Cyprus

Nestled between Limassol and Pafos, Aphrodite's Beach is permeated by a romantic atmosphere, in a suggestive backdrop that is hardly forgettable. Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, chose the rock that stands imposingly in the beach's shallow waters to begin her life, donating a mythological aura to its shore.

Governor's Beach is situated off the well-trodden path, where a wall of whitewashed cliffs plunges into the shore, standing out from the surroundings. Restaurants and facilities are located throughout its length, and the nearby hills offer some suggestive walking trails.

The dolphin-tail-shaped peninsula of Makronissos boasts pristine sandy beaches that lead gently into the clear blue sea. Surrounded by lush green shrubs, a short two-minute walk takes you to a more secluded stretch of coastline, perfect for a peaceful and relaxing day at the beach. The area's former reef status has resulted in fascinating rock formations that add to its charm and allure. At the tip of the peninsula, you'll discover ancient tombs, which can be explored at no cost. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and history of this captivating coastal destination, an ideal spot for beach lovers and those seeking a serene escape in the stunning surroundings of Cyprus.

Coral Bay, one of Cyprus's best beaches, is a beautiful stretch of golden sand nestled between protective cliffs. This sun-worshipper's paradise boasts calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and water sports. Recognized with a Blue Flag, the beach guarantees clean and safe waters for all to enjoy. Umbrellas and sun loungers are available, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience. Despite its popularity among tourists, controlled development has allowed Coral Bay to retain its charm. A variety of restaurants and bars are conveniently located within walking distance, offering a diverse range of dining options.

Fontana Amorosa is a gorgeous remote beach known for its captivating turquoise waters. Accessible by 4x4 vehicles, boats, or a challenging hike, this unspoiled gem has been preserved from commercial development, offering a pristine and serene environment. Snorkelling and swimming in the shallow, blue-green water are popular activities here, and the underwater world is teeming with fascinating artefacts and marine life. Make sure to bring your snorkelling gear and explore the underwater wonders, but remember not to disturb any ancient clay pots or artefacts you may come across. If you're up for a day trip, consider taking a jeep "bus" service for Aphrodite's Bath parking area.

Kourion Beach, with its dramatic landscape and unique atmosphere, provides a thrilling alternative to the calmer beaches typically found in Cyprus. Famed for being a popular kitesurfing destination, the steady winds and looming limestone cliffs create the perfect conditions for the sport. These cliffs are also an excellent spot to observe the beach from above, as they overlook the ancient ruins of Kourion. Although strong currents make swimming off-limits in the eastern part of the coast, wading into the waves further along is both safe and enjoyable. The beach offers plenty of space, wooden walkways, sun loungers, and lifeguard supervision for a comfortable experience. Families will appreciate the on-site playgrounds and restaurants, while the beautiful sand and refreshing breeze make sunbathing a dream.

Lara Beach, just north of the busy resort of Coral Bay, offers a wild and secluded escape for those seeking a more private experience. Requiring a bit of extra effort and a 4x4 vehicle to traverse the dirt road leading to it, this hidden gem rewards visitors with a serene sandy cove and stunning views. As an added bonus, the lack of artificial light in the area creates the perfect environment for green and loggerhead turtles to nest, with easily spotted markers put up by dedicated volunteers. So, if you're up for a bit of an adventure, Lara Beach is well worth the journey.

Situated at the northern edge of Limassol, Malindi Beach is a superb sandy stretch that's arguably one of the finest in Cyprus. Found near St Raphael Marina, the beach is divided into two parts: Malindi Beach to the right and St Raphael Beach to the left. With St Raphael Beach often busier due to its adjacent hotel, Malindi Beach provides ample space for sunbathing, with a generous supply of loungers and sandy spots for those who prefer to lay out a towel. The sea at Malindi is remarkably calm and shallow, remaining knee-deep for around 50 metres out, making it an ideal destination for families with children or those who enjoy seafront ball games. Malindi Beach Bar is a popular hotspot among locals and tourists alike for its delicious food, refreshing cocktails, and striking views, though it can be a tad pricey. For a more budget-friendly option, check out the unpretentious beach shack cafe next door, offering cold beers, snacks, and coffee.

Paramáli Beach, with its flat sea, consistent breeze, and relatively uncrowded waters, has become a go-to spot for kite surfers along Cyprus's south coast. While the journey may be long, the beach's appeal for kite surfers makes it worthwhile. For non-surfers, the beach offers the opportunity to watch these exhilarating water sports in action, though facilities are limited, which might be a refreshing change from busier city beaches. This picturesque shingle beach, framed by cliffs, is also a popular nesting ground for turtles, including loggerheads and green turtles. During the breeding season, visitors are advised to take care not to disturb the nests. Turtle Watch patrols the beach, collecting data and placing protective cages around the nests to help increase turtle numbers.

Dog's Beach, situated at the end of the Genesis Aphrodite's Trail, is a lovely, secluded rocky beach with fantastic views. It has two entrances: one under the highway and the other directly from the road. Parking can be found nearby. The waters at Dog's Beach can be muddy and wavy, with some swirling currents near the edges, so caution is advised. Friendly dogs are often spotted on the beach, adding to its charm. Dog's Beach serves as a fantastic alternative for those seeking a quieter spot. The Genesis Aphrodite's Trail, starting at Pissouri Pine Bay, is a breathtaking hike with varying difficulty levels. The first part is easy to moderate and family-friendly, while the second section is steep, rocky, and challenging. The trail ends at Dog's Beach, taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes one way. This hike is a must for those who enjoy stunning views and a rewarding destination.

Golden Beach, located at the far end of the Karpas Peninsula in the northeast of Cyprus, is a truly remarkable remote beach. Just 130 kilometres (80 miles) from the Syrian coast, this stunning, isolated spot has a wild and pristine beauty that's sure to impress. With lush greenery reaching all the way to the golden sand, it's no wonder the beach is also a nesting site for green and loggerhead turtles. Although it may be a bit of a rocky path to get there, the journey is well worth the effort.

Glapsides Beach (occasionally called Silver Beach) offers one of Northern Cyprus’ most accessible seaside experiences — a kilometre of fine sand that shelves so gradually you’ll be waist-deep 50 metres from shore. This makes it ideal for tentative swimmers and families with young children, though the real draw is the clarity of its emerald-hued water, where snorkellers can spot darting bream and the occasional octopus. Unlike some Mediterranean beaches, Glapsides remains refreshingly low-key. Two modest beachfront restaurants serve grilled seafood and cold Efes beer, their wooden walkways preventing sand from sticking to flip-flops. A small fee grants access to the organised section with sun loungers, though budget-conscious travellers can still claim a free patch further along. The beach’s practicality shines through: pram-friendly terrain, clean facilities, and lifeguards in peak season. Nearby, the ruins of Salamis — a sprawling 3,000-year-old city — provide cultural counterpoint when sun fatigue sets in. Come evening, the vibe stays mellow; expect acoustic covers at the beach bar rather than thumping clubs. It’s the sort of place where toddlers build sandcastles undisturbed while parents doze under umbrellas.