Discover the best beaches near Famagusta, including Long Beach, Glapsides, and Salamis, for sun, sea, and relaxation in North Cyprus.
For the best beaches near [Famagusta (Gazimağusa)](/areas/famagusta), travellers should head to the eastern coastline, where Long Beach (İskele Long Beach) stands out as the premier choice, offering extensive golden sands and excellent facilities. Other notable options include Glapsides Beach for its family-friendly atmosphere and the quieter Salamis Beach, often enjoyed by those visiting the nearby ancient ruins.
Famagusta, a city rich in history with its impressive Venetian walls and [Famagusta Historical Sites: A Journey Through Time](/guides/famagusta-historical-sites-a-journey-through-time), serves as an ideal base for exploring the beautiful eastern coast of North Cyprus. While the city itself doesn't boast expansive sandy shores within its walls, a short drive opens up a world of pristine Mediterranean beaches perfect for relaxation, swimming, and water sports.
Undoubtedly the most popular and well-developed beach in the Famagusta region, Long Beach is located approximately 15-20 minutes' drive north of Famagusta, near the town of [İskele](/areas/iskele). As its name suggests, it stretches for several kilometres, offering ample space even during peak season. This beach is a true highlight for anyone seeking sun, sea, and sand in North Cyprus.
<b>Tip for Families:</b> The shallow entry at Long Beach makes it exceptionally safe for young children. Many beach clubs also have dedicated kids' play areas.
Long Beach is also a hub for new developments, including many of the [Hotels in Iskele, North Cyprus: Accommodation Guide](/guides/hotels-in-iskele-north-cyprus-accommodation-guide) and apartment complexes that cater to both tourists and long-term residents. This growth ensures a vibrant atmosphere, especially during the summer months. For those interested in the weather during peak season, our guide on [Cyprus Weather in June: Start of Summer](/guides/cyprus-weather-in-june-start-of-summer) provides useful insights.
Located just north of Famagusta, approximately a 10-minute drive from the city centre, Glapsides Beach is another excellent option. It's particularly popular with locals and students from the nearby Eastern Mediterranean University, giving it a lively, authentic vibe. The beach is well-organised and offers a good balance of amenities without being overly commercialised.
Glapsides is a great choice if you're looking for a beach that's easy to access from Famagusta and offers a friendly, community feel. It's an excellent spot to spend a relaxed day under the Mediterranean sun.
Further north from Glapsides, and adjacent to the impressive [Salamis Ancient Ruins: Visitor Guide](/guides/salamis-ancient-ruins-visitor-guide), lies Salamis Beach. This beach offers a unique combination of historical exploration and seaside relaxation. It's generally quieter than Long Beach or Glapsides, making it perfect for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
The beach here is a mix of sand and pebbles, with clear waters ideal for swimming. While facilities are more modest compared to the larger beaches, you'll usually find a small cafe or restaurant operating during the summer months, offering basic refreshments and snacks. Sun loungers are sometimes available, often provided by the adjacent Salamis Bay Conti Resort Hotel.
<b>Combine with History:</b> Plan your visit to Salamis Beach to include time exploring the incredible ancient city of Salamis. It's a fascinating archaeological site and a must-see in the region.
While not directly 'near' Famagusta in the immediate sense (it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive), no discussion of North Cyprus beaches would be complete without mentioning the [Karpaz Peninsula](/areas/karpaz). If you have a full day to dedicate, a trip to the Karpaz will reward you with some of the most pristine and undeveloped beaches in the entire Mediterranean, most notably Golden Beach.
Golden Beach, located towards the tip of the Karpaz, is renowned for its vast expanse of untouched golden sand dunes and turquoise waters. It's a protected area, famous for being a nesting ground for loggerhead and green turtles. Facilities are minimal – usually just a basic beach shack offering drinks and simple food during summer – so it's advisable to bring your own supplies.
<b>Getting There:</b> A car is essential for exploring the Karpaz Peninsula. The roads are generally good, but be prepared for longer driving times. Consider making it an overnight trip if you want to fully experience the area.
The journey to the Karpaz is an adventure in itself, passing through charming villages and offering glimpses of wild donkeys. It's a stark contrast to the more developed areas around Famagusta and [Kyrenia (Girne)](/areas/kyrenia), offering a truly authentic nature experience.
Whether you're looking for lively family fun, a serene escape, or a blend of history and relaxation, the beaches near Famagusta offer something for every preference. From the bustling shores of Long Beach to the untouched beauty of the Karpaz, your perfect seaside experience awaits.
For more on planning your North Cyprus adventure, explore our other comprehensive guides, including [KKTC Holidays: A Traveller's Guide](/guides/kktc-holidays-a-traveller-s-guide), [North Cyprus Visa Requirements for UK Citizens: Essential Info](/guides/north-cyprus-visa-requirements-for-uk-citizens-essential-info), and [Scuba Diving in North Cyprus: Underwater Adventures](/guides/scuba-diving-in-north-cyprus-underwater-adventures).
Long Beach (İskele Long Beach) is widely considered the best beach near Famagusta for families. Its extensive golden sands, shallow and calm waters, dedicated play areas, and numerous facilities make it exceptionally safe and enjoyable for children of all ages.
Long Beach is located approximately 15-20 minutes' drive north of Famagusta. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking, or by local dolmuş (shared taxi) services that run regularly between Famagusta and the İskele area.
Yes, most of the popular beaches like Long Beach and Glapsides Beach offer excellent facilities including sun loungers, umbrellas for rent (typically £5-£7), and a variety of beach bars and restaurants serving food and drinks. Salamis Beach has more modest facilities, often linked to the nearby resort.
While technically possible, visiting Golden Beach in the [Karpaz Peninsula](/areas/karpaz) from Famagusta as a day trip involves a significant amount of driving (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way). It's best suited for a full-day excursion or even an overnight stay to fully appreciate its untouched beauty and remote location.
The water quality at the beaches near Famagusta, particularly Long Beach, Glapsides, and Salamis, is generally excellent. The Mediterranean Sea here is known for its clear, clean, and calm turquoise waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling.