Paphos has been my home for over six years, and in that time, I have had plenty of opportunities to explore all of its beaches – be it the most popular ones or the secluded ones only locals know about.
In this article, I prepared a short guide to the beaches of Paphos as a comprehensive guide for those who are planning a trip to Paphos and are not sure which beach is best for them.
Let’s check them out!
Best Time to Visit Paphos, Cyprus
If you’re looking for the perfect beach weather, you should ideally plan your trip between May to June, when the weather is at its best and there are fewer crowds.
July and August is the main holiday season in Cyprus, and you will find the beaches predictably crowded.
Winter in Cyprus is also a great time to visit; while it’s still warm by the coastline, it’s usually very windy and much cooler by the beach, but I do love this time of year to plan beach picnics and other activities without the crowds.
The Best Beaches in Paphos, Cyprus
1. Alykes Beach
Located right in the heart of Paphos, Alykes Beach has a great location if you want a beach that’s walking distance from your hotel or apartment.
The water is calm and clear, making it a great spot for swimming or lounging on the sand.
Best For:
- Sunbeds and umbrellas
- Beachfront restaurants and cafes
- Close proximity to the Paphos Archaeological Park
- Showers and restrooms
Google Maps Location: Alykes Beach
2. Vrysoudia Beach A & B
Vrysoudia Beach is split into two sections, A and B, both offering soft sand and crystal-clear waters.
These beaches are located close to the Paphos harbor and the historic Paphos Castle, making it a great spot for combining a beach day with a bit of sightseeing.
There are several beachfront bars and restaurants, perfect for an afternoon cocktail or lunch.
Best For:
- Lifeguards on duty
- Sunbeds and umbrellas for rent
- Great for swimming and snorkeling
- Cafes and bars nearby
Google Maps Location: Vrysoudia Beach
3. Faros Beach (Lighthouse Beach)
Faros Beach, also known as Lighthouse Beach, is located near the Paphos Archaeological Park and offers a mix of natural beauty and history. This beach is quieter than some of the more central options but still provides basic amenities.
It’s a great spot for swimming, and the sunset views are breathtaking, especially with the Paphos lighthouse in the background.
Best For:
- Scenic walking paths along the coastline
- Close to historic sites like the Tombs of the Kings
Google Maps Location: Faros Beach
4. Riccos Beach
Riccos Beach is a more laid-back, local beach located a short drive from the center of Paphos. It’s ideal for visitors looking for a quiet, less crowded spot.
This beach has a relaxed vibe, with a few beach bars and plenty of space to spread out. It’s a great place to enjoy a book, swim in the sea, or even windsurf on windier days (see photos below).
Best For:
- Quiet atmosphere, often less crowded than others
- Small beach bars offering drinks and snacks
- Popular with locals, giving it a more authentic feel
Google Maps Location: Riccos Beach
5. Coral Bay, Peyia
Coral Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Paphos, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
This Blue Flag beach is ideal for families, offering a range of facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports equipment, and tours to nearby attractions.
From the beach you can easily walk or drive to Coraly Bay high street, which is the main street filled with restaurants, bars and small shops, so you could find everything you possibly need within walking distance.
Coral Bay is located on the western side of Cyprus, about 11 km away from Paphos.
Google Maps Location: Coral Bay Beach
Kid-Friendly Beach Activities
Paphos is perfect for families, offering kid-friendly beaches like Coral Bay, Pachyammos Beach, and Alykes Beach, which feature shallow waters, soft sands, and amenities like sunbeds and lifeguards.
If you want to extend your activities beyond the beach, popular attractions for kids include visits to Paphos Zoo, Aphrodite Waterpark, mini-golf, and go-karting.
Kids can also enjoy educational fun at Paphos Archaeological Park and exciting pirate boat cruises from Paphos Harbour.
Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, snacks, and water to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for everyone.
Practical Tips for Visiting Paphos
- Cyprus uses the British-style three-pin plug (Type G) with a standard voltage of 240V and a frequency of 50Hz. Make sure to bring a suitable adapter if your devices use a different plug type.
- Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Paphos and its surrounding areas.
- The road network is well-developed, and driving is on the left side of the road.
- Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver’s license for at least three years.
- The currency in Cyprus is the Euro (€).
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in remote areas.
- ATMs are also readily available in Paphos.
- The official languages are Greek and Turkish, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
- Most signs, menus, and information boards are also available in English.
- Paphos is generally a safe destination, but it’s always wise to take standard precautions.
- Tap water is safe to drink, and the healthcare system is of a high standard.
- Travel insurance is recommended to cover any unexpected medical expenses.
Beach Etiquette
Cyprus is known for its laid-back and friendly atmosphere, but it’s important to respect local customs.
Topless sunbathing is accepted on most beaches, but nudity is not allowed.
Always clean up after yourself and respect the natural environment.
How to Get to Paphos, Cyprus
By Air: Paphos International Airport (PFO) is the main gateway to the region, located about 15 km (9 miles) southeast of the city. The airport serves numerous international flights, particularly from Europe and the Middle East.
Most flights are very regular, even during winter.
From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to reach your accommodation.
By Sea: While there are no direct passenger ferries to Paphos, you can arrive in Cyprus to Limassol by ferry or cruise from Greece, mainly Crete. These trips are mostly round-trip cruises, though, and there is no regular passenger service to Paphos, only to Limassol.
By Road: If you’re already in Cyprus, Paphos is easily accessible by road. The A6 motorway connects Paphos with Limassol, and the journey takes about an hour. The road network is well-maintained, and driving conditions are generally good (not excellent though).
By Bus: Intercity buses connect Paphos with other major cities in Cyprus, including Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca. The buses are comfortable and affordable, making them a convenient option for travelers on a budget.
By Train: Cyprus does not have a railway network, so train travel is not an option.
Final Thoughts
Paphos is a fantastic destination with beautiful beaches, a rich history, and a friendly atmosphere.
No matter if you want to relax on sandy shores, explore underwater life, or visit ancient sites, the city has something for everyone.
So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy all that Paphos, Cyprus, has to offer!
Explore More in Paphos
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