13 Best Beaches in Cyprus (+Map)
Sandy beaches, sapphire waters, and year-round sunshine – Cyprus is a beach lover’s paradise and home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. With over 70 Blue Flag beaches and some of the cleanest bathing waters in Europe, the island’s coastline is dotted with everything from lively coastal hotspots to secluded natural escapes. What we love the most about it? No matter where you’re visiting, a stunning beach is always nearby.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked the 13 best beaches in Cyprus, complete with a map to help you plan your perfect seaside escape. After years of exploring Cyprus’ coastline, we know where to find the island’s most stunning beaches. Are you ready to soak up the Mediterranean sun on one of Cyprus’ best beaches?
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Cyprus Beach Map
To make your beach-hopping adventure effortless, we’ve created a detailed map showing the exact locations of our 13 best beaches in Cyprus. Whether you’re exploring the east coast’s lively shores, the west’s hidden gems, or the untouched Akamas Peninsula, this map will help you find the perfect spot – no matter if you’re looking for the best beaches in Cyprus for families, a getaway with friends, or a peaceful seaside walk in salty air. Beach hopping is definitely one of the best things to do in Cyprus!
The 13 Best Beaches in Cyprus
Here are our picks for the 13 best beaches in Cyprus and what makes each one special. Whether you’re into soft golden sand, turquoise waters, or scenic cliffs, these beaches showcase the island’s stunning natural beauty and unique charm.
1. Nissi Beach
If you’re searching for the best sandy beach in Cyprus, look no further than Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa. With powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters that rival the Maldives, this blue-flag beach feels like a picture from a catalogue.
A small islet accessible by foot sits just offshore, offering nice views of the Mediterranean Sea, the bay, and the bustling hotels of Ayia Napa. It’s no surprise that most tourists rate it as the best beach in Cyprus.
Beyond its beauty, Nissi Beach is a hub of energy and fun. You can hire jet skis, go parasailing, or ride a banana boat, all while soaking up the lively atmosphere. With music playing from beach bars and live DJs setting the mood, this beach is as vibrant as it is breathtaking. This also makes it the island’s hotspot for the younger crowd that flocks to Nissi Beach for beach and foam parties during the summer months.
Despite its party vibe, Nissi Beach is also great for families, thanks to its shallow, calm waters. Plus, it’s easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport, making it a must-visit whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or the perfect Instagram shot.
2. Fig Tree Bay
Located in the heart of Protaras, Fig Tree Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Cyprus – and for good reason. This fantastic sandy beach is named after the lone fig tree that has stood at its shore for centuries, offering a touch of natural charm to the stunning coastline.
Whether you want to relax by the beach, dive into watersports, or join a boat trip, Fig Tree Bay has something for everyone. Snorkelers can take advantage of the steps at the side of the bay, leading to clear waters teeming with marine life. For those who prefer a laid-back experience, the beachfront is lined with restaurants, cafés, and bars, perfect for a seaside meal or a refreshing drink.
Getting here is easy, with a municipal car park and a bus stop nearby, making it a convenient choice for a day of sun, sea, and relaxation.
3. Konnos Beach
Konnos Beach is one of the most picturesque blue flag beaches in Cyprus, offering an idyllic escape just 4 km east of Ayia Napa. Nestled at the bottom of a winding road through a pine-covered hillside, this small yet stunning bay sits between Cape Greco and Protaras, making it a must-visit for those exploring the area.
From the top, the iconic view of Konnos Beach is simply breathtaking. Once you make your way down, you’ll find soft golden sand and calm, shallow waters, naturally shielded from strong winds – perfect for a relaxing swim. There is also a watersports centre as well as a kiosk serving food and drinks.
Beyond the beach, nature lovers can explore scenic hiking trails in Cape Greco National Park, including the path to Ayioi Anargiroi Church, one of the area’s most famous landmarks. Easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus, Konnos Beach has parking spots along the road and a dedicated bus stop, making it a convenient yet peaceful coastal escpape.
You might also enjoy reading: Best Outdoor Activities in Cyprus
4. Coral Bay
Coral Bay is one of the best sandy beaches in Cyprus, located 10 km north of Paphos in the Pegeia area. As the most popular beach on the western side of the island, it stretches 500 meters and offers shallow waters and deep golden sand, making it perfect for families, couples, and travellers of all ages.
This Blue Flag beach is enclosed by limestone headlands and lush greenery, creating a scenic and sheltered bay ideal for swimming and sunbathing. With plenty of space to unwind, it’s a great spot for a relaxing beach day. Like the other top beaches in Cyprus, Coral Bay comes with all the essential amenities, including easy access for people with disabilities.
Surrounding the beach, you’ll find a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, bars, tavernas, shops, kiosks, and even pharmacies, ensuring everything you need is just a short walk away. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back escape or a vibrant seaside experience, Coral Bay has it all.
You may also want to read: Ultimate 4 Days in Paphos Itinerary
5. Makronissos Beach
Just 5 km from Ayia Napa, Makronissos Beach is a stunning golden fine sand beach with crystal-clear waters reminiscent of the Maldives or Seychelles. It’s an ideal spot for families and groups of friends, offering plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
For those seeking adventure, the beach offers a range of watersports, including water skiing, diving, and paddleboarding. Like many of Cyprus’s best beaches, you’ll find sunbeds and loungers for hire, as well as kiosks, restaurants, and nearby accommodation for added convenience.
If Makronissos Beach gets too crowded, you can head to the other side of the islet and enjoy a quieter spot at Dome Beach. History lovers will also appreciate the Makronissos Tombs, an archaeological site featuring 19 ancient rock-carved tombs from the Hellenistic and Roman periods – a fascinating contrast to the lively beach atmosphere.
6. Governor’s Beach
Located near Pentakomo village, just 10 km from Limassol’s main hotel district, Governor’s Beach is one of the best beaches in south Cyprus. If you’re staying in Larnaca, it’s also one of the best day trips from Larnaca thanks to its easy drive and beautiful setting.
What makes it truly special is the stunning chalk-white rock formations that contrast beautifully with the dark grey sand, creating a scene reminiscent of Greece’s Milos Island. One of the reasons many tourists come to this place.
This small bay is perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Visitors can sunbathe on the smooth white rocks, take in the views, or jump straight into the crystal-clear waters. The beach itself has a thin strip of soft sand and shallow waters, making it a great choice for families with children.
Surrounding the beach, you’ll find seaside restaurants serving fresh fish and local Cypriot dishes, offering the perfect way to round off a day by the Limassol coastline. Whether you’re here for the dramatic scenery or the tranquil waters, Governor’s Beach is a must-visit for any Cyprus beach lover.
7. Fontana Amorosa
Nestled in the Akamas Peninsula, Fontana Amorosa Beach sits right next to the famous Blue Lagoon of the Paphos district. This untouched, remote paradise boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters so transparent you can see the seabed, giving it the feel of a natural swimming pool. With dark sand mixed with small pebbles and a small reef perfect for snorkeling, it’s a dream destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Reaching Fontana Amorosa Beach is already an adventure in itself. The most scenic option is to rent a boat from Latchi (we always rent here), cruising over the shimmering turquoise waters straight to this secluded paradise. If you prefer the land route, a 4WD is essential. Alternatively, 4×4 taxi jeeps operate from the Baths of Aphrodite on a set schedule. For an even more thrilling journey, you can rent an ATV, quad, or buggy and explore the Akamas Peninsula along the way.
Whether you come for the pristine waters, peaceful setting, or an adventurous road trip, visiting Fontana Amorosa in the Akamas Peninsula National Park is certainly one of the best things to do in Cyprus.
You might also be interested in: Renting a Car in Cyprus: All You Need to Know
8. Landa Beach
For us, Landa Beach is Cyprus’ best beach. With its soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect place to spend a full day by the sea. The calm, shallow waters allow you to walk far into the sea, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, especially for families and groups of friends.
Unlike its famous neighbor, Nissi Beach, Landa Beach is less crowded and offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still having great amenities. A fast-food truck sits on the eastern side, while the western side features a restaurant and watersports centre. If you’re feeling active, there are even multiple beach volleyball courts to enjoy.
Getting here is easy, with free parking available. It’s also a great beach for hopping between other stunning shores of this best beaches in Cyprus guide – you can follow the coastal promenade west to Makronissos Beach or east to Nissi Beach. Whether you’re looking to take a refreshing dip, relax on the sand, or try some watersports, Landa Beach is a fantastic choice.
9. Vathia Gonia Beach
Tucked away on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, Vathia Gonia Beach is a small, white-powder sandy bay near Ayia Napa. Its crystal-clear waters are sheltered by surrounding rocks, creating a calm, wave-free haven that’s perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Despite its proximity to the bustling town, this beach retains a tranquil and unspoiled beauty.
A small watersports centre offers activities for those looking for some fun on the water, while nearby hotels and restaurants ensure you have everything you need for a relaxing beach day. If you’re up for a little adventure, Vathia Gonia is a fantastic starting point for scenic coastal walks, leading to hidden coves, other fantastic beaches, and breathtaking viewpoints.
For a unique experience, consider visiting Pernera Beach and MUSAN (the Museum of Underwater Sculpture) just a short distance away where you can snorkel and dive around submerged statues. And if you’re at the nearby Nissi Beach, you can even walk east along the coastline to reach this beautiful beach. Stay at Vathia Gonia Beach until evening, and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning sunset view over the Mediterranean.
10. Aphrodite’s Rock
Located in the Paphos district, Aphrodite’s Rock, also known as Petra tou Romiou, is one of Cyprus’ most legendary beaches. According to myth, this is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone drawn to the island’s rich history and culture.
The beach itself is a unique mix of sand and small pebbles, offering a pleasant alternative to Cyprus’ typical sandy shores. The landscape is dominated by large rock formations rising dramatically from the crystal-clear waters, creating a rugged, natural beauty. This serene spot is ideal for those looking to relax, sunbathe, or take a leisurely walk along the coast.
Though there are no major amenities, there’s a small kiosk on-site for snacks, and a car park is located near the kiosk, with an underground walkway leading directly to the beach. Swimmers should exercise caution, as the waters can often be rough. For an unforgettable experience, be sure to stay for the sunset, when the rocks glow a golden hue as the sun dips behind them.
Our favourite guided tours to Aphrodite’s Rock:
➞ From Paphos: Tour to Aphrodite’s Rock, Ancient Kourion & Kolossi Castle
➞ From Paphos: Troodos Mountain Tour including Aphrodite’s Rock
➞ From Ayia Napa, Protaras, Larnaca: Paphos, Aphrodite’s Rock & Kourion Tour
➞ From Limassol: Blue Lagoon & Aphrodite’s Birthplace Day Trip
You might also want to read: 10 Best Day Trips in Cyprus
11. Mackenzie Beach
Just 10 minutes south of Larnaca’s city centre, Mackenzie Beach is one of the city’s few beaches and a favourite among tourists and locals alike. This kilometre-long, beige sandy beach offers shallow waters, making it ideal for families with small children.
One of Mackenzie Beach’s most unique features is its perfect plane-spotting location – planes fly low over the beach as they approach Larnaca’s airport, creating an unforgettable sight. Behind the beach, a lively promenade is lined with cafés, restaurants, and seaside dining spots, plus a large parking area for easy access.
During the day, visitors can enjoy watersports or take a relaxing stroll along the shore, even walking all the way to Finikoudes Beach, the main beachfront in Larnaca. By night, Mackenzie Beach transforms into a premium clubbing destination, making it a hotspot for both relaxation and nightlife.
You may also be interested in: Perfect 3-Day Larnaca Itinerary
12. Lara Beach
Set along the Akamas Peninsula in the Paphos district, Lara Beach is a pristine stretch of golden sand and clear turquoise waters, just 20 minutes north of the Avakas Gorge. If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Paphos, this untouched paradise offers a rare chance to experience nature at its purest. It’s one of the most secluded and unspoiled beaches in Cyprus.
As a protected nesting site for turtles, Lara Beach is a haven for wildlife. Visiting here means sharing the shore with wild mountain goats, birds, and, if you’re lucky, baby turtles hatching in the sand. Due to its conservation status, there’s no development, making it perfect for those seeking tranquility and a true connection with nature.
Be prepared – this beach has no amenities, so bring your own beach chairs, food, and drinks. Getting here is also an adventure – due to its remote location and unsealed roads, a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended.
Alternatively, you can visit Lara Beach on a guided jeep safari from Paphos, which also includes stops at Avakas Gorge and Akamas National Park.
13. Green Bay Beach
Green Bay Beach, located in the Protaras area, is a charming sandy cove surrounded by limestone cliffs. Its shallow, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for families with young children, while snorkelers and divers will love exploring the underwater statues and the chance to encounter turtles.
Compared to the larger beaches in the region, Green Bay offers a more peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. Watersports are also available for those looking for extra adventure, and a small kiosk provides snacks and refreshments. For a full day of beach-hopping, you can easily combine your visit with nearby Nisia Loumbardi Beach on the other side of the islet.
We hope you enjoyed reading our guide to the best beaches in Cyprus! With its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and diverse beach experiences, Cyprus is the perfect destination for sunseekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re looking for vibrant beach bars, family-friendly shores, or peaceful hidden gems, there’s a spot for everyone.
We’re sure this list will help you plan your perfect beach days and make the most of your time on the island. So, pack your beach bag, soak up the Mediterranean sun, and enjoy everything Cyprus’ beaches have to offer!
Madeleine & Carsten
FAQ – Best Beaches in Cyprus
Which part of Cyprus has the best beaches?
The best beaches in Cyprus can be found along the east coast, particularly in Ayia Napa and Protaras, where you’ll find stunning white sand and crystal-clear waters. However, the west coast around Paphos and the Akamas Peninsula also offers beautiful, more secluded beaches with breathtaking natural scenery.
Which beach in Cyprus has the clearest waters?
Cyprus is known for its crystal-clear waters, but some of the clearest can be found at the Blue Lagoon in the Akamas Peninsula. The water here is so transparent that it looks like a swimming pool, making it perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
What is the best white sandy beach in Cyprus?
For many, Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa is the best white sandy beach in Cyprus. It boasts powdery soft sand, shallow turquoise waters, and a lively atmosphere, making it a favourite among visitors looking for both relaxation and entertainment.
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