Ayvalık is renowned for its stunning azure waters, picturesque sunsets, and an array of beaches that cater to relaxation seekers. However, this scenic destination offers an abundance of active pursuits, including hiking, running, swimming, and scuba diving.
Swimming: With the inviting Aegean Sea at your doorstep, it's tempting to take a dip in the cool waters right in the heart of Ayvalık. You'll find numerous short piers and docks where locals take the plunge. For those seeking a more expansive sandy beach experience, Sarımsaklı is just a taxi ride (up to 60 TL) or a minibus journey (3.5 TL) away. These golden-sand beaches offer ample space for swimmers and sunbathers. The water remains shallow quite a distance from the shore, and most beaches have designated swimmer-only areas marked by buoys. Don't forget to bring a pair of goggles to observe the underwater world.
Trekking and Walking: The waterfront area provides a flat and leisurely walking path. However, if you're up for more challenging terrain, the hills surrounding Ayvalık, including Heaven Hill, Seven Hill, and Lovers Hill, offer rewarding trekking experiences. In the heart of the town, the Prophet Elias Hill Trekking Route presents breathtaking water views and is an excellent spot to watch the sunset.
For a more demanding trek, consider the winding road through Şeytan Sofrası (Devil's Forest). This path will get your heart rate up, and while the forest mainly consists of low pine trees offering little shade, there are shaded spots along the road, although signs remind visitors that it's prohibited to rest there. Those who resist temptation and reach the summit will be rewarded with incredible views of the region, showcasing the heavenly blue-green waters. At the peak, there's a spacious café where weary hikers can savor the views over a cup of hot tea or cold water.
Running: The pedestrian path along the waterfront branches in two directions from the center of Ayvalık, one leading to Sarımsaklı and the other spanning two bridges to Cunda. Both routes offer sufficiently wide paths for a comfortable run, although the town center can get crowded during the day, and some sections of the path toward Sarımsaklı are unpaved. The ideal time for running is early in the morning before the heat becomes too intense, and at this time, you'll encounter people of all ages relishing the sunrise over the serene waters and moored boats. Additionally, the path is adorned with several parks equipped with communal exercise facilities, ensuring you don't neglect your arm workouts.
Scuba Diving: The Aegean waters' clarity and tranquility make Ayvalık a prime location for scuba diving. Numerous operators have booths set up near their moored boats in the town center, such as Ayvalık 3 Sea, Ida Diving, and Kuzey Mavi. Most operators offer a "Discovery Dive" for newcomers, covering safe descent, underwater communication, and the steps to certification. Some operators may provide underwater photos of the experience for an additional fee. A discovery dive typically spans 5 to 7 hours and may include opportunities for swimming off the boat or exploring nearby islands.
Camping: For those eager to infuse adventure into their slumber, Ayvalık and Cunda offer a variety of campgrounds with different amenities, ranging from breakfast service to beachfront views and even full cabins. Options include Ada Camping, Çamlık Camping, and Ayvalık Camping. Most campgrounds are conveniently located with easy access to the water, although they don't provide a particularly rugged camping experience. Alternatively, you can drive to one of the numerous vacant lots by the water and set up your tent there.
Relaxing and Dining: Once you've exerted yourself, Ayvalık offers several ways to unwind and refuel. Cozy cafes and restaurants are interspersed among the shops in the town center's narrow alleys. Sarımsaklı's beaches offer rental chairs and umbrellas and feature cafes where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or savor the local Ayvalık toast.
Cunda boasts charming cobblestone pathways weaving between wineries and dessert establishments. However, you'll find the local specialty, fried ice cream, predominantly along the main thoroughfare. Your palate will be well-sated and ready for another day of adventure in no time!
Swimming: With the inviting Aegean Sea at your doorstep, it's tempting to take a dip in the cool waters right in the heart of Ayvalık. You'll find numerous short piers and docks where locals take the plunge. For those seeking a more expansive sandy beach experience, Sarımsaklı is just a taxi ride (up to 60 TL) or a minibus journey (3.5 TL) away. These golden-sand beaches offer ample space for swimmers and sunbathers. The water remains shallow quite a distance from the shore, and most beaches have designated swimmer-only areas marked by buoys. Don't forget to bring a pair of goggles to observe the underwater world.
Trekking and Walking: The waterfront area provides a flat and leisurely walking path. However, if you're up for more challenging terrain, the hills surrounding Ayvalık, including Heaven Hill, Seven Hill, and Lovers Hill, offer rewarding trekking experiences. In the heart of the town, the Prophet Elias Hill Trekking Route presents breathtaking water views and is an excellent spot to watch the sunset.
For a more demanding trek, consider the winding road through Şeytan Sofrası (Devil's Forest). This path will get your heart rate up, and while the forest mainly consists of low pine trees offering little shade, there are shaded spots along the road, although signs remind visitors that it's prohibited to rest there. Those who resist temptation and reach the summit will be rewarded with incredible views of the region, showcasing the heavenly blue-green waters. At the peak, there's a spacious café where weary hikers can savor the views over a cup of hot tea or cold water.
Running: The pedestrian path along the waterfront branches in two directions from the center of Ayvalık, one leading to Sarımsaklı and the other spanning two bridges to Cunda. Both routes offer sufficiently wide paths for a comfortable run, although the town center can get crowded during the day, and some sections of the path toward Sarımsaklı are unpaved. The ideal time for running is early in the morning before the heat becomes too intense, and at this time, you'll encounter people of all ages relishing the sunrise over the serene waters and moored boats. Additionally, the path is adorned with several parks equipped with communal exercise facilities, ensuring you don't neglect your arm workouts.
Scuba Diving: The Aegean waters' clarity and tranquility make Ayvalık a prime location for scuba diving. Numerous operators have booths set up near their moored boats in the town center, such as Ayvalık 3 Sea, Ida Diving, and Kuzey Mavi. Most operators offer a "Discovery Dive" for newcomers, covering safe descent, underwater communication, and the steps to certification. Some operators may provide underwater photos of the experience for an additional fee. A discovery dive typically spans 5 to 7 hours and may include opportunities for swimming off the boat or exploring nearby islands.
Camping: For those eager to infuse adventure into their slumber, Ayvalık and Cunda offer a variety of campgrounds with different amenities, ranging from breakfast service to beachfront views and even full cabins. Options include Ada Camping, Çamlık Camping, and Ayvalık Camping. Most campgrounds are conveniently located with easy access to the water, although they don't provide a particularly rugged camping experience. Alternatively, you can drive to one of the numerous vacant lots by the water and set up your tent there.
Relaxing and Dining: Once you've exerted yourself, Ayvalık offers several ways to unwind and refuel. Cozy cafes and restaurants are interspersed among the shops in the town center's narrow alleys. Sarımsaklı's beaches offer rental chairs and umbrellas and feature cafes where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or savor the local Ayvalık toast.
Cunda boasts charming cobblestone pathways weaving between wineries and dessert establishments. However, you'll find the local specialty, fried ice cream, predominantly along the main thoroughfare. Your palate will be well-sated and ready for another day of adventure in no time!