Gökçeada (Imbros) Travel Guide with Your Dog: Beaches & Ferry

Good news for those considering coming to Gökçeada with a dog: the island is one of the most relaxed options among Turkey's coastal islands in this regard. Wide open spaces, light traffic, long and secluded shores, and the island's overall free-spirited atmosphere will please dog owners. But it must be said upfront that this freedom requires preparation.

One April morning, before the season had started, I went down to Kapıkaya. My dog was with me — a restless one, constantly running around and diving into the water without ever giving up. There was no one else in the cove. I took off his leash, and we walked along the shore for hours. That morning I realized that the northern shores of Imbros offer a completely different kind of freedom for dog owners.

Traveling with Your Dog on the GESTÀŞ Ferry

This is the first question on many dog owners' minds: will they let us on the ferry? GESTÀŞ allows pets on the Kabatepe–Gökçeada line under certain conditions. Small dogs can be taken on the passenger deck in a carrier. Large dogs travel on the vehicle deck, either inside a car or in a designated pet area. If you're traveling without a car, you must inquire in advance for a large dog.

Required Documents and Conditions

• Vaccination card recording all vaccinations, including an up-to-date rabies shot
• Veterinarian-approved microchip certificate
• An extra fee is charged for pets
• Large dogs may be required to travel inside a vehicle on the vehicle deck

In summer, especially on Saturday mornings, tickets sell out fast. One June Saturday, while trying to find a last-minute ticket, I ended up waiting on deck for a long time — that experience still sticks with me. If you're traveling with a dog, I strongly recommend contacting GESTÀŞ in advance. Checking ferry schedules and services beforehand will make planning much easier.

Dog-Friendly Beaches and Coves

Gökçeada's northern shores make the island special in this regard. Kapıkaya Beach, Gizli Liman, Laz Koyu — none of them have any designated management or entrance fee. You can freely enter with your dog.

Freely Accessible Areas

To reach Kapıkaya, you need to descend a gravelly and rocky path; vehicles can't go all the way, so it remains secluded. The terrain is a bit steep but worth it. Gizli Liman lives up to its name; even in midsummer, it's not crowded. Laz Koyu similarly stands out as a calm, less-visited, and dog-friendly cove.

Beaches to Be Cautious About

Aydıncık (Kefalos) Beach gets crowded in summer; finding parking also becomes difficult. Entering sunbathing areas with a dog may be considered disrespectful to other visitors. Islanders are generally tolerant of dogs, but in crowded areas, keeping your dog on a leash is both a legal requirement and a necessary courtesy.

Accommodation: Camping, Rental Houses, and Guesthouses

Most accommodation on Imbros consists of small family-run businesses. Unlike large chain hotels, some of these are flexible about dogs — but be aware of the difference between "may be flexible" and "definitely accepts."

Camping

Camping is the freest option with a dog. The Kapıkaya area and Aydıncık campsite are hassle-free in this regard. Remember that there are neighboring tents at the campsite — keeping your dog leashed and under control is a matter of both safety and respect for shared space. You can find detailed information in the camping guide.

Rental Houses and Guesthouses

On Airbnb and similar platforms, you can find suitable options on the island using the "pet-friendly" filter. Be sure to message the host before booking and get written confirmation — verbal approval can cause problems later. Guesthouses may be more flexible off-season; leaving it to the last minute in midsummer is risky.

Veterinarian and Health

In the town center (Çınarlı), a veterinary clinic is open during the season. In an emergency, reaching animal hospitals in Çanakkale can take several hours including ferry time — keep this possibility in mind when preparing for your trip.

You won't find everything on the island. Pet supplies and some veterinary medications may not be available. It's safer to bring dog food, antiparasitic products, and tick repellent from Istanbul or Çanakkale. In spring and summer, especially between April and July, tick risk is high; be sure to check your dog after passing through wooded and grassy areas.

Walking Routes Suitable for Dogs

Gökçeada's inter-village roads and northern coastal paths are ideal for dogs. The Tepekköy–Dereköy route offers a quiet stretch of about 8 km; you walk with sparse traffic, plenty of shade, and the sound of streams along the roadside. If your path takes you to Dereköy, you can enjoy local flavors at Falia Taverna after the walk. The Marmaros Waterfall trail has a stream bed — one of the coolest routes on the island, offering a refreshing stop for dogs as well. The paths among olive groves around the center stand out as short but pleasant options.

For more comprehensive route information, check out the trekking routes guide. The paths leading to the rock pools are also suitable for dog walking, but the ground is stony and rocky — it may be uncomfortable for dogs with sensitive paws on long walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I go to Gökçeada with my dog?

Yes. The island is one of Turkey's most suitable for a dog-friendly vacation. Wide open spaces, secluded shores, and light traffic provide great comfort for dog owners. With proper preparation, a very enjoyable holiday is possible.

Can I take my dog on the GESTÀŞ ferry?

Yes, under certain conditions. Small dogs can be taken on the passenger deck in a carrier; large dogs travel on the vehicle deck. An up-to-date rabies vaccination and microchip certificate are mandatory. It is recommended to contact GESTÀŞ before traveling.

Can I take my dog to the beach?

You can freely enter secluded, unmanaged beaches: Kapıkaya, Gizli Liman, and Laz Koyu are top choices. On crowded beaches like Aydıncık, caution is needed in summer; respect for other visitors is important.

Is there a veterinarian on the island?

Yes, a veterinary clinic is open in the center (Çınarlı) during the season. However, in emergencies, crossing to Çanakkale can take several hours including ferry time; therefore, complete all vaccinations and medications before your trip.

Can I camp with my dog?

Yes, camping is the freest option for a dog-friendly vacation. The Kapıkaya area and Aydıncık campsite are suitable for this. Keeping your dog leashed at the campsite is a matter of both safety and respect for other campers.