The weekend is approaching, and you have only one question on your mind: "Where can I escape the noise and concrete jungle of this city?" If the relentless pace of Istanbul, the industrial fabric of Kocaeli, or the intensity of Sakarya has worn you out, we have a sanctuary where you can listen to the whispers of the Black Sea. And this sanctuary isn't as far as you think. Just a 2-2.5 hour drive from Istanbul , these two charming coastal towns in Kocaeli's Kandıra district offer the peace and adventure you're looking for. Our list ofthings to do in Kerpe and Kefken invites you to rocky shores where lush pine forests meet deep blue waters, and nature has worked like a sculptor.   

The most enchanting aspect of these two neighboring towns is that they offer the wild nature of the Black Sea right next to the metropolises, at a very accessible point. Without needing to make long plans or travel for days, you can suddenly find yourself in an atmosphere where waves crash against the rocks and the wind howls through the pine trees. This place promises an "accessible wilderness" where you can rejuvenate your soul with an unplanned getaway. If you're ready, let's discover the secrets of this unique geography together.

Photograph the Sculptor-Like Eagle Rocks in Kerpe

One of the first dramatic landscapes to greet you when you arrive in Kerpe is undoubtedly the Eagle Rocks (Kartal Kayaları). This is no ordinary rock formation; it's a massive open-air sculpture created by the patient work of the Black Sea over thousands of years, a joint creation of waves and wind. The majestic structure of the rock extending towards the sea resembles the wings of an eagle, making this natural monument a paradise for photography enthusiasts.   

While impressive at any time of day, you'll experience the true magic of Eagle Rocks at sunset. Under a sky painted crimson by the sun, the silhouette of the rocks becomes even more pronounced, creating postcard-perfect scenes. At those moments, you are in the perfect place to capture "shots where the red sun kisses the face of the rocks." If you're looking for a bit of adrenaline, you can watch the local youth jump from these rocks into the cool waters during the summer, or even join them if you're brave enough.   

However, this beauty also has a harsh side. The fierce waves of the Black Sea can make these rocks dangerous, especially on windy days. Therefore, be sure to pay attention to the warning signs in the area. Eagle Rocks is a unique spot that reflects the soul of Kerpe, where you can observe both how creative and how powerful nature can be at the same time.   

Visit the Pink Rocks in Kefken, Which Turn Pink at Sunset

When you move on from Kerpe to Kefken, just a few kilometers away, another of nature's miracles awaits you: the Pink Rocks (Pembe Kayalar). This place will astound you not only with its color but also with its geological structure and historical significance. The most interesting feature of these rocks is that they are soft while in the water, allowing them to be easily cut, but they harden like concrete once they are removed from the water and come into contact with the air.   

This unique feature has been recognized since ancient times, and the Pink Rocks have been used as a veritable stone quarry. The most impressive part of the story is where the stones extracted from here went. These pink, durable stones were transported by sea to Istanbul during the Ottoman period and used in the construction of many monumental structures, including the Sultanahmet Mosque. So, as you stand on this quiet coast of Kefken, you are actually touching a piece of the history that forms the magnificent silhouette of Istanbul. It gives one a different perspective to think about how this small coastal town shaped the aesthetic understanding of an empire.   

As the name suggests, the rocks take on a wonderful pink, even coral, color when the sunlight hits them at sunset. This visual feast is a moment not to be missed, especially for photographers. You should definitely visit the Pink Rocks to witness a geological wonder and take a journey into the depths of history.   

Swim at the Calm Beaches of These Charming Black Sea Villages

If you're one of those who think, "Can you swim in the Black Sea, isn't it too wavy?" Kerpe and Kefken will completely rid you of this prejudice. Kerpe, in particular, is like a natural harbor, sheltered from the north winds due to its geographical location. As a result, its sea is usually as calm as a sheet, waveless, and shallow for about 150 meters. These features make the area a perfect fit, especially for families with children and those who are novice swimmers.   

It's possible to find a beach for every taste in the region. Whether you are looking for a crowded and lively beach or a quiet and pristine cove, your options are plentiful. To make your decision easier, we have compiled the most popular beaches for you.

As you cool off in the Blue Flag waters of Kerpe and Kefken, you will witness how generous and inviting the Black Sea can actually be. If you're curious about all the swimming spots in the area, be sure to check out our article on the best beaches in Kocaeli.

While You're Here...

If you want to continue exploring after being captivated by the magic of Kerpe and Kefken, there are other beauties waiting for you in the vicinity. You can visit Bağırganlı, a charming fishing village attached to Kandıra, and swim in its magnificent bowl-shaped bay. If you are looking for a more pristine and untouched experience, you can set out to discover the mysterious caves and natural rock pools of Sardala Bay, known as "Turkey's Phuket." Additionally, you can arrange a boat tour to the historic Kefken Island, one of the two habitable islands in the Black Sea, to see the walls remaining from the Genoese period. And don't leave without tasting the region's famous buffalo yogurt! If you want to learn more about the local food culture, our article on Kandıra's famous flavors might interest you.   

References

For more in-depth scientific information about the complex geological processes that formed the Pink Rocks, you can review this technical report published by the TMMOB Chamber of Geological Engineers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the sea in Kerpe wavy? No. Because Kerpe is located in a special bay protected from the north winds, it has a very calm, waveless, and shallow sea compared to the rest of the Black Sea. This feature makes it ideal, especially for families with children and those new to swimming.   

2. How long does it take to drive to Kerpe from Istanbul? The drive from Istanbul to Kerpe by private car takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. The distance is about 150-165 km.   

3. When is the best time to visit the Pink Rocks? Although the Pink Rocks are beautiful at any time, the ideal time to see their famous pink color most clearly is at sunset. The view that emerges when the sun's rays hit the rocks during these "golden hours" is unique for photographers.