The Turkish side of Cyprus, officially known as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean that boasts an array of stunning beaches. This region is a paradise for beach lovers, offering everything from secluded, tranquil coves to bustling resort beaches filled with activities and amenities. The untouched beauty of the Karpaz Peninsula provides pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for those seeking solitude and natural splendor. Meanwhile, the lively atmosphere of popular beaches near Kyrenia caters to those looking for excitement and social gatherings. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy turtle nesting sites, while families will find safe and welcoming beaches ideal for children. With its diverse coastline, Northern Cyprus promises an unforgettable beach experience for every traveler. Let’s explore some of the best beaches this beautiful region has to offer.
1. Golden Beach, Karpaz Peninsula
Golden Beach, also known as Karpaz Beach, is often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus. Located on the remote Karpaz Peninsula, this beach is a pristine paradise with golden sands stretching for miles and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The beach is relatively untouched by tourism, offering a tranquil and serene environment perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The surrounding area is a protected nature reserve, home to wild donkeys and a variety of bird species, making it a fantastic spot for nature lovers. Due to its secluded location, amenities are limited, so it’s advisable to bring your own food and water.
Golden Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The gentle waves make it an ideal spot for a relaxing dip in the sea. The lack of commercial development ensures that the beach remains clean and unspoiled, providing a pure and natural experience for visitors. For those interested in exploring the local culture, the nearby village of Dipkarpaz offers a glimpse into traditional Cypriot life.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day out in nature, Golden Beach in Karpaz Peninsula provides an unforgettable beach experience.
Review Beach Rating: Golden Beach
Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦
Great for families with its expansive sandy shores and calm waters.
Accessibility: 6/10 🚗
Accessible by car, but the remote location may require a longer drive.
Amenities: 5/10 🏖️
Limited facilities; visitors should bring their own supplies.
Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Ideal for swimming and beachcombing, though fewer options for rentals.
Scenery: 10/10 🌅
Stunning views with golden sands and clear waters.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and unspoiled.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Usually quiet and serene, but can get busier during peak times.
Parking Availability: 6/10 🅿️
Parking available, though limited due to the remote location.
Pet-Friendliness: 8/10 🐕
Pets are allowed but must be leashed.
Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to the village of Dipkarpaz with cultural sights.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe, though no lifeguards on duty.
Local Dining: 5/10 🍽️
Limited dining options nearby; best to bring your own food.
2. Alagadi Beach, Kyrenia
Alagadi Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, is famous for being a nesting site for endangered loggerhead and green turtles. This natural sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures during the nesting season.
The beach itself is a blend of golden sand and pebbles, offering a picturesque setting for a day by the sea. The waters are clear and shallow, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Alagadi Beach is also popular with nature enthusiasts who come to see the turtles lay their eggs from May to October.
Amenities at Alagadi Beach are minimal to preserve the natural environment. There are a few basic facilities, including restrooms and picnic areas, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own supplies. The local conservation efforts ensure that the beach remains pristine and safe for the turtles.
In addition to the natural beauty, Alagadi Beach offers educational tours and opportunities to participate in turtle conservation activities. This makes it a wonderful destination for families and anyone interested in wildlife conservation.
Review Beach Rating: Alagadi Beach
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Great for families with educational opportunities and safe swimming areas.
Accessibility: 7/10 🚗
Accessible by car with adequate parking.
Amenities: 6/10 🏖️
Basic facilities available; visitors should bring additional supplies.
Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful setting with clear waters and natural surroundings.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained due to conservation efforts.
Crowd Levels: 6/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Usually not too crowded, providing a peaceful experience.
Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed but must be leashed.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to Kyrenia with historical sites and activities.
Safety: 9/10 🦺
Safe with shallow waters, though no lifeguards on duty.
Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Limited options; best to bring your own food.
3. Escape Beach, Kyrenia
Escape Beach, located near Kyrenia, is one of the most popular beaches in Northern Cyprus. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent facilities, it’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
The beach offers soft golden sands and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Escape Beach is also well-equipped with amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and restrooms. For those looking for a bit more adventure, water sports such as jet skiing, banana boating, and parasailing are available.
The beach is also home to several beach bars and restaurants, providing a range of dining options from casual snacks to full meals. The lively nightlife at Escape Beach makes it a popular spot for evening entertainment, with many events and parties held throughout the summer months.
Families will appreciate the designated swimming areas and the availability of lifeguards during peak times. The beach’s proximity to Kyrenia also means that visitors can easily explore local attractions and historical sites.
Review Beach Rating: Escape Beach
Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦
Great for families with safe swimming areas and lifeguards.
Accessibility: 9/10 🚗
Easily accessible with plenty of parking.
Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and dining options.
Water Activities: 10/10 🚣
Wide range of water sports available.
Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful setting with golden sands and clear waters.
Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Generally well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during weekends and holidays.
Parking Availability: 9/10 🅿️
Ample parking close to the beach.
Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕
Pets allowed in certain areas; restrictions apply.
Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Close to Kyrenia with many attractions and activities.
Safety: 9/10 🦺
Safe with lifeguards on duty and designated swimming areas.
Local Dining: 10/10 🍽️
Excellent dining options with beach bars and restaurants.
4. Glapsides Beach, Famagusta
Glapsides Beach in Famagusta is a long, sandy stretch known for its calm, shallow waters and relaxed atmosphere. This beach is particularly popular with students from the nearby Eastern Mediterranean University, giving it a youthful and vibrant vibe.
The beach offers a range of amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and several beach bars and cafes. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming and paddling, while the soft sand is perfect for sunbathing and beach games.
Glapsides Beach is also known for its lively nightlife, with regular beach parties and events. The nearby town of Famagusta offers plenty of opportunities for exploring historical sites and enjoying local cuisine.
Review Beach Rating: Glapsides Beach
Family-Friendliness: 7/10 👨👩👧👦
Suitable for families with its shallow waters and amenities.
Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Accessible by car with parking available.
Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and cafes.
Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Good for swimming and paddling.
Scenery: 7/10 🌅
Pleasant setting with soft sands and calm waters.
Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can get busy, especially with students and during events.
Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available.
Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕
Pets allowed but with some restrictions.
Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to Famagusta with historical sites and activities.
Safety: 8/10 🦺
Safe with calm waters, though no lifeguards on duty.
Local Dining: 8/10 🍽️
Good dining options with beach bars and cafes.
5. Acapulco Beach, Kyrenia
Acapulco Beach is part of the Acapulco Resort and Convention Center, offering a luxurious beach experience with a range of high-end facilities. The beach features soft golden sands and clear, calm waters, making it perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
The resort provides all the amenities you could need, including sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and restrooms. There are also several restaurants and bars offering a variety of dining options. For those looking for some excitement, the resort offers water sports, a water park, and various entertainment options.
Families will appreciate the children’s play areas and the availability of lifeguards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. The resort’s proximity to Kyrenia also means that visitors can easily explore the town’s attractions and historical sites.
Review Beach Rating: Acapulco Beach
Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with plenty of activities and amenities.
Accessibility: 9/10 🚗
Easily accessible with plenty of parking.
Amenities: 10/10 🏖️
Top-notch facilities with everything you need.
Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Wide range of water sports and activities.
Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful setting with golden sands and clear waters.
Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean.
Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can get busy, especially during peak season.
Parking Availability: 9/10 🅿️
Ample parking close to the beach.
Pet-Friendliness: 5/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas; restrictions apply.
Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Close to Kyrenia with many attractions and activities.
Safety: 9/10 🦺
Safe with lifeguards on duty and designated swimming areas.
Local Dining: 10/10 🍽️
Excellent dining options with resort restaurants and bars.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed day by the sea, the beaches of Northern Cyprus offer a diverse and delightful experience for all visitors. From the pristine, untouched shores of Golden Beach on the Karpaz Peninsula to the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Escape Beach near Kyrenia, there is something to suit every taste. Nature enthusiasts will love the turtle nesting sites at Alagadi Beach, where they can witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Families can enjoy the safe, shallow waters and family-friendly amenities at Glapsides Beach. For those seeking luxury and top-notch facilities, Acapulco Beach offers an upscale experience with a variety of water sports and entertainment options. Each beach presents its own unique charm, ensuring that whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Northern Cyprus has the perfect spot for you.
Stay tuned for more waves of beach bliss and sun-kissed adventures at Beach Review!
#NorthernCyprus #GoldenBeach #TurtleBeach #EscapeBeach #BeachParadise #MediterraneanBeaches
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