Best Beaches to Visit in Cyprus and How to Reach Them by Taxi

Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa is perhaps the most iconic stretch of sand on the island — and for good reason. Its shallow, turquoise waters extend several meters from shore, making it feel like a natural swimming pool. The fine white sand and backdrop of low rock formations create a postcard setting that draws visitors from across Europe every summer. During peak season, the beach hosts DJs, beach parties, and water sports, giving it an energy that's hard to match.

Getting there by taxi is straightforward from any part of the island. From Larnaca airport, the ride takes about 45 minutes and costs €50–65. From Nicosia, expect 70–80 minutes at €65–80. From Limassol, it's roughly an hour at €55–70. The taxi can drop you directly at the Nissi Beach public parking area, which is a short walk from the sand. Arrive before 9:30 AM in July and August to secure a sunbed — they fill fast.

If you want to visit Nissi but avoid the crowds, consider going in late May, September, or early October. The water is still warm enough for swimming, the beach bars are open but not packed, and taxi prices are off-peak. You'll also find it easier to get a ride back, as summer evening demand in Ayia Napa can lead to longer wait times.

Located in Protaras on the east coast, Fig Tree Bay is consistently rated one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean — and the Blue Flag it proudly flies backs that up. The bay is partially sheltered by a small islet you can swim or wade out to, and the water clarity is extraordinary. It's shallow enough for toddlers to splash safely, while the slightly deeper areas beyond the sandbar appeal to snorkelers and confident swimmers.

The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and nearby restaurants and cafes. The town of Protaras has a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere that contrasts with Ayia Napa's party vibe. A taxi from Larnaca airport takes about 40 minutes (€40–55), from Nicosia around 75 minutes (€60–75), and from Ayia Napa just 15 minutes (€15–20). Protaras is also accessible by bus, but with beach gear and children in tow, a taxi is significantly more comfortable.

Protaras and the surrounding area offer several other beaches within a short taxi ride — Pernera Beach to the south is quieter, while Golden Beach to the north near Paralimni offers a more secluded feel. If you're planning a beach-hopping day, booking a taxi for 3–4 hours and asking the driver to wait between spots can be more economical than ordering separate rides.

On the western coast near Paphos, Lara Beach offers something rare in Cyprus: genuine solitude. This unspoiled stretch of sand is part of a protected nature reserve, and its main visitors aren't tourists but endangered green and loggerhead sea turtles that nest here from May to October. There are no sunbeds, no beach bars, no water sports — just dunes, crystal-clear water, and the sound of the Mediterranean.

Getting to Lara Beach requires some planning. It's located along an unpaved road off the coastal route north of Paphos, and public transport doesn't reach it directly. A taxi from Paphos town center takes about 30 minutes and costs €30–40. From Limassol, budget 90 minutes and €70–90. The road is bumpy but passable for regular vehicles — your taxi driver will know the route. Some drivers may suggest an SUV for comfort, but it's not strictly necessary.

Come prepared: bring your own water, snacks, shade (an umbrella or pop-up tent), and sturdy shoes for the rocky approach. There are no facilities on the beach itself. The nearest toilets and a small kiosk are at the Lara Beach turtle conservation station about 10 minutes' walk south along the coast. If you're visiting during nesting season, stay on the marked paths and respect the fenced-off nesting areas — fines for disturbing turtle nests are significant.

Tucked between Cape Greko and the Ayia Napa–Protaras coastal strip, Konnos Bay is one of Cyprus's most photogenic beaches. The bay is framed by low pine-covered hills that provide natural shade and a striking backdrop of green against blue. The water is calm and clear year-round, making it a favorite for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and simply floating in the gentle waves.

Access is easy — the bay has a small parking area and is well-signed from the main coastal road. A taxi from Ayia Napa takes about 15 minutes (€15–20), from Protaras about 10 minutes (€12–15), and from Larnaca airport roughly 50 minutes (€50–65). The beach has sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, a beachside cafe, and public showers. The surrounding Cape Greko National Forest Park offers hiking trails with sea cliff viewpoints if you want to combine a beach day with a short walk.

Konnos Bay is less crowded than Nissi Beach but can still fill up on weekends in July and August. Weekday mornings are the quietest time. The bay is also a popular stop on boat tours departing from Ayia Napa harbor — but arriving by taxi lets you set your own schedule and avoid the crowded group experience. If you're staying in the area, Konnos is within walking distance of several hotels along the Cape Greko road.

Visiting multiple beaches in a single day is one of the best ways to experience Cyprus's coastline, and a taxi is often the most efficient way to do it. The key is planning your route geographically — don't zigzag across the island. On the east coast, for example, you can easily combine Nissi Beach, Konnos Bay, and Fig Tree Bay in one day since they're all within a 20-minute drive of each other. A full-day taxi hire for this route typically costs €120–160, which splits nicely among a group.

When booking a beach-hopping taxi, agree on the itinerary and waiting time in advance. Most drivers are happy to wait 1–2 hours at each stop, but clarify whether waiting time is included in the quoted price or charged separately. A fair arrangement is usually an hourly rate plus a small per-stop waiting fee. Pay at the end of the day rather than per trip — it simplifies things for both sides.

Finally, bring a bag for wet towels and swimwear, and a change of dry clothes. Cypriot taxi drivers appreciate passengers who don't leave sand and seawater on the seats. A quick rinse at the beach showers and wrapping wet items in a plastic bag before getting in goes a long way. Some drivers carry beach towels or plastic seat covers for this exact scenario — it never hurts to ask when booking.