10 must-visit beaches in Ayia Napa
“Famous for crystal-clear waters, soft golden sand, and vibrant Mediterranean energy, Ayia Napa’s beaches are a top summer destination.”
From one end to the other, Ayia Napa is wrapped in blue. Its breathtaking coastline and turquoise waters make it a world-renowned seaside escape. Nissi Beach, for instance, ranks among Europe’s top 10 and the world’s top 25 beaches, according to Tripadvisor. In 2024, sixteen of Ayia Napa’s beaches earned Blue Flag awards for their cleanliness and facilities.
Most beaches are well-equipped with new sunbeds, umbrellas, lifeguards, parking, and upgraded amenities like toilets, showers, and changing rooms. They also provide access for people with reduced mobility and offer free Wi-Fi.
We’ve chosen 10 of the best beaches to help you plan your visit—but there are many more worth discovering:
Nissi Beach
Nissi Beach is Cyprus’s most famous stretch of sand and a jewel among all beaches in Ayia Napa. Just 50 metres from shore, a small rocky islet gives the beach its name. Blonde sand and turquoise water attract visitors from around the world. The party scene draws young crowds, while families love the shallow, safe water. The beach is awarded a Blue Flag every year.
In 2024, Tripadvisor ranked it among the world’s top 25 and Europe’s top 7 beaches. Quotezone even named it the best beach in Europe.
Services: Lifeguards, toilets, changing rooms, showers, water sports, restaurants, beach bars, cafes, a volleyball court, and parking.
Tip: Swim to the nearby islet for amazing summer selfies and stunning views.
Makronissos Beach
Shaped like a mermaid’s tail, Makronissos boasts white sand and clear, calm water. It’s a Blue Flag beach and a picture-perfect Mediterranean spot. Tripadvisor ranks it among the best in Europe. It is one of the best beaches in Ayia Napa.
Services: Lifeguards, toilets, changing rooms, showers, a beach volleyball court, a diving center, water sports, and a canteen.
Tip: Explore the nearby bay of Small Makronissos—it looks like a serene blue lagoon.
Pantachou Beach
Pantachou stretches 1.2 km from Ayia Napa’s harbour to Glyko Nero Beach. It’s lively on one end with beach bars and restaurants, and peaceful on the other, perfect for families. It’s a Blue Flag beach and one of the area’s most youthful spots.
Services: Lifeguards, restaurants, beach bars, changing rooms, toilets, showers, water sports, parking, tennis and volleyball courts, and accessible facilities.
Tip: Stay late to catch a stunning sunset with the harbour in the background.
Landa Beach
The name “Landa” means “calm waters” in Cypriot, and the beach lives up to it. Nestled in a sheltered bay, it offers golden sand and a relaxing vibe. It’s perfect for families and comes with a Blue Flag certification.
Services: Lifeguards, changing rooms, showers, toilets, a volleyball court, beach bar, water sports, parking, and a floating wheelchair for accessible sea entry.
Tip: Sip a cocktail at the beach bar while enjoying the sunset.
Ammos tou Kambouri Beach
This quiet, pebbly beach is framed by rocks and ideal for those seeking tranquility. It features elegant wooden sunbeds and family loungers. It’s Blue Flag certified and officially “Plastic Free.”
Services: Lifeguards, parking, a canteen, and accessible facilities.
Tip: Bring a mask to explore the rich underwater world.
Ayia Napa Marina Beach
This man-made beach lies in front of the marina’s villas. Protected by a breakwater, it stays calm and uncrowded, even in peak season. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind with a book.
Services: Showers, changing rooms, a luxury beach bar-restaurant, and parking.
Tip: Watch the sunset over the chapel of Ayia Thekla—it’s unforgettable.
Ayia Napa Marina (East Beach)
East Beach is a hidden cove near the marina’s commercial area. With clear waters and a rocky sunbed, it’s located between the Blue Flag beaches of Ayia Thekla and Makronissos.
Services: Food and drinks can be ordered via QR code. Large parking available.
Tip: Pack your fishing gear and join locals fishing from the rocks.
Vathia Gonia Beach
A natural cove shelters Vathia Gonia from wind, creating a peaceful, shallow swimming area. The sandy beach has a Blue Flag and is ideal for families.
Services: Lifeguards, restaurants, beach bars, water sports, showers, changing rooms, toilets, parking, and accessible sea entry.
Tip: Bring gear for snorkeling or diving—there’s plenty to explore.
Pernera Beach-MUSAN Underwater Museum
Recently updated with wooden loungers and straw umbrellas, this Blue Flag beach is a calm retreat. It’s also home to MUSAN, the Underwater Sculpture Museum—perfect for diving adventures.
Services: Lifeguards, parking, showers, toilets, changing rooms, and outdoor fitness equipment.
Tip: Take a sunset walk along the seaside path toward the harbour. It’s breathtaking.
Ayia Thekla Beach
Named after the charming chapel on a rock, Ayia Thekla Beach features golden sand and calm, clear water. The shallow seabed is family-friendly, and the beach is part of the protected NATURA 2000 network.
Services: Lifeguards, a restaurant, toilets, changing rooms, showers, and accessible facilities.
Tip: Climb to the chapel at sunset for magical photos and sweeping views.
