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Lara Beach: A Turtle's Haven on the Akamas Peninsula

Discover the pristine beauty of Lara Beach in Cyprus, a protected haven for endangered sea turtles on the Akamas Peninsula.

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Lara Beach, nestled on the Akamas Peninsula near Peyia, Cyprus, is a protected and pristine beach renowned for its natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. As a vital nesting site for endangered Green and Loggerhead sea turtles, it offers a tranquil escape and a unique opportunity to witness marine conservation in action.

A brief summary to Lara Beach Parking and Information Center

  • X857+74C, Unnamed Road, Peyia, CY
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the nesting season (May-August) for a chance to see turtles laying eggs or hatchlings making their way to the sea, but always respect conservation guidelines.
  • Bring your own supplies, including water, snacks, sunscreen, and an umbrella, as there are limited facilities at the beach.
  • A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for accessing the beach due to the rough and unpaved road.
  • Visit the Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station to learn about the conservation efforts and the life cycle of the turtles.
  • Avoid swimming in the central areas of the beach during nesting season to protect the turtle nesting sites.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Peyia, follow the signs towards Lara Beach. The route leads onto an unnamed dirt road (X857+74C). A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended due to the road's condition. The journey from Peyia center is approximately 7km. Parking is available near the Lara Beach Parking and Information Center. Be aware that the road can be challenging, so drive slowly and carefully. Parking is limited, especially during peak season. There are no fees for accessing the beach or parking, but donations to the Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station are appreciated.

  • Public Transport

    From Paphos city center, take the bus towards Peyia. Get off at the Peyia bus stop. From there, walk approximately 1.5 kilometers to reach the Lara Beach Parking and Information Center. Head north on the main road, taking a left at the junction onto the Unnamed Road. Continue straight for about 1 kilometer until you reach the parking area. Bus fare from Paphos to Peyia is approximately €1.50 - €3.00. Walking from Peyia bus stop to Lara Beach Parking and Information Center takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

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Discover more about Lara Beach Parking and Information Center

Lara Beach, located on the Akamas Peninsula in the Paphos district of Cyprus, is a true hidden gem. This remote and unspoiled beach is a haven for nature lovers, offering a serene escape from the bustling tourist areas. Its golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters create a picturesque setting, inviting visitors to unwind and soak up the sun. Lara Beach is most famous as one of the last remaining nesting sites for the endangered Green and Loggerhead sea turtles. These magnificent creatures return to the same beaches each year to lay their eggs, continuing a cycle that has persisted for millennia. The nesting season, which runs from May to August, is a critical time, with dedicated conservation efforts in place to protect them from predators and human interference. Visitors during this period may witness the awe-inspiring sight of baby turtles making their first journey to the sea. The Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station, located near the beach, plays a vital role in safeguarding the turtle population. Volunteers and researchers diligently monitor the nests, ensuring the eggs are protected and the hatchlings have the best possible chance of survival. The station provides valuable insights into the turtles' life cycle, the threats they face, and the ongoing efforts to protect them. The best time to see turtle nests is from late summer to early October. Hatchlings typically emerge at night, between 8 PM and 4 AM, to minimize predation risks. Unlike many other beaches in Cyprus, Lara Beach remains largely undeveloped. There are minimal facilities, with no sunbeds, umbrellas, or beachfront restaurants, which helps preserve its natural beauty. Visitors should bring their own supplies, including water, snacks, and sun protection. Swimming in the crystal-clear waters is a refreshing experience, but it's important to be mindful of the turtle nesting areas and avoid disturbing them. Access to Lara Beach is via a rough, unpaved dirt road, making a 4x4 vehicle highly recommended. The journey itself is an adventure, with stunning views of the Akamas Peninsula. Alternatively, guided tours and boat trips from Paphos offer convenient alternatives for reaching this secluded paradise.

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