Ayia Thekla Beach & Chapel, Sotira · near Ayia Napa — Free Beach in Cyprus

Ayia Thekla Beach & ChapelA small, calm, family-friendly sandy cove just west of Ayia Napa, with shallow clear water and far fewer crowds than Nissi. Beside it stand a little whitewashed chapel and, cut into the low cliff, a tiny centuries-old cave-church — a quiet, characterful corner of the coast. Free to visit, with a beach bar and parking close by.Type: Beach · Area: Sotira · near Ayia Napa, Ayia Napa & Protaras · Best time: May–Oct · morning · Entry: FreeVisiting Ayia Thekla Beach & ChapelAyia Thekla is a small, calm sandy cove just west of Ayia Napa, near Sotira, with shallow clear water that makes it a gentle family alternative to the busier Nissi. Beside the beach stand a whitewashed chapel and, carved into the low cliff, a tiny centuries-old cave-church — a quiet, characterful spot that rewards a short wander as much as a swim.Getting thereA few minutes' drive west of Ayia Napa town towards Ayia Napa's quieter fringe; signed off the coastal road near Sotira.ParkingFree parking behind the beach near the chapel.Best time to goMay–October, mornings for the calmest, clearest water and the fewest people.Local tips

Look for the little rock-cut cave-church beside the modern chapel — easy to miss.

The shallow, sheltered water suits small children.

There's a beach bar for basics, but it's quieter than Ayia Napa's main strip.

Directions · More free spots in Cyprus