About
Lara Bay is a golden sand beach on the Akamas Peninsula, in the west of Cyprus. It is an undeveloped stretch of coast, with no resorts or built-up promenade along it, and it has kept the wild character that many of the island's shores have lost.
The beach is best known as a protected nesting site for two endangered sea turtles, the loggerhead and the green turtle. Because of this, the area is managed with care, and visitors are expected to respect the nesting grounds. The turtles come ashore to lay their eggs during the summer months, so this is the season when the beach has the most to offer a visitor interested in wildlife.
Getting there
Lara Bay is not easy to reach by ordinary car. The road in is rough, and most visitors arrive either by 4WD vehicle or by boat. Plan your transport in advance, and allow time for the journey, since the beach is set well away from the usual tourist routes.
What a visit offers
- Wildlife viewing, with the chance to see turtle nesting in summer
- Clear water and a quiet, uncrowded shoreline
- A chance to see one of the island's most untouched coastal areas
Because the beach is so undeveloped, you should bring what you need with you, including water, shade and anything else you would want for a day outdoors. A visit suits those who want a quiet, natural setting rather than facilities and nearby amenities.
Lara Bay makes a good choice for travellers exploring the Akamas Peninsula and the wider west coast of Cyprus, where the landscape is among the least developed on the island.