Discovering the Eastern Coast
The southeastern tip of Cyprus between Ayia Napa and Protaras is what most people imagine as a "Cyprus vacation": turquoise water, white sand, rows of sun umbrellas, and beach bars with cocktails. Here lie the beaches that appear on every Instagram timeline — Nissi Beach, Fig Tree Bay, Konnos Bay.
But the region offers more than just beaches. The Cape Greco between Ayia Napa and Protaras is a national park with spectacular cliffs, sea caves, and hiking trails. The Sea Caves are a snorkeling paradise, and inland lies the medieval Ayia Napa Monastery, which gave the town its name.
Ayia Napa itself has two faces: a relaxed seaside resort by day, and the party capital of the eastern Mediterranean by night, often compared to Ibiza. For those who prefer it quieter, drive 10 km to Protaras — everything there is geared towards families.
Orientation
- Ayia Napa Center: Compact, pedestrian-friendly. The monastery at its heart, around it the main square with restaurants and the club area on Louka Louka Street.
- Nissi Beach: 3 km west of the center. THE postcard beach, with beach bars and party atmosphere in summer.
- Cape Greco: 8 km east of Ayia Napa. National park with cliffs, caves, and hiking trails. Between Ayia Napa and Protaras.
- Protaras: 10 km east of Ayia Napa. Quieter alternative with Fig Tree Bay and family-friendly infrastructure.
- Paralimni: 5 km north. The actual town behind the resorts — this is where the locals live and everything is cheaper.
