Cyprus is not just the “sunniest place” on the planet. This Mediterranean island has always attracted artists from around the world like a magnet. So, what’s the secret? It’s the unique quality of sunlight that bathes everything in golden tones and gives objects a special brightness. This quality was highly valued by Impressionist painters as well as the 19th-century Russian realist artist Vasily Polenov.
The beauty of Cypriot sunlight can be fully appreciated during sunrise or sunset when everything is literally “bathed” in golden light. But to truly enjoy Cyprus’s unique sunrises and sunsets, you don’t need to be an artist or a photographer. Anyone can enjoy it—just love nature and appreciate beauty. Sunrise and sunset are magical times that make you want to pause. Nature itself seems to freeze as we witness the birth of a new day or bid farewell to the day and watch night arrive. To experience Cyprus’s sunrises and sunsets at their best, it’s ideal to choose a special location in nature. Here are some of the best spots for the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets on the island.
Limassol
Governor’s Beach
One of the most famous and suitable places to watch sunrise near Limassol is Governor’s Beach. One of Cyprus’s most beautiful and popular beaches is just a 25-minute drive from the city. You’ll recognize it by its unusual white rock formations and dark volcanic sand. This natural wonder has a unique aura, perfect for greeting the sunrise. As the first rays of the sun appear over the horizon, the dazzling white stones glow in shades of pink, orange, and gold. Arrive early to secure the best spots, including cozy secluded coves with panoramic views.
Agios Georgios Alamanou
Another picturesque beach for sunrise is Agios Georgios Alamanou, about a 40-minute drive from Limassol. Although it takes longer to reach, it’s worth it. This more secluded beach feels almost hidden from view, accessible via a dirt road—best approached by a 4WD vehicle. The landscape features striking white chalk cliffs framing a pebble beach. Ideal for solitude, reflection, or relaxation, it’s perfect for morning walks, meditation, and beautiful photos.
Curium (Kourion)
To experience both the magic of sunset and the island’s ancient history, visit the ancient city of Kourion, just 20 minutes from Limassol. Explore the ruins and the ancient amphitheater over 2,000 years old. Watching the sunset against these ancient structures feels like a small journey back in time. The amphitheater, once a place for spectacles, now becomes a stage for nature’s own performance. As the sun sets, the stone ruins glow in orange-gold hues, creating stunning photo opportunities. There’s also a sandy beach below the cliffs for sunset viewing.
Pissouri Bay
Pissouri Bay, about a 30-minute drive from Limassol, is another special natural spot. The golden sandy beach is framed by limestone cliffs, like a painting. Facing southwest, it’s perfect for sunsets, with the sun slowly descending over the horizon. On clear days, the sky turns vivid crimson, highlighting the cliffs. Enjoy the sunset from the beach or the cliff heights, ideal for dinner or an evening stroll.
Larnaca
Salt Lake
Not far from the center of Larnaca, there is a place that is a true oasis of peace and tranquility. This well-known local attraction is the Salt Lake. Its smooth water surface, surrounded by palm trees and the elegant silhouette of Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, creates a truly magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy both sunrise and sunset.
Arrive early in the morning, and you’ll be greeted by a serene landscape—a light mist rising from the mirror-like surface of the lake as the first rays of the sun pierce through. At sunset, you can witness mesmerizing views as the lake shimmers in golden and pink hues. This effect is even more magical if you’re lucky enough to see flamingos. The Salt Lake is ideal not only for photography but also for peaceful evening and morning walks.
Finikoudes
Sometimes you don’t need to travel far to enjoy memorable sunrises or beautiful sunsets. In Larnaca, you can simply head to the Finikoudes promenade. In the morning, take a stroll along the pier or the waterfront. From there, you can enjoy a full panoramic view of the sea as the sun slowly rises above the horizon, while local fishermen leisurely cast their lines. Afterwards, grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafés, get comfortable, and watch others jogging or walking their dogs. In the evening, you can enjoy the sunset near the Medieval Fortress, which appears gilded in the rays of the setting sun.
Ayia Napa / Protaras
Fig Tree Bay
This is one of the most popular beaches in Cyprus and an excellent spot to watch the sunrise. The beach faces east, offering a full panoramic view of the rising sun over the sea.
Golden sand, emerald waters, a winding shoreline, and a small island just off the coast create the perfect backdrop for sunrise and photography. Nearby, there are several cafés where you can enjoy breakfast.
Cape Greco
The natural beauty of Cape Greco leaves no one indifferent. It is also a unique nature reserve on the island of Cyprus. Its stunning white cliffs, sea caves, and small coves create a truly remarkable landscape. Most of Cape Greco faces east, making it ideal for sunrise. If you have the chance to visit the Ayia Anargyri Chapel (of Cosmas and Damian) or descend to the sea caves, an unforgettable sunrise is guaranteed.
Paphos
Akamas
The Akamas Peninsula is a true wonder of local nature and a unique nature reserve. To see a different, unexplored side of Cyprus, it’s definitely worth visiting at least once. Sea turtles also come here to continue their life cycle. The diversity of Akamas’s landscapes is breathtaking—every step offers a picturesque spot for sunrise or sunset.
Sunrise is best experienced on the eastern side of the peninsula, around Lara Bay and Avakas Gorge. If you are brave and prepared, you can venture into the gorge before sunrise and watch the first rays of sunlight pierce through the sheer cliffs. If you’re unsure, staying at the top also offers a magical sunrise.
The best sunset spots are on the western side of the peninsula. The most striking and mesmerizing sunsets can be seen at the Blue Lagoon, where emerald waters and steep cliffs create a unique landscape, making the sunset even more unforgettable. You can reach it by boat from Latchi or by off-road vehicle along dirt roads.
Petra tou Romiou
This place is steeped in myths and legends; according to tradition, Aphrodite emerged from the sea foam here. One of the rock formations is named in her honor—“Aphrodite’s Rock” or “Petra tou Romiou.”
The romantic atmosphere of this beach captivates visitors, attracting lovers and not only them. Even if you are single, it’s worth visiting, especially in the evening near sunset. The unusual rock formations, crystal-clear water, and sandy beach combined with the setting sun create a perfect backdrop for a romantic date or photography.
Pegeia (Sea Caves)
Not far from Paphos, in the Pegeia area, is the unique Sea Caves beach. Here you can enjoy beautiful sunsets against the backdrop of sea caves, limestone cliffs, and turquoise water. Nearby is the Edro III shipwreck, which has become a local attraction. This location is ideal for interesting photos with the setting sun. About a 10-minute walk from Sea Caves is another spot offering breathtaking sunset views, aptly named Sunset View Point.
Troodos Mountains
Many people assume that the best sunrises and sunsets can only be seen by the sea. However, the Troodos Mountains also offer equally mesmerizing views. It’s no surprise—mountain landscapes never get boring and always look different. Here, you can enjoy the fresh pine-scented air and unique mountain scenery and vegetation.
In Troodos, you can discover a completely different, yet equally beautiful, side of Cyprus’s nature. Early in the morning, watch the sun slowly rise over the mountains as nature seems to awaken—stones, trees, and shrubs sparkle in the first rays, and drops of morning dew glisten like crystals. In the evening, as the sun begins to set, the sky and mountains are painted in fiery shades of pink and purple.
Finding the best spots to watch sunrise or sunset in the mountains is not difficult. Simply follow a nature trail with panoramic views. Some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets can be seen from Mount Olympus peak, the highest point in Troodos, the viewpoint near Troodos Square, near Kykkos Monastery, and in the areas of Platres and Panagia village.
Sunrise and Sunset Times by Season
Here you can find the average times for sunrise and sunset for each season. To know the exact times, it’s best to use a mobile app.
Fall
- Sunrise: 6:20–6:40
- Sunset: 17:20–19:00
Winter
- Sunrise: 6:30–7:00
- Sunset: 17:00–17:55
Spring
- Sunrise: 5:50–6:30
- Sunset: 18:10–20:00
Summer
- Sunrise: 5:30–6:25
- Sunset: 19:40–20:10
Useful Tips
If you plan to enjoy a mountain sunrise, keep in mind that the sun rises slightly later in the mountains than on the coast. It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise or sunset to fully enjoy the play of light and changing colors in the sky.
Remember that even in summer, early mornings can be much cooler, especially in the mountains. Bring a jacket or a long-sleeved shirt. The same applies in winter—while it may be warm during the day, it gets suddenly cold once the sun sets.
Typically, the best sunrises can be seen on the eastern coasts of Southern Cyprus, and the best sunsets on the western coasts. For striking photos, use polarizing filters.
This article highlights just a few of the best spots to witness Cyprus’s breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. In reality, nearly every beach and mountain trail on the island offers stunning views worthy of a magazine cover or postcard. Don’t hesitate to explore lesser-known corners and discover new places.
Experiencing a sunrise or sunset in nature feels like a mini-getaway you can enjoy any day of the week! What’s your favorite spot for sunrise or sunset in Cyprus? Share in the comments!
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- How to get a driver’s license in Cyprus—a complete guide
- A rainy day in Cyprus? Best entertainment and attractions!
