Cape Greco & Beyond: Day Trips and Quieter Spots Around Ayia Napa
Nissi Beach is the headline, but some of the best of this coast lies just beyond it. A short drive east takes you into wilder scenery, sea caves and quiet coves — and there's plenty more within easy reach. Here are the day trips worth making from Ayia Napa.
Cape Greco National Forest Park
The standout day trip is Cape Greco, the rugged headland between Ayia Napa and Protaras. It's a protected park of low cliffs, pine and sea, and it's wonderful on foot. Highlights include:
- Sea caves carved into the coastline, dramatic and photogenic.
- Coastal and forest trails with sweeping views over deep-blue water.
- Konnos Bay, a sheltered cove below the headland — beautiful even when it's too cool to swim.
- The little Agioi Anargyroi chapel and the cliffs and sea arch nearby.
Cape Greco is at its best in cooler weather and in the mornings. Wear proper shoes, take water, and allow a few hours. A car makes it easy; in season some reach it by bus, boat or bike.
Quieter beaches
If Nissi is busy, several calmer beaches are close by:
- Konnos Bay — a sheltered, scenic cove near Cape Greco.
- Makronissos Beach — a string of gentle coves, good for families.
- Landa Beach — a quieter stretch west along the coast.
The harbour, old town and monastery
Back in town, the Ayia Napa harbour is a pleasant place to wander, especially in the evening. Nearby you'll find the historic Ayia Napa Monastery in the old centre, and a sculpture park along the coastal path — an easy, scenic walk.
Boat trips and the Blue Lagoon
In season, boat trips run from the harbour along the coast, including to the famous turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon near Cape Greco. These are mostly a summer activity, so check what's running if you visit out of season.
Further afield
With a car you can easily reach Protaras and Fig Tree Bay just up the coast, or head to Larnaca for a city day out. Cyprus is small, so day trips inland to villages and the mountains are also on the table for the more adventurous.
Getting there
A car gives you the most freedom for these trips, particularly outside peak summer — see getting around Ayia Napa for transfer and transport options. In the quieter months, Cape Greco and the coast are especially rewarding; the Ayia Napa winter guide has more. And if you're choosing a base for exploring, the garden apartment on this site sits a short walk from the beach and an easy drive from the cape.