THE BEACHES OF NORTH CYPRUS
The beautiful coastline of Northern Cyprus offers all types of beaches
from those with full amenities to completely isolated coves with total
privacy. Many of the beaches are within easy reach of towns. Some
of the most popular beaches (such as those belonging to a Hotel or
Restaurant) charge a small entry fee in the summer months, in return
for keeping the beach clean, having sun beds and sunshades and providing
a range of amenities. The coastline of Kyrenia is a series of small
coves and bays, some sandy and some pebbled. The longer sandy stretches
of beaches along the north eastern coast and the Karpaz are frequented
by endangered species of turtles called the ‘Green’ and
‘Loggerhead’. It is important to take extra care between
the months of June and October when they are nesting. Topless bathing
is not illegal but should be undertaken with discretion. Litter can
be a problem so please avoid leaving your litter behind.
AVERAGE MONTHLY SEA TEMPERATURES
JAN |
FEB |
MAR |
APR |
MAY |
JUN |
JUL |
AUG |
SEP |
OCT |
NOV |
DEC |
11.7 |
12.3 |
14.1 |
18.6 |
19.5 |
24.9 |
27.0 |
27.1 |
25.7 |
20.3 |
13.9 |
11.5 |
POPULAR BEACHES
West of Kyrenia:
Kervansaray: Small sandy
cove, facilities, 2 miles from town.
Escape Beach: Shallow
waters, full facilities, very smart, 5 miles from town. Good for
children.
Deniz Kizi: Sandy bay,
full facilities, steps to beach, 5 miles from town.
Mare Monte: Long walk
down to beach, children’s playground, facilities, 8 miles
from town.
LA Beach: Full facilities,
sandy beach, 11 miles from town.
East of Kyrenia:
Acapulco: Long clean
sandy beach with full facilities. 6 miles from town.
Vakiflar Spor Plaji:
Bay with rocks and sand, 7 miles from town. Basic facilities. (Old
Lara Beach) access road bad in places.
Alagadi ‘Turtle Bay’:
long stretch of sand, small beach bar & showers. 10 miles from
town.
Carry along this coast road
for some beautiful secluded bays, some marked with green signs and
white writing saying HALK PLAJI which means public beach.
Famagusta Region:
Glapsides: Long sandy beach, basic
facilities, shallow water, 3 miles from town.
Salamis: Just beside the Roman ruins,
long sandy beach, basic facilities, 8 miles from town.
Famagusta Town: The town beach is
just next to Palm Beach Hotel. Facilities.
Karpaz Region
The Karpaz is famous for it’s beautiful beaches. As you
drive through the region you will pass rocky coves with old
Roman Harbours and wonderful stretches of sand where the turtles
lay their eggs. Some beaches will have facilities and you will be
expected to pay for the use of them. Others you can spend a whole
day on without seeing another person. It’s a super area if
you like to explore. Please take care and do not take your vehicle
onto the beaches.
SEA URCHINS
Amongst the rock pools and along the rocky shoreline, sea urchins
are quite common so do be careful not to tread on them as their
sharp black needles can cause a very painful sting. If any part
of the needle remains in your body it should be removed immediately.
If you are in any doubt at all, or if the pain continues it is advisable
to see a Pharmacist or, in extreme cases, a Doctor.
BEACH SAFETY
Do not expect to find lifeguards or any form of a flag warning
system on our beaches. Never leave children unattended. Even strong
swimmers should not go into the water when it is windy or the sea
is rough. Swimmers should not get out of their depth and caution
should be taken with all inflatables.
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