I have prepared a comprehensive travel guide about places to visit in Ağva. Ağva is a charming, quiet coastal town affiliated with the Şile district on the Black Sea coast, which you can prefer for a calm and enjoyable vacation.
Ağva is located between the Göksu and Yeşilçay rivers, which flow into the Black Sea. The name Ağva comes from Latin, meaning “a village established between two streams” and “water”. Historical artifacts dating back 2700 years have been found in Ağva, where Romans and Genoese lived. Due to its proximity to Istanbul, you can visit Ağva at any time of the year. If you want to enjoy the beaches and bays of Ağva, you can prefer the months of June-October, when the air temperature rises up to 30 degrees, for activities such as boat tours, swimming, and sunbathing. If you want to go to Ağva for a nature walk and to be in touch with nature, you can prefer the spring months when nature comes alive and becomes colorful. You can also visit Ağva for a day trip or a weekend getaway due to its proximity to Istanbul.
Ağva, which is 28 kilometers away from Şile, can be reached in 1.5 hours by private car from Kadıköy and Üsküdar. You can also reach it by İETT buses or private buses from Üsküdar.
Click here for İstanbul Ağva bus schedules.
With its boutique hotels on the Göksu river, lush green nature, beautiful weather, beaches, restaurants, and proximity to Istanbul, Ağva is flooded with vacationers in both summer and winter. The population of 3,000 increases to 15,000 in the summer months, and since more visitors come on weekends, you can also go on weekdays if you prefer a quieter atmosphere. As a fishing town, you can see fishing boats on the Yeşilçay river in the center of Ağva. If you’re interested in fishing, you can also fish in Ağva. If you don’t have a fishing rod, you can get one from your hotel or the markets in the town. Although the Göksu stream does not flow into the sea, don’t be surprised if you see fishermen casting their lines from the coast where the Göksu meets the sea and catching fish. Depending on the season, Ağva has a variety of fish, and I recommend that you don’t leave Ağva without trying the fish.
You can also prefer Ağva for a romantic vacation. You can spend a romantic weekend with your spouse at the hotels on the Göksu coast, and have wine tastings at the wine houses by the river. In Ağva, where the sea and forest intersect, you can take a boat tour, explore the river by canoe and sea bike, and go on nature walks. With the breakfasts and dinners you will have on the Göksu coast, you can have a pleasant time with your friends. You can stay at boutique hotels on the Göksu river coast in Ağva or at pensions close to the beach in the town center, or you can camp in the surrounding campsites. You can also prefer the forest houses made of tree houses in the Kurfallı region.
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Ağva Beaches
Ağva Beach, which is flooded with vacationers especially on weekends, offers its guests a long natural sandy beach on the Black Sea coast, where they can cool off and sunbathe on hot summer days. You can also take walks on the natural sand, which is said to be good for rheumatic diseases. The beach has facilities such as sun loungers, umbrellas, and dressing cabins, and Ağva beach can get quite crowded on weekends during the summer months. If possible, you can prefer to go to the beach on weekdays.
Even in the summer months, when entering the cold sea, it is beneficial not to forget that you are on the Black Sea coast and to be cautious against the rough Black Sea waves and whirlpools. I recommend being careful when entering the sea, especially on wavy days. In some of Ağva’s beaches, you have the opportunity to rent sun loungers and umbrellas, as well as bring your own sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach chairs.
İmrenli Beach
İmrenli Beach, 13 km from the center of Ağva, is also one of the most visited beaches in Ağva due to its long and sandy beach. The peaceful and tranquil beach, which attracts attention with its clean sea, also has a restaurant. Mavi Koy Holiday Site is also located in İmrenli Beach. Click for location. Number 1 on the map.
Akçakese Beach
Akçakese Beach, a beach that is not well known among many people, is located in Akçakese Village, 17 kilometers from Ağva. Since it is hidden behind the rocks, you can reach the beach on foot after parking your car. You can camp at Akçakese Beach, as well as stay in Kabakoz Village. Click for location. Number 2 on the map.
Akçakese coast
Kilimli Cove Beach
Kilimli Beach, which can also be reached by boat, is 5 kilometers away on the Bucaklı Village road. Kilimli Cove, which is away from the rough waves of the Black Sea, fascinates its visitors with its tranquility and marble-white sand, and you can easily swim in the sea. When you go to Kilimli Cove, you should also see the Gelin Kayası, which has been named because it resembles a bride, and which was formed by the sea eroding over time. Click for location. Number 3 on the map.
Kurfallı Altı Beach
The beach starts from the point where the Göksu stream meets the sea and extends west, ending at the western rocks. You can also fish in these rocks, known as dead cliffs. The beach has a long sandy beach, and if you are staying in the hotels around the Göksu stream, you can easily access it. It is also possible to set up your tent in the campsite in the middle of the beach. You can also walk in Kurfallı Village, which hosts the beach. Click for location. Number 4 on the map.
Şuayipli Village Beach
Do not miss the 3-kilometer-long beach between Şuayipli and Ağva. If you go to the beach on weekdays, you can enjoy the long beach more comfortably, as it is more crowded on weekends. The beach also offers sunbed rental and camping opportunities, and you can bring your own sunbed and umbrella if you wish. The beach is notable for its sandy sea that does not deepen immediately, and you can also build sandcastles with your children. Click for location. Number 5 on the map.
Boat Tour in Ağva
If you want to take a boat tour in Ağva, you can take a boat tour on the Göksu or Çanak rivers, as well as on the surrounding bays.
Boat Tour on Göksu River
Taking a boat tour on the Göksu river, where hotels are lined up, is a unique pleasure, watching the hotels and nature on the river. You can also use the sea bicycles and canoes at some hotels to explore the river. If you are staying at a hotel in the Göksu area, you can get on the boat arranged by your hotel in front of your hotel.
Çanak River and Surrounding Bays Boat Tour
If you want to take a boat tour on the Çanak river or the surrounding bays, you can rent a boat from the center of Ağva. With the boat you rent, you can explore the Black Sea bays, islets, and rocky shores of the Black Sea coast. You can visit Kilimli Bay and Kadırga Bay on your boat tour. You can swim in Kilimli and Kadırga bays.
Places to Visit in Ağva
Ağva Lighthouse
The Lighthouse, known as the symbol of Ağva, is located at the point where the Yeşilçay river meets the Black Sea. You can visit to watch the sunset, sit in the lighthouse, and enjoy the sea view. Click for location. Number 6 on the map.
A view from Ağva Lighthouse
Yeşilçay Stream
Established between the Göksu and Yeşilçay streams, Ağva is a must-visit destination for Yeşilçay stream. You can watch the sunset in the tea gardens on the riverbank and eat fish in the restaurants.
Ağva Lovers’ Road
Aşıklar Yolu is located on İskele Caddesi, parallel to Yeşilçay stream. If you walk on this 2-kilometer road, you will come across many fisherman’s shelters and fishing boats.
Kilimli Bay Beach
Kilimli Beach, which can be reached by private vehicle or boat, is 5 kilometers away on the Bucaklı Village road. Kilimli Bay, which is away from the rough waves of the Black Sea, fascinates its visitors with its tranquility and marble-white sand. You can swim comfortably in Kilimli Bay. You should also see the Gelin Kayası, which has been named because it resembles a bride, formed by the sea eroding over time. Click for location.
Kilimli Hiking Trail
You can walk on the 5-kilometer-long Ağva Kilimli trail and take photos of the Ağva beach views. Click for the trekking trail.
Gelin Kayası
This rocky area, formed by the sea eroding over the years, gets its name from its white color and its resemblance to a veiled bride. I recommend that you include it in your list of places to visit in Ağva and do not leave Ağva without taking photos of these rocks.
Kurfallı Orman Parkuru
You can walk on the 2 km long Kurfallı Orman Parkuru and examine the Ağva village houses.
Kurudere Şelalesi
Kurudere Şelalesi (Hacıllı) in Hacıllı Village, which is connected to Şile, is a place that those who want to spend time in nature should definitely see. You can swim in the ponds around the waterfall and camp in the waterfall and pond areas. It is number 7 on the map.
If you are curious about Hacıllı Waterfall, I recommend you check out my article Ağva Gezilecek Yerler – Hacıllı Şelalesi ve Kilimli Koyu.
Hacıllı Waterfall
Kadırga Koyu
You can reach Kadırga Koyu, which is 7 kilometers east of Ağva and 1 km from Büyübucaklı Village, by private vehicle or boat tour. I recommend you see the natural shapes and formations of the rocks, which have been eroded by the Black Sea waters over time. You can swim in the calm waters of the cove, which resembles an amphitheater with the shapes of the stones, and have a pleasant day. Click for location. It is number 8 on the map.
Saklıgöl
You can spend a peaceful day in harmony with nature at Saklıgöl in Karamandere Village, Şile. You can add Saklıgöl to your list of places to visit in Ağva, walk along its shore, have a breakfast pleasure, and have a barbecue and picnic. Click for location. It is number 9 on the map.
Kalemköy
Kalemköy, which is one of the places to see for a village life in touch with nature, is home to chestnut trees; aromatic plants such as linden, thyme, and bay leaves. Kalemköy is located in the highlands of Ağva. In Kalemköy, where agricultural areas are widespread, beekeeping and honey production are also carried out. You can also see the remains of a Roman church and tomb in Kalemköy, where there is also a small waterfall. Click for location.
İsaköy
İsaköy, which is 5 km away from Ağva, is another place that will surround you with its nature. When you come to İsaköy, you can have a pleasant breakfast with fresh village products at the Şelale Piknik Alanı on Koca Deresi. Click for location.
Ağva Camp Areas
Ağva is a wonderful town where the sea and forest meet, perfect for those who want to go camping. If you want to camp in Ağva, I have compiled some of the Ağva campgrounds along the coast that you can use for free or for a fee.
Kilimli Koyu
You can camp for free at Kilimli Koyu. We mentioned the unique sand of the bay and its tranquility. If it’s not too windy, you can set up your tent on the hill or on the beach on windy days, depending on the season. Click for the route.
Kilimli bay photography spot
Green Park Camping
At Greenpark camping, one of Turkey’s largest campgrounds with options for tents, caravans, and bungalows, you can also have a daily picnic. If you don’t have a tent, you can rent a tent or bungalow from the campsite. With its proximity to the beach and facilities such as a cafeteria, market, and playground, you can have a comfortable camping experience. Number 10 on the map.
Seferoğulları Camping
A secluded campground located in the forest, with a path to the sea and beach, where you can camp with your tent or have a daily picnic. Here, you can set up your own tent or rent a tent or bungalow. Seferoğulları Camping, which also offers breakfast, barbecue, and picnic facilities, is a good choice for campers. Number 11 on the map.
Hacıllı Köyü ve Şelalesi Kamp Alanı
One of the Ağva camping spots, located 19 kilometers outside of Ağva, in Hacıllı Köyü, one of the most beautiful villages of Şile, you can camp and have a vacation surrounded by nature, near the waterfall and lake in the forest. Since there are no facilities or markets in the campsite, you can shop from the village markets before going.
You can set up your tent for free near the lake and waterfall, and take a 6-kilometer hiking trail along the Göksu River, where you can go on nature walks. Along the stream of Hacıllı Waterfall, you can see different rocks and trees shaped by the waters. In Hacıllı Köyü, the 11 Lakes Valley, known as Değirmençayırı, has 11 waterfalls and lakes. If you want to explore the area more, you can also add the Gürlek Cave, located in the same area, to your Ağva itinerary.
Gelesun Kampland Ağva
Another Ağva campsite that those looking for a peaceful and quiet camping environment can prefer, Gelesun Kampland, offers a vacation opportunity in nature, just 3 minutes from the sea. In the campsite, you can stay in your own tent or caravan, or rent a bungalow tent. Number 12 on the map.
Karacaköy Plajı
The Karacaköy beach, located in the Şuayipli Village, 11 km west of Ağva, is one of the beaches you should see on the list of places to visit in Ağva. The beach, located in the cove, which is a natural harbor between the two capes, has clear waters, although it is a bit deep, and is a preferred address for those who camp. You can also camp with your tent or caravan at the beach, which has a small facility. Number 13 on the map.
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