Ayia Napa / Protaras Villa Holidays

Ayia Napa and Protaras sit at the eastern tip of Cyprus and share the best beaches on the island — shallow, sandy, and with water that is extraordinarily clear even by Mediterranean standards. The two resorts have different personalities: Ayia Napa has historically been associated with clubbing and a younger crowd, though it has diversified significantly and now attracts families and couples alongside the party contingent. Protaras, 10km north, is quieter and more family-oriented, with Fig Tree Bay consistently rated among the best beaches in Europe.

Beaches Fig Tree Bay in Protaras is the standout — pale sand, shallow calm water, excellent facilities, and the kind of turquoise colour that looks artificially enhanced in photographs but isn't. Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa is livelier, with beach bars and water sports. Cape Greco between the two resorts is a protected national park with sea caves accessible by boat and some of the clearest water in Cyprus.

Things to Do Visit Cape Greco for the sea caves and the snorkelling — the water visibility here is remarkable. The Thalassa Municipal Museum of the Sea in Ayia Napa has an unexpectedly good collection including a replica of an ancient Greek merchant ship. Drive north towards Famagusta for the ghost town of Varosha, partially reopened in recent years after decades of closure — one of the most surreal sights in the Mediterranean.

Food & Drink Protaras has a good range of restaurants along the seafront with fresh fish and proper Cypriot cooking. Ayia Napa's food scene has improved significantly. For the best meze, look for the family-run tavernas away from the main strip.

When to Go May through October. The sea in this part of Cyprus is consistently warm from June onwards and often swimmable until November. July and August are peak season — June and September are better value with smaller crowds.