Ayia Napa or Agia Napa, as the Greek translation is more accurate, is a place that every tourist in Cyprus should visit. I can’t just add for its fantastic nightlife, great bars and restaurants. But only because it’s a great city and also a thriving resort. The beaches are absolutely fabulous, with miles of soft golden sand lapped by the warm, clear Mediterranean Ocean, making them perfect for sunbathers and sunbathers alike.
There is a bustling harbor just off the main promenade, opposite some excellent restaurants and bars where you can relax with a cold beer while watching the pleasure boats arrive. Ayia Napa harbor is also home to a sizable fleet of small fishing boats and if you happen to be around in the mornings you can even pick up some fresh fish for dinner. On the other hand, you’re on vacation, so what the heck, let the restaurant do the cooking. Boat trips from the port are very reasonably priced, so be sure to book a nice relaxing cruise along the coast which usually includes lunch and a swim stop. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, there’s a fabulous full-sail catamaran or even a yellow submarine. No I’m not kidding, you can get a great view of the local marine life from this semi-submersible and they don’t charge an arm and a leg either.
Be sure to visit Nisi Beach, which is about 2 miles along the coast from the Ayia Napa port area. You can hop on the bus or take a leisurely walk. The route along the main road is lined with shops and bars, so there are plenty of opportunities to stop for a relaxing drink or quick snack. Then there is the scenic drive along the new coastal path with plenty of quaint bars to quench your thirst along the way. The Nisi beach area is almost a resort in itself with a beautiful golden beach fronted by dozens of bars, restaurants and shops. This is where the younger generation seems to gravitate and there is bungee jumping and plenty of water sports available. Another great event that is regularly held here is the foam party. Held in a sort of disco marquee with sides that fill with foam, it’s great fun for all ages.
I have to tell you about the Ayia Napa water park. It’s amazing! This water park has won several major European awards for its safety and is one of the biggest and best in Europe. The staff at Waterworld are excellent and among the most helpful I have ever met. The park is immaculate, professional and very well managed. The water slides are amazing and will provide a strenuous day for young and old alike. There is something for every age group, from toddlers to water park fans. You can just relax in the lazy river or ride the drop to the bottom of the terrifying Kamikaze water slide. For pure thrills and spills for the whole family, take a trip down the “Drop into Atlantis” and make sure there’s someone in the background to capture your expression on camera. Even at the age of over fifty, I still rise to the challenge of trying every slide in the park at least once during the day.
Let’s not forget, of course, that Ayia Napa is first and foremost known for its fantastic nightlife. All the famous clubs are there, like the ministry of sound and the sir frogs. Visit “the square” which is home to most of the best clubs and until the party breaks, enjoy breakfast at one of the many cafes in the area. No trip to Cyprus would be complete without a visit to Ayia Napa, even if it’s just to the water park or a day at the beach, so happy holidays and enjoy Cyprus.
