Don’t search any further – here is the list that you probably want to try:
- Long Beach (Iskele): Family-friendly with clear waters, lifeguards, and a promenade. Great for kids and walkers.
- Glapsides Beach: Affordable with free entry, water activities, and nearby historical sites. Popular with locals and students.
- Alagadi Turtle Beach: A key nesting site for turtles. Best for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts.
- Karpaz Golden Beach: An untouched, peaceful retreat with wildlife like wild donkeys and nesting turtles.
- Acapulco Beach: Offers water sports, dining, and shopping for a lively beach day.
Quick Comparison
| Beach Name | Best For | Key Features | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long Beach (Iskele) | Families, Walkers | Golden sand, promenade, play areas | Lifeguards, sunbeds, restaurants |
| Glapsides Beach | Budget, Activities | Free entry, water sports, shallow waters | Showers, restaurant, camping option |
| Alagadi Turtle Beach | Nature, Conservation | Turtle nesting, untouched sand | Basic cafe, conservation center |
| Karpaz Golden Beach | Peace, Wildlife | Wildlife spotting, scenic dunes | Minimal facilities |
| Acapulco Beach | Entertainment, Water Sports | Jet skiing, parasailing, shopping | Restaurants, water park, vendors |
Whether you’re into relaxation, adventure, or wildlife, Northern Cyprus beaches near Caesar Bay have something for everyone. Perfect for a summer getaway!
Top 10 beaches in North Cyprus
1. Long Beach (Iskele)
Long Beach, located near Iskele, is one of Northern Cyprus’ most accessible beaches, packed with amenities. Just about 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Ercan International Airport, this sandy stretch offers plenty of space for visitors to relax and soak in the Mediterranean vibe.
The beach is designed with families in mind, featuring clear waters, a gentle slope, designated swimming zones, and lifeguards to ensure safety. Visitors will find plenty of affordable options for parasols, drinks, and snacks, making it a convenient spot to spend the day.
Here’s what makes Long Beach stand out:
- Clean and well-maintained showers
- Comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas
- Beachfront bars and restaurants
- Playgrounds for kids
- Scenic walking and running paths along the shore
Even during peak season, the beach remains less crowded, though mosquitoes can be a minor annoyance near the showers in the evenings.
Its location near restaurants and local amenities makes Long Beach a great choice for those seeking a day filled with clear waters, soft sands, and modern conveniences.
2. Glapsides Beach
Located just 3.4 miles (5.5 km) north of Famagusta, Glapsides Beach boasts a long stretch of sandy shoreline and shallow, crystal-clear waters. It’s a great spot for families and anyone looking to enjoy water activities like jet skiing, kayaking, pedal boating, or snorkeling to explore the underwater life.
Here’s a quick look at the costs at Glapsides Beach:
| Service | Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Sun Lounger & Umbrella | 50–80 TL/day |
| Camping (overnight) | 50–150 TL/night |
The beach offers more than just affordability. Visitors can take advantage of clean showers, convenient changing cabins, and a beachfront restaurant-bar. The bar even features DJ performances, making it a lively spot for entertainment. If you’re into birdwatching, migration seasons turn this beach into a prime viewing area. For a quieter experience, weekdays are the best time to visit, offering plenty of space for swimming and relaxing.
Glapsides Beach is also conveniently close to historical landmarks like the Salamis ruins and St. Barnabas Monastery and Museum. You can reach the beach via the path next to the Golden Terrace restaurant. It’s a favorite hangout for locals and students from Eastern Mediterranean University. With its mix of natural charm and varied activities, Glapsides Beach has something for everyone.
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3. Alagadi Turtle Beach
Just 10 miles from Kyrenia, Alagadi Turtle Beach is home to two bays: a larger, more developed area and a smaller, quieter spot for relaxation. This beach is a key nesting site for Green and Loggerhead turtles in Northern Cyprus, with the SPOT Alagadi Conservation Centre organizing turtle-watching events throughout the season.
Activities and Timing
Here’s a quick look at the activities you can enjoy:
| Activity | Time Period | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Night Watch | June – July | Suggested donation: £10 (~$12 USD) per adult |
| Nest Excavations | July 20 – September (4:00 PM) | Open for public viewing |
| Hatchling Releases | July 20 – September | Held on weekdays and weekends |
Night Watch activities require advance booking, so make sure to contact SPOT Alagadi Conservation Centre at +90 533 8725350. For updates on nest excavations and hatchling releases, check their Facebook page or call on the same day.
Tips for a Great Visit
- Dress warmly for nighttime activities.
- Wear comfortable shoes or sandals.
- Follow all guidelines to protect the turtles and their nests.
- Visit in August or September for the best chance to see hatchlings.
What to Expect
The beach is free to enter and remains minimally developed to prioritize turtle conservation. You won’t find sun loungers here, but there’s a restaurant with restrooms for basic needs. The information center offers insights into conservation efforts, making it a great educational stop for families. Parking is ample, but arriving early during peak turtle season is a good idea to secure a spot.
4. Karpaz Golden Beach
Karpaz Golden Beach, located on the unspoiled Karpas Peninsula, offers a peaceful retreat that prioritizes natural landscapes over commercial development. This 1.8-mile (3-km) stretch of untouched sand is known for its scenic charm and diverse wildlife.
Natural Setting and Wildlife
The beach is surrounded by white-sand dunes that extend about 1,640 feet inland. Divided into two sections by Adatepe Hill and a prominent sand dune, it provides a mix of experiences. As a protected national park and a key turtle-nesting site, visitors might spot wild donkeys along the shoreline or, during nesting season, endangered loggerhead and green turtles.
Getting There
Reaching Karpaz Golden Beach is straightforward:
| Transportation Method | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| By Car | 3–3.5 hours from Kyrenia | Follow the B-1 highway to Dipkarpaz. |
| Public Bus | Varies | Take a bus from Famagusta to Dipkarpaz, followed by a 1.2-mile walk. |
| Local Taxi | 15–20 minutes from Dipkarpaz | Costs about 5–10 Turkish Lira (~$0.50–$1 USD). |
Beach Activities and Facilities
Golden Beach remains largely undeveloped, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, wildlife spotting, and photography. If you’re visiting in September, you can contact the Society for the Protection of Turtles (SPOT) to witness baby turtles hatching.
Important Notes
To protect the area, facilities are limited to a few basic restaurants for refreshments. Camping is not allowed on the beach or in the surrounding protected zones. For a quieter visit, the western section is an unofficial naturist (nudist) area.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is during the summer months, from June to September, when conditions are perfect for swimming and turtle watching.
5. Acapulco Beach
Acapulco Beach offers a mix of sandy shores and plenty of modern conveniences, making it a great spot for water sports, dining, shopping, or just unwinding. The shoreline is easy to explore on foot and dotted with traditional palapas for shaded seating. Beachfront restaurants and local vendors serve up a variety of food, while the area also features opportunities for adventure, like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. Visitors can also browse local stalls selling jewelry and snacks, making it a well-rounded destination for both fun and relaxation.
Beach Amenities
| Amenity Type | Available Options |
|---|---|
| Water Activities | Jet ski rentals, parasailing, banana boat rides |
| Shade Structures | Traditional palapas with thatched roofs |
| Dining | Beachfront restaurants and food vendors |
| Shopping | Local vendors selling jewelry and food |
| Beach Access | Walkable shoreline |
Beach Guide Summary
Here’s a quick look at some of the top beaches nearby:
| Beach Name | Best For | Key Features | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long Beach (Iskele) | Families, Walkers | Palm-lined promenade, long stretches of golden sand, play areas | Children’s facilities, walking paths |
| Alagadi Turtle Beach | Nature Lovers, Conservation | Turtle nesting site, untouched sand | Fish restaurant, basic cafe, limited facilities |
| Acapulco Beach | Entertainment, Activities | 1 km of golden sand, water park | Restaurants, water sports, shopping options |
These beaches, just a short drive from Caesar Bay, offer a mix of experiences. Visitors can enjoy everything from well-developed areas with modern amenities to untouched natural spots. Whether you’re into water sports, relaxing by the sea, or exploring nature, Northern Cyprus has something for everyone. Nearby beach clubs and select hotels also provide additional perks for guests.
