Ayia Thekla Beach in Cyprus
One of the most remarkable beaches near Ayia Napa. Here you have a church, a cave, a healing spring, a Blue Flag, and even an island you can walk to!
The beach is located just 6 kilometers from the center of Ayia Napa. It is a small, well-equipped beach on the Mediterranean coast, ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the bustling areas of this lively youth resort. It is also an excellent choice for families with children.
Beach Name
The beach is also known as Ayia Thekla, named after Saint Thekla, a healer revered in the Orthodox tradition. Her chapel, built in the traditional Greek style, stands out with its white and blue walls and is located about 100 meters to the east on a rocky cape. Next to the chapel is a natural spring whose water, like the clay in the area, is believed to have healing properties. You can also visit a cave carved into the rock.
Features of Ayia Thekla Beach
The beach has light golden sand, although there are stones near the shore bottom, so it is recommended to wear "coral" shoes. The sea is clean, clear, with a gradual entry into the water.
Its length is about 300 meters, and the average width is 25 meters. To the east, it is bordered by a rocky cliff, and to the west by large stones protruding from the water.
One of the most attractive features of Ayia Thekla is a small islet about 50 meters from the shore, which can be reached by walking through the shallow water. The area between the beach and the islet forms a sort of natural pool, ideal for children and people who cannot swim. Beyond the islet, the sea is deeper and the waves are stronger.
The richness of the seabed due to natural inlets makes this place interesting for snorkeling enthusiasts as well.
Palm trees grow behind the beach, which together with the green lawns give the landscape a fresh and picturesque look.
Services and Infrastructure of Ayia Thekla Beach
You can come to Ayia Thekla Beach with your own beach equipment (there is space for this) or rent sun loungers and umbrellas at the standard Cyprus price. There are also showers with fresh water, toilets, and changing rooms.
During the high season (usually from 10:00 to 18:00), lifeguards and medical staff are on duty at the beach. The beach has a special amphibious chair for people with physical disabilities, which allows them to enter the sea without assistance.
Behind the lifeguard tower, there is a volleyball court. You can also rent equipment for water sports such as water bikes, kayaks, and canoes.
Close to the beach, there is a restaurant serving Cypriot cuisine and a bar with refreshing drinks. There is also a small supermarket and kiosks. On Wednesdays, a small farmers' market operates where you can buy fruits, vegetables, and typical products.
About a 10-minute walk away is the WaterWorld water park.
- Read more: Cyprus Water Parks
How to Get to Ayia Thekla Beach
By Bus
Several bus lines pass near the beach.
- Lines 101 and 102 (from WaterWorld to the center of Ayia Napa and back): at intervals of 10–15 minutes. From the final stop at the water park to the beach is 1 km.
- Routes 501, 502, 704, 705, 711: pass along a nearby road and stop at the intersection leading to the beach but run less frequently.
A single ticket costs 1.5 euros, and a day pass costs 5 euros.
By Rented Transport
The best option for free movement is to rent a car, motorcycle, or scooter. The Agia Thekla road connects with Nissi Avenue and has signs for the beach.
- Rent a car: Localrent, Dicsover Cars or Economybookings
- Rent a scooter, quad bike or buggy: BikesBooking.com
By Bicycle
There is a bike lane along Agia Thekla and Nissi Avenue. Organized bike parking is available on the beach.
- More details: best cycling routes in Cyprus
By Taxi
The fastest, but also the most expensive option. You can order a taxi from the hotel, by phone, or call one using an online app.
- More details: taxi apps in Cyprus
Frequently Asked Questions about Ayia Thekla Beach
Is there parking at Ayia Thekla Beach?
There is a large free parking lot at the entrance to Ayia Thekla Beach, located near the Nissaki restaurant. Here are the coordinates for your navigator: 34.97928675468567, 33.9341996799321.
Where is the restroom at Ayia Thekla Beach?
There is a public restroom near the chapel, at this location. Additionally, restrooms are available at the Nissaki café and at the beach bar near the parking lot.
Has the beach been awarded the Blue Flag?
Yes, the "Blue Flag" award for cleanliness and infrastructure is regularly granted to Ayia Thekla Beach, including for the 2024 season.
Is the beach a protected area?
Ayia Thekla Beach is part of the European ecological network of protected areas Natura 2000, established to preserve biodiversity within the European Union.
Where to stay near the beach?
There are no hotels directly on the beach, but about a 5–10 minute walk west you will find a residential area with numerous villas available for rent, ideal for large families or groups. The nearest hotels are 2.5 km away, near the Makronissos Beach.
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Author
Born and raised in Yekaterinburg, visited more than 40 countries, lived in the USA for some time, and in 2022, moved to Northern Cyprus. Education: Ural State University (now Ural Federal University), Faculty of Political Science and Sociology. Professional Experience: Since 2008, worked in the…