Best Sandy beaches, Cyprus

Pharos Beach, also known as Lighthouse, is a public city beach located on the north-west coast of Paphos.

Its name, Pharos and Lighthouse, means 'Lighthouse', which comes from the lighthouse located in the Paphos Archaeological Park. Paphos Lighthouse is clearly visible from the beach and its immediate surroundings.

Faros Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag, symbolizing the cleanliness and quality of the water and beach.

This is a spacious and attractive beach, the length of which is 400 meters. The sand on the beach has a light gray tint, sometimes mixed with pebbles and stones.

The beach is cleaned regularly, although some algae is still present at times. Luckily, we didn’t notice any rubble on the beach.

The sea water is clean, but the bottom may be a little unsuitable for comfortable swimming due to its sandy and rocky structure and the presence of algae. To facilitate access to the water, a concrete pier with stairs has been installed on the beach.

During the tourist season, the beach provides full infrastructure, including sun loungers, sun umbrellas, toilets, showers, trash cans and changing rooms. Lifeguards with professional equipment and first aid services are on the beach from April 15 to October 31, from 11:00 to 17:30.

Geroskipou, or Yeroskipou, is a small coastal town located adjacent to Paphos, southeast of the latter. It is the second-largest municipality in the Paphos district, often regarded as part of Paphos' resort area.

Today, Geroskipou is a popular tourist destination, primarily known for its production of loukoum (Turkish delight).

According to Greek mythology, Geroskipou was the site of the sacred gardens of the goddess Aphrodite. Hence, the name of the town - "yeros" translates to holy, and "kipou" to garden, collectively meaning "sacred garden."

Even today, the coastal strip of Geroskipou still resembles paradise gardens. Much of Geroskipou's promenade (Coastal Broadwalk) runs alongside hotels with direct access to the beaches, lining up almost closely along the shoreline. These hotels meticulously maintain their surroundings, resulting in the promenade being adorned with flowers and greenery, making it incredibly picturesque and inviting.

Main pros:

• cool cafe
• Showers/toilets
• free gym
• free parking
• NO rocks under the water
• there are trees to hide in the shade

Main cons:

• water is not transparent
• sand is gray

Just a short 10-minute stroll along the seawall reveals several delightful sandy beaches along the waterfront, impeccably maintained by the municipality. These beaches offer more space and tranquility compared to Alykes beach.

Despite their somewhat formal names - Vrysiudia A & B and SODAP Beach - they are often simply referred to as Paphos Municipal Beach. Regarded as the finest beaches in the lower Paphos area, they are conveniently located off the main road, Avenue of the Posidonos, allowing easy access by car, bus, or on foot.

The presence of breakwaters helps to tame the waves, making these beaches particularly popular among families. Amenities such as loungers, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, and lifeguards ensure a comfortable and safe environment for a relaxing day by the sea.

Where to Stay: Nestled on a sandy beach, Alexander The Great Beach Hotel is a luxurious beachfront resort just a 10-minute walk from Paphos harbor. Offering two swimming pools, multiple restaurants, a kids club, fitness center, tennis court, spa, and games room, it promises a truly indulgent experience.

Main pros:

• cafe/restaurant
• clean water
• shower/toilet
• sandy beach

Main cons:

• Rocks under the water almost everywhere
• Parking is not free!