Over 3.7 million tourists visited Cyprus in 2023, and many of them came for one reason: the beaches. Nowhere is that more obvious than in Larnaca, where city sands, family bays, and hidden coves sit within minutes of each other. With more than a dozen official swimming area, many carrying the Blue Flag for water quality and safet, Larnaca has something for every type of traveler.
The challenge isn’t finding a beach, it’s choosing the right one. Do you want a lively promenade with bars that stay open past midnight, or a secluded stretch where the only sound is the sea? Families might prioritize shallow, lifeguard-patrolled waters, while divers and kitesurfers look for activity hubs.
This guide brings together everything missing from other roundups: a complete list of Larnaca Cyprus beaches, a side-by-side comparison, insider tips, and seasonal advice. It’s designed to save you hours of research and help you pick a beach that actually fits your trip.
Quick Comparison of Larnaca’s Beaches
Not every visitor has time to read through long descriptions before choosing where to go. That’s why a quick overview helps. Here’s a cheat sheet comparing the most popular Larnaca Cyprus beaches, covering location, type, facilities, and whether they hold the Blue Flag certification for cleanliness and safety.
| Beach | Location (from city center) | Type | Facilities (sunbeds, cafés, lifeguards) | Blue Flag? |
| Finikoudes | Downtown Larnaca | Lively / nightlife | Sunbeds, promenade cafés, lifeguards | Yes |
| Mackenzie | Near airport (2 km) | Party / nightlife | Bars, clubs, jogging path, lifeguards | Yes |
| Kastella | South of Finikoudes | Family-friendly | Calm waters, taverns, umbrellas | Yes |
| CTO (Pyla) | 10 km east | Family-friendly | Playground, sports, shallow waters | Yes |
| Yiannades | East of Larnaca | Family-friendly | Eco-certified, lifeguards, shallow bay | Yes |
| Meneou | Near airport (5 km) | Family / quiet | Few taverns, umbrellas, shallow entry | No |
| Alaminos | 25 km west | Secluded | Limited, small café, umbrellas | Yes |
| Mazotos / Softades | 20 km west | Kitesurfing hub | Kite schools, tavern nearby | No |
| Zygi Limanaki | 30 km west | Fishing village | Tavernas, small harbor vibe | No |
| Faros (Pervolia) | 15 km south | Water sports / family | Diving, taverns, umbrellas | Yes |
| Dhekelia | 12 km east | Long stretch | Hotels, taverns, water sports | Yes |
This table gives a quick sense of what each beach offers. Below, let’s look closer at the city beaches—the ones most visitors see first when arriving in Larnaca.
Top Beaches in Larnaca City
Finikoudes Beach
The heart of Larnaca’s shoreline, Finikoudes is where palm trees line the promenade and cafés spill onto the sand. The beach’s shallow entry makes it accessible for all ages, while lifeguards patrol during summer. At night, the promenade comes alive with bars and restaurants, making it a natural choice for travelers who want both daytime swimming and evening nightlife without leaving the city center.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bXeRE9WR27s833Cr6
Mackenzie Beach
Just minutes from the airport, Mackenzie is famous for its unique plane-spotting views. Wide sands, calm waters, and a jogging path draw families by day, while beach bars and clubs transform the area into Larnaca’s party hub after dark. Despite its lively nightlife, the beach maintains Blue Flag standards, so safety and cleanliness never take a back seat.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tdhWseFY8PniW5tS7
Kastella Beach
Tucked between the busy city and Mackenzie’s nightlife, Kastella offers a quieter alternative. Families with young children appreciate its calm waters and smaller size. Traditional fish taverns line the shore, giving visitors a chance to pair a swim with fresh seafood. Its compact setting makes it less crowded, even in peak season.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9JhWBbQur1PLNvG78
Best Family-Friendly Beaches
Families often look for shallow waters, safe swimming zones, and easy access to facilities. The following Larnaca beaches meet those needs, making them reliable choices when traveling with children.
CTO Beach (Pyla)
Located east of the city, CTO Beach balances relaxation with activities. Its shallow entry into the sea makes it safe for young children, while playgrounds and sports courts add entertainment beyond swimming. The beach is organized with umbrellas and cafés, so families can spend an entire day without leaving the shoreline.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aaPwSFJ6XXEEfT7YA
Yiannades Beach
Recognized as an eco-friendly Blue Flag site, Yiannades is ideal for younger kids who need calm, very shallow water. The sand is soft, lifeguards are on duty, and nearby snack kiosks make it easy to spend long hours by the sea. Parents appreciate the low-key atmosphere that avoids the heavy crowds found at more central beaches.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vMUeYEUJBiPujZ4c9
Meneou Beach
Close to Larnaca Airport, Meneou is a quiet alternative for families seeking peace. Its calm waters are protected from strong waves, creating a safe environment for children to paddle. With fewer visitors, it feels more relaxed than the city’s central options. Local taverns nearby serve traditional meals, which turns a beach trip into a full-day outing.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XdWqk74DPqajEsHy6
Secluded & Hidden Beaches
Not everyone wants a lively promenade or crowded umbrellas. For travelers who prefer peace and nature, Cyprus Larnaca beaches also include quiet stretches of sand away from the main tourist flow.
Alaminos Beach (“Secret Paradise”)
True to its nickname, Alaminos requires a bit of effort to reach, but the reward is a tranquil setting that feels untouched. Its small cove, framed by rock formations, offers shelter from the wind. Facilities are minimal, yet the calm makes it a favorite for couples or solo travelers searching for quiet.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LrXXyRCPXvjDqgKV7
Mazotos / Softades (Kite Beach)
Winds sweep across Softades, creating prime conditions for kitesurfing. The beach is pebbly rather than sandy, which keeps casual swimmers away and preserves a sense of openness. Kite schools operate along the stretch, but outside those zones it’s often nearly empty, perfect for anyone who enjoys wide horizons without noise.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5QEDukCtvgQMrLg5A
Zygi Limanaki / Agios Theodoros
This beach blends into the character of a traditional fishing village. Instead of umbrellas and bars, you’ll find taverns serving fresh catch within walking distance of the shore. The waters are clear and uncrowded, making it feel more like a local hideaway than a tourist spot. For travelers who enjoy combining a swim with authentic Cypriot food, it’s an excellent match.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RX71CwAPML39EUnM8
Best Beaches for Activities & Water Sports
If your day isn’t complete without movement, pick beaches with steady wind, space, and on-site rentals. The three below cover diving, kites, and long coastal walks without long drives.
Faros Beach (Pervolia)
A lighthouse backdrop sets the tone. The breakwater creates a sheltered corner for kids while the outer side suits confident swimmers. You’ll find dive centers nearby and easy snorkel entry along the rocks. Finish with sunset views beside the lighthouse path.
Good for: mixed-ability groups, snorkel starts, sunset walks.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VM7JwiuZ1NFQq3nWA
Dhekelia Beach
A long, open stretch runs past resorts and taverns, so you can walk, jog, or dip in silence between hotel zones. Watersports kiosks appear along the strip in summer. Parking is straightforward, and you can step straight from car to sand.
Good for: long swims, casual SUP, joggers.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f5sfz7UvomhANtDK6
Softades Beach (Kite Beach)
Consistent wind draws kitesurfers from spring through autumn. Pebbles mean fewer sunbathers, leaving clear launch space and wide horizons. Schools offer lessons and rentals; non-kiters can watch from the tavern terrace nearby.
Good for: kitesurf lessons, windy-day sessions, photography.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sXKDSgFLQp1Xnphr9
Practical Guide to Visiting Larnaca Beaches
Smart planning saves time and money. Use the pointers below to match your schedule, transport, and budget.
Best Time of Year (Seasonal Guide)
- Spring (April–May): Warm days, mild water, lighter crowds. Ideal for hikes and first swims.
- Summer (June–August): Peak beach season, longest hours, full services, lively nights.
- Autumn (September–October): Warmest sea, softer light, easier parking.
- Winter (Nov–March): Quiet promenades, clear air, café culture by the sea.
Getting Around
- Car: Easiest for Alaminos, Softades, and Faros. Arrive before 10:00 to park close to the sand.
- Bus: Coastal routes link the promenade to Mackenzie and beyond; airport services run frequently to the seafront. Tap in/out with a reloadable card.
- Taxi/Rides: Handy late at night from Mackenzie; agree on the fare before you ride if the meter’s off.
- On Foot/Bike: Finikoudes → Kastella → Mackenzie is a flat, scenic walk or cycle.
Costs & Amenities
- Sunbeds & Umbrellas: Expect €2.5–5 per item for a day set. Pay the attendant on the spot.
- Showers & Changing: Common on city beaches; bring small coins for paid units.
- Safety: Blue Flag sites post lifeguard hours and water quality boards in season.
- Connectivity: Promenade cafés offer reliable Wi-Fi; some stretches near Mackenzie provide free municipal hotspots.
Nearby Attractions
- Larnaca Castle: Small fortress with coastal views, a short walk from Finikoudes.
- Salt Lake & Hala Sultan Tekke: Best at golden hour; flamingos visit in winter.
- Larnaca Marina & Promenade: Bars, gelato, and sunset strolls after a swim.
Insider Tips for First-Time Visitors
A few local habits help you skip crowds, eat well, and find quiet water. For the accommodation recommendations, we have a dedicated article on finding the best stays in Larnaca. Here’s how to plan smarter.
Best local taverns near each beach
- Finikoudes & Kastella: Walk the small harbor by Kastella for classic fish taverns and grilled octopus.
- Mackenzie: Beachfront spots serve mezze and fresh catch; sunset tables go first.
- CTO (Pyla) & Yiannades: Family-run places sit just behind the dunes; look for daily chalkboard menus.
- Meneou & Faros (Pervolia): Small village taverns offer simple, fresh plates and calm patios.
- Softades & Mazotos: Kite-view terraces pour ice-cold beer and quick seafood.
- Zygi / Agios Theodoros: Head for the fishing pier area; pick by the day’s display of fish.
Timing that avoids crowds
- Mornings (8:00–11:00): Calm water, easy parking, kinder sun.
- Weekdays: Locals work; you’ll get front-row umbrellas.
- Evenings: Mackenzie shines after 19:00 for drinks and music.
- Shoulder months: May, June, September, October give warm seas without peak crush.
Where locals go vs. where tourists crowd
- More locals: Kastella on weekdays, Meneou’s quiet stretch, Alaminos coves, Softades on windy days.
- More tourists: Finikoudes promenade, central Mackenzie, hotel fronts on Dhekelia.
- Mixed: Faros and CTO balance services with space; go early for prime spots.
Final Thoughts – Which Larnaca Beach Is Right for You?
Pick by vibe, not only by address. Families do well at CTO (Pyla) and Yiannades for shallow water and lifeguards. Meneou suits stroller walks and low-key swims. Night owls lean toward Mackenzie and a post-swim stroll along Finikoudes. Seek quiet? Alaminos and Zygi / Agios Theodoros feel remote without long drives. For action, Softades covers kites, Faros adds snorkel starts, and Dhekelia gives long swims with easy access.
