Gökçeada sees significant summer tourism growth

Gökçeada, Turkey’s largest island located at the mouth of the Çanakkale Strait, is experiencing a significant surge in tourism this summer season. According to Ali Uğur Çelik, President of the Gökçeada Tourism Association, a major increase in visitor density began around July 15 and is expected to continue through the end of August.

The island’s geography, which is 77% mountainous, offers diverse climates ranging from Mediterranean on the southern coasts to Marmara-specific on the northern shores. This variety, combined with its status as one of the world’s ‘slow cities,’ attracts a wide range of visitors.

Windsurfing has become a primary economic driver for the island. There are currently seven surf schools operating—four at Kefalos Beach and three at Eşerek Beach. The surf schools alone have hosted over 20,000 tourists this season, providing substantial revenue for local accommodation, restaurants, and businesses. Other notable attractions include the Marmaros Waterfall, Peynir Rocks, Salt Lake, and Kuzu Harbor.