⛱️ Beach holidays in Cyprus 2026: where there is sand, where it is shallow, where it is quiet

Cyprus holds a Blue Flag on almost half of its beaches. In 2026, 56 beaches and two marinas on the island received the award (as of 06/2026, Cyprus Mail). Sand and a gentle entry are not everywhere. The difference between quiet Konnos Bay and lively Nissi Beach is huge for a vacation with a child.

We selected sixteen sandy beaches in five areas of the island: Protaras, Ayia Napa, Larnaca, Limassol and Paphos. For each one you will find the shoreline character, depth at entry, infrastructure and how to get there. At the end we compared beachfront hotels and answered frequently asked questions.

The main point right away. The best sand for a family is in Ayia Napa and Protaras, quiet at Konnos Bay and Agia Thekla, the party scene at Nissi Beach, a long promenade with cafes at Finikoudes in Larnaca.

Ad: this article contains affiliate links, we earn a commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.

What to know about Cyprus beaches

💡 In short:

Almost all sandy beaches on the island are municipal, entry is free.
Sunbeds and umbrellas on municipal beaches are rented separately.
Beach access and infrastructure: as of 09/2026, according to Visit Cyprus.

Cyprus beaches stretch in a continuous line along the southern and eastern coast. There are no closed zones or fences between them. You walk from one section to another along the sand or a walking path. So the choice comes down to three things: sand, depth at entry and infrastructure.

The Blue Flag list in 2026 shrank to 56 beaches (as of 06/2026, Philenews on Blue Flags). Limassol and Amathus did not apply after reports of pollution in 2025. Swimming there is still allowed, but you will not see the quality mark on every shore.

The most awards in the country consistently go to the Paralimni-Deryneia municipality. It is responsible for Protaras beaches, including Golden Coast and Konnos Bay (as of 09/2026, Paralimni-Deryneia municipality).

Our picks

If you need	Beach	Why
First time with a child	Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa	Gentle entry, lifeguards, sandbar to the islet
Quiet without crowds	Konnos Bay, Protaras	Bay enclosed by rocks, few activities
Long promenade and cafes	Finikoudes, Larnaca	City beach next to the seafront
Lying right on the beachfront	Coral Bay, Paphos	Hotels open directly onto the bay
Diving and snorkeling	Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa	Dive center and rentals right on the shore

1. Golden coast beach, Protaras

Golden Coast hides in a small bay between Protaras and Paralimni. Waves barely reach it, the sand is fine, the entry is gentle and long. Kids are comfortable here, and adults can relax.

Showers, changing rooms and toilets are available on the shore, sunbeds and umbrellas are set up by the water (as of 09/2026, official website of the Paralimni-Deryneia municipality). Jet ski and banana boat rentals are kept outside the bay's swimming area so the equipment does not disturb swimmers. On the headland nearby stands the Chapel of Saint Nicholas with wall paintings.

How to get there: about four kilometers from the center of Protaras by car or on the local bus along the coast (per the map).
Who it's for: families with children and those who like calm water without crowds.
The catch: it is quiet here in the evening, there are almost no activities nearby.

2. Fig tree bay, Protaras

Sandy beach with blue umbrellas and a small island

Fig Tree Bay is called the most popular beach in Protaras, and in summer you can feel it. White sand, clear water, and a long bay draw both families and young people here. The entry into the sea is gradual, so swimming with small children is easy.

In the center of the bay lies a small islet. It shields the shore from waves and makes the water calmer than in neighboring areas. Cafes line the shore, and SUP and catamaran rentals are available. In the evening, Protaras hosts a dancing fountains show with fire and lasers; tickets are sold at the ticket office on the promenade.

How to get there: the beach is in the very center of Protaras, within walking distance from most hotels (see map).
Who it's for: families, couples, and anyone who wants infrastructure right at hand.
The catch: in July and August, front-row sunbeds are taken by morning.

3. Konnos Bay, Protaras

Konnos Bay with beach, umbrellas and turquoise water

Konnos Bay hides in a cove among the rocks, between Protaras and Cape Greco National Park. The road to the water winds downhill, but the shore itself is sheltered from the wind. The sand is fine, the water is clear, and the entry into the sea is gentle.

The infrastructure here is adequate but without frills: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and a cafe above the water. A eucalyptus grove grows nearby, a good place to escape the heat. From here you can start a walk to the sea caves and viewpoints of Cape Greco (as of 09/2026, Paralimni and Deryneia municipality).

How to get there: about five kilometers from the center of Protaras, with parking near the descent (see map).
Not for: those unwilling to go down and back up the stairs.
The catch: getting here without a car is difficult.

4. Ammos Kambouri Beach, Ayia Napa

Sandy beach with umbrellas and sun loungers by the sea

Ammos Kambouri occupies a small stretch in the eastern part of Ayia Napa, next to the trail to the sea caves. The strip is short and narrow, but the water here is clear. The spot is chosen by those who snorkel and learn diving.

The seabed near the shore is rocky. For children this is a risk; for snorkeling it is a plus, because fish stay close to the rocks. Nearby stands a tree with twisted branches, brought from Skiathos, with a pergola set up beneath it for ceremonies. There are sunbeds, a shower, a toilet, changing rooms, and a mobile snack bar (as of 09/2026, official island tourism portal).

How to get there: walk from the Lovers' Bridge along the coastal trail or drive to the parking lot (see map).
Not for: families with small children who need a sandy entry.
The catch: few activities, modest infrastructure.

5. Pantachou beach, Ayia Napa

Pantachou starts at the fishing harbor and stretches along the southeastern shore of Ayia Napa. The sand is golden, with palms and acacias growing along the shore. This is the longest urban beach in the resort, and there is room even at the height of the season.

The infrastructure is simple. You buy a day ticket for a sunbed and umbrella and use the shower and changing room until evening. The beach bar serves food and drinks, and restaurants and shops are nearby. The strip is long, so lifeguards keep an eye on swimmers (as of 09/2026, Cyprus tourism authority).

How to get there: on foot from the center of Ayia Napa, entrance from the harbor side (see map).
Who it's for: those who want an urban beach with cafes and shops nearby.
The catch: in the southern part the shore is rocky, so you need to enter the sea more carefully.

6. Nissi beach and Nissi bay, Ayia Napa

Nissi Beach from above with umbrellas and lagoon

Nissi Beach is the most famous and the liveliest sandy beach in Cyprus. The eastern part of the bay is Nissi Beach, the western part is Nissi Bay. There is no boundary between them; the sections blend smoothly into one another.

White soft sand and an islet in the center of the bay shelter the shore from wind and waves. A sandbar leads to the islet and emerges from the water at low tide. A water sports center operates nearby: jet skis, water skiing, banana boats, parasailing. The Lucky Divers dive center takes beginners on a trial dive (as of 09/2026, Nissi Beach).

Nissi Beach is closed to loud parties, while Nissi Bay is known for bars and clubs far beyond the island.

How to get there: about three kilometers from the center of Ayia Napa, with bus service and parking (see map).
Who it's for: families during the day and young people in the evening.
The catch: in summer there are a lot of people, and finding free sand is difficult.

7. Makronissos beach, Ayia Napa

Makronissos sandy beach with turquoise water

Makronissos is the resort's oldest beach and one of the most family-friendly. It lies west of central Ayia Napa and is split into two parts by a headland. The eastern side is fully equipped, while the western side remains semi-wild, and waves are common here.

On the eastern side you'll find loungers, umbrellas, equipment rentals, and the Makronissos Beach bar. The sand is soft, the entry is gradual, with no sudden drop-offs. Wi-Fi on the shore is free. Ancient rock-cut tombs are nearby, and entry to them is free (as of 09/2026, Visit Cyprus website).

How to get there: about five kilometers from central Ayia Napa, by bus or car (see map).
Who it's for: families and those who prefer calm swimming.
The catch: the western part has waves and almost no infrastructure.

8. Agia Thekla Beach, Ayia Napa

Ayia Thekla Church with blue domes by the sea

Agia Thekla sits by the ancient cave church of Saint Thekla, carved into the rock. The church is active, and both tourists and locals visit it. The beach is wide, with light, soft sand.

A small islet lies just offshore. It acts as a natural breakwater and cuts the waves, so swimming here is calm. The shore has parking for cars and bicycles, a bar, lifeguards on duty, and a water sports center. Loungers and umbrellas here are cheaper than at the resort's more popular spots (as of 09/2026, official Cyprus tourism portal).

How to get there: southwest of central Ayia Napa, by car or bus along the coast (see map).
Who it's for: those looking for quiet and willing to get away from the clubs.
The catch: there's little food right on the shore, only a bar.

9. Finikoudes Beach, Larnaca

Finikoudes is a city beach in central Larnaca, along the palm-lined promenade. The sand is fine and light, and the entry into the sea is gradual, so both children and adults swim here. In summer, the Kataklysmos festival takes place on this shore, and all participants enter the water.

The promenade is long: palm trees, cafes, bars, and children's playgrounds. Bicycle rentals and windsurfing centers operate along the shore. For divers, the main draw here is different: the sunken ferry Zenobia lies close to shore and is considered one of the best dive sites in the Mediterranean (as of 09/2026, island tourist office).

How to get there: the beach is steps from central Larnaca and a short ride from the airport (see map).
Who it's for: those who want city and sea without a car.
The catch: on weekends locals fill the shore, and by evening it's hard to find a lounger.

10. Malindi Beach, Limassol

Malindi Beach occupies part of the Parekklisia coastline in central Limassol, opposite the Malindi Beach Bar & Restaurant. It's one of the most well-kept city beaches at the resort. The surface here isn't purely sandy: fine pebbles and gray sand.

The restaurant serves guests directly on the loungers, in the indoor dining room, and on the open terrace. The entry into the sea is gradual, the bottom is sandy, and white umbrellas line the water's edge. Nearby there are volleyball and soccer courts, a water activities center, and a separate VIP area (as of 09/2026, tourism board portal).

How to get there: in central Limassol, within walking distance of the promenade and city hotels (see map).
Who it's for: those staying in the city who don't want to travel to the beach.
The catch: mixed surface, walking barefoot at the water's edge is uncomfortable.

11. Aphrodite Beach, Limassol

Aphrodite Beach is a municipal beach in eastern Limassol. Several private companies share the long stretch of shore, so service varies between adjacent sections. The beach starts at the Four Seasons hotel and runs to PUESTA Oyster Bar & Grill.

When you rent a lounger, you get free Wi-Fi, and separate arrangements are in place for people with reduced mobility. The shore is covered with gray volcanic sand, with pebbles in places, and the bottom is sandy with rocky patches (as of 09/2026, tourism board website).

How to get there: eastern Limassol, a city bus runs along the promenade (see map).
Who it's for: those who want to pick a shore activity to match their mood.
The catch: surface mixed with pebbles and a rocky bottom at the entry.

12. Dasoudi Beach, Limassol

Dasoudi lies in eastern Limassol and is considered one of the city's best-equipped recreation areas. It has sanitary facilities, children's and sports areas, cafes, and parking. The children's play areas are covered with imported soft sand.

The beach itself has fine, gray, volcanic-type sand. The sea near the shore is shallow, and strong waves are rare, so it's convenient for swimming with children. A promenade park with a eucalyptus grove adjoins the beach, where you can wait out the heat in the shade. Equipment rental, rowing and kayaking clubs are available (as of 09/2026, official Cyprus tourism website).

How to get there: in Limassol along the seafront, on foot from hotels in the eastern part of the city (see map).
Who it's for: families with children and active recreation enthusiasts.
The catch: the gray volcanic sand looks more modest than the white beaches of Ayia Napa.

13. Ladies' Mile, Limassol

Ladies' Mile is the longest beach in Limassol, stretching along the Akrotiri peninsula. The surface is sand and pebble, but the sand here is softer than in other parts of the resort. The area is divided among three private companies, and each section has its own set of services.

The "Captain's Cabin" section is known for a wide range of activities for adults. Away from the swimming area, a water sports center operates: jet skis, boats, canoes, windsurfing and diving lessons. There are football and volleyball courts, and tables for board games. Further west, the shore becomes semi-wild and is pleasant for walking (as of 09/2026, Republic of Cyprus tourism portal).

From here you can walk to the Limassol salt lake. In winter, pink flamingos and herons stop there.

How to get there: west of central Limassol, you need a car or taxi (see map).
Who it's for: those who want a long shoreline and minimal neighbors.
The catch: infrastructure is unevenly distributed, and in places there is almost none.

14. Kourion Beach, Limassol

Kourion Beach lies at the foot of the Kourion archaeological park. The beach sits on coastal cliffs, with views of the stadium ruins and the sanctuary of Apollo Hylates. People choose this spot for the quiet and the view, not for entertainment.

The surface here is mixed: sand and fine pebbles. Right at the shore the sea is shallow, but after about thirty meters the depth increases sharply. The wind blows freely into the bay, so windsurfers often train here. Three private establishments look after the area: the Sunshine fish restaurant, Chris Blue Beach Cafe, and Kourion Beach Restaurant and bar (as of 09/2026, official tourism website).

How to get there: by car from Limassol toward the Kourion archaeological park (see map).
Who it's for: those who combine the beach with sightseeing of antiquities.
The catch: there is no equipment rental on the shore; loungers and umbrellas are provided by the establishments.

15. Atlantida Beach, Paphos

Atlantida Beach is located in a bay below Paphos, near the village of Kouklia and the sanctuary of Aphrodite. According to legend, this is where Aphrodite emerged from the sea foam. The shore is long, sandy and pebbly, and the water at the entrance is shallow and protected by breakwaters.

There are separate shallow-water zones for toddlers. You can rent a lounger, umbrella, and sports equipment, and you can eat at a cafe on the shore. For active guests, there are sports grounds and tennis courts at the Geroskipou club. The Paphos water park with slides and pools operates nearby (as of 09/2026, Visit Cyprus portal).

How to get there: southeast of Paphos, a bus runs from the city, and there is parking near the beach (see map).
Who it's for: families who combine the sea and a water park.
The catch: part of the shore is pebbly, so you need water shoes to enter the sea.

16. Coral Bay, Paphos

Coral Bay sandy beach under a cloudy sky

Coral Bay is a crescent-shaped bay in the northern part of Paphos, in Coral Bay. Fine light sand and limestone headlands make it one of the most recognizable on the island. The swimmable area here is long.

A large modern hotel stands on the shore with its own direct access to the water and its own pools. The infrastructure is built to a European standard: a large parking lot, equipment, boat and speedboat rentals, children's and sports areas, and a scuba diving training spot. Beach access is free, and cafes and bars operate nearby (as of 09/2026, island tourism website).

How to get there: north of central Paphos, by bus or car (see map).
Who it's for: those who want a beachfront hotel and a sandy entry.
The catch: in season the bay fills up, and open sand remains only along the edges.

Sandy beaches of Northern Cyprus

In the north of the island there are also many sandy shores, but some of them are private and belong to hotels. A large share of the stretches remain wild, with minimal infrastructure. For families, the bays near Famagusta are better suited, where the sand is fine and the entry is gentle. Private hotel beaches are usually open to guests, and there is a fee to enter the grounds.

Which one to choose for a vacation with kids

With little ones, choose bays sheltered from waves and wind. A gentle entry and shallow bottom matter more than proximity to entertainment.

The easiest options with kids are in Ayia Napa and Protaras. Nissi Beach, Makronissos, Fig Tree Bay and Agia Thekla offer calm water near the shore, and lifeguards are on duty at Nissi and Makronissos. In the eastern part of Ayia Napa, the bottom at Ammos Kambouri is rocky, and small children find it uncomfortable there (as of 09/2026, island tourism board).

In Limassol, Dasoudi is more convenient with kids: a park with a eucalyptus grove and areas with soft sand are nearby. In Paphos, choose Atlantida and Coral Bay, where the water is shallow and there are fewer waves.

Which hotel to choose

There are no fenced-off beaches in Cyprus; all sections flow into one another. First-line hotels often set up their own area and provide guests with loungers and umbrellas for free. On municipal beaches, rentals are paid. Over two weeks this adds up to a noticeable amount, so a hotel's proximity to the water really affects your budget.

Below we've gathered first-line hotels from different parts of the island. All of them sit on the sandy beaches from the list above.

Coral beach hotel & resort 5*

Palm trees and bougainvillea above Coral Bay Beach

Coral Beach Hotel & Resort is located in Coral Bay near Paphos, right on Coral Bay beach. The hotel has its own sandy shore and its own harbor. The buildings opened in 1996, with the last renovation in 2012.

The grounds are designed for a long family vacation: two outdoor pools with slides, a spa center, sauna, gym, and several bars and restaurants. A kids' club and nursery are available for children. The on-site Limani taverna serves fish and puts on folk dance performances. Guests have access to equipment rental, a beauty salon, shops, and parking.

Location: on Coral Bay beach; the drive to central Paphos takes about twenty minutes (per the map).
Who it's for: families with children and those who don't want to leave the property.
The catch: the hotel is large and popular, so the pool areas get crowded in season.
Book: Coral Beach Hotel prices on Trip.com.

GrandResort 5*

GrandResort sits on the first line east of Limassol, on its own sandy beach. The buildings were constructed in 1992, with the last renovation in 2018. The grounds are surrounded by a dense palm grove.

The sea near the shore is shallow, with a gentle slope and sandy bottom. Guests can use several pools, a spa center, sports courts, and equipment rental. For children there are play areas, safe pools with slides, a mini club, and a mini disco. In the evening, the restaurants and bars host music shows and folklore nights.

Location: first line; central Limassol is about half an hour away by car (per the map).
Who it's for: families with children and couples who want their own beach.
The catch: the hotel is large, and the grounds fill up in high season.
Book: GrandResort Limassol prices on Trip.com.

The Royal Apollonia 5*

The Royal Apollonia occupies a modern building on the Limassol shore. Huge French windows look out to the sea, and the balconies offer views of the Troodos peaks. The hotel has its own sandy beach, and the ruins of ancient Amathus are just five kilometers away.

Guests have access to several restaurants, including the Japanese Akakiko, a sauna, tennis courts, and free parking. There are three pools, one of them freshwater, plus a separate children's pool. You can rent water sports equipment and head out for a trip on the sea.

Location: first line; a bus along the seafront will take you to central Limassol (per the map).
Who it's for: couples and families with older children.
The catch: some rooms don't face the sea, so it's best to confirm the view when booking.
Book: Royal Apollonia Limassol prices on Trip.com.

Adams Beach Hotel 5*

Adams Beach Hotel sits on Nissi Beach, a couple of kilometers from central Ayia Napa. The hotel has its own stretch of sand on the bay shore, and it's always well kept in summer. Rooms are split between the main building and the newer Deluxe Wing with a more upscale design.

Hotel grounds with palm trees and sea view

The property has several restaurants, bars, and cafes, the Olympic spa, a sauna, a gym, and pools. A kids' club and entertainment are available for children, while parents can head off on an excursion or out on the water. Equipment rental and sports training centers operate on site.

Location: on Nissi Beach; central Ayia Napa is about three kilometers away (per the map).
Who it's for: families with children and younger travelers.
The catch: Nissi's shore is packed in season, so don't expect peace and quiet.
Book: Adams Beach Ayia Napa prices on Trip.com.

Venus Beach Hotel 5*

Venus Beach Hotel stands on the first line near the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos. The building is modern and tall. The hotel has its own clean sandy beach, and Coral Bay is about fifteen minutes away by car.

Guests are offered rooms with sea and green hill views, a spa, a bathhouse, a sauna, pools, and a conference hall. Children's play areas and age-appropriate programs are available. Lifeguards are on duty at the private beach, and a rental bike will help you reach nearby attractions.

Location: next to the Tombs of the Kings, about a ten-minute drive to central Paphos (on the map).
Who it's for: couples and families who want Paphos and their own stretch of sea.
The catch: you need to drive to Coral Bay beach and the city center.
Book: prices at Venus Beach Paphos on Trip.com.

Four Seasons Hotel 5*

Four Seasons Hotel sits in a tropical garden by the Limassol beach. The buildings opened in 1993, and after a 2018 renovation the hotel refreshed all rooms, including the penthouses. Dense greenery shields the property from the city.

Four Seasons hotel facade at night with lighting

Guests get access to spa treatment rooms, an indoor pool, a sauna, and a separate relaxation area. The sports center offers a beginner diver course. Several restaurants and bars cover any dining format, and you can walk to the sand with loungers and umbrellas in a couple of minutes.

Location: first line in Limassol, you need to drive to the city promenade (on the map).
Who it's for: those looking for high-level service by the sea.
The catch: the hotel is popular, so you need to book in advance in high season.
Book: prices at Four Seasons Limassol on Trip.com.

Mediterranean Beach Hotel 4*

Hotel pools with palm trees and sea view

Mediterranean Beach Hotel sits on the first line, just a couple of steps from the sandy beach and lagoon. The semicircular building shelters the inner courtyard from the wind.

Rooms here start at deluxe category, with views of the island, garden, pool, or sea. The main restaurant, Archipelage, operates on an open terrace overlooking the water. The property has a multi-level outdoor pool with a waterfall and cave, plus a sunbathing area, a children's pool with slides, and sports courts.

Location: first line, free guest parking (on the map).
Who it's for: couples and families who value a sea view from the room.
The catch: seaweed appears in the bay during the season, and the water near the shore gets murky.
Book: prices at Mediterranean Beach Limassol on Trip.com.

Elias Beach Hotel 4*

Elias Beach Hotel sits on a sandy shore in the eastern part of Limassol. The surrounding park is planted with exotic vegetation, and among its paths stands the chapel of St. Elias, where couples hold weddings. The beach has a wide Sunset pier where evening programs are held.

Dining here is all-inclusive. Loungers with white mattresses and reed umbrellas are provided free of charge. The sea entry is gentle, and a pontoon is set up near the shore. For children, The Little Monsters club offers games, a disco, and drawing lessons.

Location: east of Limassol, the sports club is seven kilometers away with a free shuttle (on the map).
Who it's for: families with children and couples who want all-inclusive.
The catch: the sports club is outside the hotel, so you need to take the shuttle.
Book: prices at Elias Beach Limassol on Trip.com.

Lordos Beach Hotel 4*

Lordos Beach Hotel occupies a plot on a private beach in Larnaca Bay. It's a choice for those who come for the water: diving, windsurfing, and water skiing here are led by the hotel's instructors.

Rooms are spacious, many with balconies and Mediterranean Sea views. There are pools for adults and children, a sunbathing terrace, tennis courts, and a golf course. A kids' club is available. Dining is arranged across restaurants and bars serving Mediterranean and European cuisine.

Location: about a fifteen-minute drive to central Larnaca, near Larnaca Fort and the ruins of Kition (on the map).
Who it's for: water sports enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet stay.
The catch: you can't walk to the city without a car, so you need transport.
Book: prices at Lordos Beach Larnaca on Trip.com.

Vassos Nissi Plage Hotel & Spa 4*

Vassos Nissi Plage Hotel & Spa sits a couple of steps from Nissi Bay, between Nissi Beach and Nissi Bay. It's a compact hotel in a single building, so you can reach the sea in a minute.

The courtyard has freshwater overflow pools, with a separate section for children. There's a playground, animation, and an evening disco, and the restaurants offer a children's menu. Nearby is a garden with rare palms, and the lawn is used for sunbathing. For sports, there are courts, a gym, and a golf club.

Location: next to Nissi Bay, alternative: Makronissos and Agia Thekla beaches (on the map).
Who it's for: young people and families who want to stay near Nissi Beach.
The catch: in high season, the Nissi area is noisy until late at night.
Book: prices at Vassos Nissi Ayia Napa on Trip.com.

Sandy beaches of Cyprus on the map

All sixteen beaches from the list are marked on the map below. Open it in a separate window to build a route between the shores and hotels. The beaches are grouped by area: Protaras, Ayia Napa, Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos.

Sandy beaches of Cyprus

Places on the map

1Golden Coast Beach Bay between Protaras and Paralimni, shallow entry for children
2Fig Tree Bay The most popular beach in Protaras, a small island in the middle of the bay
3Konnos Bay Bay among cliffs by Cape Greco park, a winding descent
4Ammos tou Kambouri Rocky bottom by the path to the sea caves, for diving
5Pantachou Beach The longest town beach in Ayia Napa, by the fishing harbour
6Nissi Beach Cyprus's most famous and lively beach, islet and sandbar
7Makronissos Beach The oldest beach in Ayia Napa, the eastern side is equipped
8Nissi Bay The western part of the same bay, known for bars and clubs
9Finikoudes Larnaca's town beach along the Finikoudes promenade
10Malindi Beach Well-kept town beach in Limassol, pebbles and grey sand
11Aphrodite Beach Municipal beach in eastern Limassol, grey volcanic sand
12Dasoudi Beach Developed recreation area in eastern Limassol, eucalyptus grove
13Kourion Beach Beach by the Kourion archaeological park, view of the stadium ruins
14Atlantis Beach Bay below Paphos near the Aphrodite sanctuary, enclosed by breakwaters
15Coral Bay Crescent-shaped bay north of Paphos, limestone headlands
16Agia Thekla Beach Beach by the Agia Thekla cave church, quieter than busier spots

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit the sandy beaches of Cyprus?

The swimming season opens in May and lasts until the end of October. The warmest water is from June to September, when the shores are crowded and hot. In May and October the sea is calmer, and finding a sunbed is easier. For a trip with children, choose late spring or early fall.

How much does a sunbed and umbrella cost on the beach?

On municipal beaches, rental is paid. In Ayia Napa, a limit of €3.50 per sunbed and €3 per umbrella was set for 2026 (as of 06/2026, Philenews on beach prices). Beachfront hotels often provide sunbeds to guests for free, so compare this when choosing accommodation.

Do you need a car to visit the beaches?

For most beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras, a car is not necessary: buses run between them. The exception is Konnos Bay, which is difficult to reach without a car. In Limassol and Paphos, distances are greater, and without a car or taxi you can only reach the city beaches. It's worth comparing car rental prices in advance, as they rise in season.

Where is the calmest sandy beach in Cyprus?

The quietest spots on the list are Konnos Bay, Agia Thekla, and Kourion Beach. There are few activities there, but the water is calm and there are almost no crowds. For music and bars, head to Nissi Bay in Ayia Napa.

Which beaches in Cyprus are best for snorkeling?

The water is clear across most of the island. Ammos Kambouri and Nissi Beach are better suited for snorkeling: fish stay near the rocks and the islet, and dive centers operate nearby. In Larnaca, divers are drawn to the sunken ferry Zenobia.

In short: what to book

If you need sand and a gentle entry for a child, go for Nissi Beach, Makronissos, or Fig Tree Bay. If you want quiet, choose Konnos Bay and Agia Thekla. For long swims and cafes within steps, Finikoudes in Larnaca and Coral Bay in Paphos work well.

The selection matrix is simple. Traveling with kids: a hotel near Nissi Beach or Makronissos. Need peace: Protaras and Konnos Bay. Vacationing without a car: Larnaca and Ayia Napa. Want a beachfront hotel with a sandy entry: Coral Bay in Paphos.

Book: hotels near the sandy beaches of Cyprus on Trip.com.

Where in Cyprus there is sand and a gentle entry: 16 beaches from Protaras to Paphos