Famagusta region · honest guide
Things to Do in Ayia Napa & Protaras
The east coast has the water everyone comes to Cyprus for: Nissi Beach and Fig Tree Bay are the postcard, and the sea really is that clear. Ayia Napa does the nightlife, Protaras does the families, and the coastline between them hides coves that stay calm even in August.
The real surprise is Cape Greco, the national forest park at the island's southeast tip: sea caves, cliff jumps, a coastal trail with the best morning light on the island, and water so blue it looks edited.
Right now in Famagusta: 27°C · sea 0°C · live conditions
The famous beaches
Cape Greco and nature
Views and sea caves
History nearby
All 135 ancient & historic sites →
Villages of the red-soil east
Local tips
- Nissi Beach before 9am is a different place: glass water, no music, the sandbar to the islet all yours.
- The Cape Greco coastal trail from Konnos Bay to the sea caves takes about an hour and is the best free thing on the east coast. No shade: go early or late.
- Fig Tree Bay gets packed by 11am in season. Kalamies and Sirena Bay nearby stay saner.
- Out of season (November to April) the east coast basically closes; the beaches are still glorious and empty.
Good to know
Ayia Napa or Protaras: which one?
Ayia Napa for nightlife and a big-beach scene, Protaras for families and calm shallow bays. They are 15 minutes apart, so you can base in one and use both.
What is Cape Greco?
A national forest park at the southeast tip of Cyprus: sea caves, natural arches, coastal walking trails and some of the clearest water on the island. Free, and best in the early morning.
Are the beaches in Ayia Napa free?
Yes, every beach in Cyprus is public and free by law. You pay only for optional sunbeds and umbrellas, typically a few euros each.