach Sulubahçe from the town centre; the road can be partially hilly. The calmness of the beach and the preservation of its natural texture make Sulubahçe one of the least known but most special coves of Bozcaada.
Northern Coves: Akvaryum and Çenez
On the northern shores of the island, there are lesser-known but equally beautiful coves as the southern beaches. Akvaryum Cove takes its name from its crystal-clear water that resembles an aquarium; underwater visibility reaches 20 metres, and it is the best spot on the island for snorkelling and fish watching. Çenez Cove is located in the northwest, near the Polente lighthouse, and offers a windier environment.
Akvaryum Cove is accessible by car or bicycle; however, the road is partially unpaved and requires careful driving. There are no facilities at the cove; you need to come with your own resources. Çenez Cove is in a more isolated location and is accessible on foot. These coves are ideal for those who want to be alone with nature, away from the crowds.
The water of the northern coves is cooler than the southern beaches; the effect of the meltem wind lowers the water temperature by 2-3 degrees. These coves are especially preferred by divers, snorkelers, and surfers. The rocks along the northern coast are rich in marine life diversity; octopus, squid, various fish species, and occasionally dolphin pods can be seen.
Beach Activities and Water Sports
Bozcaada beaches are ideal not only for swimming but also for various water sports and activities. At Ayazma Beach, paddleboard (SUP) and canoe rental are available; these activities are suitable for beginners thanks to the shallow and calm water. Exploring the island's coves by paddleboard offers an experience like walking on the sea.
For surfing enthusiasts, the northern shores of the island are more suitable; here, the meltem wind provides a steady wind and creates ideal conditions for surfing. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are preferred at Çenez Cove and the Polente area. Surf equipment rental can be done at water sports shops in the town centre.
The island can also be explored by boat tours. Day trips departing from the harbour tour all the coves of the island, give swimming breaks, and allow swimming in coves away from the crowds. Boat tours usually start at 10:00 in the morning and end at 18:00 in the evening; lunch is included in the tour fee. These tours are a great opportunity to see the island from the sea and experience different coves in one day.
Having snorkelling equipment with you is essential for underwater exploration at Bozcaada beaches. In the clear waters of the island, especially at Habbele and Akvaryum coves, it is possible to see various fish species, octopus, starfish, and occasionally sea turtles. Snorkels and fins can be purchased at shops in the town centre or rented.
Beach Season and Weather
The beach season in Bozcaada is active from early June to late September. The hottest and longest days are experienced in July and August; during this period, the air temperature reaches 30-35 degrees and the water temperature ranges from 24 to 26 degrees. In June and September, the air is 25-28 degrees and the water is 20-22 degrees; these months are ideal for a less crowded and more affordable holiday.
Beach enjoyment is possible in May and October, but the water is cold (16-18 degrees). These months are suitable for sunbathing and coastal walks, but the water may be too cold for long swimming. In the winter months (November-March), the beaches are empty and calm; this is an ideal period for coastal walks and photography.
Wind in Bozcaada is a determining factor in beach selection. On days when the south wind blows, the southern beaches (Ayazma, Habbele, Sulubahçe) can be wavy; in this case, the northern coves are calmer. On days when the northern meltem blows, the opposite happens: the southern beaches are calm and the northern coves are wavy. Checking the wind condition before going to the beach is important for the best sea experience.
Beach Safety and Health
Safety at Bozcaada beaches is a matter that every visitor should pay attention to. At Ayazma Beach, lifeguard service is available during the summer season; however, there are no lifeguards at Habbele, Sulubahçe, and the northern coves. When swimming at these beaches, it is important to be careful, to go only as far as you can swim, and to keep children in sight.
Sun protection is indispensable in Bozcaada. The open sea breeze of the island makes the sun feel less intense, but UV radiation is high. Sunscreen with at least SPF 30, a hat, and sunglasses are essentials of the beach bag. Fluid intake is also important; if you are staying at the beach for a long time, you should have enough water.
Water shoes are a practical addition at Bozcaada beaches. At Ayazma and Habbele, there may be stones under the sand, so water shoes protect your feet and provide a more comfortable swimming experience. Also, at rocky coves (Akvaryum, Çenez), water shoes prevent slipping when walking on rocks.
Not leaving rubbish on the beach is everyone's responsibility to protect the nature of the island. At pristine beaches like Habbele and Sulubahçe, there are no rubbish bins; therefore, you need to bring all your waste back with you. Bozcaada's clean sea and natural beauty are preserved by the care of every visitor.
Beach Access and Accommodation
Access to Bozcaada beaches is easy thanks to the island's small area. The distance from the town centre to Ayazma is 3 km, to Habbele 4 km, and to Sulubahçe 5 km. Access is possible by car, bicycle, scooter, taxi, or on foot. The bicycle is the most free-roaming vehicle on the island and ideal for moving between beaches. Scooter rental is also a popular option during the summer season.
Taxis provide access from the town centre to the beaches for 100-150 TL (summer 2024 prices). However, it can be difficult to find a taxi during the busy hours of the summer season; therefore, it is recommended to call a taxi before going to the beach or to call one from the beach for the return. Car rental is the most independent way to explore the island; car rental companies are available in Çanakkale or on the island.
For those who want to stay near the beach, there are small guesthouses and camping areas behind Ayazma Beach. Accommodation within walking distance of the beach offers the opportunity to extend the sea enjoyment to early morning and late evening hours. Camping areas provide a holiday in harmony with nature with tents or caravans; however, advance reservation is necessary during the summer season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which beach is the best in Bozcaada?
Which beach is "best" depends on the visitor's needs. For families with children, Ayazma or Sulubahçe; for swimming enthusiasts, Habbele; for nature and tranquillity seekers, the northern coves (Akvaryum, Çenez) are the best choices. Each beach has its own unique atmosphere; experiencing more than one is recommended.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas at the beaches?
Ayazma Beach has sunbeds, umbrellas, and shower services. Habbele, Sulubahçe, and the northern coves do not have these services; you need to bring your own towel and umbrella. Sunbed rental at Ayazma costs 50-75 TL per day during the summer season.
Is beach entry free?
Yes, entry to all beaches in Bozcaada is free. Parking at Ayazma Beach is also free. Sunbed and umbrella rentals are paid, but coming to the beach with your own equipment is completely free.
When does the beach season start?
The beach season is active from early June to late September. The best sea enjoyment is in July and August; the water temperature reaches 24-26 degrees. June and September are less crowded and more affordable options.
Are there lifeguards at the beaches?
Ayazma Beach has lifeguard service during the summer season (June-September). There are no lifeguards at Habbele, Sulubahçe, and the northern coves; when swimming at these beaches, it is important to be careful and to keep children in sight.
Are water shoes necessary at Bozcaada beaches?
Recommended. At Ayazma and Habbele, there may occasionally be stones under the sand. At rocky coves (Akvaryum, Çenez), water shoes prevent slipping when walking on rocks. Water shoes can be purchased at shops in the town centre.
Conclusion
Bozcaada beaches, with their coves each having a different character, offer Turkey's cleanest and bluest waters. Ayazma's family-friendly shallow water, Habbele's deep and quiet cove, Sulubahçe's warm and safe sea, and the crystal-clear underwater world of the northern coves are indispensable parts of an island holiday. Whichever beach you choose, Bozcaada's crystal turquoise waters and golden sandy shores promise an unforgettable sea experience. The short distances between beaches offer the opportunity to experience more than one cove in a day; this diversity makes Bozcaada one of the most special beach destinations in the Aegean.
