Kritou Terra Beaches

Overview

Kritou Terra offers a unique perspective for a Cyprus holiday, serving as a tranquil inland village from which to discover the region's stunning coastline. While not a beachfront resort itself, charming beaches in the Polis and Latchi areas are just a short drive away, typically around 15 to 20 minutes. Exploring these coastal gems is best done with a car, giving you the freedom to find your perfect seaside spot where clear, inviting waters await.

The coastline accessible from Kritou Terra boasts some of Cyprus's most iconic beaches. You can immerse yourself in mythology at Petra tou Romiou, the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite. For a classic sandy beach experience popular with families, Coral Bay is an excellent choice. Or, venture to the Akamas Peninsula to witness the unspoiled natural beauty of Lara beach, a protected haven for turtles.

Beyond these, the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon are a must-see, often reached by boat and perfect for swimming. The region offers a variety of experiences, from popular sandy stretches to more secluded pebbly coves. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal treasures nearby, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches in this guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Kritou Terra a good place for a beach holiday?

Kritou Terra is a traditional inland village, not a beach resort. However, it's a good base for exploring nearby beaches if you prefer a quieter, more rural setting and have a car. The closest beaches in Latchi and Polis are about a 15-20 minute drive away.

How far are the beaches from Kritou Terra and how do I get there?

The nearest popular beaches are in Latchi and Polis, approximately 10-12 km away, which is about a 15-20 minute drive. Renting a car is the most common and recommended way to access these beaches from Kritou Terra. There is a limited bus service (route 641) to Polis, but a car offers more flexibility for exploring different coastal areas.

What are the best beaches near Kritou Terra for families?

Polis Municipal Beach and Latchi Beach are excellent choices for families. They offer calm, shallow waters, soft sand (Polis Municipal) or pebbles (Latchi), and amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby cafes. Coral Bay, though a bit further (around 12km from Kritou Terra centre), is also very popular with families due to its soft sand and comprehensive facilities.

Polis Municipal

Coral Bay

Can you swim near Kritou Terra and what's the water like?

Yes, you can swim at the numerous beaches near Kritou Terra, primarily around Polis, Latchi, and the Akamas Peninsula. The water is generally clear and known for its beautiful blue hues. Water temperatures are comfortable for swimming from May to November, often reaching 27-28°C in August.

Which is better: Latchi Beach or Polis Municipal Beach?

Both are popular and close to Kritou Terra. Latchi Beach is known for its pebbles, vibrant harbour atmosphere with boat trips (including to the Blue Lagoon), and many tavernas. Polis Municipal Beach is more of a sandy beach, also with calm waters and good facilities, often considered serene. The choice depends on whether you prefer a pebbly beach with a bustling harbour or a quieter sandy stretch.

Polis Municipal

Are there any quiet or hidden gem beaches accessible from Kritou Terra?

Yes, the Akamas Peninsula, a short drive from Latchi, offers more secluded coves and beaches like Manolis Bay, Fontana Amorosa, and some less crowded spots near Baths of Aphrodite beach. Toxeftra Beach is also a more remote option. These often require a bit more effort to reach but offer tranquility.

Manolis Bay

Fontana Amorosa

Toxeftra Beach

What's the best time of year to visit beaches near Kritou Terra for swimming?

The prime swimming season is from May to November. Water temperatures are warmest from June to August (around 27-28°C), but May, September, and October still offer pleasant sea temperatures (21-25°C) and generally warm, sunny weather, often with fewer crowds.

Do I need a car if I'm staying in Kritou Terra and want to go to the beach regularly?

Yes, renting a car is highly recommended. While there's a limited bus service to Polis, a car provides the freedom and flexibility to explore various beaches at your own pace, reach more secluded spots, and manage beach gear easily.

People Also Ask

Are the beaches near Kritou Terra sandy or pebbly?

You'll find a mix. For example, Polis Municipal Beach is known for its golden sand. Latchi Beach is primarily pebbly. Beaches along the Akamas Peninsula can vary, with some sandy stretches and some more rocky or pebbly coves. Coral Bay is a well-known sandy beach.

Polis Municipal

Coral Bay

Latsi Beach

What facilities are available at the main beaches near Kritou Terra (e.g., Latchi, Polis)?

Latchi Beach and Polis Municipal Beach are well-organized. You can typically find sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, showers, toilets, and nearby cafes or restaurants. Many also have lifeguards on duty during the main season and offer watersports.

Polis Municipal

Is it easy to find parking at the beaches near Kritou Terra?

For popular beaches like Latchi, Polis Municipal Beach, and Coral Bay, there is generally parking available, though it can get busy during peak season, so arriving earlier is advisable. More remote beaches in the Akamas area might have informal parking.

Polis Municipal

Coral Bay

Are there any beaches near Kritou Terra suitable for snorkeling?

Yes, the clear waters of the Akamas Peninsula, including areas like the Blue Lagoon and Manolis Bay, are excellent for snorkeling. Sea Caves Peyia, a bit further towards Paphos, is also a known snorkeling paradise. Even some of the more accessible beaches like Yiannakis Beach near Latchi offer good snorkeling opportunities.

Blue Lagoon

Manolis Bay

Sea Caves Peyia Paphos

Yiannakis Beach

How do the beaches near Kritou Terra (Polis/Latchi) compare to Paphos beaches?

Beaches near Kritou Terra, like those in Polis and Latchi, are generally considered more laid-back and closer to nature, especially with the Akamas Peninsula nearby. Paphos offers a wider variety of beaches, from busy, well-equipped sandy stretches like Coral Bay to smaller coves, often with more hotels and tourist infrastructure directly on the coast. Paphos beaches can be more crowded.

Coral Bay

Are there any nudist beaches near Kritou Terra?

While official nudist beaches are rare in Cyprus, Pissouri Beach, which is a considerable drive south from Kritou Terra, is known to have a designated area sometimes used by naturists. It's best to inquire locally about current attitudes and specific locations if this is an interest.

Pissouri Beach

What should I pack for a day trip to the beaches from Kritou Terra?

Besides swimwear and towels, bring sun cream, a hat, and sunglasses, as the Cyprus sun is strong. Water shoes can be useful for pebbly beaches or exploring rocky areas. Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially if heading to more secluded beaches with fewer facilities. A beach umbrella might also be a good idea if you prefer your own shade.