Cyprus is known for its warm sea and stunningly beautiful coastline, attracting tourists from all over the world. The island’s shoreline is dotted with beaches, each with its own unique features, offering something for every traveler. Whether you enjoy quietly lounging on the sand or prefer lively, active vacations with parties, Cyprus has the perfect beach for you. All beaches in Cyprus are public, meaning they are free to access. You can sunbathe on any of them, only needing to spend money on renting a sunbed or buying drinks.
For a family vacation, the beaches of Protaras are the best option. They have shallow shores and soft sandy beaches. Partygoers will love Ayia Napa, where the parties run from morning to night, with loud bars and clubs. Larnaca offers the most budget-friendly prices, with quiet, warm waters and gentle slopes. Limassol is considered the most tourist-friendly city, but its beaches are not as picturesque as those in Larnaca, for example.
Here’s a closer look at the beaches in each city.
Paphos beaches
The most famous beach here is Coral Bay, with its crystal-blue bay and golden sand. It’s incredibly picturesque and exudes a romantic atmosphere! Lara Beach is a unique spot that is a nature reserve. Rare green and hawksbill turtles lay their eggs here. Imagine being able to witness this natural wonder and see baby turtles hatch!
On the southwestern Cypriot coast, near the town of Geroskipou, there is a small and cozy beach (only 350 meters long), perfect for quiet and leisurely relaxation away from the noise of highways and tourist crowds. The Latchi Beach, once a small fishing village, combines well-developed tourist infrastructure with the unique charm of the Cypriot countryside.
Ayia Napa beaches
Although Ayia Napa is known as the noisiest and most party-centric resort in Cyprus, there are several quiet and cozy beaches here. Not far from the city, on the western coast of Cape Greco, lies the stunning sandy Kermia Beach—a place of tranquility, seclusion, and serenity. Landa Beach is also ideal for those who love peace and quiet, offering all the amenities for a family vacation: no crowds, a shallow and gentle shore.
Makronissos Beach is considered the most comfortable, beautiful, and serene in Ayia Napa. It’s a true paradise for those who love to relax by the sea! Pernera Beach exudes an atmosphere of calm and comfort, nestled in a bay surrounded by cliffs, protecting it from winds and large waves. Sandy Bay Beach also offers calm, clear waters and a gentle shore, making it very convenient for family vacations. Additionally, it’s located close to the city, easily accessible by foot or bike.
Limassol beaches
Be sure to visit Governor’s Beach, a stunning spot surrounded by white limestone cliffs and dark volcanic sand, framing a breathtaking seascape like an exquisite picture. On the Akrotiri Peninsula, located west of Limassol, is Ladies Mile. This beach is the longest on the island and has its unique ecosystem. It offers various sections, from “wild” to comfortable, with both pebbly and sandy stretches.
The most popular Limassol beach is Dasoudi, located on the eastern coast, where most of the hotels are situated, stretching over 1 kilometer. One of its attractions is a picturesque eucalyptus grove. If you want to experience the charm and atmosphere of non-touristy Cyprus, head to Pissouri Beach. Nearby is a charming village with narrow streets and rolling hills.
Protaras beaches
The most popular beach in this resort is Fig Tree Bay, offering a clean shore and all the amenities needed for a family vacation. For those who prefer peace and solitude, Konnos Bay Beach is the best choice. It’s a comfortable spot with well-developed infrastructure but without a large influx of tourists. The cleanest beach is Louma, awarded the Blue Flag and considered one of the safest and most comfortable on the resort.
For those who prefer elite seaside relaxation, Sunrise Beach is a must-visit. It boasts the best coastline on the resort and is home to the famous four-star Sunrise Beach Hotel. You’ll find plenty of entertainment and family-friendly amenities on Flamingo, the central beach of Protaras.
Larnaca beaches
The top beach in Larnaca is Finikoudes, located between the old and new ports. Its shore is covered with clean, soft volcanic sand, making it very comfortable. Next in popularity is Mackenzie Beach, located near the city airport. It’s a peaceful place with fewer tourists and everything you need for a comfortable beach vacation.
South of Larnaca lies Kastella Beach, also known as Castle Beach. Clean and with azure waters, it has been awarded the Blue Flag. On the picturesque Kiti Peninsula is the most family-friendly beach—Faros. With soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and a shallow, gentle shore, it’s the perfect place for swimming with young children!
Cyprus beaches offer a range of water activities (water parks, banana boat rides, pedal boats, etc.), making them ideal for family vacations. The coastline is dotted with cafes and restaurants that turn into dance floors and party venues in the evening.