Ayfilon Beach in Northern Cyprus
The name of Ayfilon Beach is connected to the nearby ancient church of Ayios Philon (Agios Philon) — an early Christian basilica on the Karpass Peninsula, not far from the ruins of the ancient city of Karpasia. The name “Philon” itself refers to Saint Philon of Karpasia — a bishop and religious figure of the early Byzantine period, venerated in this part of the island.
Over time, the name of the church gradually spread to the surrounding bay and then to the beach itself. That is why the modern name Ayfilon is considered a local pronunciation variant of Agios Philon — “Saint Philon”.
It is interesting that today this name is used by practically everyone — both locals and tourists. In fact, the beach has no separate Turkish or Greek version of the name: the place has long been known simply as Ayfilon.
The beach attracts visitors not only with its clear water and the peaceful atmosphere of Karpass. Nearby, the ruins of the ancient church of Ayios Philon and the remains of the old settlement of Karpasia have been preserved, thanks to which this part of the coast combines natural beauty and the historical heritage of Northern Cyprus.
Ayfilon Beach
Ayfilon Beach, located on the northern coast of the Karpass Peninsula, is one of Cyprus’s most untouched and magnificent recreation areas.
Since the road here is far from the main routes and can be difficult for some, it is very quiet and peaceful here at any time of year. This beach, which is not very well known among tourists, is preferred by locals who want to escape the tourist crowds and relax.
The beach itself is sandy, and there are also several rocky but very picturesque bays around it. The sea water is clear and azure, and thanks to the bay it is usually also calm and wave-free.
During the turtle nesting season, you can witness the miracle of baby turtles being born and making their way into the sea.
Beach infrastructure
Despite the beach’s remoteness and untouched nature, business has reached here too. But that is rather good news.
On the right side of the beach there is Ayfilon Beach - Bar, which, besides drinks and food, also offers sun loungers and umbrellas for 200 TL (current as of May 2026), as well as toilets and showers.
Location of Ayfilon Beach - Bar
Ayfilon Beach - Bar on Instagram
A little further beyond the bar there is another bay, on whose rocky shore a small Oasis Hotel has been built. According to tourists’ reviews, some people come here just for lunch with a beautiful view, but end up staying overnight. The hotel also offers kayak and SUP rental. And between the hotel and the main beach there is a small natural pool with very calm and clear water.
At the same time, most of the beach remains undeveloped and wild, so if you do not want to pay for sun loungers and umbrellas, you can settle a little farther from the bar area.
How to get to Ayfilon
You can get to Ayfilon Beach only by private car or taxi. At the same time, it is not certain that taxi drivers from Iskele will agree to drive here for a reasonable price, although it is only five kilometers from the center of Dipkarpaz. Here are taxi contacts in Northern Cyprus.
The best option is to rent a car. You can learn about car rental companies in Northern Cyprus in our section, or, if you are flying into Ercan Airport, use the search aggregator Localrent.
You can park near the Ayfilon Bar cafe-bar or near the Oasis Hotel.
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Frequently asked questions about Ayfilon Beach
How much does entry to the beach cost?
The beach is free, but if you decide to use the umbrellas and sun loungers provided by the cafe on the right side, you will have to pay.
Is there a shower at Ayfilon Beach?
Yes, but for an additional fee. It is located in the same Ayfilon Bar cafe.
What is there to see nearby?
Among the sights within walking distance is the old church of Ayfilon, which gave the beach its name. It is located next to the Oasis Hotel, literally on its premises.
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