Is Pervolia a good destination for a beach holiday?
Pervolia is considered a good destination for a beach holiday, particularly for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed experience. It offers kilometres of beaches with clear blue waters and is often described as a hidden gem because it's less crowded than other tourist spots in Cyprus. The village itself has a traditional Cypriot feel and a peaceful ambiance.
What are the beaches in Pervolia like?
Pervolia's beaches generally feature a mix of sand and pebbles, with some areas having darker sand. The main Pervolia beach is about 4 kilometres long. Faros Beach, a popular Blue Flag beach in Pervolia, is known for its fine sands of varying beige shades and calm, shallow seawaters, making it suitable for children. Some beaches, like Perivolia Beach, are noted for being quiet and uncrowded.
Can you swim in the sea at Pervolia beaches and what is the water like?
Yes, you can swim at Pervolia beaches. The water is generally described as calm, shallow, and clear, making it suitable for swimming, including for children. Faros Beach, for example, has a sea barrier that helps keep the waters calm. However, some sources mention that the water at Perivolia Beach can get silty due to afternoon winds causing small waves, and at Pervolia Beach itself (the main one), you might need special slippers to enter the water in some places as it's not the finest sand.
Are Pervolia beaches suitable for families with children?
Yes, Pervolia beaches are generally considered suitable for families with children. Faros Beach is particularly recommended due to its calm, shallow waters, a sea barrier for safety, a children's playground, and lifeguard services during peak season (June-September). Perivolia Beach is also noted as ideal for families seeking solitude. The overall quiet and less crowded nature of Pervolia's beaches contributes to their family-friendliness.
Are there beachfront accommodation options in Pervolia?
Yes, Pervolia offers various accommodation options, including beachfront villas and apartments. Many visitors choose to stay in holiday rentals, from cozy apartments to luxurious villas, some of which offer direct beach access. Faros Beach, for instance, has villas nearby. The village of Pervolia itself also has guesthouses within walking distance of the beach.
What is the best time of year to visit Pervolia for a beach holiday?
The best time to visit Pervolia for a beach holiday is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming and water sports. May and October are also good months with pleasant weather, suitable for kitesurfing.
What facilities are available at Pervolia beaches?
Facilities vary by beach. Faros Beach is well-equipped with toilets, showers, changing rooms, sunbeds, umbrellas, dustbins, recycling bins, a children's playground, and lifeguard services (June-September). It also has food and drink options and water sports. Perivolia Beach has fewer amenities, with a small number of umbrellas and beds, and visitors are advised to bring their own supplies, though a cafe-bar is nearby. Pervolia Beach (the main one) is also equipped with sunbeds and parasols.
How crowded are the beaches in Pervolia?
Pervolia beaches are generally known for being less crowded than other popular tourist spots in Cyprus, offering a more tranquil experience. Even during peak season, the beaches tend not to get overly crowded. Perivolia Beach is specifically mentioned as quiet and uncrowded. However, Pervolia Beach can get more crowded on weekends, especially with sports enthusiasts.
Is Pervolia good for kitesurfing?
Yes, Pervolia Beach is a well-known spot for kitesurfing enthusiasts of all levels. The beach is long (around 10km), with shallow waters, few swimmers, and consistent thermal winds, particularly from the south and southwest, from dawn till dusk. These conditions are ideal for freestyle, long-distance, and bump and jump kitesurfing. Kitesurfing schools are available on the spot for lessons. The best season for kitesurfing is from May to October.
Are there any dog-friendly beaches in or near Pervolia?
Yes, there is a 'Beach for Dogs' located near Pervolia (approximately 6.9km from the center). It's a sandy, shallow beach where dogs can roam and play freely. Meneou Beach, which is also close to Pervolia, has a pet-friendly policy.
How do Pervolia beaches compare to Larnaca town beaches like Finikoudes or McKenzie?
Pervolia beaches offer a quieter, more village-like atmosphere compared to the bustling city beaches of Larnaca like Finikoudes and McKenzie. While Larnaca's main beaches are known for their lively promenades, numerous bars, restaurants, and events, Pervolia's beaches are generally less crowded and more suited for relaxation and families seeking tranquility. Pervolia is a short drive from Larnaca, so visitors can experience both. McKenzie Beach is popular for plane spotting due to its proximity to the airport, while Pervolia offers a more natural, less commercialized setting.
What is Faros Beach in Pervolia like? Is it worth visiting?
Faros Beach, also known as Lighthouse Beach, is a Blue Flag beach and one of the most popular in Pervolia. It's a 500-metre strip of fine, beige sand with calm, shallow waters, making it excellent for families. It's well-organized with facilities like toilets, showers, sunbeds, umbrellas, a playground, and lifeguard services in summer. There are also water sports and food/drink options. The lighthouse itself is a picturesque local monument. It's considered a good choice for both families and younger crowds seeking a tranquil yet equipped beach.
Are there any unique local quirks or things to know about Pervolia beaches?
One notable aspect is that the wider Pervolia coastal area, including some of its beaches, serves as nesting grounds for Caretta caretta sea turtles, which are protected. You might see nesting sites marked off. Also, Pervolia Beach is known for its consistent winds, making it a prime kitesurfing location. While generally sandy, some spots on Pervolia's beaches might have pebbles or require water shoes for comfort. The proximity to Larnaca airport means you might see planes passing over, which some find interesting.
How easy is it to get to Pervolia beaches, especially from Larnaca airport?
Pervolia is located about 16 km from Larnaca city and is a short drive from Larnaca International Airport (LCA), making its beaches easily accessible upon arrival. Access to beaches like Faros Beach is straightforward by foot, bike, bus, or car, with parking facilities available. Some beaches, like Perivolia Beach, are noted as perfect to visit immediately after arriving at LCA due to their proximity and easy access.
Do I need to rent a car to explore Pervolia and its beaches?
While some beaches and the village center might be walkable depending on where you stay, renting a car is generally recommended to fully explore Pervolia, its various beaches, and the surrounding Larnaca district. Several car rental agencies operate in Pervolia and at Larnaca Airport. A car provides flexibility to visit different beaches, nearby attractions, and larger supermarkets or restaurants outside the immediate village center.
