Beaches in Cyprus
Including Coral Bay, Fig Tree Bay, and Golden Beach (Aphrodite’s Beach). On the map.
The vibe
The coast here shifts from manicured stretches with rows of umbrellas to rugged, sun-bleached coves tucked beneath limestone cliffs. Late spring and early autumn offer the most pleasant warmth before the intense heat of midsummer drives everyone into the water. You will find a mix of high-energy resort scenes and quiet, wind-swept stretches where you can easily find your own patch of sand.
Coral Bay, Paphos
Cyprus
Rüdiger Stehn from Kiel, Deutschland / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Coral Bay features a wide stretch of golden sand backed by gentle dunes and clear blue sea, making it a favorite for families and swimmers. Beachside tavernas serve fresh seafood.
Access. Well‑served by public bus from Paphos and ample parking; lifeguard stations and sun‑bed rentals are available.
Fig Tree Bay, Protaras
Cyprus
Catauggie / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Fig Tree Bay boasts fine golden sand and crystal‑clear, shallow waters framed by a small island that can be reached by a short swim. It’s popular for snorkeling and sunbathing.
Access. A short walk from the Protaras promenade; parking and beach facilities are available nearby.
Golden Beach (Aphrodite’s Beach), Karpaz Peninsula
İskele District
Александр Чудновский / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Golden Beach is celebrated for its powder‑white sand and turquoise sea, often described as one of Cyprus’s most pristine beaches. The remote setting provides a tranquil, postcard‑like experience.
Access. Accessible by car via the Karpaz road; a short walk from the parking area leads to the beach, with basic facilities (toilets, small kiosk).
Notes. No lifeguard service; strong winds can create occasional choppy conditions.
Governor's Beach, Limassol
Cyprus
Dmitry Panov / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Governor's Beach is a pebbly shoreline set against striking limestone cliffs, offering crystal‑clear water and a more tranquil vibe than the nearby tourist strips.
Access. A short walk from the Limassol Marina area; limited parking but easy to reach on foot from nearby hotels.
Notes. Pebbles can be uncomfortable for barefoot walking; bring water shoes if desired.
Lara Beach, Akamas Peninsula
Cyprus
somiz / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Lara Beach is a secluded golden‑sand strip framed by dunes and pine forest, renowned as a turtle‑nesting site. The water is clear and relatively uncrowded.
Access. Reachable by a rough 4WD track from Polis; limited parking and no built‑up facilities, so bring supplies.
Notes. Access may be restricted during turtle‑nesting season (May‑October).
Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa
Cyprus
El Nino / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Nissi Beach is a long stretch of golden sand backed by palm trees and lively beach bars. The turquoise water is shallow near the shore, making it ideal for families and water‑sports enthusiasts.
Access. Easily reached by car or local bus from Ayia Napa town; the beach is lined with resorts, restaurants and sun‑lounger rentals.
Pissouri Beach, Pissouri
Cyprus
Dmitry Panov / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Pissouri Beach features a long stretch of golden sand backed by a relaxed village vibe and clear, gentle waters. It’s ideal for sunbathing and leisurely swims.
Access. Reached by a short drive from Limassol; a small parking lot and beach bar provide easy access and amenities.