Where is Cyprus and How to Get There

Cyprus is located in the southeast portion of the Mediterranean Sea, and southwest Asia. The country stands facing the south of Turkey and the Middle East.

It is just a few hours away from many European cities while several low-coast companies have year-round flights to Larnaca and Paphos, two of the most important cities on the island.

While Larnaca International mostly receives commercial flights from the rest of Europe and is active all year round, Paphos International mostly caters to charter flights during the high season (although there are some commercial flights arriving in Paphos also in winter.

Moving Around in Cyprus

If you’re bold enough to drive on the left (or you already do it in your country), then get ready for a stunning adventure! Driving in Cyprus is certainly a stunning experience that will take you to discover the best of the island.

We did it and enjoyed several towns at our own pace as well as amazing landscapes that we were really not expecting.

When moving around in the city, remember that bike rental is an affordable and healthy way to move around.

To reach more distant places and in case driving is not what you want, then the local bus network, as well as taxis, are all good alternatives.

There are no trains or metros on the island, so these are about all the options available to move around. Of course, to visit specific sites and attractions, joining tours and excursions is also a good idea if you want to avoid renting a car.

What Beaches You Should Visit in Cyprus

Yearly, Cyprus’ beaches are voted as some of the best in the world. Moreover, since there are many blue flag-awarded beaches, the shores of the island are simply perfect for swimming and family holidays, making it a must-visit vacation spot in Europe. 

If you are not convinced yet, let’s see seven of the best beaches in Cyprus that will leave you awed.

Nissi Beach

Located in Ayia Napa town, Nissi is one of the island’s most popular and prettiest beaches. 

It stretches approximately a half kilometer and is a blue flag-awarded beach meaning its waters are of high environmental and quality standards. In other words, it has stunning pristine azure waters and is perfect for swimming.

Nissi Beach is well-known for its tiny uninhabited islet across the beach’s shore, which visitors can visit either by swimming or even walking. When the tide is low, people can walk to the islet to explore and relish the resort’s view from a different angle.

This beach is probably the busiest in Cyprus. It features a beach bar that always has music on, creating the best summer vibes for all. So, this is undoubtedly the best place for a fun beach vacation. 

• Look for accommodation near Nissi Beach here.

Lara Beach

Vacationing at a crowded beach resort is certainly a must during summer vacation. But sometimes, visiting a beach away from the highly organized resort-style shore can help us to release all our daily worries.

Lara Beach is within the protected nature reserve on the wild Akamas Peninsula, allowing people to experience the true meaning of a stunning, pristine beach.

But due to this, no chairs or sun-lounger furniture are allowed. Furthermore, there isn’t any infrastructure nearby. That’s why access to the beach is by navigating the track with a vehicle, preferably a 4WD.

Lara Beach is also the natural habitat for the Mediterranean’s green and loggerhead turtles. Therefore, certain sections of the beach are fenced off to protect the turtle nesting sites.

• Find accommodation near Lara Beach here.

Makronissos Beach

Makronissos is another favorite shore in Ayia Napa. Similarly to Nissi Beach, it is a glittering white sandy beach with beautiful azure waters and is popular among young travelers who prefer fun summer vibes. 

However, it is also preferred by those who love exploring the colorful seal life. The area was formerly a reef making it perfect for the curious and adventurous people who love snorkeling. 

Another fascinating sight is the ancient tombs of Makronissos. So, if you are interested in learning more about Cyprus’ history, Makronissos offers a blend of natural beauty and history.

The graves are from the Hellenistic and Roman eras, and there are a total of 19 rock-cut tombs, a sanctuary, and a quarry. 

• Find accommodation near Makronissos here.

Aphrodite’s Beach

As already mentioned, Cyprus is also known as Venus Island, and that’s because Cyprus is, according to the legend, the birthplace of the Greek goddess Aphrodite.

According to mythology, Aphrodite emerged from the foam of the sea near Aphrodite’s Beach, also known as Petra Tou Romiou. 

Aphrodite’s beach is pebbly and surrounded by stunning cliffs. It has relatively wild waves, but it is still a fantastic spot for swimming. Since Aphrodite was the goddess of beauty, locals believe that if you swim here, you will gain eternal beauty.

Since the beach’s location is between Paphos and Limassol, it is an excellent stop-off point for scenic coastal views. Particularly, it is a popular sunset spot.

• Find accommodation near Petra Tou Romiou here.

Konnos Beach

Konnos Beach is a lovely isolated cove, surrounded by tall cliffs with pine trees and just a few minutes away from the Cape Greco National Park.

Along with its gorgeous views, Konnos Beach has soft white sand making it a top destination for a full day devoted to beach time.

Furthermore, refreshments and full meals can be found at the cliff-top restaurant, accessed by a staircase from the beach.

Konnos Beach is a favorite among families due to its crystal-clear shallow waters. Also, it is an organized beach, so it offers solid facilities such as sun loungers, umbrellas, lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, and even water sports. 

However, the best thing to do at Konnos Beach is to walk across the rocky landscape of Cape Greco and marvel at the magnificent Mediterranean views.

• Find accommodation near Konnos Beach here.

Fig Tree Bay

Located in the area of Protaras, Fig Tree Bay is a sheltered beach loved by vacationing families, young travelers, and snorkelers. 

Fig Tree is at the edge of a coastal promenade that allows you to walk the length of Protaras and admire the area’s sandy strip and crystal-clear blue waters. 

Thus, while at Fig Tree Bay, you can enjoy the summer breeze, stunning sea views, or even adventurous water sports and beach volleyball. 

Furthermore, the beach features a tiny islet across its shore where you can swim and explore its bountiful fish life, flora, and fauna.

Also, since Protaras is one of the busiest beach resorts, you will find plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.

• Find accommodation near Fig Tree Bay here.

Blue Lagoon – Akamas

Situated in the UNESCO World Heritage National Park, Akamas, Blue Lagoon is one of the most isolated beaches in Cyprus. Yet, it is one of the most beautiful places, offering magical views.

The beach is a shielded bay with warm, pristine waters, allowing visitors to see the sea depths. It is a sandy beach with shallow water, making it a natural swimming pool.

However, access to this bay is only by boat or a 4WD car since the road can be a bit dangerous. You can arrive at the bay by the coastal road of the Baths of Aphrodite or take the long road through the villages of Latsi, Neo Chorio, and Peyia.

Nevertheless, if you love adventure, this beach is the perfect destination. 

• Find accommodation in this area here.

Undoubtedly, Cyprus offers beautiful beaches to immerse in the Mediterranean lifestyle. Surely, the main coastal cities of Paphos, Limassol, and Larnaca offer fantastic long sandy strips for endless hours of sunbathing and swimming.

But the best sandy beaches with crystal-clear blue waters and adventurous activities are found further from the bustling cities.

Read more about Cyprus

• Amazing Things to Do in Nicosia (Lefkosia), Cyprus
• Fantastic Things to Do in Paphos for an Unforgettable Vacation in Cyprus
• Incredible Things to Do in Limassol, Cyprus

Pin this Guide to the Best Beaches in Cyprus for Your Next Vacation!

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Read more articles about Cyprus:

• Where to Stay in Cyprus: The Best 5-Star Hotels in Paphos
• 11 Best Restaurants in Larnaca: Where to Eat in Cyprus
• One Week in Cyprus: Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary to Discover the Best of Cyprus!

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