Vokolida (Bafra): North Cyprus’s Hidden Coastal Gem
Nestled on the northeastern tip of Cyprus’s Karpas Peninsula, Vokolida—also known as Bafra—is a tranquil seaside village that feels worlds away from the busy resort towns. With its long sandy beaches, calm turquoise waters, and olive groves tucked into gentle hills, Vokolida offers authentic Mediterranean beauty without the crowds.
Over the past decade, the area has quietly transformed into a premium holiday destination. Luxury resorts and boutique stays now sit alongside traditional homes and untouched countryside, giving the region a relaxed yet refined character.
The Coastline: Beaches and Seclusion
Vokolida’s signature asset is its coastline.
Mehmetcik (Bafra) Beach stretches for over a kilometer of golden sand lapped by calm, shallow waters—ideal for families, swimmers, and first-time snorkelers. The gentle gradient makes it easy to enter the sea, and several resorts offer beachside sunbeds along the shore.
Just a short walk down, hidden coves and quieter beaches await. One particularly serene cove framed by low cliffs offers snorkeling with vibrant reef patches and shelter from afternoon breezes. With few crowds, these spots feel like private retreats under the open sky.
Resorts and Places to Stay
Vokolida has become a refined getaway thanks to a growing number of upscale and mid‑range accommodations.
Thalassa Beach Resort & Spa is among the most popular properties. Guests appreciate its spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens, supervised indoor and outdoor pools (including a rooftop pool), and direct private beach access. The resort’s spa and fitness centre provide extra layers of comfort and relaxation.
Concorde Luxury Resort & Casino spreads opulent facilities across 125 acres. Multiple à-la-carte restaurants, a private beach, tennis courts, and a full spa complement elegant rooms and suites, making it a perfect choice for couples and families.
Limak Cyprus Deluxe Hotel goes one step further with ultra all-inclusive offerings. The hotel’s modern design, multiple dining venues, water slides, wellness facilities, and attentive service feel more like a five-star experience in a secluded coastal setting.
For travellers seeking a homely feel, several smaller apartment-style beachfront properties—such as Smart Apartment with Terrace and Relaxing Penthouse by the Sea—offer well‑appointed stays close to the water for surprisingly modest nightly rates.
What to Do in and Around Vokolida
1. Beach Days and Water Play
Spend your mornings lounging by the sea or taking a breather on a sunbed. For a change of pace, book a day trip to a nearby island for snorkeling or sailing.
2. Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Rent equipment at your resort or a local vendor and glide across calm bays, exploring hidden inlets and quiet coastal inlets.
3. Hiking and Olive Grove Walks
Beyond the beaches, the countryside reveals olive groves, wildflowers, and quiet trails. Wander through gentle hills or climb a nearby rise for panoramic views of the peninsula.
4. Culture Nearby – Salamis & Saint Barnabas
The ancient ruins of Salamis lie just north of Vokolida. Wander through the remains of baths, a forum, and a theatre surrounded by pine trees. On the way back, explore the Saint Barnabas Monastery in Apostolos Andreas, a spiritual site set against rugged Mediterranean landscapes.
5. Local Food and Markets
In Vokolida village itself, small bakeries, cafés, and local merchants offer fresh produce, olives, honey, and halloumi. Don’t miss the chance to sit under a shade tree with a hearty mezze plate by the sea.
A Sample 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive and unwind—settle into your beachfront resort, swim, and walk the sands.
Day 2: Snorkel in coves, paddleboard in the morning, and soak in the resort spa in the evening.
Day 3: Explore Salamis and Saint Barnabas, followed by an alfresco fish dinner seaside.
Day 4: Book a kayaking or sailing excursion, then watch the sunset over calm water.
Day 5: Hike through olive groves before enjoying a relaxed meal in the village, savouring the simplicity and fresh flavours.
Season & Travel Tips
The area enjoys Mediterranean weather, warm and sunny from April through October, with coastal breezes softening the midday heat. Even in autumn, the sea remains warm, and skies stay clear—perfect for beach and activity days alike.
Vokolida is best reached by car or resort shuttle. The closest airports are Ercan (under 1 hour away) and Larnaca (approximately 2 hours). Renting a car is recommended for flexibility and for visiting cultural sites beyond the resort zone.
Why Vokolida Stands Out
This charming coastal village blends natural serenity with modern luxuries in a way that few Mediterranean destinations do. No massive crowds, no overbuilt beachfronts—just clear sea, unspoiled sand, and high-end amenities tucked within an authentic village. Whether you're here to relax or explore, Vokolida feels like discovering a secret slice of paradise that will linger in your heart long after vacation ends.
