Ayia Napa: white sand, Cape Greco and more than nightlife
Ayia Napa has the whitest beaches in Cyprus and a reputation as a party town. But early in the morning, on the cliffs of Cape Greco, there is hardly a sound. How to enjoy both sides of the town.
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Nissi Beach
Photo: Datingscout / Unsplash
Ayia Napa: two towns in one
It is eight in the morning, and the water at Konnos Bay is so still the kayaks seem to hang in the air. In twelve hours the streets of central Ayia Napa will be full of music. The town in south-east Cyprus is best known for its nightlife, but it was the beaches that made it famous.
The sand is pale and fine, the water shallow and turquoise, and around Cape Greco the cliffs drop straight into the sea. Outside high season, Ayia Napa is a quiet beach town. For the rest of the island, see our Cyprus travel guide.
The beaches of Ayia Napa
Nissi Beach: the best known, with a sandbar out to a tiny islet. Busy and lively in summer.
Makronissos: several small sandy coves west of the centre, quieter than Nissi, with ancient rock-cut tombs nearby.
Konnos Bay: a sheltered cove between the cliffs at Cape Greco, with clear water and pine trees down to the sand.
Fig Tree Bay in Protaras: a popular beach with a small island just offshore, fifteen minutes' drive north.
More beaches across the island are in the best beaches in Cyprus.
Cape Greco
Photo: Simon Bullers / Unsplash
Things to do in Ayia Napa
Cape Greco: the national park on the headland between Ayia Napa and Protaras, with sea caves, a natural rock bridge and clifftop paths.
A boat trip along the coast: boats from the harbour visit the caves and stop for swimming.
Ayia Napa Monastery: a 16th-century Venetian monastery in the middle of town, with a peaceful courtyard.
The Sculpture Park: modern sculptures in a park running down to the sea, open and free.
The nightlife: the bars and clubs around the main square are packed from June to September. Many close in winter.
Where to stay
Alion Beach Hotel
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Alion Beach Hotel: on the beach, away from the centre
A hotel on Kermia Beach east of the centre, with a pool facing the sea and steps straight down to the sand. Quiet enough to sleep well, but a short taxi ride from the restaurants in town.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Alion Beach Hotel
Which area to choose
The centre: for nights out. It is noisy at night in high season.
Nissi Avenue and Makronissos: beach hotels a little out of the centre, close to the best beaches.
Kermia and the Cape Greco area: quieter, by the cliffs and near Konnos Bay.
Protaras: the neighbouring town to the north, more family-friendly and quieter in the evening.
When to go to Ayia Napa
May, June, September and October are best. It is warm, the sea is good for swimming and the town is calm. July and August are hottest and busiest. From November to March many hotels, bars and clubs are closed, but the days are mild. Larnaca airport is around 45 minutes away.
Frequently asked questions about Ayia Napa
Is Ayia Napa just for young people?
No. The centre is known for nightlife in summer, but the beaches, Cape Greco and the hotels outside the centre suit couples and families well, especially in May, June and September.
What is the best beach in Ayia Napa?
Nissi Beach is the best known, with pale sand and shallow water. For peace and quiet, Konnos Bay and Makronissos are better choices.
How far is Ayia Napa from Larnaca?
It takes around 45 minutes by car or bus from Larnaca airport to Ayia Napa.
Is Ayia Napa open in winter?
The town is open, but many bars, clubs and hotels close from November to March. It is mild and good for walks at Cape Greco.