Best things to do in Ayia Napa

Experience paradise at Konnos Bay, a picturesque shoreline in a nature reserve. With protection from heavy winds, the calm, blue sea makes for great swimming and snorkeling. When you've finished cooling off, return to the soft yellow sand to rent an umbrella, or pick out a floating sun lounger and stay on the water. Rent water-sports equipment on site, and rest at ease while lifeguards keep watch over younger visitors. This destination is easily accessible by car, foot, or bike.

Get the party going at Nissi Beach, Cyprus's number one party spot. Stretching along 500 m (0.3 mi) of white sand seashore, the beach is considered one of the most exotic one on the island and it's been awarded the EU Blue Flag. The sea is shallow and crystal clear here, while the surrounding area is filled with palm trees and subtropical plants. You'll see a small islet just offshore, which you can access by foot, for a completely new view of Ayia Napa. Refrain, however, from joining the cliff jumpers at this spot.

Once nestled in a dense forest and visited only by hunters, Ayia Napa Monastery features a church, a hiding place, and a well from the Byzantine and Venetian eras. The monastery you can see today was constructed in the 15th century, with certain areas built underground and cut into the rock. Unlike most churches and monasteries in Cyprus, this one has survived the Ottoman rule, and it underwent extensive repairs during the 20th century. At the south gate, look for an old sycamore tree--it is believed to be more than 600 years old.

With a typical orthodox interior that features biblical images on walls and ceilings, Church of Profitis Elias stands above towns and valleys overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. You'll need to climb some 150 stairs to reach this small stone church with one dome and a bell tower, built in Byzantine style. Visitors often tie a piece of cloth or a ribbon to a nearby tree, signifying a remembrance of a loved one. At the top, you'll be 100 m (330 ft) above area surroundings with expansive views of the bay bellow. Be sure to take water with you, as the climb can be tiring.

View Sea Caves, a stretch of dramatic natural formations that can be seen and photographed from the shore and accessed from the sea. Although most caves require some climbing or cliff jumping in order to be explored, the views from above offer an ever-changing site of lights and colors--thanks to a rocky sea bottom, waters that are almost always clear, and diverse marine life. Some caves extend for up to 80 m (260 ft) deep into the rocks. Depending on the tide, they can be accessed by walking or swimming.

Known for white to golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Fig Tree Bay offers an escape from the party atmosphere and the excitement of Ayia Napa. Widely popular among families with children, this Blue Flag beach has a shallow shore with a very gentle decline, and soft, sandy sea bottom. Featuring subtropical vegetation, such as figs trees, palm trees, and prickly pear cacti, the area also offers numerous photo opportunities. Try the water sports here, which include waterskiing, windsurfing, and parasailing, or unwind with a famous Greek frappe at one of the cafes nearby.

The ruins of the ancient capital of Cyprus, , sits along the eastern coast of the island and preserves bits of what was once a great city-state. Dating back to the 11th century BC Bronze Age, the site today is made up of Roman statues, pillars, chambers, crumbling walls, an extensively restored gymnasium, and a theater that could seat up to 15,000 people. You will also see sections of ancient Roman baths and public spaces, as well as pieces of mosaics and remains of a Byzantine basilica. Take plenty of water and apply sunscreen, as shade is sparse at the site.

Head for a swim or catch some rays at Makronissos Beach, nestled among low greens and rocks. Made up of several small beaches, the site provides a tranquil spot away from the usual bustle of Ayia Napa. With warm, shallow waters and low waves, it is suitable for children and non-swimmers. You can try numerous water sports offered at the site, including some of the best snorkeling in the area among sea reefs teeming with marine life and clear water.

The biggest open air bar complex in Ayia Napa. The home of the Kandi Street Party. Interesting fact is that this whole area was Napa’s first nightlife setup comprised of various bars which have now merged into one massive plaza. The circus and carnival theme will strike you immediately as you see acrobats, fire performers, magicians, and other circus acts perform throughout the night accompanied by some of the best DJ’s and hosts on the island.

Mentioned as one of the world's 12 best waterparks by CNN Travel, WaterWorld Themed Waterpark features high drops, whirling tubes, whirlpools, and a giant, slippery bubble. Nestled in a lush garden with palm trees, flowers, and mythical statues, the park offers a range of activities--from breezy to extreme. While roaming among shipwrecks and crumbling Roman temples, experience a 75 m (250 ft) vertical drop, plunge down slides with sound and visual effects, or raft down twisting enclosed tubes. Soak in the artificial wave pool complete with islands, geysers, and Greek ruins. Child play areas and interactive attractions abound at the site.