Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa, located on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, offers an accessible and inviting diving experience famed for its exceptionally clear waters and dramatic underwater topography. The area is particularly known for its sea caves, swim-throughs, and unique rock formations, providing exciting exploration for divers of all levels. While it may not boast extensive coral reefs, its appeal lies in the stark beauty of its submerged landscapes and the ease of access to its handful of quality dive sites, making it an excellent destination for training and relaxed holiday diving.
Diving conditions in Ayia Napa are superb, with underwater visibility often exceeding 30 meters and water temperatures peaking at a balmy 28°C in summer. The long diving season, stretching from April to November, ensures ample opportunity to explore. Divers should visit for the combination of stress-free logistics, warm Mediterranean climate, and the chance to discover a unique underwater world. It's an ideal choice for those looking to blend quality diving with a vibrant holiday atmosphere on the beautiful island of Cyprus.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
The most popular diving area in Ayia Napa, Cyprus, is around Cape Greco. The "Caves" dive site here is a major draw, featuring a network of interconnected swim-throughs, caves, and tunnels carved into the cliffside. Its shallow depth makes it accessible to all certification levels, and the dramatic light penetrating the openings creates stunning photo opportunities. The combination of unique topography and easy access makes it a must-do dive for anyone visiting the area.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
Besides the famous Cape Greco Caves, "The Chapel" is another excellent and well-known site featuring a small cavern with an air pocket. For a less-crowded experience, seek out the "Amphorae Caves," which offer similar geological features with fewer divers. The Green Bay site is perfect for beginners and photographers, known for its calm conditions and a "fish rock" that attracts abundant marine life. It's an easy shore dive ideal for training and refreshers.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
Water temperatures in Ayia Napa, Cyprus, vary significantly by season. In winter (Dec-Feb), temperatures drop to 16-17°C. They begin to warm up in spring (Mar-May) from 17°C to 21°C. The peak summer months (Jun-Sep) offer bathtub-like conditions, ranging from 25°C to a high of 28°C. In autumn (Oct-Nov), the water remains pleasant, gradually cooling from 25°C down to 21°C, extending the main diving season.
When is the best time to visit Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
The best time for diving in Ayia Napa, Cyprus, is from May to October. During these months, you'll experience the warmest water temperatures (21-28°C), excellent visibility, and calm seas. The summer months of July and August are the hottest and busiest. For a great balance of fantastic conditions and fewer tourists, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October. The weather is sunny and stable throughout this entire period.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
Ayia Napa, Cyprus, is renowned for its exceptional underwater visibility. During the main diving season from spring to autumn, visibility consistently ranges from 25 to over 30 meters (80-100+ feet). The lack of major rivers and plankton blooms contributes to the gin-clear water. While winter storms can temporarily reduce clarity, excellent conditions are the norm for most of the year, making it a photographer's dream destination.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
Ayia Napa, Cyprus, does not have large-scale migrations of species like manta rays or whale sharks. However, there are seasonal wildlife encounters. Green and Loggerhead turtles are more commonly sighted during the warmer summer months as they come closer to shore for nesting. The increase in water temperature also brings a higher abundance and activity of local fish species. The main event is the consistently excellent diving conditions rather than a specific animal migration.
What marine life can I expect to see in Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
While not known for large pelagics, the waters of Ayia Napa, Cyprus, host a healthy variety of Mediterranean marine life. Divers can expect to see ornate wrasse, rainbow wrasse, parrotfish, moray eels, octopus, and cuttlefish hiding in rockwork. Schools of damselfish and bream are common. Lucky divers might spot sea turtles (Green and Loggerhead), lionfish (an invasive species), and occasionally stingrays or groupers in the caves and along the rocky reefs.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
Wetsuit choice for Ayia Napa, Cyprus, depends on the season. In the peak summer months (June-September), when water is 25-28°C, a 3mm shorty or even a dive skin is often sufficient. For the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn (water 20-25°C), a 5mm full suit is recommended for comfort on longer dives. During the winter (water 16-17°C), a 7mm full suit or a semi-dry suit with a hood and gloves is essential.
How do I get to Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
To get to Ayia Napa, Cyprus, you will fly into Larnaca International Airport (LCA), which is the closest major airport, located about 45 minutes away by road. From the airport, you can easily hire a car, take a taxi, or use a pre-booked airport transfer service. Public buses also run between Larnaca and Ayia Napa, offering a more budget-friendly option for travelers.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Ayia Napa, Cyprus?
Diving in Ayia Napa, Cyprus, is entirely shore-based. There are no liveaboard operations as the dive sites are all easily accessible from the coast via short boat trips or directly from the shore. Staying in a hotel or apartment in Ayia Napa and booking daily trips with a local dive center is the standard practice. This allows you to enjoy the island's topside attractions, restaurants, and culture after your dives.