Vathia Gonia Beach Sandy Bay
A tranquil bay in Ayia Napa, Vathia Gonia (Sandy Bay) offers clear, shallow waters and a relaxed vibe, perfect for families and peace-seekers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Vathia Gonia Beach Sandy Bay
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil bay in Ayia Napa, Vathia Gonia (Sandy Bay) offers clear, shallow waters and a relaxed vibe, perfect for families and peace-seekers.
"A quieter alternative to Nissi, with golden sand, calm waters, and a relaxed atmosphere."
🎯 Arrive Early for Sunbeds
Sunbeds can be fully occupied by 11:00 AM, especially on weekends. Get there early to snag yours! :sun:
🤿 Snorkeling Potential
The clear waters are great for snorkeling, offering a glimpse of marine life. :fish:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Shallow Waters
Sandy Bay
Perfect for families and those who enjoy wading. The calm, clear water is inviting for a relaxing dip.

Quieter Alternative to Nissi
Ayia Napa
Escape the Nissi Beach hustle. Enjoy a more relaxed vibe with golden sand and calm waters.

Sunset Views
Beachfront
Experience breathtaking sunsets over the Mediterranean Sea from this beautiful bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Water Depth & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Sunbeds
Sunbeds can be fully occupied by 11:00 AM, especially on weekends. Get there early to snag yours! :sun:
🤿 Snorkeling Potential
The clear waters are great for snorkeling, offering a glimpse of marine life. :fish:
🚶♀️ Beach Walk Exploration
Explore Vathia Gonia and nearby Chrysomare Beach for a scenic walk. :walking:
🏖️ Family-Friendly Waters
The shallow entry is ideal for children, but venture further for deeper swimming. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Sunbeds
Sunbeds can be fully occupied by 11:00 AM, especially on weekends. Get there early to snag yours! :sun:
🤿 Snorkeling Potential
The clear waters are great for snorkeling, offering a glimpse of marine life. :fish:
🚶♀️ Beach Walk Exploration
Explore Vathia Gonia and nearby Chrysomare Beach for a scenic walk. :walking:
🏖️ Family-Friendly Waters
The shallow entry is ideal for children, but venture further for deeper swimming. :child:
🍽️ Oceanfront Dining
Enjoy meals with a view at the restaurants located along the beachfront. :forkandknife:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Vathia Gonia Beach is praised for its clear, shallow waters and relaxed atmosphere, making it a family-friendly and peaceful alternative to busier nearby beaches. While some find it less exciting than Nissi Beach, its good facilities and beautiful scenery are consistently highlighted. Occasional mentions of rocks and overcrowding on Sundays are noted drawbacks.
"Sandy beach. Overcrowded on Sundays. Very good facilities such as toilets changing rooms and a shower. Cost of 2 sun beds and an umbrella €7.50. It’s good for tourists as there are around 5-6 hotels around it but not my best choice."
Alex
"Between seasons, a great beach calm and quiet with white sand and crystal water.
It's very shallow at the beginning, so you need to go a bit further in to get some deep water."
Juan Chastang Puerma
"Vathia Gonia Beach is a great choice for those looking for peace and clear water.
It’s less crowded than Nissi Beach, which makes it perfect for relaxation. The water is crystal clear — great for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is well maintained, with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a nearby taverna. A beautiful and calm spot in Ayia Napa!"
Zarnescu Marius
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vathia Gonia Beach, also known as Sandy Bay, is conveniently located in Ayia Napa.
You can reach it by a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk from the town center. Some hotels like Pavlo Napa Beach Hotel offer direct access.While specific bus routes can vary, Ayia Napa is well-connected. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on reaching the beach via public transport.
Yes, there is typically parking available near Vathia Gonia Beach, though it can fill up during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Vathia Gonia Beach is located just 500 meters away from Nissi Beach, making it an easy and enjoyable walk between the two popular spots.
Yes, several hotels, including Tasia Maris Beach Hotel and Chrysomare Hotel, are situated right on or very close to Sandy Bay/Vathia Gonia Beach, offering convenient access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Vathia Gonia Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You only pay if you choose to rent sunbeds and umbrellas.
The cost for renting two sunbeds and an umbrella is typically around €7.50.
It's a good idea to confirm prices upon arrival.Vathia Gonia Beach is accessible at all hours, as it's a natural beach. However, facilities like toilets and restaurants will have their own operating hours.
It's not usually necessary to book sunbeds in advance, but arriving early, especially before 11:00 AM, is highly recommended to guarantee availability.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting Vathia Gonia Beach. It's a public space designed for relaxation and enjoyment.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Vathia Gonia Beach offers good facilities, including clean toilets, changing rooms, and showers.
There are also restaurants and even massage services available on the beach.Yes, the water is crystal clear and great for swimming. It's very shallow at the beginning, making it safe for families, but you can swim further out for deeper water.
The clear waters make Vathia Gonia Beach a good spot for snorkeling, allowing you to explore the underwater environment.
Yes, the beach is noted as being accessible for people with special needs.
The beach features golden or white sand,
offering a comfortable surface for sunbathing and relaxing.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a couple of restaurants located directly on the beachfront, offering convenient dining options with sea views.
You can expect typical beachside fare, likely including local Cypriot dishes, seafood, and international options. It's a great place for oceanfront eats.
Besides the beachfront restaurants, the surrounding area in Ayia Napa has numerous cafes and bars to explore.
Yes, you are generally allowed to bring your own food and drinks to public beaches in Cyprus.
In addition to restaurants, there are often kiosks or small shops near popular beaches where you can purchase snacks and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers stunning light for photography.
Midday provides bright, clear shots of the turquoise waters.Yes, hotels like Tasia Maris Beach Hotel and Chrysomare Hotel offer excellent vantage points, and drone shots often capture the beauty of the bay.
Capture wide shots of the bay, close-ups of the clear water, people enjoying the beach, and the picturesque sunsets.
Yes, drone footage provides a spectacular aerial view of Vathia Gonia Beach and the surrounding hotels.
The combination of golden sand, crystal-clear shallow waters, and the surrounding bay creates a beautiful and serene photographic setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great spot for building sandcastles, paddling, and enjoying a more relaxed beach experience compared to busier neighbors. The beach is also noted for its accessibility for people with special needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy a day by the sea.
💰 Budget Travelers
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Vathia Gonia vs. Nissi Beach: A Local's Perspective
Despite its calmer nature, Vathia Gonia still boasts beautiful golden sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling. It's often described as a hidden gem or a quieter alternative, appealing to those who prefer a more laid-back beach day. The presence of beachfront restaurants and amenities adds to its convenience without detracting from its serene charm.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your preference. If you're seeking lively beach bars and a bustling scene, Nissi Beach is your spot. However, for a more relaxed, family-friendly, and less crowded experience with beautiful scenery, Vathia Gonia Beach is an excellent choice.
Family Fun at Sandy Bay
Beyond the safe swimming conditions, the beach offers convenient facilities that are crucial for a stress-free family outing. Clean toilets, changing rooms, and showers are available, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented, providing a shaded base for the family to relax. The nearby restaurants also offer kid-friendly meal options, making it easy to grab lunch or snacks without leaving the beach area.
While it's a great spot for wading and building sandcastles, families can also enjoy gentle water sports or simply soak up the sun. The beach's accessibility for people with special needs further enhances its appeal as an inclusive destination for all family members. It’s a place where you can create lasting memories without the overwhelming crowds often found at more popular nearby beaches.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography Tips
For a unique perspective, consider using a drone. Aerial shots reveal the beautiful curve of the bay, the layout of the beachfront hotels like Tasia Maris Beach Hotel and Chrysomare Hotel, and the expanse of the blue sea. These drone views can highlight the beach's tranquility and its proximity to other coastal areas. Remember to check local drone regulations before flying.
When framing your shots, focus on the crystal-clear water, the texture of the golden sand, and the relaxed atmosphere. Capture the details of the beachfront restaurants or the silhouettes of people enjoying the sunset. The beach's accessibility also means you can capture inclusive moments. Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, Vathia Gonia provides ample opportunities for beautiful, memorable photos.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit