The top 6 beaches in Cyprus - A 'Cyprus Villages' guide.
Embraced by the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is surrounded by coast, and whichever part of the sun-drenched island you may be visiting, there is always a beach nearby waiting to be discovered.
The beach experience varies from coast to coast, with unique characteristics for each region, including the colour of the sands and waters; the marine life and natural significance; the organised facilities and water sports available, and the popularity - or seclusion - of the shore. One common factor that unites all coasts and beaches is the seal of quality.
The island consistently receives awards, accolades and top rankings for its water quality and safety, its eco-initiatives and the general cleanliness of its beaches. Cyprus is the proud recipient of 61 Blue Flag beaches - an eco-label awarded to beaches and marinas across the globe that meet its standards - and is also crowned ‘Cleanest Bathing Waters in Europe,’ with a consistent 100% score, year after year.
The Cyprus Marine Environment Protection Association (CYMEPA), which is an associate member of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), is the body responsible for the strict Blue Flag Campaign on the island, whilst the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) has the role of the Blue Flag National Coordinator.
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Zapalo Beach
This magical beach near Limassol is located in the area near the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, at the Episkopi Bay. It is also known as Apollo beach. The beach is not visible from the main road, as it is nestled beneath the edge of a high cliff. The sharp rocks, filled with falcon nests, are one of the elements that make up the unique, wild charm of the setting at Zapalo beach. Reaching the beach may be a challenge, due to the uneven ground. One can access it by climbing down the dirt road on foot, or with a kayak or a boat from the nearby Kourion beach.
Konnos Beach
Situated 4 km east of the centre of the popular resort of Ayia Napa - on the road between Cape Gkreko and Protaras - the 200-metre long beach of Konnos is one of the most picturesque on the island.
The last beach delineating the boundaries between Ayia Napa and Paralimni, Konnos is small and idyllic, and covered in fine golden sand. Its calm and crystal clear sea waters are sheltered from heavy winds.
Facilities on the beach include toilets, changing rooms, sun beds, umbrellas, a beach bar with music, and water sports facilities. There is also a transit point for small boats as the adjacent beaches provide bays for anchoring boats and diving. There are high-end hotels overlooking the beach, and restaurants and convenience stores nearby.
Fig tree bay
Located in the popular tourist resort of Protaras in the popular holiday town of Paralimni, the popular beach of Protaras - better known as Fig Tree Bay - boasts fine, golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It takes its name from a single, solitary fig tree that has been there since the 17th century.
Facilities on the beach include toilets, changing rooms, sun beds, umbrellas and water sports facilities, whilst the general area has a variety of accommodation, restaurants and kiosks.
Lifeguards with lifesaving equipment and first aid services are stationed at the beach from April - October.
The beach also offers disabled access, including a special wheelchair at the lifeguard tower to help disabled persons enter the sea with assistance from the lifeguards.
Access is easy by foot, bike or car, and there are car-parking facilities.
Governors beach & White rocks coastline
A beach of contrasting dark sands and white rock.
Located by Pentakomo village, about 10 km east of the main hotel district of Lemesos (Limassol), the famous Governor’s Beach is one of the most popular coastal areas of the island, and is characterized by chalk white rocks that extend into the deep blue sea.
Comprised of two parts (Governor’s and Kalymnos), the first section of Governor’s beach has dark grey sands and uneven surfaces, whereas the second section (Kalymnos) - which lies around 200 m west of Governor’s beach - is replaced by flat ground and a long, narrow stretch of sandy coastline. Both boast calm, clean seawaters and provide a fantastic setting for walking amidst nature, as such they are popular with all, including families with small children.
Facilities on the beach include toilets, showers, changing rooms, sun beds, umbrellas, a children’s playground, beach cafes and a nearby camping site (Kalymnos). There are also several traditional restaurants, known for their fresh fish.
Lifeguards with lifesaving equipment and first aid services are stationed at the beach from April - October.
Access is easy by car via the A1 motorway, and the area has car-parking facilities available. The beach also offers disabled access.
Kourion Beach
Located in the greater Lemesos (Limassol) area of Episkopi Bay, Kourion beach is a 1 km long coast that is particularly striking with its natural palette of colours, and a regal and ancient history.
Its designated swimming area has an exceptionally wide shore, comprised of sand and pebbles. The seawaters are crystal-clear and varying shades of blue that beautifully contrast with the surrounding white hills. Windsurfing can also be enjoyed here.
Facilities on the beach include toilets, showers, changing rooms, sun beds, umbrellas and several fish taverns. Within a short distance (about 1 km) there are convenience stores, a children’s playground and accommodation.
Lifeguards with lifesaving equipment and first aid services are stationed at the beach from April - October.
One of the island’s most famous archaeological sites - that of ancient Kourion - is close by and well worth a visit, especially for its magnificent Greco-Roman amphitheatre where cultural events are still held to this day.
Access is easy by foot, bus, bike or car, with car-parking facilities available.