How do I get to Alagadi Turtle Beach?

Alagadi Beach is located about 20 kilometers east of Kyrenia (Girne) in Northern Cyprus. From Kyrenia, drive east along the coastal road through Catalkoy village; the beach is well-signposted. The journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes by car. Parking is available near the beach. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car or taking a taxi is recommended. Some tour operators offer turtle-watching excursions that include transportation. The beach is accessible via a short walk from the parking area.

Are there food and accommodation options near Alagadi Turtle Beach?

Alagadi Beach has minimal facilities to preserve its natural character. There's a small beach bar offering basic refreshments and snacks during peak season, but options are limited. For full meals, head to nearby Catalkoy or Esentepe villages, about 5-10 minutes away, where you'll find restaurants and cafes. Accommodation is available in surrounding villages and Kyrenia, ranging from budget guesthouses to resort hotels. Consider bringing your own food and drinks, especially if visiting during off-peak times.

Can I see turtles nesting at Alagadi Beach?

Alagadi is one of Northern Cyprus's most important turtle nesting sites for loggerhead and green turtles. Nesting occurs from May to October, with hatchings from July to November. The Society for Protection of Turtles (SPOT) monitors the beach nightly and occasionally offers supervised turtle-watching tours where you can observe nesting from a respectful distance. Never approach turtles independently or use flashlights, as this disturbs them. Morning visits may reveal turtle tracks in the sand, evidence of overnight nesting activity.

Catalkoy · Girne · Cyprus

Alagadi Turtle Beach

Discover Alagadi Turtle Beach, a breathtaking expanse of soft, golden sand in Northern Cyprus, renowned as a crucial nesting ground for loggerhead and green sea turtles. Here, the Mediterranean's gentle waves lap against a shoreline dedicated to nature's most ancient rhythms.

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Catalkoy·Girne·Cyprus

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About this beach

Alagadi Turtle Beach, often referred to as 'Turtle Beach,' is a jewel on Northern Cyprus's north coast, celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and profound ecological significance. This expansive stretch of fine, golden sand is not just a picturesque spot for sunbathers; it's a vital nesting site for endangered loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green (Che…

Where it is

Alagadi Turtle Beach

Catalkoy, Girne, Cyprus

35.3328°, 33.4966°

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Top things to do

At Alagadi Turtle Beach

Swim

Clear, gentle waters

Sunbathe

Expansive sandy shores

Turtle Watching

Nesting & hatching (seasonal)

Coastal Walk

Explore the natural beauty

Near this beach

Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Alagadi Turtle Beach.

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Good to know

Questions people actually ask about Alagadi Turtle Beach.

Is it safe to swim at Alagadi Turtle Beach?

Swimming at Alagadi is generally safe during calm weather, with gently sloping sandy shores ideal for families. However, be aware that certain areas may be cordoned off during turtle nesting season (May-October) to protect endangered loggerhead and green turtles. There are no lifeguards on duty, so supervise children carefully. The beach is relatively sheltered, but check local conditions before entering the water. Avoid swimming at night during nesting season, as this is when turtles come ashore.

When is the best time to visit Alagadi Turtle Beach?

The best weather occurs from May to October, with warm temperatures and calm seas perfect for swimming. However, this coincides with turtle nesting season, so expect some beach restrictions and evening access limitations. For fewer crowds, visit in May, June, or September. Early mornings offer the best chance of witnessing turtle tracks or nesting activity. Winter months (November-March) are quieter but cooler with occasional rough seas. Sunset visits are particularly scenic year-round.