Akamas Peninsula

At the far southwest of the Akamas Peninsula is Lara Beach, accessible by car and most famous for the green and loggerhead turtles that breed at its turtle hatchery. Beyond, this part of western Cyprus juts almost defiantly into the Mediterranean and is one of the island’s last remaining wildernesses. Visitors can still traverse the peninsula as long as they’re prepared to walk, ride a trail bike or bump along in a sturdy 4WD. If you are visiting the mythical Baths of Aphrodite, you can leave your car in the free car park and stride out from there.

The peninsula is home to abundant flora and fauna, including some 600 plant species, 35 of them unique to Cyprus. There are also 68 bird species, 12 types of mammal (including foxes and hedgehogs), 20 species of reptile and many butterflies, such as the native Glaucopsyche pafos, the symbol of the region.

Explore Akamas Peninsula

0

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Akamas Peninsula.

  • Beach

    Lara Beach

    This stunning unspoilt beach has clean, calm water and pristine sands for those who want to escape people and parasols. The beach is most famous, however,…

  • Church

    Agios Andronikos

    This 16th-century church was latterly a mosque and the centre of local Turkish Cypriot religious life. Don’t miss the fine Byzantine frescos that were…

  • Museum

    Archaeological Museum of Marion-Arsinoe

    Housed in a handsome neoclassical building, the museum comprises two galleries: one spanning the history of the area from neolithic to medieval times,…

  • Beach

    Camp Site Beach

    The nearest stretch of sand is a good beach and convenient if you don’t want to move far from Polis and fancy a picnic, or are camping there. It’s sandy,…

  • Beach

    Aphrodite Beach

    This lovely, calm beach is clearly signposted on the way to the Baths of Aphrodite. It’s good for children, with its clear, swimmable waters and…

  • Cave

    Baths of Aphrodite

    These mythical baths attract a steady crowd, who possibly expect more than they find. Surrounded by fig trees and filled with the relaxing sound of…

  • Landmark

    Olive Tree

    Look for this extraordinary olive tree close to the museum; its trunk is almost split in two, but it still produces olives after 600 years.

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Akamas Peninsula.

  • Activities