Golden Beach on the Karpas Peninsula

This is one of the best beaches on the island. But like all gems, it is somewhat distant from the main tourist routes.

• Golden Beach in Northern Cyprus
• How to get to Golden Beach
• What to see nearby
• Frequently Asked Questions about the beach

Golden Beach in Northern Cyprus

Why is it golden? It's simple: it's several kilometers of sandy coastline with a distinctly golden hue. This is the main attraction that brings tourists not only from the northern part of Cyprus but also from the south.

It has attracted not only people but also turtles. The famous amphibians of the Caretta Caretta species have chosen this spot for laying eggs, so even though the beach looks wild, there are restrictions on certain activities that could harm the fauna. For example, building fires and camping are prohibited, although the latter rule is not always observed.

How to Get to Golden Beach

The beach is located on the southern part of the Karpas Peninsula — the "tail" on the map of Cyprus. The main road leading to the tip of the peninsula runs near the shore, so getting to the beach is not difficult.

It is impossible to get there by public transport, but rare minivans without a schedule may take you as far as Dipkarpaz, the main settlement of the peninsula.

By car, it's fairly easy, although it will take some time. The location of the beach is shown on the map below the text. From the road to the entrance to the area fenced off from wandering wild donkeys, you can get directly to the beach via several exits. They start at this point: 35.64526849236947, 34.53358465919279.

What to See Nearby

Monastery of Apostle Andrew

This monastery is the main attraction for pilgrims in the northern part of the island, with tourists coming in buses. What makes this place special — read in our article "Monastery of Apostle Andrew in Northern Cyprus".

Karpas Donkeys

The Karpas Peninsula is home to wild donkeys in Northern Cyprus. If you drive a little further from the beach along the road, you are guaranteed to see them. Don’t forget to buy some carrots, or the hoofed animals won’t let you pass — and this is no joke! We wrote about it in the article about Karpas donkeys.

The Northernmost and Easternmost Point of Cyprus

For fans of "most" locations, this is a landmark spot on the island — it marks both the northern and eastern extremes. Along the way, you’ll pass the previously mentioned Monastery of Apostle Andrew — it’s a sin not to stop by.

Afendrika Archaeological Zone

This attraction looks close on the map, but it’s actually located on the northern coast of the peninsula — you’ll have to return to Dipkarpaz and take a different road. However, why not stop by if you are in the area? What’s interesting there — read our review.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Beach

Do you need to pay to enter Golden Beach?

No, the beach is free. You’ll have to pay for some additional services, like renting sunbeds and umbrellas.

Is there infrastructure on the beach?

The beach remains wild, but in places where you can drive by car, some people rent out sunbeds and umbrellas, and sell water and snacks. There’s also a café in the center of the beach.

Where are the toilets and showers on Golden Beach?

There are no classic showers or toilets on the beach. The only place where you can find a restroom is the Hassan Turtle Beach Restaurant café in the center of the beach. If you head up to the road, you can use the services of the Big Sand beach complex, where there are showers, a café, and even hotel rooms.

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