Ayia Napa
It's hard to believe that only 20 years ago Ayia Napa was a sleepy fishing village with a population of 200. Named after a small church located in the center of the village, Saint Panayia, meaning Mother of Christ, the village was transformed into a tourist resort after the invasion of Famagusta in 1974 which resulted in a huge loss of tourism for the Island.
Contrary to popular belief, this cosmopolitan town isn't just a vast collection of pubs and clubs for the 18 to 30 crowd. In fact, there's something for everyone in this once sleepy fishing village. White sandy beaches set between unspoilt coastal paths are the main attraction of this beautiful stretch of coastline and shallow turquoise waters provide a perfect setting for beach lovers. The appeal of Ayia Napa is simply that it has so much to offer. Long stretches of sandy white beaches, hundreds of fantastic bars and restaurants and a multitude of attractions and activities for both day and night guarantee a fun-filled holiday for visitors of all ages.
Ayia Napa has easy access to the towns of Paralimni and Deryneia, and the resorts of Protaras, Pernera and Kapparis. Ayia Napa has a selection of supermarkets, restaurants and bars.
Beaches in the Area are:-
Kermia Beach
This beach lies west of Cape Greko. Its secluded golden sandy beach, matches perfectly with the blend of blue from the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the blue backdrop of the sky. Between Kermia Beach and Nissi beach you will find lots of little sandy coves.
Nissi Beach
Located in the Centre of Ayia Napa this beach has fine white sand and lovely clear waters to bathe in. It is a popular beach in the main season with the younger tourist. You can hire sun-loungers, umbrellas and enjoy the sun, sea and sand.
Nissi Bay Beach (Sandy Bay)
This beach is approximately 400m west of the Nissi Beach area and you will find it is popular with families.
Landa Beach (Golden Bay Beach)
This beach is located halfway between Nissi Bay Beach and Makronisos Beach, just a half kilometre walk from either. So if Nissi Beach is just too busy to contemplate head for Landa Beach instead. Landa Beach has 400 metres of golden sand and calm seas a perfect place to chill out and relax after a hard night enjoying Ayia Napa's nightlife.
Macronisos Beach
This is located just off the Nissi Avenue in Ayia Napa. This is a quality, blue flag beach that is formed from a cluster of 3 bays. The sand is wonderfully thick and soft. A tractor with a plough treats the sand at the end of the day. It is a very popular and busy beach with its own diving school, if you fancy some scuba.