Finikoudes Beach

Finikoudes is the central seafront beach of Larnaca, running along the palm-lined promenade that gives it its name (foinikoudes means little palm trees in Greek). The sand is fine and varies from brown to beige, and the water is calm and shallow, sheltered between the marina and fishing harbour at one end and a pier near the medieval fort at the other. It holds Blue Flag status and is the easiest beach to reach on foot in the city.

The big draw is the setting. The promenade behind the sand is lined with cafes, tavernas, bars and palm trees, so you can step straight off the beach into the heart of Larnaca's seafront life. Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and changing rooms are on the sand, and lifeguards are on duty in the main season. The marina and fishing harbour at one end and the medieval fort at the other bookend the beach and are worth a wander. It is family friendly and central, which also means it is one of the busier beaches in the city through the summer.

Visiting Finikoudes

• Blue Flag beach in the centre of Larnaca, easy to reach on foot.
• Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and changing rooms on the sand.
• Cafes, tavernas and bars line the palm-lined promenade behind.
• A coastal walkway links Finikoudes with Mackenzie Beach to the south.

Finikoudes is steps from Larnaca's main sights, including the Church of Saint Lazarus in the old town and the Larnaca Salt Lake on the city's edge. For a livelier, bar-heavy stretch of sand, follow the seafront south to Mackenzie Beach.