Gökçeada Laz Koyu: Calm Seas and Milky Way Guide

Heading to the south of Gökçeada means discovering a completely different side of the island. On days when the north wind batters the northern shores, the south tells another story: Laz Koyu welcomes you into a quiet, small, sheltered cove. Locals describe its sea as "like a bedsheet" — their own expression, and not without reason.

A few years ago, on a July morning, I was sipping tea at the gözleme (Turkish stuffed flatbread) place just above the cove and looked down: mullet were swimming in schools near the shore, their shadows visible in the morning sun. I put on my mask before entering the water, dipped my head in — and the mullet swam toward me. That morning stayed with me.

Why Is Laz Koyu So Calm?

For those familiar with the island's geography, the answer is clear: the southern coast is naturally sheltered from the north wind (poyraz). While other coves get choppy, Laz Koyu remains almost always calm. The water clarity is a result — in a waveless, current-free environment, the water settles, and you can see the bottom.

The best spot for snorkeling is the rocky area on the left side of the cove. The shallow pools among the rocks are like natural aquariums, with mullet, sea urchins, and colorful algae. You need to bring your own gear, as rentals are scarce. For those curious about underwater life, check out our post on Mavi Koy. These rocks are also ideal for fishing in Gökçeada. Don't forget to check our diving guide for Gökçeada. You can see what equipment is available in Gökçeada in our water activities guide.

Watch Out for Depth

The seabed drops sharply 3-4 meters from shore. The calm sea gives a family-friendly appearance, but the shallow area is narrow. Keep an eye on small children; the cove can be deceptive in this regard.

Where to Go on Windy Days?

When the north wind hits the north of Gökçeada — great for surfers, tough for swimmers — heading south is the smartest move. For those wanting to compare coves, check out Kapıkaya Beach in the north. For windsurfing, Kefalos (Aydıncık) Beach is also a good alternative. Our Gökçeada beaches guide will come in handy.

Volcanic Rock, Organic Fields, and the Story Behind the Name

An article I read last year in the Gökçeada İmroz Magazine caught my attention: the rocks around Laz Koyu are of volcanic origin, about 30 million years old. For those curious about the island's geological history, this coast is essentially an open museum. As you descend to the cove, look at the dark rocks on the road — these are no ordinary coastal stones. This feature, not covered on any competitor site, is, in my opinion, the least known layer of Laz Koyu.

There's also an agricultural dimension. In an interview with Burak Soykan in the magazine, it's mentioned that organic wheat is grown around the cove. Laz Koyu is not just a beach; when you consider its surroundings, it's a small but multi-layered place.

As for the name: families who migrated from the Çaykara district of Trabzon settled in the area, and the cove was given this name by the locals. The islanders know it as such — the name carries a special meaning.

Transport, Facilities, and Practical Info

How to Get to the Cove?

The distance between Gökçeada center and Laz Koyu is about 20 km, 25-30 minutes by car. Most of the road is asphalt; after turning left at the sign, a 300-meter dirt road leads down to the cove. This last stretch is passable with a regular car. For ferry schedules, check the Kabatepe-Gökçeada ferry times page.

Public transport is almost nonexistent. Getting there without a rental car or transfer is very difficult; you need to accept that from the start.

Parking Trouble

Try going at 10 AM in mid-August — the parking lot can be packed. Going before 9 AM gives you a big advantage. There's no need to hide this flaw: parking is tight, but the cove is worth it.

Facilities and Current Prices

Just above the cove, there's a separate place under the trees offering breakfast and gözleme. Before heading down to the beach facility, sitting at this shady spot is a nice option — especially in the early hours. Credit cards are not accepted at the beach facility; few visitors know this, so bring cash.

Milky Way Viewing: Come Here at Night

The daytime is beautiful, but Laz Koyu's real secret emerges at night. Far from the center, with low light pollution. On July-August nights, during the new moon, when you look up, the Milky Way unfolds completely before you.

Last summer, a friend who camped here told me about it the next morning, and I couldn't believe it — "I've never seen a sky like this," he said. Later, I went myself; this cove is small, but some moments are truly something else.

• Best viewing dates: Late July – early August, new moon week
• Long exposure is a must for photos; bring a tripod
• Electricity is available at the campsite, no charging issues
• Night temperatures in summer are slightly cool — a thin blanket is enough

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get to Laz Koyu without a car?

Very difficult. It's 20 km from Gökçeada center with no regular public transport. Similar issues can arise with access to other villages. Renting a car or arranging a transfer is the most realistic option. Check car rental offices at Kuzu Limanı as soon as you arrive on the island.

Is it suitable for children?

With its calm, waveless nature, families often choose it. But the seabed drops sharply 3-4 meters from shore. Keep a close eye on small children; caution is needed.

I want to camp; what's it like?

You can pitch a tent on the beach; in 2025, it's 60 TL per night. Showers, toilets, and electricity are available. You might also want to check out other campsites on Gökçeada. Since it's within the Gökçeada National Park area, I recommend checking municipal announcements before the season — rules can change.

Where does the cove's name come from?

Families who migrated from the Çaykara district of Trabzon settled around Dereköy, and the cove was popularly named "Laz Koyu." The official address is within Dereköy boundaries; it's recorded this way on Wikipedia as well.

Can I rent snorkeling gear?

There's no mask-snorkel rental point at the cove. You need to bring your own equipment. The rocky area on the left side of the cove is the most productive for snorkeling — it has a natural aquarium effect. If you've come with your pet, don't forget to check our guide to vacationing with a dog in Gökçeada.