Tucked along the island’s southeastern coast, Protaras is the sun-drenched, soft-spoken sibling of nearby Ayia Napa. Once a sleepy fishing village, it has grown into a polished seaside resort that still feels refreshingly approachable — a place where Cypriot charm meets calm, crystalline waters.

The vibe

Protaras trades the hedonistic nightlife of its neighbor for something far gentler: leisurely dinners by the sea, evening strolls along the illuminated Protaras Coastal Promenade, and the occasional live band at a beachfront taverna. It’s a town that hums rather than roars — loved by families, couples, and anyone seeking a low-key holiday with all the Mediterranean trimmings.

The star of the show is Fig Tree Bay, a crescent of golden sand named after the solitary fig tree that has shaded the headland for centuries. Its shallow turquoise waters are among the clearest in Cyprus, ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.

Konnos Bay

Beyond Fig Tree, smaller coves like Konnos Bay, Green Bay, and Sunrise Beach offer quieter stretches of sand and excellent diving spots teeming with marine life.

What to do

  • Water Adventures: Try jet-skiing, parasailing, or diving at the Green Bay dive site, where ancient pottery shards and statues dot the seabed.
  • Cape Greco National Park: Just south of town, this protected peninsula is a natural playground of sea caves, hiking trails, and limestone cliffs perfect for sunset photos.
  • The Church of Profitis Elias: Perched high on a hill, it’s reached by a steep stairway — and rewards visitors with sweeping views across Protaras and the shimmering coastline.
  • Boat Trips: Daily excursions head toward the the ghost town of Varosha, or the dramatic sea caves at Cape Greco.

Food & drink

Protaras has a lively dining scene that ranges from simple fish tavernas to upscale seafront restaurants. Expect grilled halloumi, fresh octopus, Cyprus meze, and loukoumades (honey-drenched doughnuts) for dessert. For a local touch, try dinner in nearby Paralimni, where old stone squares host traditional eateries serving village recipes.

Where to stay

Accommodation options span all budgets: sleek beachfront hotels, family-friendly resorts with pools and kids’ clubs, and small boutique apartments tucked along the coast. Most are within walking distance of the beach and promenade.

When to go

From May to October, Protaras basks in near-constant sunshine, with sea temperatures perfect for swimming. July and August are peak months for families, while May–June and September–October offer quieter beaches and gentler heat.

Why go!

Protaras is Cyprus at its most relaxed — warm, walkable, and wrapped in aquamarine. It’s less about spectacle than simplicity: good food, clear seas, friendly locals, and a slower pace that’s hard to leave behind.

For exploring more of Cyprus:
Limassol: The Mediterranean city that has it all
Paphos: Where myth, history and the sea meet
Nicosia: Inside Europe’s last divided capital
From flamingos to Finikoudes: Fall in love with Larnaca
Ayia Napa: Cyprus’s sun-drenched blend of buzz and beauty
Cyprus, but cooler: Why Troodos is the island’s best-kept secret