Lara Beach is where wild Cyprus truly shines – a remote stretch of golden sand that’s protected as a nesting site for endangered loggerhead turtles. It’s a powerful reminder of how beautiful nature can be when we protect it properly. This isn’t a beach for partying – it’s a place to connect with the island’s natural heritage.
CYPRUS’ TURTLE SANCTUARY
You absolutely need a 4×4 vehicle to reach Lara Bay – the final stretch of road is unpaved and rough – if hiring a car check the insurance as many companies will not cover any damage on these roads. From Paphos, take the B7 to Polis then follow signs for the Akamas Peninsula – the journey takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. Alternatively, join an organised tour from Paphos or Limassol – this is the easiest way to visit if you don’t have off-road transport. Once you arrive, a small car park sits just above the beach, and you’ll need to walk down a short dirt track to reach the shore. Past information on the turtles, and sometimes even baby turtles under short term care.
THE BEACH EXPERIENCE
Lara Bay stretches for over a kilometre, with soft golden sand and water that ranges from pale blue to deep sapphire. Swimmers will love the clean, clear conditions, though the water can be cooler here than on more sheltered beaches. Most importantly, this is a protected area – you must stick to designated paths and avoid disturbing the sand dunes where turtles lay their eggs. Moreover, volunteer wardens patrol the beach during nesting season (May to October), and they’re always happy to share information about these incredible creatures.
There are no sun loungers or umbrellas available – this is a wild beach, so come prepared with your own equipment. You’ll find basic toilet facilities near the car park, but no other amenities on the shore itself. For those who love nature, keep an eye out for migratory birds overhead and lizards scurrying across the sand dunes.
FOOD & DRINK OPTIONS
There are no restaurants or kiosks at Lara Beach, so you must bring all your own food and water. Pack a picnic with local favourites like tzatziki, pita bread, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers – eating with your feet in the sand is an unforgettable experience. Also, bring plenty of water – the sun is strong here, and there’s no shade apart from what you bring yourself. If you forget supplies, the nearest shops are in Polis town or Coral Bay, around 20 minutes away by car. Always bring a cooler box with ice packs to keep drinks cold – it makes all the difference on hot days.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit is outside nesting season – from November to April – when you can explore the entire beach freely. During nesting season, you will see cages protecting turtle nests – it is VERY important not to go near or disturb these nests. You may be very privileged and watch the turtles from a respectful distance, when the wardens are helping them by releasing to the sea. Also, early morning is the best time to come – you’ll avoid the heat of the day.
Finally, check the weather forecast before you go – heavy rain can make the access road impassable even for 4×4s.
