Cyprus pathos which sea washes. Holidays in Cyprus reviews: what sea, beaches, where is better. Photo and video. What sea is Cyprus located on?
The Cyprus Sea is very warm: officially tourist season The island closes on November 1, but you can swim until December; the water remains at a comfortable temperature - about 20 degrees. This is one of the few resorts where you can safely go swimming in November and April. But the highest season here is from May to October, when the water temperature is 23-24 degrees.
This sea is not suitable for surfing; the water is very calm and “gentle”. One of the important characteristics of the sea in Cyprus is its cleanliness; many beaches here are marked “ Blue flag” – an award given to beaches with the most environmentally friendly water. In 2013, 57 beaches were awarded this honor.
The largest concentration of famous and popular beaches is in the city of Ayia Napa - the beaches here are sandy or a mixture of sand and pebbles. The most famous is local beach Nissi Beach.
Legends and myths
The Cyprus Sea also attracts tourists with its rich history. According to legend, it was from its waters that the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty Aphrodite emerged. Now this place is called Aphrodite's Bay, it is located near the resort of Paphos. There are many signs associated with swimming in it: women, having plunged into its waters, gain youth and attractiveness, and lovers who swim together will always be together.A large layer of legends is associated with the caves that dot the coast of Cyprus, and the pirates who stored the loot in them. The image of gentlemen of fortune will accompany you on the Cyprus Sea, on which stylized ships with a black flag still sail today.
For whom
The Cyprus sea is calm, clean and warm - ideal for families with children. None extreme entertainment not here, but you can pleasantly relax to the sound of the surf. This is an excellent choice for a romantic getaway for a couple in love. However, in many resorts, especially in Ayia Napa, the sea becomes the venue for fun parties, people dance right in the lagoons!The Cyprus Sea attracts divers: here, in addition to the underwater world, you can see sunken ships, including one of the most famous and largest, the second Titanic - the ferry Zenobia, which sank near the port of Larnaca.
“What kind of sea is in Cyprus?” - This question was the first one my friend asked after we returned home. And without hesitation, remembering my first impression, I answered Warm! And then he thought and said, no, not warm, but Hot! During our short stay (only seven days!) in Cyprus, I had to swim in the sea near Limassol, Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Protaras.
But I have never seen such warm water as we had during the first days of our holiday, on the beaches five kilometers east of Larnaca, except maybe in the shower!
We arrived at the hotel after midnight, and naturally it was too late to go swimming, and after five hours on a hot and stuffy bus and three on the plane, we had absolutely no energy left, so we had to settle for a shower and go to bed. But the first thing my wife and I did in the morning was go to the sea. And why not go? If you open your eyes, glance out the window, and there it is, the Mediterranean!
The sea near Larnaca.
And after walking these four hundred meters (our hotel was not far from Larnaca in the second line from the sea), I took off my clothes, and expecting to feel the morning coolness, I stepped into the sea... but that was not the case. The water is so warm that you hardly feel it, except perhaps the resistance as you move. A special feature of the beaches east of Larnaca is the presence of protective dams or breakwaters that, with small gaps, stretch at a distance of 100 - 150 meters parallel to the shore. The sea here is shallow - you have to go seventy to eighty meters to the depth, and it is also protected from the run-up, warmed by the hot Cypriot sun up to thirty degrees, or even more!
What other sea is there in Cyprus? Clean and transparent. Despite the fact that in the sea near Larnaca the beach and bottom are made of fine volcanic ash, the water was absolutely transparent, and the bottom was clearly visible to a depth of several meters, well, in general, wherever we managed to swim. And only on days of strong excitement did the water become a little cloudy in the shallows.
Sea in Limassol.
About the same sea in Limassol. Here, too, breakwaters have been built along the coast, and the bottom is covered with the same brownish, clay-like substance. volcanic ash, only more stones, and the water is cooler than in the shallow Larnaca Bay. On the day of our visit to Limassol, the Mediterranean Sea was very agitated, it seemed that a storm had passed somewhere, so a strong surge muddied the water a little, but despite this, and despite the proximity of the largest port, and Limassol has the largest port in Cyprus, it remained absolutely clean , unlike Crimea, where after a storm heaps of garbage float in the sea.
Sea in Ayia Napa.
The sea in Ayia Napa is also Mediterranean, but a little different. The coast here also seems to be composed of volcanic rocks, but they look more like frozen magma than ash, as in Larnaca. The rocks appear to be very strong, but they are easily destroyed by the sea, and therefore the sand on the beach and in the sea around Cape Greco is coarse, light, even golden, and the water is clean and transparent no matter how rough it is. And the turquoise color of the sea in Ayia Napa is so bright and sparkling that no camera can reproduce this magical picture!
Everything said above can also be applied to the sea near Protaras.
The sea near Paphos.
Well, and finally, what kind of sea does Paphos have? The city of Paphos, unlike Larnaca, Limassol and Ayia Napa located on the south coast, faces west. So the waves, driven by the wind across the entire width of the Mediterranean Sea, and maybe even coming from the Atlantic, roll onto the shore in a continuous sequence. So there is almost always surf here, and the sea near Paphos is deeper because the color of the water is rich - blue, indigo, turquoise.
The seashore near Paphos is rocky, steep in places, so entering the water is difficult, although there are sandy beaches.
What is the sea like in Cyprus or a little geography.
What is the sea like in Cyprus? Of course, you will say Mediterranean, and you will be right. Cyprus is pretty big Island, is located in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea about seventy kilometers from Turkey in the north, a hundred from Lebanon in the east and 380 km from Egypt in the south.
Yes, the Mediterranean, but it is quite large and its shores are densely populated by different peoples, and accordingly, historically, parts of the sea received their names.
Levantine Sea
East End, the waters of which plow the island of Cyprus, received the name Levantine Sea from the ancient French levant, which means sunrise, east. In general, the concept of “Levant” is quite broad - a crossroads or meeting place of the Mediterranean, Asia and Africa. In the Levantine Sea, the Cilician Sea is respectively distinguished, located in the north, between Turkey and Cyprus, and in the south, towards Africa - the Cyprus Sea. Well, towards Asia Minor the Levantine itself. So Cyprus can be called the island of four seas.
The Levantine Sea is warm, in winter the temperature does not fall below +15 degrees, and in summer it warms up to + 28.
Dead Sea in Cyprus.
And the sea in Cyprus is dead, not quite of course, there are shrimps, crabs, sea turtles, octopuses, sometimes a fish will flash in the water column, and at the bottom there will be bushes of algae and even corals.
But of course there are not enough living creatures. If you have ever dived in the Black Sea, you will understand. And the whole point is the high salinity of the water and the lack of organic matter, which is usually carried into the sea by rivers. The fact is that the rivers of Cyprus do not flow to the sea. Most of them dry out along the way. And those that could reach the sea are blocked by dams and give up their moisture to reservoirs. And if we add high air and water temperatures to the lack of desalination effect of rivers, it turns out that the salinity of water in the waters of the Cyprus Sea reaches 40 grams per liter, which is 10 percent higher than the salinity of the ocean. So there are not enough fish in the sea of Cyprus, and therefore dolphins and sharks do not swim here. If the absence of the former is somehow not pleasing, then the absence of the latter is very pleasant, especially for divers.
This is the sea in Cyprus, warm, clean, very transparent and very salty, not very rich in living creatures, but very desirable and alluring!
- This amazing island with a comfortable climate and developed infrastructure, thanks to which the number of people wishing to relax here is increasing every year. But the main attraction of this Island of Love is the sea - clean, safe and incredibly beautiful. Let's consider this particular water component of a wonderful holiday.
Geographical features of the sea in Cyprus
Cleanliness of the Cyprus Sea
The purity of the sea in Cyprus cannot be described - it must be seen. At the same time, the ideal azure of sea water boasts not only environmental purity, but also extraordinary transparency. So, on the coast of the island there are places where even at a depth of 40 to 100 m you will see all the beauty of the seabed in the smallest detail. This is why Cyprus is so attractive for diving enthusiasts. The ecological cleanliness of many Cypriot beaches is not just an advertising slogan. It is marked with a special certificate of beach quality - the EU Blue Flag.
Flora and fauna of the Cyprus Sea
The part of the Mediterranean Sea near Cyprus is quite rich in inhabitants, which, given the high concentration of salt in sea water, prefer the coastal area. Therefore, diving is the best way to see with your own eyes all the splendor of the flora and fauna of the Cyprus Sea. Having gone down to the bottom, you can watch rare fish, shellfish, crabs and turtles, and south coast– and also appreciate the beauty of coral reefs. Staying outside will bring you no less aesthetic pleasure. water element, because the seascapes when walking along the coasts look impressive and very picturesque.
Maritime safety in Cyprus
Another advantage of the Mediterranean Sea near Cyprus is safety, but not only in environmental terms. Here you can safely swim without fear of such biological “threats” as sharks, sea urchins or jellyfish. If you choose the wild beaches of the island for relaxation, there is a risk of getting burned by some types of algae. Although they pose no more danger than nettles. And, of course, there are storms on the Cyprus Sea, so swimming at this time is not recommended.
The best beaches in Cyprus
If the purpose of your stay in Cyprus is to go to the beach, pay attention to the beaches of Ayia Napa and Protaras. Here you will find snow-white sandy coastlines and perfectly clear water. The EU blue flag beaches here are Nissi Beach, Ayia Thekla, Kermia, Makronissos, Konnos Bay, Kapparis Beach. If you prefer active recreation and diving, choose the beaches of Paphos with cooler water, but rich underwater world. In this part of Cyprus, the beaches of Coral Bay, Faros, and City Beach are awarded a certificate of quality. And, of course, one cannot fail to mention famous beach Aphrodite, located near Limassol and Paphos, on the shores of which, according to legend, the sea goddess emerged from the foam.
The sea in Cyprus provides many opportunities to have a great time on vacation - swimming and sunbathing, diving and windsurfing, fishing and enjoying the sea views on board a snow-white yacht.
As you can see, the closest way to Cyprus is from Turkey if you travel by sea. The island belongs to Asia, and not Europe or Africa, as one might mistakenly assume.
The climate is mild and temperate - this is one of the reasons why many Russians seek to relax here at any time of the year.
Cyprus seas
The Mediterranean Sea has so-called small seas (like microdistricts in small town). Cyprus has three of them:
- Cyprus - washes the southern coast;
- Cilician - located on the northeastern coast;
- Levantine is a small sea on the east coast.
- West Coast - Mediterranean Sea, which does not have a separate name.
It is worth noting that the most favorite place for Cypriots and tourists is the Cyprus Sea. Here the water is warmest, the sea is calm, and there is very little precipitation.
Cyprus is considered safe for swimming, snorkeling, diving, surfing as there are no sharks, sea urchins, poisonous underwater plants. But you need to be attentive and careful in any case. IN swimming season the sea is rarely stormy, so every tourist is sure to be lucky.
Now let’s look at what the water temperature is in different seasons. Let's start with summer. Of course, at this time of year the swimming season is open. The water is quite warm and warms up to +30 °C.
In September, the water temperature is about +27 °C degrees, so the swimming season is still open. It is worth noting that there are a lot of beautiful fish and other inhabitants in the sea that you can see while snorkeling.
In October, the sea becomes noticeably colder (+24 °C), but this does not interfere with swimming and diving. Until the end of the month you can safely swim, dive, and explore the underwater world.
In November, the water seems cold for most tourists. Only daredevils will want to swim.
In winter, the Cyprus Sea cools down and the temperature does not exceed +16 °C. Swimming is not recommended.
In the spring, the water warms up to +24 °C. In May, tourists open the swimming season.
Most popular resorts
Below is a list best resorts The islands of Cyprus, which are located both near the sea and far from the coast:
- Ayia Napa and Protaras
They are located in the eastern part of the island not far from each other. The beaches are sandy, environmentally friendly, well-groomed. The resorts are suitable for low-income families, young people and retirees.
- Limassol
The southernmost edge of the island with the port of the same name. The beaches here have gray sand or pebbles. Families with children prefer to relax at this resort.
- Pathos
Located in the southwestern part of the island of Cyprus. This resort is special - it is quiet, calm, and the nature is extraordinary. The beaches are rocky.
- Larnaca
Location – south-eastern part of Cyprus. The sea here is shallow, reminiscent of our Azov Sea. You can walk far from the shore without drowning. The resort is suitable for families with small children.
- Pissouri
Located in the southwestern part of the island. It is here that small Cypriot houses remain, which, unfortunately, cannot be seen in other resorts that have only modern multi-storey buildings.
All listed holiday destinations have clean beaches, calm and equally clean sea.
Sights by the sea
The island has a huge number of interesting attractions. Let's look at the most interesting places near the sea coast. Let's divide our list of attractions by resorts in Cyprus.
Protaras
Less popular resort in the eastern part of Cyprus, located just east of Ayia Napa. Here you can get acquainted with amazing places.
- Cape Greco
Amazing landscapes will open before you; the magnificent view of the sea, rocks, and caves will take your breath away! Every nature lover should definitely take a walk in national reserve at Cape Greco and along the coast.
- Fig Tree Bay
Fig trees grow here, decorating the entire coast. Walking along the bay will bring pleasure, calm the soul, and lift your spirits.
- Aquarium
Be sure to check out the local aquarium, which features a variety of small fish, predatory creatures, turtles and other marine fauna. It will be interesting not only for adults, but also for small children.
- Church of the Prophet Elijah
On the highest cliff there is a church in honor of St. Elijah the Prophet. Near the shrine there is a breathtaking view of the sea. Orthodox Christians come here to pray and rest their souls.
Pathos
One of the most unusual places not only in Cyprus, but also on the planet. Amazing beauty is revealed here.
- Bath of Aphrodite
An amazing place that will not leave anyone indifferent: here a waterfall descends from a cliff into a clear pool. The water has a turquoise tint. Perfect place for swimming and bungee jumping.
Birthplace of Aphrodite. Beautiful landscapes on the seashore. Waves splash over boulders and beach pebbles, creating an unusual picture.
Limassol
The resort of Limassol is amazing because in its surroundings it has remained close to the sea ancient city Kourion with columns and amphitheater. Here you can take a trip into the distant past and feel the atmosphere of an ancient era.
The Mediterranean Sea surrounding the island is an environmentally friendly and absolutely safe place for people. Here you can fully relax, swim and get a lot of impressions.
The main center of attraction for the bulk of tourists here is the endless, clean and, importantly, safe sea. Let's see where Cyprus is located on the world map and what kind of sea there is.
What sea is Cyprus located on?
If the first part of the question: “where is it” can be answered unambiguously, then the second part – “what kind of sea is there” – will not work. Formally, from a geographical point of view, the shores of the island are washed by the Mediterranean Sea. However, some of its parts have their own unofficial name. Yes, on to the south is the Cyprus Sea, in the northeast - Cilician, in the east - Levantine.
Geographically, Cyprus belongs to the Asian part of the world, and not to the European part, as most people are used to thinking. Despite the fact that one of them is Greek, there is little associated with this country. In fact, part of the state’s territory is controlled by Turkey and Great Britain. And the nearby countries are Egypt and Syria.
Interactive location map of Cyprus: (You can zoom in and out by clicking on + or -)
Climatic features of Cyprus
The tourist season on the island lasts from to. In spring and summer, the water temperature can reach a maximum of plus 30 degrees. This is facilitated by the peculiar terrain, replete with shallow waters.
With the arrival of autumn, the water in the sea cools down, but not rapidly, but gradually, which makes it possible to prolong holiday season. But even in winter and in early spring The waters of the Mediterranean Sea have a relatively comfortable temperature.
The Mediterranean Sea that surrounds Cyprus is completely unique and is famous for three main qualities:
1.
Cleanliness.
2.
Security.
3
. An abundance of strange living creatures.
The purity of the Cyprus Sea is an amazing phenomenon. Moreover, we are talking not only about the environmental component, but also about the transparency of the azure waters. In some places, even at a depth of a hundred meters, you can see the beauty of deep-sea marine life in great detail. As for the environment, everything is at the highest level, which is confirmed by a special EU quality certificate - Blue flag
.
It is safe to be on the Cyprus coasts - it is impossible to meet sharks, sea urchins, or jellyfish here. But other, harmless inhabitants of the deep sea are worth admiring - lovers will be able to see rare fish, shellfish, crabs, turtles and even coral reefs. The only trouble is that a minor burn can result from an “encounter” with some types of algae that grow on wild beaches islands.
Where to relax in Cyprus
So, we found out which sea Cyprus washes, now is the time to find out for this or that type of vacation.
Most famous resorts Cyprus are and . Here, most tourists are attracted primarily by the snow-white sandy shores, gentle shallows, clear water. For lovers active rest(diving, fishing, windsurfing) you will like the beaches, where the water is cooler, but the richest deep-sea world is. There is a beach nearby Aphrodite, attractive to tourists - after all, it was here, according to myth, that the goddess of beauty once emerged from the foam of the sea.
It might be useful to read:
- How to get on an excursion to Antarctica?;
- Czech Republic Troy Castle. Troja Castle in Prague. Ancient winery and museum;
- Böcklin and his “island of the dead” A cultural phenomenon of its time;
- Air tickets to Crimea Air tickets to Crimea will become cheaper;
- What you can and cannot take with you;
- Open left menu Heviz How to get from Budapest to Lake Heviz;
- Cable car in Nha Trang (Vinpearl) The longest cable car in the world Vietnam;
- Kamenets-Podolsk fortress - a historical monument of Ukraine Life outside the walls of the Kamenets-Podolsk fortress;