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Every summer, a shallow strip of sea near the Aegean coast of Türkiye transforms into a walkable path connecting two small islands, drawing curious visitors eager to experience the unusual crossing firsthand.
Vacationers wade through knee-deep water to cross between Cunda Island and Maden Island in the Ayvalik district of Balikesir, Türkiye, a route that only becomes passable when the sea recedes during the warmer months.
The natural phenomenon occurs as seasonal changes in water levels expose a sandy strip beneath the surface, allowing visitors to walk directly from one island to the other without a boat.
Photographs taken on Aug. 19, 2026, show groups of holidaymakers making their way across the water, some carrying their shoes while others waded barefoot through the shallow crossing.
The route has become a popular attraction for tourists visiting the Ayvalik region, many of whom time their trips to coincide with the summer months when the crossing is accessible.
Local visitors and travelers from other parts of Türkiye are drawn to the site not only for the unusual walking experience but also for the scenic views of the surrounding Aegean coastline.
The seasonal sea path has increasingly attracted attention on social media, with many visitors sharing images of the crossing as a lesser-known highlight of Türkiye's coastal tourism offerings.
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