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Holiday in Cyprus

Holidays in Cyprus: sun, culture and adventure.

Did you know that Cyprus has the longest summer season in the entire Mediterranean? While autumn is already setting in in other regions, we here still enjoy bright sunshine and pleasant temperatures. From March well into November, the island offers ideal conditions for sun worshippers and active holidaymakers.

 

Why Cyprus should be your next travel destination:

  • 🌊 Leader in water quality: Cyprus is regularly awarded prizes – the island officially boasts the cleanest bathing water in the entire EU. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters along our coasts offer visibility otherwise only found in the Caribbean.
     

  • ♥️ Safety & Hospitality: Cyprus is considered one of the safest travel destinations worldwide. The warm hospitality of the locals ensures that you feel at home from the very first moment.
     

  • 🏝️ Dream beaches & pure nature: From the award-winning, fine sandy beaches in Protaras and Ayia Napa to the rugged cliffs in Cape Gkreko National Park – the diversity is unique.
     

  • ⛰️ A paradise for explorers: Besides water sports, Cyprus is an Eldorado for hikers. Whether you explore the coastal paths along the spectacular Sea Caves or prefer the cool pine forests in the Troodos Mountains – nature will inspire you.
     

Our tip: Combine the best of both worlds. Enjoy the tranquility underwater during a dive in Green Bay in the morning and explore the picturesque hiking trails at Cape Greco in the afternoon.

Best time to travel and climate in Cyprus: Diving and exploring all year round

When you think of Cyprus, you think of endless summer – and rightly so! With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the island is a year-round destination. But depending on what you want to experience, each season has its own unique charm.

 

The insider tip: Spring in April and May

For many connoisseurs, April and May are the most beautiful time to travel to Cyprus. While the rest of Europe is often still shrouded in gray, the island awakens to life.

 

  • 🌻 Nature in all its glory: The island is beautifully green at this time of year and covered in a colorful sea of wildflowers – a rare sight not seen in the hot summer. Flamingos can also be found in Cyprus then!
     

  • 🐠 Underwater exclusivity: The dive sites around Protaras and Cape Gkreko are still wonderfully uncrowded during these months. You'll enjoy the undivided attention of our guides and absolute tranquility beneath the surface.
     

  • 🚶‍➡️ Perfect climate for explorers: Temperatures are a pleasant 20°C to 25°C. Yes, the water is a bit cooler at around 18°C to 20°C (we have the perfect warm wetsuits for you!), and there might be the occasional short rain shower. But that's precisely what makes the air so clear and the climate ideal for combining a road trip with diving.

Summer, autumn and winter at a glance

Season

Summer (June - Sept.)

Climate & Water

Hot (30°C+), water up to 30°C

Perfect for

Perfect for those who simply want to relax on the beach and enjoy extensive wreck dives at the Zenobia in short suits.

Season

Autumn (Oct. - Nov.)

Season

Mild (25°C),

Water still very warm, up to 26°C

Climate & Water

The best underwater visibility and ideal temperatures to relax in the sun after diving.

Season

Winter (Dec. - Mar.)

Season

Cool (15-18°C), water approx. 17°C

Climate & Water

Time for absolute peace, culture and hiking in the Troodos Mountains.

Temperature table Cyprus – Protaras & Ayia Napa

Monat
Wasser
Luft Tag
Luft Nacht
Januar
17
16
6
Februar
17
18
8
März
18
20
10
April
19
25
12
Mai
22
28
15
Juni
25
32
20
Juli
28
35
22
August
29
36
22
September
28
33
20
Oktober
27
30
15
November
25
26
12
Dezember
22
20
8

Protaras, Pernera & Ayia Napa – differences and who they are suitable for

Anyone planning a holiday in Cyprus quickly asks: Protaras, Pernera or Ayia Napa – where should I go?
All three locations are in the southeast of the island and offer perfect conditions for beach holidays, activities and diving. However, they differ significantly in atmosphere, price level and target group.

To help you find the best region for your Cyprus holiday, we have summarised the differences clearly below:

🌴 Protaras – The best place for a family holiday in Cyprus

Protaras is one of the most popular regions for a relaxed beach holiday in Cyprus.

Here you can expect:

  • Fine sandy beaches with crystal-clear water

  • Family-friendly hotels and short distances

  • A relaxed promenade with bars and restaurants, but no clubs

Compared to Ayia Napa, Protaras is much quieter and more well-kept. Perfect for families with teenagers!

🌊 Pernera – A quiet hidden gem for your Cyprus holiday

Pernera is located right next to Protaras and is still considered a small insider tip. There are now a few good bars and restaurants here as well, but it is still much smaller and quieter than Protaras or Ayia Napa.

Why many travellers prefer Pernera:

  • Fewer hotels, therefore more relaxed atmosphere

  • Small bays instead of large beaches

  • More authentic feel

🎉 Ayia Napa – Party holidays & activities in Cyprus

Ayia Napa (also often spelled Agia Napa) is well known among young travellers for parties and adventure. In the centre of Ayia Napa you’ll find Cyprus’ party strip. Similar to “Ballermann” in Mallorca, but with a mix of different clubs and music styles such as rap, techno, Latino, Irish pubs and more. The nightlife is mainly visited by travellers from England, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, Germany and other Northern countries.

However, there are also beach parties and loud music on some beaches. But not only that – there are also quieter beach sections that are suitable for families. For example, at Nissi Beach Hotel, the left side of the beach is quieter, while the right side (a bit further away) is the beach party area.

  • Internationally known clubs and bars

  • Large selection of restaurants and activities

  • Lively beaches and beach clubs

A real insider tip is Ayia Napa in winter! When all the tourists are gone, you can see how beautiful these beaches really are.

🍽️ Restaurant tips nearby

🍽️ Restaurant tips near the dive centre in Pernera

After a day of diving, the most important thing is good, uncomplicated food close by. Here are four well-established restaurants around our base in Pernera / Protaras that we can really recommend:

🍻 Tipsy O’Turtle
⭐ 4.6 / Bar

A very popular pub in Pernera offering British cuisine, from breakfast to dinner, with a relaxed atmosphere.

  • Large portions & very good value for money

  • Classics like fish & chips or Sunday roast

  • Perfect for drinks after diving

👉 Ideal for: relaxed evenings, groups, easy-going meals
💡 Regularly praised for friendly service and good food

🥗 Blue Spice Restaurant
⭐ 4.6 / Restaurant
 

Modern restaurant focusing on light, international and vegetarian cuisine.

  • Wide selection from breakfast to lunch

  • Popular for fresh juices, snacks & light meals

  • Located right by the sea, just a short walk from the dive centre

  • With pool – perfect for children

👉 Ideal for: breakfast, lunch or light meals between dives
💡 Known for modern cuisine and a cosy atmosphere

🐟 Ifalos Taverna
⭐ 4.7 / Restaurant
 

A classic Cypriot taverna within walking distance – exactly what many guests are looking for:

  • Traditional cuisine & meze

  • Fish and meat dishes

  • Authentic local atmosphere

👉 Ideal for: a real Cypriot dinner after diving

🌮 Speedy Gonzales Mexican
⭐ 4.6 / Restaurant
 

A true local favourite for Mexican food:

  • Tacos, fajitas, quesadillas

  • Popular for margaritas & relaxed vibe

  • Friendly service & generous portions

👉 Ideal for: a change from Mediterranean cuisine
💡 Known for authentic Mexican dishes and very friendly service

🌍 Excursion tips around our dive centre (Protaras, Pernera & Ayia Napa)

A diving holiday in Protaras and Ayia Napa offers much more than just beautiful beaches. The region is one of the most stunning parts of the island and perfect for active excursions, nature experiences, and relaxing days by the sea.

🤿 Our top tip: diving in Cyprus

If you are already here, you should definitely experience the underwater world.

The east coast around Protaras is one of the best diving regions in Cyprus:

  • Crystal-clear water with often 20–30 m visibility

  • Caves, rock formations, and wrecks

  • Perfect for beginners and experienced divers

👉 Whether it’s a try dive or guided dives – this is an experience many of our guests describe as a highlight of their holiday.

🚤 Boat trips – please choose sustainable options

Boat trips are among the most popular activities in the region, especially along the Cape Greco coastline. However, it is important to us:

👉 Not all operators treat nature responsibly.
      We consciously recommend boat trips that do not feed turtles or other marine animals.

      Why?

  • Feeding changes the natural behaviour of animals

  • It can harm their health

  • Sustainable tourism protects the underwater world in the long term

👉 Good tours can be recognised by:

  • Keeping a respectful distance from animals

  • Not using bait or attractants

  • Preferring small groups

       This way, you can still see sea turtles in the wild – without interfering with nature.

🏝️ Cape Greco – nature & viewpoints

The Cape Greco area is an absolute highlight:

  • Stunning coastal landscapes

  • Sea Caves (perfect for photos)

  • Hiking and cycling trails

  • Crystal-clear water for snorkelling

👉 Ideal for: half-day trips, sunsets, small adventures

🌊 Fig Tree Bay – one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus

The famous Fig Tree Bay is only a few minutes away:

  • Fine sandy beach

  • Calm, clear water

  • Perfect for swimming & snorkelling

👉 Ideal for: relaxing beach days between dives

⛪ Ayia Napa & surroundings

Beyond the nightlife, Ayia Napa has plenty to offer:

  • Historic monastery in the centre

  • Beautiful bays and beaches

  • Wide range of restaurants and activities

👉 Ideal for: varied day or evening trips

🚶 Coastal paths & small coves around Pernera

Right on your doorstep you will find:

  • Coastal walking paths

  • Small, quiet swimming coves

  • Perfect spots for sunrise or sunset

👉 Ideal for: relaxed moments without much planning

🌅 Our conclusion: more than just diving

The region around Protaras and Pernera offers the perfect mix of:

  • 🤿 Diving & underwater experiences

  • 🌊 Beaches & relaxation

  • 🚤 Boat trips & nature

  • 🌅 Excursions & small adventures

👉 Our tip: combine your dives with relaxed excursions – this is the best way to experience Cyprus at its finest.

Information

Opening hours

2026 season: April 1st to November 15th

Monday - Sunday 09:00 - 17:00

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Contact

Report turtle sighting

Cyprus Diving Centre - Diving in Cyprus

13 Aphrodite Street

5296 Pernera

+357 99 399 404 (WhatsApp)

info@cyprus-divingcentre.com

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