Where to surf in Cyprus. Best spots to catch waves

Surfing is quite often associated with big ocean waves and tropical locations. In the meantime, Cyprus remains a lesser known, almost untapped surfing territory. But, with its pristine beaches, stunning seascapes and a variety of waves, this island is an amazing surfing spot right in the heart of the Mediterranean. The main advantage of Cyprus is that it offers excellent surfing opportunities in the winter season with consistent swells and favourable water conditions, whilst the temperatures remain mild and hover around +20C. In fact, Cyprus’ sunny weather provides an ideal backdrop for winter surfing in the centre of Europe. So, whether you are a seasoned surfer or just a beginner, we have prepared this ultimate Cyprus guide with information about local weather conditions, best surfing spots and ways to engage with the local surfing community. If the waves are calling you, «let's get some», as the surfers say.

Best surfing spots

Western Coast

The island's western coast around the Paphos region is traditionally known for top surfing locations. There's a plethora of beaches with diverse wave and water conditions to suit surfers of all proficiency levels: from advanced professionals to mere beginners:

1. Packyammos (The Rock). Located to the east from Pomos — the island's most remote village, Packyammos beach is a stunning surfing location. Otherwise known as «The Rock», the beach would be perfect for advanced surfers. It offers double-head waves with right-hand breaking points and barreling sections. Surrounded by pointy rocks and rough choppy waves, «The Rock» is the most demanding beach in Cyprus and is certainly not for beginners. Though, it would be a nice challenge for professional surfers.
2. Paramali Beach. Also known as the «Turtle Beach», Paramali Beach can be found halfway through Paphos and Limassol. Its long stretch of sandy beach offers calm and mellow waves, suitable for beginners. It is also a popular spot for kite surfing and home to many surfing schools. So, if you're looking for a place to learn and perfect your surfing skills, then Paramali Beach would be ideal for you.
3. Avdimou Beach. Situated right next to Paramali, Avdimou Beach offers similar surfing conditions. However it's slightly more open and can be exposed to stronger waves and currents, depending on the season. So, based on the weather forecast, Avdimou could work not only for beginners, but also for intermediate surfers.

Central Coast

The central south coast has fewer good surfing spots, compared to the western coast. But, having said that, some beaches offer great surfing opportunities, especially with the arrival of south-easterly swell.

1. Zapalo Beach. Located near the sanctuary of Apollo Hyllates near Episcopi, Zapalo beach is a rather secluded and picturesque surfing location. This hidden bay offers right-hand point breaks and its shallow reefs provide excellent opportunities for long fast rides, which are best suited for advanced surfers.
2. Green Bay. Located in the heart of Aiya Napa, Green Bay is a perfect surfing spot for intermediate surfers. It usually gets south-easterly swell and offers cleaner breaks, as the area is more sheltered compared to other beaches. The location also offers a variety of surf schools, surf shops and public bathroom facilities.
3. Landa Beach. This gorgeous white sandy beach located near Ayia Napa is suitable for surfers of all levels. With consistent southerly swell, convenient location and picturesque setting, Landa is the most popular and also the most crowded surf beach in Cyprus.

Eastern Coast

The Eastern coast surfing opportunities are more rare as they mainly rely on the occasional easterly swell. However, when the cards play right and the weather conditions are perfect, there you can have some of the most thrilling surfing experiences.

1. Konnos Bay. Located near Cape Greco National Park, Konnos Bay is a stunning spot for surfing, when the conditions are right. This secluded reef bay experiences a strong north-easterly swell, offering a left-hand surf break. So, if you want to try surfing at one of the most beautiful island’s beaches, just follow the Cyprus surf report.
2. Governor's Beach. Located near the ancient city of Kourion, between Paphos and Limassol, Governors beach is probably the most famous beach in Cyprus. It consists of a combination of reefs and deep waters that provide both left and right-hand breaks. It is best for intermediate surfers as it offers faster and larger waves than average beaches. However, it's a little less challenging compared to Packyammos beach.

Best time for surfing in Cyprus

Cyprus’ Mediterranean climate offers a consistent swell schedule throughout winter, as it heavily relies on a low-pressure system that creates regular swells. Because of this, the autumn-winter period is the best season for surfing in Cyprus. You can catch the best waves in the peak of winter — from December to March. Luckily, the winter in Cyprus is usually sunny and mild — you could easily go surfing and then sunbathing on the beach. The average water temperatures in Cyprus are around 16—17C, whilst in summertime the water can rise to 26—27 C. And whilst the winter offers strong waves and consistent swell — perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers, Cyprus summer with calmer waters is perfect for beginners.

Surfing schools

Cyprus is not only a great destination for advanced surfers, but also for beginners. The island has a variety of surfing schools and surf lessons for all levels. If you are an absolute beginner, it is best to head to the South Coast/Limassol area. Here, the beaches like Paramali and Avdimou provide excellent water conditions for beginners with sandy beaches and moderate waves. Also, Limassol is rightfully considered to be Cyprus's surfing school hub. Schools like «Cyprus Surf School» and «Rides on Waves» schools are extremely popular.

Whilst it has some of the best and most thrilling surfing spots on the island, the Western Coast near Paphos region doesn't have too many dedicated surfing schools. Traditionally, this region with reefy beaches and strong waves attracts mostly intermediate/advanced surfers. However, if you hop online and search for surfing lessons, you are bound to find some qualified instructors for your needs.

The East Coast near Ayia Napa/Paralimni area has only short seasonal swells. For that reason, the majority of schools are more generalised water sports centres, teaching kite surfing, paragliding, diving, snorkeling etc. But when the swell is good, those centres would most certainly offer surfing lessons.

Generally, the lessons are conducted in English and Greek, whilst some schools might also offer instructions in Russian, German and other languages. Also, all reputable schools will provide you with soft-top beginner surfboards and wetsuits, so there's no need to worry about equipment hire.

Surfing tips

Keep in mind that surfing in Cyprus is extremely seasonal and is limited to late autumn—winter season. If you arrive in summer, you might be disappointed to find out that the water will be flat. Although Cyprus winters are traditionally very mild, you would still need to use a wetsuit. Generally, a 3/2mm wetsuit is recommended, whilst during especially cold winter spells it's best to use a 4/3 mm one along with hood and boots. To make sure the conditions are right, always check the surf forecast for the beach you're interested in. You can find it online or through a mobile app. Monitoring wind is the key for great surf in Cyprus — check out Windguru website for latest updates. For latest information on swells, you can visit resources like Magicseaweed or Surfline. For wave updates, always check out Cyprus Wave Report. Always check the topography of the place and beware of pointy rocks and reefs, especially abundant around Packyammos and Zapalo beaches. The calmness of the Mediterranean can be deceitful — never underestimate the power of waves.

Cyprus surfing community

The island is famous for its tight-knit surfers community which thrives on strong social connections and ties. The Cyprus surfing scene can be described as relaxed with a chilled vibe and is devoid of competitiveness. Although the community has grown in the last 10-15 years with the influx of expats from Russia, UK and Europe, it still remains friendly and welcoming. A chat and a coffee after a surfing session here is «a must», forming part of the local surf culture. The local beaches and surfing spots are never overcrowded, contributing to the overall laid-back atmosphere.

So, you wouldn't have any issues blending in with the local surfing crowd. Just remember to be respectful and considerate to the locals and their culture and way of life. In order to get connected with the local surfers’ community you can become a member of the Cyprus surfing association, participate in surf camps, find local online surfing forums and groups, or simply visit the local beaches — you will surely meet like-minded people and make friends.

With the surfing season now approaching, it is a perfect time to head to Cyprus and discover what this beautiful island has to offer. Don't miss your chance to take advantage of its warm winters, Mediterranean sun and some of the world’s most stunning beaches and surfing locations. In fact, the island is perfect both for professional surfers who like to challenge themselves, as well as for those who are into «soul surfing». Whatever the case may be, we hope you catch some good waves. «Keep the stoke» and see you out there!