Alykes
Cyprus, Cyprus — Excellent water quality
Alykes beach is easy to reach and well-equipped for a full day by the water. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and lifeguards are on duty during peak hours. The water is clear and calm, making it suitable for swimming and water sports.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Alykes
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Alykes?
Alykes beach sits just 7.4 km from Paphos International Airport in Cyprus's Paphos Municipality, making it one of the most accessible coastal spots in the region. The beach has held its Blue Flag status since 1997, a reliable indicator of water quality and management standards. With lifeguards on duty, sunbeds and umbrellas available for hire, and excellent bathing water conditions year-round, Alykes delivers practical seaside facilities without pretense. The beach combines sandy and rocky sections, offering both sunbathing space and clear water for swimming. Whether you're planning a short visit during a stopover or a longer coastal stay, Alykes provides straightforward beach amenities in a well-maintained setting.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in Cyprus, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in Cyprus certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Visitor Feedback
What Visitors Say About Alykes
What visitors appreciate
- sunbeds|rocky beach|umbrellas|views|sunbathing|sandy beach|safety box|well-kept beach|watersports|clean sea
- Well-staffed with lifeguards during season
- Excellent EU-rated bathing water quality
Points to consider
- Can be busy during July and August peak season
- Limited parking near the beach
- Facilities may be reduced outside peak months
Based on aggregated public visitor feedback. Themes are synthesised from multiple sources — not individual quotes. Zeach does not reproduce individual reviews.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Alykes faces unknown toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Feb | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Mar | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Apr | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| May | 22°C | 19°C | Med |
| Jun | 25°C | 22°C | High |
| Jul | 28°C | 25°C | High |
| Aug | 28°C | 25°C | High |
| Sep | 26°C | 23°C | Med |
| Oct | 23°C | 20°C | Low |
| Nov | 19°C | 16°C | Low |
| Dec | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
The best time to visit Alykes is May, June. Air temperatures peak around 27.7°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 24.7°C in July.
How crowded does Alykes get?Alykes attracts a mix of day-trippers from nearby Paphos and visitors staying at local accommodations. The proximity to Paphos International Airport means you'll encounter travelers on short beach breaks, which can create busy periods around midday during peak season. How crowded the beach gets depends heavily on the time of year and day of the week.
The beach's rental sunbed and umbrella setup suggests it's designed to accommodate moderate-to-busy periods. The availability of these facilities indicates the beach expects regular visitor volume, though specific crowd data isn't publicly documented. Weekday visits typically draw fewer people than weekends, a pattern consistent across Cypriot beaches.
The lifeguard presence suggests the beach manages enough visitor traffic to warrant professional supervision. This typically correlates with a beach that sees regular use rather than remaining quiet and undiscovered.
Visitor reviews mention the beach's cleanliness and well-kept appearance, which suggests adequate maintenance despite visitor numbers. The rocky sections of the beach may naturally distribute crowds, as some visitors prefer sandy areas while others head toward the rocky portions for swimming access.
The swimming season runs from June through December, with warmest water and most predictable weather occurring June through September. This period likely sees the heaviest visitor concentrations, while quieter conditions probably prevail in November and December when water temperatures drop below 16°C.
Is Alykes open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-05 – 30-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Alykes
Is Alykes safe to swim?Alykes is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Alykes?Peak water temperature at Alykes reaches around <span class="inline-stat">24.7°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 12.7°C.
What is the beach like at Alykes?Alykes beach stretches along the Paphos coast with a mix of sandy and rocky sections, each serving different preferences. The sandy areas work well for spreading out a towel and settling in for the day, while the rocky portions offer direct access to deeper water and are popular with swimmers seeking immediate depth. The beach's dual composition means you'll find both sunbathers and active water users sharing the same stretch of shore.
The water here is notably clear, which visitors consistently mention in their reviews. This clarity is backed by the beach's excellent bathing water quality rating and its continuous Blue Flag designation since 1997. The clarity makes the water appealing for swimming and snorkeling, and you can see the seafloor in shallower areas.
Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire throughout the beach, so if you haven't brought your own shelter, rental is straightforward. This setup appeals to day-trippers and holiday visitors who want basic comfort without hauling equipment from the airport.
Watersports activity happens here, with the calm, clear conditions supporting various activities. The presence of lifeguards on duty means there's professional supervision during peak hours, which matters if you're planning to swim in unfamiliar water.
The beach is well-maintained according to visitor feedback, with people noting cleanliness and general upkeep. Safety boxes are mentioned as available, which is useful if you're concerned about leaving valuables unattended while swimming.
Water temperatures peak at 24.7°C in July and August, making mid-summer the warmest swimming period. Even in the shoulder months of June and September, water temperatures sit at 21.8°C and 23°C respectively—comfortable for most swimmers. Winter water temperatures drop to around 10°C, which limits casual swimming appeal.
Does Alykes have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Alykes meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season.
Alykes sits on the Mediterranean Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
While You're Here
Beyond Alykes
Paphos Municipality offers coastal and cultural attractions beyond Alykes itself. The town of Paphos contains archaeological sites related to the ancient Roman occupation and Greek history, with several sites within easy reach of the beach area. Waterfront dining and local tavernas are located in Paphos town, typically a short drive from Alykes. The broader Paphos region supports other coastal beaches, giving you options if you want to explore different stretches of shore during your visit. Local shops and accommodation options are available in Paphos town, which serves as the practical base for visitors to Alykes. The region's Mediterranean climate supports outdoor activity beyond beach time, though specific details about hiking trails or nature reserves require local current information rather than beach-focused data.
Paphos Municipality offers coastal and cultural attractions beyond Alykes itself. The town of Paphos contains archaeological sites related to the ancient Roman occupation and Greek history, with several sites within easy reach of the beach area. Waterfront dining and local tavernas are located in Paphos town, typically a short drive from Alykes. The broader Paphos region supports other coastal beaches, giving you options if you want to explore different stretches of shore during your visit. Local shops and accommodation options are available in Paphos town, which serves as the practical base for visitors to Alykes. The region's Mediterranean climate supports outdoor activity beyond beach time, though specific details about hiking trails or nature reserves require local current information rather than beach-focused data.
Transport
Getting to Alykes
How do I get to Alykes by car?Alykes is approximately 2.28 km from Paphos Municipality. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Alykes?The nearest airport is Paphos International Airport (PFO) (PFO), approximately 7.4 km away. Paphos International Airport (PFO) sits just 7.4 km from Alykes beach, making it the practical entry point for most visitors. Direct flights connect PFO to major European cities, and the airport handles both scheduled and charter flights. Ground transport from the airport to the beach takes minimal time—a taxi ride covers the distance in roughly 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Car rental is available at the airport if you want independence for exploring beyond the beach. The short distance means you could realistically arrive, collect transport, and reach the beach within an hour of clearing arrivals.
Can I get to Alykes by public transport?Local bus services operate in the Paphos area, connecting the airport and town center to nearby beaches including Alykes. Specific route numbers and schedules vary seasonally, so checking current timetables before traveling is essential. Buses offer budget-friendly transport but typically take longer than taxis or car rental due to multiple stops. Journey times depend on which route you use and traffic conditions.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | 01-05 – 30-09 |
| Beach Type | Rocky shore |
| Sand | Pebble / shingle beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 34.7544°N, 32.4175°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Cyprus |
Frequently Asked Questions
Alykes FAQ
Is Alykes worth visiting?
Alykes offers practical value for beach time in Cyprus, particularly if you're based near Paphos or arriving at PFO airport. The excellent bathing water quality and Blue Flag status since 1997 indicate consistent management standards. Lifeguards, rental facilities, and clear water make it functional for swimming and sunbathing. The beach's mix of sandy and rocky sections caters to different preferences. If you're seeking straightforward beach access with reliable facilities rather than seclusion, Alykes delivers what it promises. The proximity to Paphos airport makes it convenient for short visits or longer stays.
How do I get to Alykes?
Paphos International Airport (PFO) is 7.4 km away—the primary access point. Taxi transport from the airport takes 15-20 minutes and is the most direct option. Car rental at the airport provides flexibility for exploring the Paphos area and reaching Alykes on your own schedule. Local bus services connect Paphos town to the beach, offering budget transport, though journey times are longer. Once in the Paphos area, local directions to Alykes are straightforward given its established Blue Flag status and beach infrastructure.
What's the best time of year to visit Alykes?
The official swimming season runs June through December. June through September offers the warmest water—21.8°C to 24.7°C—ideal for comfortable swimming without wetsuits. July and August peak at 24.7°C but attract the most visitors. September provides warm water (23°C) with potentially fewer crowds as summer holiday periods end. October water sits at 19.9°C, still swimmable but noticeably cooler. November and December see water temperatures drop to 15.7°C and 11.9°C respectively, limiting casual swimming appeal. Air temperatures remain warm through September (26-27.7°C) before cooling.
What facilities are available at Alykes?
Lifeguards are on duty, which is standard for Blue Flag beaches. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire if you don't bring your own. Safety boxes are provided for storing valuables while swimming. Watersports activity is supported by the beach conditions. The beach maintains cleanliness and general upkeep according to visitor feedback. Facilities suggest a beach designed for day visitors and holiday guests rather than a minimal or undeveloped setting. Specific details about restrooms, changing facilities, or food vendors require current local verification.
Is Alykes suitable for families?
Alykes has features that appeal to families: lifeguards on duty provide professional supervision, sunbeds and umbrellas reduce setup hassle, and the clear water is safe for swimming. The mix of sandy and rocky sections offers different activity options for different ages. The proximity to Paphos airport and town means families arriving by air can reach the beach quickly. Visitor reviews note the beach's cleanliness and well-kept appearance, which matters for family visits. The watersports activity suggests there's water-based recreation available, though specific suitability for young children requires local knowledge about water depth gradients and conditions.
Explore More
More Blue Flag Beaches in Cyprus
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status — from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Cyprus — rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore CyprusWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal — not just a marketing tool.
Read more