Aphrodite Beach is a notable location on the southwest coast of the Pafos (Paphos) district. It is renowned as the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Ancient Greek Goddess of Love and Beauty. According to legend, Aphrodite was born from the sea foam and was escorted on a shell to this particular beach. The beach is also associated with another legend of the Byzantine hero Digenis Akritas, who is said to have heaved giant rock formations to the location to keep the Saracens Arabs at bay during the 7th to 10th centuries. These rock formations, known as 'Petra tou Romiou' or 'rock of the Greek', are an interesting geological feature of the beach.
The beach itself is wide with fine, greyish sand. It is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water activities. It also features a paved sidewalk that stretches for several kilometers along the beach. The beach is equipped with public toilets and running water facilities for showers and feet washing.
Access to the beach is facilitated by a parking lot, which also houses the showers and changing rooms. From the parking lot, visitors can reach the beach through a tunnel. However, it should be noted that the beach and its facilities may appear somewhat unkempt, with the showers being described as primitive and the footpath as damaged and small. Despite these shortcomings, Aphrodite Beach continues to attract visitors with its natural beauty and historical significance.
