Agios Philon Beach
🏖️ Location & Setting
Situated about 2 km north of the town of Dipkarpaz on the northern coast of the Karpas Peninsula. It lies adjacent to the historic Ayios Philon Church, perched on low cliffs above the sea.
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🏛️Former ancient site
The area overlays the remnants of the ancient city of Karpasia, once a bustling Phoenician trade port. Visible today are parts of a Roman breakwater and harbor ruins.
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🏖️Beach qualities
Soft sand, interspersed with flat sea rocks and picturesque rocky coves. The sea is notably clear and usually calm, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
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🐢Wildlife
A key hatching ground for loggerhead sea turtles. During nesting season, visitors may spot hatchlings making their way to the sea.
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🌅Sunset spot
A favourite place to watch the sun dip below the horizon, commanding a peaceful and immersive experience.
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🏛️Historical & Cultural Highlights
Ayios Philon Church
A remarkable 10th-century Byzantine structure, built atop a 5th-century basilica. It features domed architecture, a three-part apse, ornate mosaics, a cistern, and a baptistery.
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😇Origins & dedication
Named after Saint Philon, the first bishop of Karpasia in the 4th century, ordained by Epiphanios of Salamis.
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🏛️ Historic context
The ancient city of Karpasia was destroyed in 802 AD by Arab raids. Surrounding archaeological remnants—including Phoenician and Roman vestiges—add depth to the area’s historical appeal.
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🧘🏻♀️Limited infrastructure
• The beach remains largely untouched—perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
• Small bar & café: On one end of the beach is the Ayfilon Turtle Nest Bar, offering food, drinks, sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and toilets (likely for a fee).
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🛏️Oasis at Ayios Philon
A charming hotel perched on the cliffs above the cove. It offers simple accommodations, a seafront restaurant, and water activities like snorkeling, with warm springs mixing into the sea. It’s a scenic spot for meals or overnight stays.
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🐾Private vs. wild
Toward one side lies the developed service area, while the rest of the beach remains free and wild—excellent for visitors who prefer solitude.
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🅿️ Parking
Spaces are available near both the Turtle Nest Bar and the Oasis Hotel.
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📞Contact Details & Location
• Beach Name: Agios Philon Beach (also known as Ayios Philon Beach)
• Nearest Village: Dipkarpaz (Rizokarpaso)
• Historical Site: Agios Philon Basilica (often signposted as "Antik Kilise" - Ancient Church)
• There is no direct phone number for the beach itself as it is a natural site.
• The beach café is your best point of contact on the ground if you need any local assistance.
Agios Philon (Ayfilon) Beach is a hidden gem that seamlessly weaves together natural beauty, historical echoes, and a peaceful retreat from the bustle. Whether you're drawn by the calm, the culture, or the chance to witness nature in motion, it's a special destination worth visiting.