Most people visit this amazing country solely to soak up the sun at the best beaches in Cyprus. It’s no surprise either, with crystal clear, turquoise waters and over 50 blue flag beaches, it’s truly paradisical.
I lived in Cyprus for around 4 months, and I loved exploring the different beaches across the island. There are so many to choose from, and each is beautiful and different in its own way.
Table of Contents
15 Best Beaches in Cyprus1. Fig Tree Bay, Protaras2. Malindi Beach, Limassol3. Coral Bay, Paphos4. Makenzie Beach, Larnaca5. Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa6. Kourion Beach, Limassol7. Aphrodite’s Beach, Paphos8. Konnos Bay Beach, Protaras9. Governor’s Beach, Limassol10. Antasia Beach, Paphos11. Lara Beach, Paphos12. Lady’s Mile Beach, Limassol13. Finikoudes Beach, Larnaca14. Makronissos Beach, Ayia Napa15. Blue Lagoon Beach, AkamasBeaches in Cyprus: FAQsIn Conclusion
You may be surprised to know that the best beaches around Cyprus vary. They differ from place to place; some are sandy, and some are pebbly. Some are a deep golden color while others are bright white. Below, I’ve listed my favorite Cyprus beaches to help you best plan your trip to the island.
15 Best Beaches in Cyprus
Read on to discover a list of the best beaches in Cyprus based on my experience. It includes rocky, pebbly, and sandy beaches, as well as private beaches in Cyprus. I’ve been to all of them and these are my favorites based on amenities, atmosphere, and cleanliness.
1. Fig Tree Bay, Protaras
Fig Tree Bay is one of the most famous beaches in Cyprus, and it’s easy to see why. Set in a sheltered bay on the east side of the island, Fig Tree Bay has incredible, fine sand, and calm, clear blue waters.
It’s a picture-perfect location and is absolutely one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus. It’s located near the popular tourist town of Protaras with Ayia Napa further along the coast.
On Fig Tree Bay itself, you’ll find beach bars and cafes located along the beach to keep you refreshed. You’ll find everything you need for a great day out, including loungers and water sports. You can even take a boat trip around the coast from the pier at the northern end of the beach.
In high season, (July and August), Fig Tree Bay is one of the busiest beaches in Cyprus and it becomes full of tourists and locals coming to sun themselves. You’ll need to arrive early to find a lounger or even a patch of sand to lay on. Outside the peak season, it’s much calmer and you’re much more likely to find a spot.
If you’re looking for the best beaches in Cyprus, Fig Tree Bay has to be on your list.
Location: ???? Fig Tree Bay, Protaras
How to Get There: Fig Tree Bay is within walking distance from the center of Protaras
Best For: Soft sand, kids, families, and groups of friends
Amenities: Restaurants, bathrooms, loungers, water sports, and lifeguards
Where to Stay Near Fig Tree Bay
Kokkinos Boutique Hotel: A stunning 4* hotel with a pool within meters of Fig Tree Bay and the town center.
Flamingo Paradise Beach Hotel: A luxury adults-only hotel with an outdoor pool and spa center located right on the beach at Fig Tree Bay.
Restaurants Near Fig Tree Bay
Folio: This fantastic restaurant serves high-quality food at affordable prices. It offers a mixture of Mediterranean food along with Sushi (which is a little random), but both are done well.
Yiasemi Meze and Grill: For something a little more low-key, grab a delicious souvlaki from Yiasemi. I also recommend the set menu – it’s amazing.
2. Malindi Beach, Limassol
Located at the northern end of Limassol, Malindi Beach is one of the best beaches in Cyprus in my opinion.
It’s located at St Raphael Marina, which splits the beach in two. As you approach the marina and the beaches, Malindi Beach is to the right and St Raphael Beach is to the left.
I prefer Malindi Beach as St Raphael beach serves the hotel with the same name meaning it’s often busier. Malindi Beach has a huge amount of space, lots of loungers, but also lots of sand for those who like to throw down a towel.
The sea at Malindi is super calm and very shallow. It’s around knee height for at least 50 meters out, so it’s a great place to come with kids or for those who love ball games in the sea (like me!).
Locals and tourists alike come to Malindi Beach Bar for the food, cocktails, and view in particular. It’s super popular and, as a result, a little expensive. A cheaper option is the cafe next to the beach bar, which is a local, down-to-earth beach shack that serves cold beers, snacks, and coffee.
Location: ???? Malindi Beach, Limassol
How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi from Limassol to St Raphael Marina
Best For: Calm waters, soft sand, lots of space, and the incredible Malindi Beach Bar
Amenities: Beach bar and restaurant, loungers, public toilets, and changing facilities
Where to Stay Near Malindi Beach
St Raphael Hotel: A superb luxury hotel located on St Raphael Beach, next to Malindi Beach, boasting two outdoor pools and alfresco dining over the Mediterranean.
Grand Resort Hotel: Located on a private beach, this hotel is situated to the west of Malindi Beach. Grand Resort is the ultimate place for luxury when staying in Limassol.
Restaurants Near Malindi beach
Malindi Beach Bar: This is the stylish sister bar of Colombia Beach Bar; think signature cocktails and Instagram-able mains.
Chester’s: On the main road, just across from the beach, is Chester’s, which serves delicious pub-inspired food. The pork chop is extremely tasty.
3. Coral Bay, Paphos
If you’re visiting the super popular city of Paphos then I definitely recommend either staying at or visiting, Coral Bay, just north of the city.
It’s one of the best beaches in Cyprus and one of my favorites on the western side of the island. It’s a blue flag beach packed full of amenities for the entire family. There’s a huge beach with lots of loungers for rent or space for towels if you prefer. The water is calm, still and incredibly clear.
There are plenty of restaurants and cafes on and near the beach to keep you refreshed during the day, and for the more adventurous, there are water sports and rentals available all day.
Coral Bay is a hugely popular spot, particularly with families, thanks to the number of villas and houses for rent in the area. There are also lots of good bars and restaurants in the area, so it’s a good alternative to the busier Paphos area.
Whether you’re staying here or just visiting, Coral Bay is one of the best public beaches in Cyprus and offers a great day out.
Location: ???? Coral Bay, Paphos
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Paphos, or take a public bus from the center of Paphos
Best For: Swimming, kids, and families
Amenities: Restaurants, water sports, loungers, public toilets, changing facilities, and lifeguards
Where to Stay Near Coral Bay
Coralli Villas: A lovely, leafy family villa with an outdoor pool just 150 meters from Coral Bay.
Villa Neyla: Beautiful 4-bed, beach-side villa with a pool, sun terrace, BBQ, and garden area. Perfect for a family getaway.
Restaurants Near Coral Bay
Seriani: This family-run restaurant is located on Coral Bay avenue and is perfect for a light lunch. I love their fresh Greek salad.
Coral Oasis Tavern: Brilliant for lunch or dinner, this cute little tavern serves delicious Greek Cypriot food.
4. Makenzie Beach, Larnaca
Makenzie Beach is located just south of the center of Larnaca and is a 1-kilometer stretch of beautiful golden sand. It faces beautiful blue waters which are really calm and ideal for swimming.
The beach itself is extensive and has plenty of loungers or open space if you want to bring your own beach set-up. There are plenty of amenities on the beach itself with restaurants, bars, and toilets available for public use.
The beach is beautiful and is a calm and relaxing place to retreat to just outside the city of Larnaca. Given the space on offer, it’s a great beach option for families with kids, or equally, for larger groups who want to chill with some drinks and music. There’s plenty of room on the beach to find your own spot.
If you’re staying in Larnaca and you want a break from the popular city beach of Finikoudes Beach, then head down the coast to Makenzie Beach. It’s my favorite Cyprus beach in this part of the island.
Location: ???? Makenzie Beach, Larnaca
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Larnaca or take the 425 bus from Larnaca center to Makenzie Beach
Best For: Families and groups, swimming and soft sand
Amenities: Loungers and umbrellas, restaurants, cafes, public toilets, and changing facilities
Where to Stay Near Makenzie Beach
Ciao Stelio Deluxe Hotel: A trendy and vibrant beachfront hotel with balcony views over the Mediterranean.
Majestic Sunset Apartments: A modern and well-equipped 2-bedroom apartment right on Makenzie Beach.
Restaurants Near Makenzie Beach
Ammos: Based right on the beach, this restaurant is one of my favorites in Cyprus. It offers fantastic drinks, amazing food, and a beautiful ambiance and atmosphere.
Lush Beach Bar: A fun beach bar with good food right on the beach. Great for any time of day; brunch, lunch, coffee, or cocktails.
5. Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa
Combine the incredible party town of Ayia Napa with arguably the best beach in Cyprus and find yourself at Nissi Beach.
Nissi Beach is an incredibly popular beach just along the coast from Ayia Napa. It has beautiful, fine sand and incredibly blue, turquoise waters. Its picture postcard looks are backed up by plenty of beach bars and restaurants overlooking the beach and it offers great food and drinks.
There are loungers all along the beach and water sports are available. You can also venture out to Nissi Island which is just off the coast and is accessible by a sandbar at low tide.
Nissi Beach is one of the best beaches around Cyprus and is hugely popular throughout the year. In peak season, head here early to be sure to grab a spot on the sand. It’s the perfect way to sleep off that hangover after a late night in Ayia Napa.
Location: ???? Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Ayia Napa or Protaras or take the 101 bus which stops in both places on the way to Nissi Beach
Best For: Beautiful sand, restaurants, entertainment, and water sports
Amenities: Restaurants, loungers and umbrellas, water sports, toilets, changing rooms, and lifeguards
Where to Stay Near Nissi Beach
Vassos Nissi Plage Hotel & Spa: Vassos Nissi is located just 2 minutes from Nissi Beach and 200 meters from WaterWorld. It boasts indoor and outdoor pools as well as a spa center, tennis courts, and evening entertainment.
Nissi Beach Resort: A beautiful 4* resort hotel with 3 outdoor pools and over 100,000 square meters of tropical gardens, together with its own private beach.
Restaurants Near Nissi Beach
Petra Snack Bar: A great spot overlooking the beach to grab a quick bite. Fresh salads and wraps, along with cold drinks, are available.
Nissi Bay Beach Bar: Grab a snack, a cocktail, and a beer from Nissi Beach Bar. They also throw a hell of a party if you like a more lively environment.
6. Kourion Beach, Limassol
If you want to combine ancient history with a day at the beach, then head to Kourion Beach which is nestled below the incredible Kourion Archaeological Site.
Kourion Beach is tucked into a cove below the Archaeological Site and is an incredible beach for swimming in Cyprus. It’s a long beach with plenty of sand and lots of loungers. The sea is calm and beautifully clear. It has a little wave which is fun for kids (and adults) to play in, but still safe for swimming.
Kourion is a blue flag beach, so you can expect an immaculate beach that’s safe for kids and groups. There’s a lifeguard on duty throughout summer, and there are bars and restaurants on the beach to keep you going throughout the day.
Location: ???? Kourion Beach, Episkopi, Limassol
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Limassol or take the 18 bus from My Mall in Limassol
Best For: Families, calm waters, and escaping the crowds
Amenities: Restaurants, lifeguards, public toilets, and loungers
Where to Stay Near Kourion Beach
Episkopi Villa: A luxury, stone 4-bedroom villa with a private pool and balcony views over Kourion Beach.
The Courtyard Guesthouse: A stunning, traditional holiday home located in Episkopi near Kourion Beach. This stone villa offers 2 bedrooms as well as a private garden and terrace area.
Restaurants Near Kourion Beach
Kourion Beach Restaurant: Located right on the beach, Kourion Beach Restaurant offers excellent seafood and fresh salads.
Chris Blue Beach: Highly rated swordfish is available at Chris’s which is also perfectly situated on the beach.
7. Aphrodite’s Beach, Paphos
Aphrodite’s Beach is home to one of the most famous landmarks in Cyprus. The Rock of Aphrodite is believed to be the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite – the goddess of love and beauty.
Legend has it that if you swim around this sea stack 3 times, then you’ll be granted everlasting beauty. Although you need to be careful in your quest because the waters are pretty choppy around the rock.
Despite its name, Aphrodite’s Beach isn’t the most beautiful beach in Cyprus as it’s mainly pebbly. However, it’s definitely a relaxing place to dry off and catch some sun after your attempts at eternal beauty.
Aphrodite’s Beach is easily accessible from Paphos or Limassol as it lies between the two cities. There’s a restaurant, cafe, and public toilet behind the beach, as well as a public car park. Just up the road is Aphrodite Hills, an incredible golf resort that’s well worth a visit for the views alone.
If you’re looking to tick off one of the best things to do in Paphos while also taking in some beach time, then venture to Aphrodite’s Beach for a great day trip.
Location: ???? Aphrodite’s Beach, Paphos
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Paphos or take local bus 631 from Paphos
Best For: Swimming
Amenities: Restaurant, cafe, public toilet, and car park
Where to Stay Near Aphrodite’s Beach
Aphrodite Hills Resort: A stunning private villa with a pool nestled in the beautiful Aphrodite Hills Resort offering a championship standard golf course, tennis, spa, gym, and various cafes and restaurants.
Villa Pontus: A quiet and secluded villa with a private pool, terrace, and BBQ area surrounded by the beautiful Aphrodite Hills.
Restaurants Near Aphrodite’s Beach
Eleonas Restaurant: A laid-back, buffet-style restaurant located in nearby Aphrodite Hills.
Pithari Tavern: A traditional, Cypriot restaurant located in Aphrodite Hills. You pay a little more for the location, but the views are incredible and the portions are generous.
8. Konnos Bay Beach, Protaras
This beautiful bay is between Ayia Napa and Protaras, just north of Cavo Greko National Park. It’s one of the best beaches in Cyprus thanks to its steep hills surrounding the bay, making it very calm and picturesque. It’s around 200 meters of fine, golden sand and azure waters.
Konnos Bay is a very busy beach in the summer with plenty of activities to take part in. Head out to sea on a pedal boat, enjoy some water sports, or simply rent a sun lounger and chill out.
It’s a great choice for families as although it’s a very calm and shallow beach, during the summer months, there are lifeguards on duty. Umbrellas and sunbeds are available to rent, but make sure you arrive early to secure these. It’s not a huge beach, so these are limited.
Location: ????Konnos Beach, Protaras
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Ayia Napa or Protaras, or take Larnaca or take the 102 bus from Ayia Napa Waterpark or Protaras (the 703, 706, 708, 303, and 304 buses also go to Konnos from Protaras too.)
Best For: Shallow waters, day trips, and families
Amenities: Restaurants, water sports, loungers, and public toilets
Where to Stay Near Konnos Beach
Grecian Park Hotel: An incredible 5* resort just 200 meters from Konnos Beach that offers 2 restaurants, 2 pools, a spa, and tennis courts.
Konnos Bay Gardens: A value hotel located 500 meters from Konnos Beach that, as the name suggests, boasts beautiful tropical gardens for guests to explore and relax in.
Restaurants Near Konnos Beach
UMI Japanese & Sushi Restaurant: Exceptional sushi and excellent service in a wonderful setting. A truly great restaurant.
Spartiatis Restaurant: A lovely, local restaurant with amazing views over the coast. For seafood lovers, I highly recommend the fish meze.
9. Governor’s Beach, Limassol
Governor’s Beach is located between Limassol and Larnaca. The beach is separated by three different bays, each with a thin strip of golden sand, and is ideal for kids because the water is very shallow. For a more fun, cosmopolitan vibe, I recommend you visit Kalymnos Beach.
During the British occupation of Cyprus, it’s said that a former British governor spent a lot of time at this beach, which is how the name came about. It’s no wonder, it’s a truly spectacular place.
The beaches are surrounded by bright white rocks which, with the help of the sun, make the water appear glittery and crystal-like. They’re a great place to snorkel and swim around and you’ll often find fishermen perched on them.
Location: ????Governor’s Beach, Limassol
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Larnaca or Limassol, or take the 95A bus from Limassol
Best For: Swimming, beautiful scenery, and snorkeling
Amenities: Restaurants, sun loungers, umbrellas, and toilets in the restaurants
Where to Stay Near Governor’s Beach
Governor’s Beach Apartments: With views over Governor’s Beach, these spacious and modern apartments offer furnished terraces or patios. Perfect for a late evening glass of wine.
ArtbyPraXis: Spacious, self-catered accommodation with modern and zen-like decor in a quiet and relaxed location close to Governor’s Beach.
Restaurants Near Governor’s Beach
Sofronis Beach Tavern: an excellent, family-run tavern serving incredible seafood with fantastic views over the sea.
Kalymnos Fish Tavern: Go for a fish lunch here and enjoy a fantastic view over the Mediterranean.
10. Antasia Beach, Paphos
Antasia Beach is one of the best private beaches in Cyprus. It’s next to Vrissoudia II Beach, which I’d also recommend visiting, but it’s busy and the sand is narrow.
The beach at Antasia Beach Club is powdery and golden, which is a rare find in Paphos. There’s a bar area at the top, which is a fantastic place to enjoy a drink and watch the sunset from. They offer deals where you can get a lounger, umbrella, and service; meaning you can order food and drink all day long and not have to move a muscle.
The restaurant also serves excellent food in a very romantic setting. I love it there, it’s one of my favorite places in Paphos and it’s a great choice for couples. If you go, make sure you order sushi, it’s delicious.
Location: ????Antasia Beach, Paphos
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Paphos or take the 615 bus if you’re staying further north in Paphos (Coral Bay)
Best For: Sandy beach in Paphos, amazing food, and ambiance
Amenities: Beach bar and restaurant, loungers, water sports, public toilets, and Paphos center on your doorstep
Where to Stay Near Antasia Beach
Alexander the Great Beach Hotel: A beachfront hotel in the heart of Paphos just minutes from Antasia Beach.
Poseidon Limnaria Apartment: A spacious and thoughtfully decorated 2-bedroom apartment located in the center of Paphos. An excellent base to explore Paphos and Antasia Beach.
Restaurants Near Antasia Beach
Antasia Beach Bar and Restaurant: Located right on the beach, this stylish beach bar serves some fantastic Thai food and sushi fusion dishes. A superb spot for sunset.
Naamaste: Possibly my favorite restaurant in Paphos, Naamaste serves amazing Indian street food. Attentive and friendly service and delicious dishes.
11. Lara Beach, Paphos
Lara Beach is one of the best beaches in Cyprus if you’re after a totally unspoiled, natural, and wild beach. It’s a protected birthing place for Green Turtles on the island. If you visit in August or September, you may be lucky enough to see baby turtles being born and scuttling out to sea.
It’s a golden sand beach with beautiful blue water. There aren’t any sun loungers here, and it’s a bit difficult to reach as it requires a 20-minute drive on an unmade road, so I wouldn’t recommend taking a brand-new hire car. Many visitors hire quad bikes, which is a good option.
In terms of beauty, it may not be the best you’ll find in Cyprus, but for unspoiled nature, avoiding crowds, and an opportunity to witness turtle conservation, it’s certainly one of the best beaches in Cyprus.
Location: ????Lara Beach, Paphos
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Paphos
Best For: Soft sand, wildlife, and uncrowded beach time
Amenities: None
Where to Stay Near Lara Beach
Olive Beach Villa: Located right next to Akamas National Park, this beautiful villa has a year-round outdoor pool and a stunning outdoor, stone terrace. It offers peace and tranquility, not far from Lara Beach and the popular area of Peyia.
Cap St George Hotel & Resort: A modern, 5* resort hotel complete with a pool, spa, fitness center, and gardens. Family and kid-friendly with beautiful rooms close to Akamas National Park and Lara Beach.
Restaurants Near Lara Beach
Lara Cafe: A great place for a coffee or lunch after a trip to Lara Beach.
Viklari: A beautifully traditional Cypriot restaurant with views over the coast. Grilled meats, fresh salads, and Cypriot delicacies are excellent here. A great stop on the way to or from Lara Beach.
12. Lady’s Mile Beach, Limassol
Lady’s Mile is a 5-kilometer stretch of pebbles and sand in Limassol. It’s located in the far west of the city and is accessible by car, but beware, the road leading up to it’s currently unmade (although there are future plans to resurface this).
The beach consists of five different ‘stations’ which feature different clubs, bars, and restaurants, so there’s something for everyone. I recommend Colombia Sun which has comfortable loungers, showers, toilets, and incredible food. It definitely has a more beach bar vibe.
The beach is wide and sandy, with stretches of pebbles in between, and the water is very shallow and clear for some distance out. It’s very popular for families with small children for this reason. You can see the entire Limassol coast from the beach which is pretty cool.
It’s a really lovely beach, and one of the best beaches in Cyprus, particularly Limassol.
Location: ????Lady’s Mile, Limassol
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Limassol
Best For: Soft sand, shallow water, and fun bars
Amenities: Restaurants, bars, changing facilities, showers and toilets in the beach bars, and car parking
Where to Stay Near Lady’s Mile Beach
Old Port Hotel: A stylish and upmarket hotel just across from Limassol Castle and close to the Old Port and New Marina. A beautiful and luxurious spot to explore this amazing city.
Lemongrass Hostel: A unique and beautifully presented hostel in the heart of Limassol Old Town only a short drive from Lady’s Mile. A good budget option to stay in trendy Limassol.
Restaurants Near Lady’s Mile Beach
Colombia Sun: A beautiful, upscale beach bar and restaurant serving incredible food and cocktails.
Aplostra: An excellent place to grab a bite and relax. I really like it here, the food is affordable, but they serve big portions. There’s a really fun vibe and it’s great for groups of friends.
13. Finikoudes Beach, Larnaca
One of the best beaches in Cyprus is Finikoudes Beach in Larnaca. Even though it’s a city beach, this long stretch of dark golden sand is lovely, and the sea is warm and beautifully clear. For a city beach, it’s a great option, particularly given the standard of amenities.
The promenade is lined with palm trees, and there are lots of bars and restaurants to escape from the heat. This is one of the most popular beaches in Larnaca, so during the summer months it can get very busy, and you’ll struggle to find a free lounger unless you arrive early.
It’s not the best beach for swimming in Cyprus as it’s shallow; you have to go out quite far out into the water if you wish to backstroke! Fantastic fun for families and for playing beach games in the water.
Location: ????Finikoudes Beach, Larnaca
How to Get There: Walk to the beach from Larnaca
Best For: Restaurants and bars, families, and groups
Amenities: Restaurants, loungers, public toilets, and changing facilities
Where to Stay Near Finikoudes Beach
Aphrodite Plaza: Beautiful and modern apartments with views over Finikoudes Beach and excellent facilities. A perfectly located base to explore Larnaca.
The Josephine Boutique Hotel: A modern and vibrant hotel located in the heart of Larnaca mere meters from the beach. The Josephine also boasts a seasonal pool and incredible views over the coast.
Restaurants Near Finikoudes Beach
Edem’s Yard: Just across from the beach down a side street is this incredible restaurant. Go for brunch before you hit the beach.
Ithaki Garden’s Restaurant: A beautiful restaurant serving Greek food in the most wonderful setting amongst plants and trees.
14. Makronissos Beach, Ayia Napa
Makronissos Beach is definitely one of the best beaches in Cyprus, just down the coast from Nissi Beach and around 5 km from the center of Ayia Napa.
It’s so beautiful, and the color of the water and sand can be compared to that in the Caribbean. As it’s a little further from town, it can be less busy, but you should still arrive before 10 am to secure a lounger and umbrella.
As the beach is more remote, there are fewer amenities, but there’s a kiosk to buy ice cream, snacks, and drinks from. It’s a little on the expensive side, but for a day out, it’s quite a special place. It’s definitely in the running for the most beautiful beach in Cyprus.
Location: ????Example Beach, Limassol
How to Get There: Drive or taxi, hire an ATV or take the 101 bus all from Ayia Napa
Best For: Crystal clear water, groups, and escaping the summer crowds
Amenities: Cafe, changing facilities, public toilets, loungers, and umbrellas
Where to Stay Near Makronissos Beach
Asterias Beach Hotel: This modern and upmarket hotel is located right on Makronissos Beach. It’s complete with a pool, gardens, and fitness and spa facilities.
Makronissos Village: This beautiful hotel resort is set 500 meters from Makronissos Beach and is surrounded by tropical gardens. It has an outdoor pool as well as a bar and restaurant for food and drinks all day.
Restaurants Near Makronissos Beach
Asador Restaurant: Super friendly staff serving perfectly cooked steaks and great cocktails. Perfect after a day in the sun.
Dione Restaurant: A popular, family-friendly restaurant located close to Makronissos Beach, that serves excellent grilled meats and generous portions.
15. Blue Lagoon Beach, Akamas
This one isn’t much of a beach as such, although there’s a very small slither of white sand here. Visit for the incredibly bright turquoise waters and can spend hours leisurely splashing around and enjoying the sun from the water.
You’re more likely to come here via a boat tour or stop off via a tour of Akamas National Park. You should definitely feature a trip here on your list of things to do in Cyprus – it really is spectacular.
There aren’t many amenities around as you’re right in the middle of a national park, but just outside are little kiosks to buy water and restaurants as you approach the town of Latchi. For the water alone, Blue Lagoon definitely is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus.
Location: ????Blue Lagoon, Paphos
How to Get There: Drive or taxi from Paphos or arrange a tour from Paphos
Best For: Swimming and wild beaches
Amenities: None
Where to Stay Near Blue Lagoon Beach
La Estancia: A beautifully traditional stone villa with incredibly authentic touches and a modern twist. This 3-bed villa has a superb pool and terrace area, and the inside is light, spacious, and sympathetically furnished.
Aphrodite Eco Camping: For something a little different and to be as close to Akamas National Park as possible, check out this excellent camping option. From teepees to shepherd’s huts, this is Cypriot glamping, with a restaurant and bar on-site and even WiFi available.
Restaurants Near Blue Lagoon Beach
Bath of Aphrodite Restaurant: Located right at the entrance to Akamas National Park, this family-run restaurant serves excellent seafood alongside stunning sea views.
Yiannis Sandwich Place: An unlikely spot that serves highly-rated Cypriot gyros and kebabs. The perfect stop on the way back from Akamas National Park for a carb refuel and an ice-cold Keo (a Cypriot larger beer).
Beaches in Cyprus: FAQs
The best beach in Cyprus is probably Fig Tree Bay. The sand is white, the water is bright blue, and there are lots of restaurants, bars, and cafes lining the sand. It’s easy to spend the whole day relaxing here.
Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa is probably the best beach in Cyprus if you’re looking to party. If you’re in Limassol, Lady’s Mile is also a fantastic option as there are a lot of fun beach bars with music there.
There are so many great beaches around Cyprus which are fantastic for families thanks to the shallow waters. These include Finikoudes Beach in Larnaca, Lady’s Mile Beach in Limassol, and Makronissos Beach in Ayia Napa.
For couples, I’d recommend Antasia Beach in Paphos, or Colombia Sun in Limassol. Both offer romantic settings and are fantastic places to enjoy a few drinks and have a nice meal.
Lara Beach is without a doubt the best off-the-beaten-track beach in Cyprus. It’s wild, and has few amenities, but is beautiful in terms of nature and wildlife.
Fig Tree Bay is the most popular and is one of the best beaches in Cyprus close to Protaras.
The best time to enjoy the best beaches in Cyprus is between April – June and between September – October. July and August are also fantastic, and the weather will be perfect, but you should be prepared for crowds.
Ayia Napa and Protaras are home to the best beaches in Cyprus.
Nissi Beach, Makronissos, Konnos, or Fig Tree Bay have the clearest water in Cyprus.
Yes, the beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras are all white sand or a very light, golden color.
I’d say Nissi Beach has the whitest sand in Cyprus.
The Blue Lagoon Beach in Akamas has incredibly blue water. But if you’re looking for a beach to spend the day in, Makronissos has beautiful water too.
Yes, the sea in Cyprus is generally very calm. In Ayia Napa particularly, the wind picks up in the afternoon and this can bring waves, but it’s still safe. The only place to be cautious if you’re not confident in the water is by Aphrodite Rock, where the water is choppy and the current can be strong.
All the beaches in Cyprus are very safe. As with anywhere, you should be careful with leaving your things unattended, but generally, Cyprus is a very safe country.
Yes, but sightings are super rare because the sharks stay in deeper waters and the beaches in Cyprus are very shallow.
If you’re looking for a sandy beach in Cyprus, head to the east, to Ayia Napa or Protaras. These places are home to the best sandy beaches on the island. Limassol and Larnaca also have sandy beaches, but they’re a dark golden color.
In Conclusion
These are just a few of the best beaches in Cyprus. I have no doubt that you’ll find more than those listed above, as the island has an absolutely stunning coastline.
Whether you want sand or pebbles, private or public, or swim and snorkel, there are beautiful beaches at every turn for you to explore and enjoy. I hope this helps you plan your trip, and that you have the best time relaxing on the beaches of Cyprus!