Nestled in the enchanting eastern corner of the Mediterranean, Cyprus stands out as a haven for families seeking a luxurious holiday experience. With its warm waters lingering late into the season, rich history and culture, mountains for leisurely hikes, and hearty cuisine, Cyprus promises an unforgettable getaway even for the most discerning travelers.
Each resort on the island boasts a unique character. Ayia Napa beckons with vibrant nightlife and golden sands, Limassol offers a historic center, fine dining, and easy access to mountains and wine villages, while Paphos claims some of the most sophisticated family-friendly hotels near the stunning beaches of the Akamas peninsula. For a more serene escape, consider smaller resorts like Pissouri, with its fabulous beach, or Latchi in the northwest, known for its gentle pace. The best part? Cyprus welcomes visitors almost all year round, with the season stretching from early April to October half-term. i
Here’s a guide to the best family-friendly hotels to consider for your Cyprus adventure.
Columbia Beach Resort, Pissouri
Best for Learning to Swim
Immerse yourself in tranquility at this chic, all-suite hotel on Pissouri Bay, just west of Limassol. Rooms and suites open up to an impressive 80m infinity pool, providing the perfect setting for families. While Pissouri itself is a quiet village, the Blue Flag beach offers everything from waterskiing to banana boat rides. The rustic chic ambiance, with touches of local wood and terracotta, adds to the charm. Indulge in superb dining at Café Aspro and Apollo Taverna, and don’t miss a romantic dinner at Bacchus while the kids enjoy the kids’ club. For relaxation, head to Hebe Spa, which features Elemis products.
Anassa, Latchi
Best for Rural Bliss
Situated on the untamed Akamas peninsula, Anassa is a 166-room retreat offering ample space, kids’ clubs, and an award-winning spa. With a backdrop of hills scented with wild herbs and a sandy beach at your doorstep, this resort is a true escape. Activities range from sailing, windsurfing, and waterskiing to hiking and cycling. Little ones will be enchanted by Lara Beach, a turtle nesting ground managed by local conservationists. If you visit in August or September, you might even get the chance to hold a newly hatched turtle.
Amara, Limassol
Best for: Gourmet Dining
For a blend of luxury and family-friendliness, Amara in Limassol stands out. This swanky hotel, adorned in gleaming marble, sits right on the beach, offering a vast infinity pool and fine dining from renowned chefs Nobu Matsuhisa and Giorgio Locatelli. Spacious family rooms and seafront bungalows cater to various family sizes. While the kids are entertained at the kids’ club, parents can indulge in the Roman-style spa. If Japanese-Peruvian fusion isn’t for the little ones, the hotel’s main restaurant serves more child-friendly Cypriot cuisine.
Coral Beach Hotel, Coral Bay
Best for Stylish Fly-and-Flop
For a self-contained resort experience, head to Coral Bay and discover Coral Beach Hotel. With its stylish interpretation of Cypriot decor and a myriad of activities, including bowls, tennis, squash, and kids’ clubs, this resort is perfect for those seeking a relaxing beach escape. Eight restaurants, each with a unique menu, cater to various tastes. Forest hikes, empty beaches with turtle nests, and the historical sites of Paphos are just a short drive away.
Parklane, Limassol
Best for: Minimalist Chic
Experience contemporary elegance at Parklane, located just 15 15-minute drive from downtown Limassol. This swish hotel, set on 300m of sandy beach, combines family-friendly accommodations with an adults-only wing. Brilliant white decor with pops of color inspired by the sea, design-led furniture, three pools, and five restaurants ensure a memorable stay. The Park Kidz Club, tennis courts, and a captivating kids’ playground themed around a castle and pirate ship provide entertainment for the whole family. Dining options range from Italian to sushi, a steakhouse, and Dafne for classy Cypriot cuisine cooked in traditional wood-burning ovens.
Aphrodite Hills, Kouklia
Best for: Sporty Families
Perched on a clifftop between Paphos and Limassol, Aphrodite Hills offers a luxurious retreat with breathtaking sea views. This five-star complex boasts a hotel, villas, spa, and golf course, making it ideal for sporty families. On-site activities include tennis, golf, a soccer school, and horse riding. The rooms exude minimalist chic in soothing blues and whites, with deluxe options featuring private or swim-up pools. Indulge in diverse dining experiences, from Asian to Mexican themes. Families can relish Stone Grill Terrace, where you can cook your steaks on hot stones. The resort’s Village Square offers additional dining options. A creche for babies and a kids’ club for ages up to 12 ensure that every family member stays entertained.
Annabelle, Paphos
Best for: Location
Overlooking the harbor in Paphos, the 244-room Annabelle combines a central location with lush grounds, tropical flowers, and shady trees. While adults enjoy the rooftop spa and pool, families can unwind in the lagoon-style pool. Gym and tennis courts add to the recreational options. The hotel’s central position allows easy access to Paphos’ local tavernas and shops. A creche takes care of babies, and older children can join excellent kids’ clubs at Almyra, the sister hotel.
Almyra, Paphos
Best for: Parents with Babies
Almyra, a long-standing family favorite on Paphos Beach, seamlessly blends cool vibes with family-friendly amenities. The black slate pool, surrounded by billowy white canopies and olive trees, creates a serene atmosphere. Two-bedroom suites and interconnecting rooms cater to families. The creche accepts babies from four months, managed by qualified nannies. Almyra ensures convenience by offering pre-ordered nappies and pushchairs. Infant food is made to order, and children are welcome in all restaurants except Eauzone, linked to the sophisticated spa.
Leonardo Laura Beach & Splash, Paphos
Best for Wild Waterslides
For families seeking excitement, the Leonardo Laura Beach & Splash in Paphos delivers with daredevil waterslides, a boutique cinema, gaming arcade, and escape room game. The vast complex, surrounded by gardens, is a lively hub within walking distance of Paphos’ center. Choose a Family Sea View room for a respite with west-facing balcony sundowners after a day filled with activities.
Elysium, Paphos
Best for: Calming the Mind
The serene Elysium, close to Paphos’ bustling center and the Tombs of the Kings, offers an elegant retreat. Family Cyprian maisonettes feature local wood, terracotta, and bamboo textures. The five restaurants include the alfresco Mediterraneo, where chefs showcase their skills in a show kitchen. The resort’s own farm supplies much of the produce. For relaxation away from the beach, visit the ESPA spa, complete with a colonnaded indoor pool.
Olympic Lagoon Resort, Ayia Napa
Best for Teenagers
Catering to teens, the Olympic Lagoon Resort in Ayia Napa boasts six lagoon-style swimming pools, a lazy river ride, waterslide, and a dine-around program in eight restaurants. The kids’ club offers 150 different activities, and nightly entertainment at the Xperience Arena features lavish production shows and gigs from tribute bands. The resort ensures every room has dedicated sunbeds around the pools, eliminating the need to rush for loungers at dawn.
Natura Beach Hotel, Polis
Best for Eco-Friendly Stays
For an eco-conscious escape, the Natura Beach Hotel, a family-run retreat with 86 rooms, prioritizes sustainability. Located near sleepy Polis, this low-rise hotel is surrounded by extensive lawns sloping down to a sandy beach where turtles nest. Watersports are low-key, aligning with the hotel’s eco-credentials. Most food is sourced from the family farm, providing organic herbs, vegetables, and locally supplied eggs and halloumi. Guests can even participate in harvesting oranges and olives from the estate during the season.
Four Seasons, Limassol
Best for: Beachfront Grandeur
While not part of the Four Seasons group, the luxurious Four Seasons in Limassol boasts a beachfront location, intuitive service, marble decor, and a Shiseido thalassotherapy spa. Ideal for families seeking a luxury retreat, the rooms are flooded with light and decorated in soft whites and sea-inspired colors. Kids aged up to 13 can join an activity program, and babysitting services are available. The hotel, slightly away from the town, offers a beach resort feel, with shaded lawns descending to a sandy stretch with umbrellas and loungers.
In conclusion,
Cyprus stands as a captivating destination, offering a perfect blend of luxury and family-friendly experiences for an unforgettable holiday. From the vibrant nightlife of Ayia Napa to the historic charm of Limassol and the sophistication of Paphos, each resort unveils a unique character, catering to various preferences. The island’s warm waters, rich history, and stunning landscapes create a haven for discerning travelers seeking a luxurious escape.
FAQ – Exploring Cyprus for Families
Which part of Cyprus is best for families?
A: Pernera stands out as arguably Cyprus’ most family-friendly destination. This east-coast town is characterized by its family-oriented atmosphere, with beachfront bars and restaurants offering special sections dedicated to little ones.
Which part of Cyprus is considered the best overall?
Paphos and Protaras are often regarded as the best areas for tourists in Cyprus. Paphos offers a plethora of things to do and see, while Protaras is home to the island’s finest beaches.
Is Cyprus a good choice for a family holiday?
Cyprus is an ideal choice for a family holiday. The island caters to diverse preferences, offering stunning golden sandy beaches, ancient architecture exploration, mountain climbing adventures, and various water parks for family enjoyment.
What defines a family-friendly hotel?
A family-friendly hotel understands the need for parents to have some time for themselves. These hotels often feature playrooms and children-only zones that are safe for all ages. Playrooms may include soft play options, and some hotels even provide staff members to supervise children for a designated period.
Which part of Cyprus is more budget-friendly?
Generally, traveling in Northern Cyprus tends to be more budget-friendly than in the southern part. Car hire, resorts, and dining options are often of better value in the northern region.
What are the best towns to stay in Cyprus?
- Ayia Napa: All-round best area in Cyprus.
- Protaras & Fig Tree Bay: Best area for families with children.
- Larnaca: Best area with a combination of city and beach, near the airport.
- Paphos: Best area for history enthusiasts.
- Limassol: Cyprus’s second-largest city with plenty to do.
What is the most expensive part of Cyprus?
Limassol is considered the most expensive city in Cyprus. The cost of living in Nicosia and Paphos is approximately 10—15% lower. Generally, a budget of €3,000 per month (excluding rent) is estimated for Limassol, €2,700 for Nicosia, and €2,600 for Paphos.