Best Beaches in Cyprus
Cyprus is well-known as a beach destination and its white sandy shores that are ideal for sunbathing and lazy days. 57 beaches on this beautiful Eastern Mediterranean island have been awarded Blue Flag status for cleanliness and safe waters for swimming. As Cyprus is the third largest island in the whole of the Mediterranean, you have plenty of beaches to choose from, here are some of our favourites and what makes them so unique.
Nissi Beach
Located in Ayia Napa, this is one of the most famous beaches in all of Cyprus, and is known for its buzzing atmosphere, youthful vibe and the many locals and visitors that come out of the bars to continue the party on the sand. At night, this is the place to be if you want a lively atmosphere and don’t feel like heading to bed early. Here you’ll find beach parties aplenty and can dance beneath the stars right into the early hours of the morning. During the day, the beach is quieter and ideal for snorkelling, water sports and swimming thanks to its shallow waters.
Aphrodite Beach
Aphrodite beach is one of the best beaches in Limassol and is very popular with visitors for its mythology and history. You can’t swim in the waters on this beach, as the sea is too choppy, but it is worth visiting because this is the location of Aphrodite’s rock, where the goddess of beauty and love supposedly rose from water in around 1200 BC. Take in the unusual rock stacks and formations, which look particularly stunning in the evening as the sun sets. There is also a restaurant and tourist office nearby.
Fig Tree Bay
Situated in the resort of Protaras, this beach is not only one of the best beaches in Cyprus but also the world. In 2011, it was given the title of the best beach in Europe, and as of 2019 is still the third best beach on the planet. It is lined by fig trees, hence the name, and boasts golden sand shores that are 500 metres long and in pristine condition. The water is shallow, making it ideal for families and small children in particular. Pack your snorkelling gear, as there are plenty of fish to spot beneath the surface. The beach also offers parasailing and windsurfing, as well as a cafe for refreshments and a car park.
Makronissos Beach
When you fancy a beach day after exploring your Villa Poppy private pool and gardens, head to this delightful Blue Flag beach positioned just three miles outside of Ayia Napa city centre. That said, it is a quiet spot that is ideal for couples and those who want a slower pace for relaxing on the beach with a picnic and a book. Banana boating and scuba diving are on offer here, along with other water sports. The main beach has calmer waters and is ideal for families. Heading west, the waters are a little more lively, making ideal conditions for body boarding and surfing. After a day topping up your tan, head to the Makronissos Beach Club for dinner and live music as the sun sets.
Blue Lagoon Beach
Notably one of the best beaches in Paphos, this beach takes its name from the striking colour of its waters. Warm sea temperatures and a shallow depth also make it ideal for young children and families, as well as snorkelling thanks to its colourful reef. When you’ve spent a few hours unwinding, head up to the cliffs overlooking the beach and hike one of the nearby walking trails for stunning views. This beach is a bit more isolated and there aren’t facilities or places to buy refreshments, so pack plenty of water and prepare food in your Villa Pegasus kitchen ahead of time if you’re thinking of staying for a while.
Ready to discover some of the best beaches in Cyprus? Explore our range of quality holiday villas on the island and get ready to find your perfect place to soak up the sun.