Gökçeada Uğurlu Beach: Where the Sun Sets Last

As you drive toward the western tip of Imbros (Gökçeada), the road narrows, the curves tighten, and your phone signal drops. The first time I came, I almost turned back. But when I rounded that last bend and saw Uğurlu Beach from above — pine green, sand yellow, and Aegean blue side by side — turning back never crossed my mind. This is the farthest beach from Gökçeada's center, but perhaps the most rewarding.

Beach Character: Sand, Sea, and Rocks

Uğurlu Beach stretches about 1,200 meters long and 80 meters wide, making it one of Gökçeada's widest shores. The sand is fine and non-sticky; a quick shake of the towel cleans it off. But let me warn you: some parts of the beach have pebbles and large rocks, and you'll encounter surprise rock formations in the sea. Don't go in without water shoes — I learned that the hard way.

Shallow Sea and Wind Conditions

The sea is shallow and deepens slowly, so small children can play safely near the shore. Sheltered from southern winds, the water is like glass on lodos (south wind) days. But when the poyraz (northeasterly wind) blows, things change: the water suddenly cools, waves grow, and even sitting on the beach can be tough against the wind. I once sat wrapped in a blanket on a windy July day — there were only five of us on the beach.

Sunset Spot

What truly sets Uğurlu apart is its location. It's the closest beach to İncirburnu, Turkey's westernmost point, meaning the sun sets here last in our country. With the silhouette of the pine forest behind and the open blue Aegean in front, if you arrive around 5:00 PM, you can watch the sky shift from red to purple for about an hour and a half. Once you've seen this scene, you'll come back every summer — I know I do.

Facilities and Shortcomings: An Honest Assessment

The beach has 3-4 seasonal businesses. A sunbed and umbrella set ranges from 200-400 TL (2025 prices, varies by operator). Showers and toilets are available but paid. There's also a municipal toilet.

Now for the flaws: Complaints about toilet cleanliness are justified. They charge a fee, but maintenance can be lacking. Changing cabins are few. Sometimes a single business dominates, limiting alternatives. And the road — the last few kilometers can be rough, so drive carefully with a low-clearance vehicle. But despite all this, is it worth coming? Absolutely.

Under the pine forest, there's natural shade, so you can sit comfortably without renting an umbrella. This "natural umbrella" is a major advantage, especially in the midday heat.

Uğurlu + Gizli Liman: Two Beaches in One Day Route

Coming to Uğurlu without seeing Gizli Liman (Hidden Harbor) would be incomplete. From the western end of the beach, a 15-20 minute trail leads down to Gizli Liman. The two beaches are very different: Uğurlu is wide and organized, while Gizli Liman is a small, more untouched cove.

One day, I arrived early at Uğurlu, swam until noon, then walked the trail to Gizli Liman. I had lunch there, came back, and watched the sunset at Uğurlu in the evening. I spent the whole day and still didn't want to leave. With Mayor Bülent Ecevit Atalay's announcement of a 10,000-person large beach project at Gizli Liman, this area seems set to become even livelier in the coming years.

Bring enough water and snacks — facilities at Uğurlu are limited, and there are none at Gizli Liman. If you'd like info on Gökçeada's other beaches, check out our beach guide.

8,800-Year-Old Neighbor: Uğurlu-Zeytinlik Mound

1 km north of Uğurlu Village lies the Uğurlu-Zeytinlik Mound. Discovered in 1998, this site has been excavated since 2009 by Prof. Dr. Burçin Erdoğu and her team. In September 2025, 8,800-year-old remains of 5 circular dwellings were uncovered — structures 4-6 meters in diameter with stone foundations and reed-mud walls. Inside, remains of wheat, barley, lentils, and bones of sheep, goats, and cattle were found.

What does this mean? This is the earliest known farming and livestock settlement in the Eastern Aegean islands. So while you're lounging on the beach, just 1 km away, people lived, farmed, and raised animals 8,800 years ago. People who think of Gökçeada as just a holiday island are surprised when you tell them this. The excavation area is an active work zone and closed to free visits, but it can be viewed from outside, and there are information boards.

The history of the island's settlement villages is also interesting: Uğurlu Village itself was founded in 1984 by families from Muğla and Burdur-Bucak, making it a relatively new settlement. But the land beneath it is thousands of years old.

Transportation and Practical Tips

From Gökçeada center (Çınarlı), it's about 25 km and 30-35 minutes by car. Check our ferry schedules to plan your arrival at Kuzu Harbor — it's 40 km from the port to Uğurlu.

The public bus goes to Uğurlu Village, but service is infrequent, especially off-season. Renting a car is much more practical. You can also hire a taxi on the island, but the distance makes it expensive.

• For sunset, be at the beach by 5:00 PM at the latest
• Natural shade under pines; umbrella not essential
• Definitely bring water shoes — there are rocky areas
• Bring water and snacks
• On poyraz (northeasterly) days, a windbreaker or light jacket helps
• Wear comfortable shoes if walking to Gizli Liman

Camping: Sleeping Under the Pines

The Uğurlu Çamlık Camping Area behind the beach is run by the village headman. Shaded spots under the pine forest are available. Basic amenities are limited — electricity and showers can be scarce. But if you're camping on Gökçeada, sleeping this close to the sunset is unmatched. The sound of waves in the night's silence, birdsong in the morning — coming from the city, you might not sleep the first night, not because of the quiet, but because of the peace.

Campers can get daily supplies from Uğurlu Village within walking distance. The village has a café, basic groceries, and organic products. Check our camping guide for other camping spots on the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the entry fee for Uğurlu Beach?

Entry is completely free — it's a public beach. Sunbed and umbrella sets at businesses range from 200-400 TL (2025 prices). Shower and toilet use is also paid.

Is Uğurlu Beach suitable for children?

The sea is shallow and deepens slowly, ideal for small children. However, watch out for large rocks in the water; water shoes are recommended.

Which beach is best for sunset on Gökçeada?

Uğurlu Beach, being the closest beach to Turkey's westernmost point, is where the sun sets last in the country. You can watch the sun sink into the Aegean against the silhouette of the pine forest.

Are Gizli Liman and Uğurlu Beach the same place?

No, they are two separate beaches. Uğurlu is larger and more organized, while Gizli Liman is a smaller, more natural cove. A 15-20 minute trail connects them, and both can easily be visited in one day.

Can I reach Uğurlu Beach by public transport?

The public bus runs to Uğurlu Village, but schedules are limited, especially off-season. Check bus schedules to assess public transport options. Renting a car is much more practical. It takes about 30-35 minutes by car from the center.