Avşa Island, also known as Türkeli or Tavşan Adası, is a small island located in the Sea of Marmara, off the western coast of Turkey. It is part of the Balıkesir Province and is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Here are some key details about Avşa Island:
Location: Avşa Island is situated approximately 18 kilometers south of the town of Erdek, which is a popular departure point for ferries to the island. It is about 90 kilometers southwest of Istanbul and can be reached by ferry or boat.
Avşa Island covers an area of around 14 square kilometers. It has a relatively flat terrain with hills scattered throughout the island. The coastline is characterized by numerous sandy beaches, rocky coves, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Avşa Island is renowned for its picturesque beaches. Altınkum Beach is the most popular and largest beach on the island, offering golden sands and shallow waters. Other notable beaches include Saraylar Beach, Poyraz Bay, Çınar Beach, and Kum Beach, all of which provide a tranquil setting for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Avşa Island attracts visitors seeking a peaceful and laid-back vacation away from the bustling city life. It offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, holiday resorts, and rental houses. The island has restaurants, cafes, and bars where visitors can enjoy local cuisine, seafood, and refreshing drinks. Avşa Island's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to other tourist hotspots in Turkey.
Apart from sunbathing and swimming, Avşa Island offers several recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and scuba diving. Boat tours around the island and nearby islets are popular, allowing visitors to explore the coastline and discover hidden bays. Additionally, hiking and biking trails are available for those who want to explore the island's natural beauty.
Avşa Island has a small permanent population, but the number of inhabitants increases significantly during the summer season. The locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness toward tourists. The island has a vibrant market where visitors can buy local products, souvenirs, and traditional handicrafts.
Avşa Island serves as a gateway to other popular tourist destinations in the region. The town of Erdek, located on the mainland, offers a variety of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and historical sites. Day trips to the nearby Marmara Islands, including Marmara Island itself and Heybeliada, Büyükada, and Burgazada in the Princes' Islands archipelago, are also possible.
If you are planning to visit this beautiful Island, you might wanna give one of these hotels a try:
Avşa Butik Otel: Located near Altınkum Beach, Avşa Butik Otel offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. It is praised for its friendly staff and convenient location.
Avşa Pansiyon: Situated close to Saraylar Beach, Avşa Pansiyon is a cozy guesthouse with clean rooms and a family-friendly atmosphere. It offers a pleasant stay and easy access to the beach.
Avşa Hotel: This beachfront hotel is centrally located and offers comfortable rooms with sea views. It features a restaurant, a bar, and a terrace where guests can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Avşa Queen Apart Otel: Known for its spacious apartments, Avşa Queen Apart Otel provides a comfortable stay for families or larger groups. It offers self-catering accommodation with kitchenettes and balconies.
Avşa Resort Hotel: Offering a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar, Avşa Resort Hotel provides a relaxing stay. It is located near Altınkum Beach and offers easy access to the town center.
An interesting fact about Avşa island is that despite its small population of 3,000, Avşa island hosted almost 200,000 tourists!