textile-less freedom on Aphrodite's island
Salamis Beach
next to ancient ruins
Salamis beach is just behind the excavation site of the ancient city of Salamis, which was once the capital of the island.
It is thanks to the ancient ruins that this stretch of the beach is still undeveloped. It is said that actually much of the ancient city is still buried in the sand and also in the sea; so you might well be swimming over undiscovered treasuries. Tourist busses unload at the front part of the excavation area, but those tourists do not venture to walk anywhere further.
This is more a place for during the week and low season. On weekends, and particularly high season, locals and expat textilos tend to populate the area; extending over from the restaurant beach . In high season/August, as it's hot enough, you might instead come in the evening; the water is so clear that you see the ground at moonlight.
There may be some fishermen occasionally, but they don't bother; they are relaxed. Just have a towel ready to cover in case of occasional beach strollers may pass by. Salamis beach has also been known as gay cruising area; however this shouldn't prevent anybody from going there; we have met only respectful and nice people.
How to get to Salamis Beach
From the highway between Famagusta and Iskele, follow the signs to “Salamis ruins” to reach the side street that goes to the sea. Don't go all the way into the excavation area itself (which is for pay) but park earlier at the the parking space park at “Bedi's” restaurant. Walk down to Bedi's beach, turn right (south) and walk on the beach a few hundred meters towards the right side. If it is crowded, you may find some more quiet spots in the next bay.
An alternative way to reach the place is to drive to “Silver Beach” and then walk towards your left (northwards). To reach the sidestreet to the Silver Beach, however, there is only an highway exit from the Iskele direction. If you come from Famagusta you have to drive to the next roundabout, turn and drive a few hundred meters back.