Nissi Beach holidays add a family spin to Cyprus' party playground, Ayia Napa.

Star-quality sands

This resort’s tagged onto the south coast of Cyprus, just a hop, skip and a jump from the bright lights of Ayia Napa. It gets its name from a footprint-free, small island bobbing off the coast, which sun-seekers can ogle from a pair of Blue Flag beaches. High-end hotels and restaurants form an orderly queue in the background.

Warm welcome

Nissi Beach clicks into place for families looking for a one-stop holiday shop. The waterfront’s on the calm and shallow side, which suits nippers, and the kid-friendly entertainment’s in good supply wherever you turn. Ancient Greece is brought to life through the medium of slides and splash pools at nearby WaterWorld, too. It’s only a five-minute drive along the coast.

Nature and nightlife

One of Cyprus’ easiest-on-the-eye spots is 15 minutes’ drive from Nissi Beach, hitched to the island’s eastern tip. Cape Greco National Park serves up a platter of pine-fringed nature trails, hidden sea caves and weather-worn rock formations. Before you reach this neck of the woods, though, you’ll pass the neon ebb of Ayia Napa. It’s got serious party prowess, with bars and clubs going full-throttle around the clock.

At a Glance

  • Ride the slides at a waterpark
  • Wind down on a Blue Flag beach
  • Explore Cape Greco National Park