Gökova – Akyaka
Turkey · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Wingfoil
- Best winds NW (thermal)
- Level Beginner · Intermediate · Pro
- Water Chop
- Best months May–Sep
About this spot
The Gulf of Gökova in southwest Turkey is one of the most wind-reliable areas in the eastern Aegean thanks to its extremely consistent thermal northwesterly. Akyaka is the quiet village right at the spot, kept in traditional style, with a long shallow sandy beach and clean side-onshore wind.
The wind works like clockwork: because the bay sits in a deep, west-facing valley, the surrounding mountains heat up in the summer sun and create a reliable thermal wind – even without the Meltemi. A light sea breeze starts around 9 am and builds to roughly 18–20 knots by midday. The water is flat and standing-depth for about 150 m out – ideal for learning, freeride and freestyle. How reliable is the wind? From June to the end of September there are barely any windless days, around 99% wind probability.
This mix makes Akyaka a safe bet for beginners, advanced riders and pros alike.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
The wind at this spot is mainly local (thermals, funnelling between mountains or shores). The weather model with its roughly 9 km grid does not capture it and shows hardly any wind here – so we do not show wind-day statistics. For the season, see the spot description. The water ranges from about 18 to 29 °C over the year.
| Month | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 4 kn | — | 12 °C | 19 °C |
| February | 5 kn | — | 12 °C | 18 °C |
| March | 5 kn | — | 14 °C | 18 °C |
| April | 5 kn | — | 17 °C | 19 °C |
| May | 6 kn | — | 22 °C | 21 °C |
| June | 6 kn | — | 27 °C | 25 °C |
| July | 6 kn | — | 30 °C | 28 °C |
| August | 6 kn | — | 29 °C | 29 °C |
| September | 6 kn | — | 26 °C | 27 °C |
| October | 5 kn | — | 22 °C | 24 °C |
| November | 4 kn | — | 17 °C | 22 °C |
| December | 4 kn | — | 13 °C | 20 °C |
Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
Insider tips
Wind reliably arrives from midday – the lighter morning breeze suits first attempts and SUP well. Standing-depth flat water out to around 150 m makes Akyaka perfect for learning freestyle.
⚠︎ Hazards
The side-onshore thermal wind pushes towards shore – reassuring in safety terms. At full midday thermal it can get strong and gusty; match your gear to the wind strength.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Gökova – Akyaka suitable for beginners?
Yes. According to the spot info, Gökova – Akyaka suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate · Pro (water: Chop).
Which wind works at Gökova – Akyaka?
Best with wind from NW (thermal).
When is the best time for Gökova – Akyaka?
The best months are considered to be May–Sep.
How warm is the water at Gökova – Akyaka?
Over the year about 18 °C in March to 29 °C in August (model data).
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