Cyprus is an eastern Mediterranean EU island famed for ancient ruins, sunny beaches, and turquoise seas, with a UN-patrolled buffer zone dividing the Republic of Cyprus from the Turkish-administered north. It offers stunning natural beauty and after returning for many summers, these are the places that truly stood out to me…
1. Nissi Beach
My shot of Nissi Beach – it was both buzzy and stunning!
I have to admit I wasn’t sure what to expect but famous Nissi Beach completely won me over — a 500-metre stretch of soft white sand, shallow turquoise water, and a backdrop of stylish beach clubs, high-energy bars, and DJ-fuelled parties. It felt fun, lively, and full of non-stop energy. Not for everyone — but an absolute icon for a reason!
I flew into Larnaca International Airport and settled in for a heady week of water sports, trendy hang-outs (the buzzy Nissi Bay Beach Bar became my favourite), foam parties, and coastal path strolls. I also wandered across the shallow sandbar to the tiny offshore islet and tucked into a colourful ‘Wellness salad’ at the chic Isola Beach Bar.
Location:Ayia Napa, southeast coast | Size: ~500-metres | Vibe: bright, tropical-feeling, lively by day | Activities: swimming, water sports, beach volleyball, and beach parties.
My personal highlights…
Staying at the Insta-worthy 4-star Tasia Maris Sands – I loved the boutique vibe and sipping on a Rosemary Paloma cocktail around the pool, served in heavy glass tumblers adorned with dried orange slices and fragrant rosemary sprigs!
2. Fig Tree Beach
This was a calmer pick than Nissi Beach, with long stretches of soft golden sand and clear, shallow water scented with fig leaves and warm sap, as well as a café-lined promenade spilling onto a chic, easy-going beachfront. It felt lively but never rowdy and very family-friendly — commercial in places, yes, but with pockets of real beauty too.
A short 20-minute taxi ride from Nissi Beach took me to the boutique-style four-star Capo Bay Hotel, where I spent another sun-drenched week drifting between golden sands, water sports, chilled beachfront cafés, mysterious sea caves, and long, salt-scented strolls along the coastal path.
Location:Protaras, southeast coast | Size: ~400-metres | Vibe: relaxed, family-friendly by day, softly buzzy | Activities: Swimming, snorkelling and water sports.
My favourite highlights…
Hanging out at the cute little beachfront Miyu Coffee Shop – the falafel bowl with tahini sauce, tangy pickled pink turnip and warm flatbread was my go-to!
3. Makronissos Beach
This was family-friendly done right – pristine golden sand, clear shallow water, tasteful low-rise facilities, and a chilled Mediterranean backdrop that makes the whole place feel effortlessly relaxed! Just note the facilities were more low-key rather than luxurious.
I took a separate holiday here flying into Larnaca (LCA) from the UK and staying at the funky 4-star Asterias Beach Hotel. I tried out the fun water sports, relaxed on its pristine sandy shores, explored the interesting nearby ancient tombs, dined on modern local cuisine while listening to DJs at the trendy Makronissos Beach Club. I also discovered free public parking, a few beach bars and restaurants, as well as sunbeds and parasols available for hire!
Location:Ayia Napa, southeast coast | Size: small cluster of three coves | Vibe: quieter, more natural feel than nearby Nissi | Activities: swimming, beach sports and water sports
My personal highlights…
Visiting the eerie Makronissos Necropolis, where 19 ancient tombs are cut straight into chalk-white limestone, their neat rectangular openings faintly scented with warm stone and sea salt!
4. The Blue Lagoon
Set deep within the protected Akamas Peninsula National Park this famous cove felt like an unspoilt slice of paradise and almost otherworldly with electric-blue water drawing in boat-tripping tourists and camera-toting influencers by the boatload, all floating between rugged cliffs in what surreally felt like a real-life Instagram set!
I set off early, drove 45 minutes from my Paphos base at the Insta-famous M Boutique Hotel to Latchi, then hopped on a 30-minute boat to the Blue Lagoon — and four beautiful hours of swimming, snorkelling with parrotfish and damselfish, coastal wandering, and beach-side loafing sealed the deal!
Location:Akamas Peninsula, northwest coast | Size: small bay | Vibe: boat-accessed escape feel | Activities: Snorkelling, swimming, boat tours, and exploring nearby sea caves.
My favourite highlights…
Catching a breathtaking sunset on the journey home whilst enjoying a typical Cypriot dinner of succulent ‘gemista’ washed down with a dry Xynisteri on the private yacht day trip!
5. Paphos
My photo of Paphos Harbour – it was a glistening beauty spot!I snapped the EDRO III shipwreck near Peyia, close to Coral Bay in Paphos – it was a very intriguing sight!
UNESCO sites might be the headline act in Paphos, but for me it was the whole package — ancient history, an impressive castle, stunning beaches, jewel-bright water, graceful architecture old and new, and that irresistible slow-living Mediterranean vibe. It’s just the harbour area was very touristy and busy at night.
I touched down at Paphos International Airport for a short break but packed a lot in – ticking off the UNESCO World Heritage listed Archaeological Park with its incredible Roman mosaics, the legendary Petra tou Romiou, gorging on lemony and herby stuffed vine leaves at Laona Restaurant, beach time at Coral Bay, and a detour to the striking EDRO III shipwreck near Peyia (above!).
Location:southwest coast | Size: medium-sized coastal city | Vibe: historic with relaxed resort energy | Activities: Exploring archaeological sites, visiting Paphos Castle, snorkelling, and coastal walks.
My highlights…
Staying at the boho-chic Annabelle – I was impressed by the Insta-worthy swim up rooms and the spa, especially the “Cretan Herbs Εxperience” which came with cleansing dictamnus and sage!
6. Konnos Beach
Tiny but stunning, this beach totally lived up to its reputation — glowing azure water, soft golden sand, and emerald-greenery wrapped in a calm, just-discovered feel. It was busy at peak times though, so I found weekdays were perfect for enjoying it at its most peaceful.
It was just a 15 minute drive from Nissi Beach and I stayed at the stylish Leonardo Crystal Cove Hotel & Spa and packed in everything I love — calm-water swims, jet-ski sessions with rentals right on the beach, hikes along Cape Greco’s cliff trails for big sea views, plenty of golden-sand lounging, and cool evenings spent at Konnos Bay Beach Bar with a melon cocktail in hand!
Location:Cape Greco area, southeast | Size: small cove | Vibe: unique hideaway feel | Activities: Swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, and sunbathing
My personal highlights…
Dining at the nearby chic Elia Restaurant in Protaras after a day at the beach – I tucked into a zesty zucchini salad and a crisp Xynisteri white
came while gazing at seas views from the stylish outdoor patio!
7. Coral Bay
This was one of my favourite low-key finds — a pretty arc of sandy beach framed by limestone cliffs, sparkling clear waters which were perfect for snorkelling, gorgeous green views, and a scattering of sweet villas and chilled-out resorts. It was beautiful, easygoing, and far less hectic than most Cyprus beaches!
It was just a 20 minutes drive from Paphos and my five days here were the perfect balance of chill and thrill – snorkelling and jet skiing on repeat, wandering the gorgeous Akamas Peninsula trails, cruising out from the marina on a boat trip, and ending evenings along Coral Bay Strip where the casual restaurants, bars, and nightlife really kicked off (the Passion Fruit Martini’s at Kleo’s Cocktail Bar & Night Club were divine)!
Location:10 km north of Paphos, west coast | Size: wide bay | Vibe: family-friendly, relaxed resort | Activities: swimming, jet skiing, diving, and beach walks.
My favourite highlights…
Staying at the very impressive 4-star Thalassa Boutique Hotel & Spa – I adored the spa, which mixed ancient Greek and Roman techniques — the Mineral Ocean Bath which was infused with locally harvested sea salt and potent blue-green algae was my favourite!
8. Nicosia
Being the last divided capital in the world already made this city fascinating, but add its mix of fortified Venetian walls, Gothic churches, modern architecture, busy shopping streets, great museums, and authentic cuisine, and I found this was one seriously compelling place to explore!
I flew into Larnaca International Airport and holed up for two days at the funky 4-star Gate Twenty Two Boutique Hotel and dove straight into the city — museums (Cyprus Museum and Leventis Municipal), walks along the Venetian walls, shopping on Ledra Street, crossing the Green Line to see the contrasts for myself, and ending my nights with heavenly Melitzano-salata and char-grilled Cyprus pitta at the rustic-chic Piatsa Gourounaki.
Location:Central Cyprus (divided capital near the Green Line) | Size: large city | Vibe: slightly edgy cultural feel
My highlights…
Crossing the Green Line on Ledra Street and seeing UN Buffer Zone’s eerie abandoned balconies, overgrown weeds, and rusting barbed wire, then stepped into cobbled lanes scented with cardamom coffee.
9. Lara Bay
This was pure, wild Cyprus – a big curving bay, foamy surf, almost no development, and an atmosphere so peaceful it felt sacred. Add in endangered turtles and even wild goats, and it easily became one of my most memorable finds!
It took a proper 4×4 eco-tour to reach it, but the reward was unforgettable – nesting turtles on the beach (the season ran from May to August), postcard-pretty Akamas Peninsula trails, pristine sand, and snorkelling with colourful marine life.
Location:Akamas Peninsula, west coast | Size: long bay | Vibe: remote, off-the-map feel | Activities: Turtle watching, beach walks, and swimming
My personal highlights…
Watching adorable baby turtles wriggle free from the sand and shuffle towards the surf with their shells still sprinkled with grit!
10. Limassol
This was a beautiful mix of old and new, this coastal city pairs historic landmarks and contemporary design with sandy beaches, quiet pebble bays, and a gorgeous waterfront walkway — then turns up the energy after dark with great food, nightlife, and festival buzz. I would just say it was more “city energy” than romantic resort feel.
From Larnaca Airport I took an hour’s intercity coach to Limassol and stayed at the quirky-cool NYX Hotel Limassol turned into the perfect city-and-sea combo — castle exploring, marina strolls, beach days at Lady’s Mile and Governor’s Beach, nightlife along the promenade, traditional taverna dinners, and a history fix at Kourion archaeological site.
Location:south coast | Size: large city | Vibe: modern and cosmopolitan
My personal highlights…
Dining at the ultra-trendy Pier One totally won me over — from its striking glass-and-steel industrial design to the creative menu and addictive Wasabi Crunch Rolls topped with punchy wasabi-crushed peas.
11. Aphrodite’s Rock
I really enjoyed seeing this dramatic geological formation! I found it to be an awe-inspiring place, with a striking sea stack set against the shimmering waters and a white pebbly beach, all framed by a picturesque, rugged coastline. Steeped in mythology, I thought the site exuded a mystical and captivating vibe!
I took the 25-minute drive from Paphos and found the site to be well-signposted, with a designated parking area (there was also the option of a direct bus service). When here I swam in the sea, relaxed on the scenic Petra tou Romiou beach, explored the nearby hiking trails along the dramatic coastline, and then dined at the laid-back beach café which overlooked the stunning rock.
Location:Petra tou Romiou, southwest coast | Size: large sea stack | Vibe: myth-soaked and windswept, with crashing waves, pale pebbles, and a timeless, cinematic romance feel
My favourite highlights…
Locals telling me about the famous legend — you take three swims around it for beauty, love, fertility, and luck — but one look at the surging water and the fierce rip curling around the rock told me why in reality it’s strongly discouraged!
12. Caledonia Falls
This was a proper hidden-gem waterfall — small, pristine, and beautifully tucked away in a shaded mountain gorge, with cool clear pools, mossy rocks, and thick greenery all around. It did attract crowds at busy times, but visiting midweek kept that peaceful, storybook-quiet vibe intact.
After driving to Platres, I left the car at Psilo Dendro Trout Farm and hiked the 3 km Caledonia Trail to the waterfall (around an hour, moderate effort). Some stretches were a little steep and rocky, but reaching the falls — with mist drifting through the trees, birds singing, and that clear-cool pool waiting at the bottom — made it all worth it!
Location: Troodos Mountains, near Platres, central Cyprus | Size: 12-metres | Vibe: peaceful mountain-escape feel
My personal highlights…
Passing smooth-barked strawberry trees, rock roses, and black poplars on the hike – the air sweet with pine resin and wild thyme, oregano, and sage and the steady hush of falling water drifting through the gorge.
13. Cape Greco
This is one of those places that quietly steals your heart: an enchanting headland with jewel-bright turquoise water, powerful cliffs, fresh green backdrops, and a chilled-out, adventure-ready vibe all rolled into one.
From Ayia Napa it was a breezy 10-minute drive, then a dream lineup: kayaking the sea caves, hiking the Aphrodite and Adonis trails for those big coastal panoramas, snorkelling in the Blue Lagoon’s clear-as-glass water, visiting the sweet little Chapel of Agioi Anargyroi with its steps into the sea, and ending the day cliff-side as the sky turned full Instagram gold!
Location:southeastern tip | Size: around 385 hectares | Vibe: dramatic end-of-the-island feel
My personal highlights…
Climbing to the whitewashed Agioi Anargyroi Chapel, high above the sea, with salt in the air, waves lapping below, and endless turquoise views!
14. Akamas Peninsula National Park
This protected reserve felt like Cyprus at its wildest and most beautiful — pristine turtle beaches, hidden pebble bays, glowing blue-green water, rugged gorges, soft green hills, and scattered old villages, all stitched together by a peaceful, off-grid atmosphere.
I made a 45-minute drive from Paphos (I found the roads were rough!), entered near Latchi (there’s another access at Neo Chorio), and ticked off everything from the spectacular Avakas Gorge and a rugged walk to Cape Arnaoutis to and lazy time on Lara Beach’s turtle-nesting sands!
The 7.5-km Aphrodite Trail (3.5 hours) where I saw wide views over the Bay of Polis and Paphos Forest, Queen’s Tower ruins, and a majestic 500-year-old oak, surrounded by buzzing cicadas and warm pine-and-thyme air!
15. Kalopanayiotis
Casale PanayiotisCasale Panayiotis Spa
This was such a unique tucked away find — a 200-person mountain village complete with stone houses, wooden balconies, cobbled lanes, and Byzantine chapels, surrounded by beautiful Troodos valleys and thermal springs, with a very tranquil, stuck-in-time feel that felt very traditional Cyprus!
A 1.5-hour mountain drive from Nicosia brought me to one of my most memorable Cyprus weekends – the UNESCO-listed Agios Ioannis Lampadistis Monastery with its beautiful frescoes, natural sulphur springs, riverside hikes in the Setrachos Valley, a medieval Venetian bridge crossing, and a seriously relaxing spa session at Casale Panayiotis (pictured above)! Evenings were especially quiet this is very far from a party resort!
Location:Troodos Mountains, central Cyprus | Size: small village | Vibe: stone-built and storybook-pretty, with cobbled lanes, river valleys, cool mountain air, and a peaceful, slow-life retreat feel | Activities: Spa visits, hiking, visiting monasteries, and exploring traditional Cypriot villages.
My personal highlights…
Staying at the unique 4-star former monastery Casale Panayiotis – I adored the spa which was home to a hydrotherapy pool, a mud cabin, a stream room scented with wild thyme, bay leaf and rosemary, a snow cabin, and even a chromotherapy suite!
Trying the Mosaic Rasul Mud Chamber at Myrianthousa Mountain Spa Retreat – I coated my skin in warm, mineral-rich Kalopanayiotis mud as the eucalyptus-and-mint herbal steam drifted through the tiled room!
Beth Pinches - writer and photographer
Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road-tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedinor Facebook.
Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Jersey, Visit Sweden, and Israel Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos. Listed as a top UK travel journalist.Portland Reviewing Experience - Lived in Portland for 6 months and spent many months scouting out all the coolest spots.
Hi Becky! Yep, it’s really me. I’m still on my leave from blogging but I wanted to stop by and say hi. Good post written by Marilia and I would choose Cape Greco. Then absolutely have a Mezedes meal! Have a great day! 🙂
After going through this post i am sure that people will surely gonna put Cyprus in their travel bucket list the pictures are just amazing!
Thank you for sharing! It looks like a really fantastic country to visit…
They all do look truly beautiful just need to visit for myself now! Great post!
Thanks John!
Wow! I’m probably being a bit naive but I didn’t know that Cyprus had such spectacular beaches and wonderful views!
Definitely a surprising travel destination!
Looks so beautiful and peaceful still can’t believe we haven’t we been there yet!!!!
Hope you make it over there one day Lilly!
Wow so beautiful and would love to try the Meze dinner – looks very tasty!
Yes doesn’t it? 🙂
I’ve never been but I didn’t know it was so beautiful! Looks like a great option for a European holiday!
So true – a very beautiful island!
We have a lot of Greek and Turkish food in Denmark, but I have yet to try Cypriot. It sounds (and looks) absolutely delish!
Definitely one to add to the list! 🙂
Beautiful and I think more people will travel to Cyprus now during the Greek crisis…
Yes definitely another travel destination to consider!
What a beautiful looking country those beaches are incredible!
Yes it certainly is blessed! 🙂
Definitely need to add Cyprus to my list now!
Don’t think you’d regret it!
Hi Becky! Yep, it’s really me. I’m still on my leave from blogging but I wanted to stop by and say hi. Good post written by Marilia and I would choose Cape Greco. Then absolutely have a Mezedes meal! Have a great day! 🙂
Oh Mike we’ve missed you! Thanks for saying hi! 🙂
The scenery there looks stunning and rather different image of what I had always imagined Ayia Napa to be like!!
Yes very true, it’s more peaceful and beautiful than people realise!
Fantastic list, really loved seeing all these beautiful places! What a fantastic country!
We agree 🙂
The Falls are beautiful! Very useful list thank you!
Yes who knew Cyprus had such a beautiful waterfall?
Wow I’m very glad,I’m traveling to Cyprus ✈️✈️
These pictures are stunning and the beaches look gorgeous. Cyprus looks like a very cool place to visit.
Yes sure does Marc 🙂