Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Beaches
The azure blue waters of the Mediterranean are Cyprus' biggest drawcard and it's not diffi-
cult to see why. From May to late October sea temperatures rarely dip below 20°C, while
during the peak summer months of July and August, water temperatures average between
24°C and 27°C, making Cyprus the perfect place to plunge right in.
In the South most beaches are well equipped with all the facilities you'd need for a day
on the sand. Even quieter, less-developed beaches will have at least one or two tavernas on
hand for supplies and sun-lounger and sunshade hire. From April to October the popular
beaches all have lifeguards on patrol. South Cyprus has 57 beaches that have been awarded
Blue Flag status and 11 beaches that are fully accessible for wheelchairs right down to the
waterfront; visit
www.blueflag.org
for more information.
Some of the safest swimming on the island is in the calm sheltered waters of Coral Bay
(Pafos) and Fig Tree Bay (Protaras). Konnos Bay on Cape Greco (Agia Napa) is also an ex-
cellent strip of sand for those more interested in swimming than sunning themselves.
Although the beaches of the North have lagged behind on the development front they are
fast catching up. North Cyprus' beaches are divided into public and private. The private
beaches have an entrance fee (though between October and May they are usually free) and,
unsurprisingly, have the most facilities on offer. Even the public beaches usually have toi-
lets, though, and a restaurant or two which will rent sunshades and sun loungers.
SNORKELLING
Some of the best snorkelling areas are situated in the sheltered coves of eastern Cyprus, especially around Protaras.
Waters here are warm and shallow with excellent reefs and plenty of active marine life. You can also see a variety
of shells, sea urchins and hermit crabs. Snorkelling equipment like masks and flippers can all be purchased easily
and cheaply or hired across the island.
