5 Best Sights in Cyprus

Once you gaze down on Kourion beach from the heights of the Kourion amphitheater, you'll certainly want to head down the hills to spend time on its beautiful sands—one of the longest stretches on Cyprus. Though it's easiest to reach Kourion beach by car, you can also take a bus from Limassol, 17 km (10 miles) to the east. If you're making a day of it, rent a sun bed and umbrella from a nearby taverna; the well-regarded Blue Beach Bar & Restaurant makes a pleasant stop for a seafood break. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee). Best for: walking; windsurfing.

The legendary birthplace of Aphrodite—Greek goddess of love and beauty—is a large offshore rock just off the southwest coast of Paphos. Swimming around Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock) three times is purported to bring you eternal love. Whether or not you believe the legend, it's a dramatic place to stop for a snack or picnic lunch and a look at the unquestionably romantic views. Park in the lot and take the passageway under the highway to the large pebble beach, where you may be tempted to swim or stay for sunset. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); toilets; water sports. Best for: sunset; swimming.

The closest beach to Limassol's cruise ship port, Lady's Mile is a 7-km (4-mile) hard sand and pebble beach about a 15-minute drive from the center of town. Its shallow waters are popular with locals, especially on weekends. Bring your own umbrella if you'd like some shade, as well as insect repellent in the evenings. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; water sports. Best for: swimming.

Near the airport, Mackenzie beach is ideal for lazing on white sands and dining at one of its many seafood tavernas. The beach also boasts a trendy strip of bars, clubs, and cafés, including the Mackenzie Food Plaza, which is now home to a number of fast food and coffee shop favorites. Mackenzie beach can get quite crowded during the summer, so arrive early for a prime spot on the sand. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets. Best for: partiers; swimming; walking.

Centrally located within the town of Larnaca, it's a snap to combine beachgoing at Phinikoudes with other activities like shopping, eating, and strolling the pretty palm tree–lined promenade. You can rent sun beds and umbrellas from beachside vendors, as well as borrow some water-sports equipment if you're feeling more active. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: swimming; walking.