If you’re dreaming of golden sands, turquoise waters, and a cheeky cocktail in hand, Cyprus might just be your perfect beach escape. This Mediterranean gem is stacked with gorgeous beaches, from lively resort stretches to wild, turtle-friendly coves. Here are my top picks for the best beaches in Cyprus – plus a few up north if you’re feeling adventurous.
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I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger who writes about European destinations – and Cyprus is one of my favourites! You can find any type of beach in Cyprus, depending on your preference. This article will help you find which ones are right for you.
1. Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa 🏝️
White sand, clear shallow water, and a party vibe – Nissi Beach is one of the most iconic spots in Cyprus.
When the tide’s low, a sandy walkway leads to the little island just offshore. It gets very busy in summer (think Ibiza energy), but off-season it’s a whole different vibe. Expect water sports, beach bars, and plenty of action.
2. Lara Beach, Akamas Peninsula 🐢
Looking for wild and wonderful? Lara Beach is a remote, rugged paradise on the Akamas Peninsula.
You’ll need a 4×4 to get there (or book a tour), but it’s worth it. No bars, no sunbeds – just you, the sea, and maybe a turtle or two. It’s a nesting site for green and loggerhead turtles, so keep an eye out for protected spots.
Tip: Pack a picnic, there’s nothing but nature here.
3. Konnos Beach, near Protaras 🌿
Tucked into a sheltered cove near Cape Greco, Konnos Beach is postcard-pretty and super chill.
Calm, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming or snorkelling, and the surrounding cliffs explode with greenery in spring. There’s a restaurant perched above the bay for dreamy views with your Cypriot lunch.
4. Finikoudes Beach, Larnaca 🌴
If you want a beach day without leaving the city, Finikoudes is your go-to. Located right in the centre of Larnaca, it’s lined with palm trees, beach bars, cafés and shops.
Easy, breezy, and full of life – perfect for people-watching and sunset strolls.
5. Kourion Beach, near Limassol 🏛️
Come for the history, stay for the sea breeze. Kourion Beach sits below ancient Roman ruins and is framed by dramatic cliffs. It’s pebbly in parts, but the views are epic.
Great for windsurfers and wave-watchers. Bring water shoes if you’re a sensitive-soles type.
6. Coral Bay, Paphos 🏖️
One of the most popular family beaches in Cyprus, Coral Bay has calm waters, golden sand, and loads of loungers.
Easily accessible from Paphos (even by bus), it’s a solid all-rounder. Expect beach bars, ice cream, and water sports galore.
7. Makronissos Beach, Ayia Napa 🐚
Less hectic than Nissi but just as pretty, Makronissos has soft white sand and shallow water perfect for paddling.
The beach stretches out onto a dolphin-tail-shaped peninsula with hidden coves and ancient tombs to explore. Great if you like your sunbathing with a side of archaeology.
8. Fig Tree Bay, Protaras 🌳
Golden sand, shallow turquoise water, and – yes – actual fig trees. Fig Tree Bay lives up to the hype and is ideal for families or anyone who enjoys a good Insta moment.
There’s even a tiny islet you can swim out to. Arrive early in peak season – this place gets packed.
9. Blue Lagoon, Akamas 🚤
This one’s a stunner. The Blue Lagoon is a boat-access-only slice of heaven with unreal blue water that’s perfect for snorkelling. You can also reach it by 4×4 if you’re up for a bumpy ride.
Untouched, unspoiled, and very photogenic.
10. Golden Beach, Karpas Peninsula (North) 🐪
Kilometres of golden sand, barely a soul in sight, and wild donkeys wandering in the distance – welcome to Northern Cyprus’s Golden Beach.
The beach is in northern Cyprus, so travellers will need their passports to cross the Green Line into this territory.
11. Aphrodite’s Beach (Petra tou Romiou) 💕
More for the myth than the tan, Aphrodite’s Beach is where the goddess supposedly emerged from the sea.
The beach is rocky, but the views are breathtaking, especially at sunset. Snap a photo of the legendary sea stack and soak up the magic.
12. Pissouri Bay Beach 🌊
Halfway between Paphos and Limassol, Pissouri Bay is a quieter alternative with a local vibe.
It’s pebbly but great for swimming – the sea gets deep quickly, so keep an eye on little ones. Loads of water sports on offer, plus tavernas nearby for a lazy lunch.
Quick Wrap-Up 🏖️
From lively beach bars to secluded coves, Cyprus really does have a beach for every mood. Pack your towel, your sunhat, and maybe a snorkel – and get ready for some serious vitamin sea.
Map of the best beaches in Cyprus 🗺️
Below is a Google map showing the best beaches in Cyprus as listed in this post.
FAQs about the best beaches in Cyprus 💡
Below are some frequently asked questions about the best beaches in Cyprus.
A: Fig Tree Bay, Nissi Beach, Coral Bay, Lara Beach, and Konnos Bay are all crowd-pleasers for good reason.
A: Try Konnos Bay or the Blue Lagoon – clear, calm waters and plenty of fishy friends.
A: Nissi, Coral Bay, and Fig Tree Bay all have gear rentals and activities.
A: May–June and September–October: warm, sunny, and less crowded.
A: Not necessarily – some are on public transport routes (like Coral Bay and Finikoudes), but a car helps if you want to reach the wild ones like Lara or Golden Beach.
A: Sunscreen, swimwear, hat, plenty of water, and maybe a picnic if you’re going off-grid.
Helpful Beach Tips 🏄
💧 Water and snacks are a must for the wild beaches.
🧴 Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen.
🐢 Respect turtle nesting signs (especially at Lara & Golden Beach).
👒 Bring a hat – it gets toasty.
For all beach trips, I recommend this perfect beach towel, which repels sand, comes in 40 different designs and dries almost instantly. Also very helpful is this foldable sun hat which can be packed in your bag, and this cute picnic set too. You will definitely need to take a picnic if you are visiting the wild beaches, as these have no facilities.
Related Reading for best beaches in Cyprus 📚
Ready to explore more? Check out:
🏛️10 Fantastic Things to Do in Paphos, Cyprus.
✈️ Cyprus Travel Guide: Advice for Visiting Cyprus.
🌅 20 Amazing Things to Do in Cyprus.
🚗 Cyprus Coast Road Trip: 5 Days Along the Island’s Shores.
Pin for Later: Best Beaches in Cyprus 📌
👉 Looking for practical travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page.
Tags: Cyprus, Europe
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