The government of Cyprus supports the Blue Flag program, which promotes clean and environmentally friendly beaches. This program is owned and administered by an independent, non-profit organization called the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Based on the implementation of safety measures, service quality, water quality principles and environmentally friendly wastewater management, in addition to their unspoiled natural beauty, I have made a modest selection of 7 beaches.

The beaches classified as family friendly have been awarded the Blue Flag award, while the remaining beaches have been selected primarily for their breathtaking natural beauty.

Beaches for families:

1. Dhekelia Beach (Larnaca) – located in the town of Oroklini in the Larnaca district. This is one of those beautiful, eco-friendly gems that offers clean water, a sandy environment, a safe environment (lifeguards), disabled access, bars and restaurants and is easily accessible by foot, bike, or car. Additional attractions are in the form of water sports on offer, such as: diving, windsurfing, fishing, etc.

2. McKenzie Beach (Larnaca) – located in the municipality of Larnaca, the beach begins shortly after leaving Larnaca airport, and unfolds in front of you as you drive in the direction of the city. The beach is a quieter version, compared to Phinikoudes Beach, which is the main beach that overlooks the boardwalk. McKenzie Beach is known for its white sand, shallow and clean sea. We offer a wide selection of restaurants, taverns, water sports facilities (diving, surfing) with a good selection of small hotels and private apartments nearby.

3. Fig Tree Bay (Protaras) – based in the district of Protaras. This beach is named after the British in memory of a solitary century-old fig tree that grows just above the beach. This is a very popular beach in the Protaras district, for those who know it. It was not signposted from nearby roads, so look for signs indicating the location of the Hotel Salparo apartments and bringing you closer to the beach. The beach offers facilities for water skiing, paragliding or you can simply enjoy its clean waters mixed with a sandy environment.

4. Nissi Beach (Ayia Napa) In a quiet bay of Nissi there is a magnificent sandy beach with calm, clean and striking turquoise waters and excellent views. Geographically it is configured in such a way that it is protected from the wind. Being only three kilometers from Ayia Napa, it is much quieter than the city beach.

Type of beaches “Nature at its best”:

5. Lara Bay (Paphos) – located where the developer’s hand has yet to fully reach, on the northwestern coastal side of the island, on the Akamas Peninsula. Lara Bay is located on the Paphos side, approximately 8 km from Ayios Georgios. It can only be accessed by 4×4 or hiking. This is “nature at its best”, an almost deserted sandy beach. It is one of the few remaining refuges to nest the green turtle and the loggerhead turtle. The beach is restricted in the height of summer as the turtles nest. Not recommended for children.

6. Coral Bay (Paphos) – is one of the best known beaches in western Cyprus. Being located in the Peyia municipality of Paphos, the beach is about a ten minute drive from Paphos. The beach has a beautiful long curving strip of golden sand that falls between two headlands. The shallow, calm waters offer a safe swimming environment for swimmers, beginners, and children. For those looking for an adventure on the water, there are well-equipped diving, waterskiing and canoeing clubs.

7. Beach “Relax” (Pomos): This small Cyprus beach is hidden in front of the equally small fishing port of Pomos with its even smaller but colorful fishing boats. Small but perfectly formed amidst the rocks, the only other visitors you are likely to see will be some locals outside of the busy summer months. Two taverns on either side of the bay offer a selection of fresh and delicious fish dishes. Driving to Mansoura, on a clear day, splits the view into spectacular scenery of Morpou Bay and the Kyrenian Mountains in the distance.