On July 14, 1990, the Swedish newspaper Idag published an extensive feature on Cyprus, describing Ayia Napa’s Nissi Beach as the ultimate spot for dating and summer flirting. The article states that thousands of Scandinavian visitors went there not only for the crystal clear waters and sun, but also to meet new people, describing the beach as the “flirting capital” of the island. See how the Swedish newspaper presented Ayia Napa 36 years ago.
Flirting dominates-Idag 1990-07-14
People don't just go to Nissi Beach to sunbathe or swim, but also to see and be seen. Perhaps the day will end with new company for the evening.
People are packed in like sardines, the sunbeds have been sold out for a long time, as have the umbrellas. Especially on weekends the crowds are incredible. If someone is lucky, they will find a small place to spread their towel, but they have to constantly watch when the person next to them moves, as the sun changes position.
Nevertheless, a day at Nissi Beach can be truly enjoyable. Even if you're not interested in dating on the beach, there's plenty of… entertainment to be had by observing those who are there for that very purpose. No one shows any false shyness – everything is done directly and without any fuss.
The peacekeepers are having great success
The most successful at flirting are undoubtedly the UN soldiers. With the drink they have with them, they have a good chance of succeeding in their approaches or at least receiving a friendly response. The blue helmets always have a great time.
The fact that Nissi Beach, two kilometers west of Ayia Napa, is one of the warmest beaches in Cyprus and has crystal clear waters, seems not to be what most people are concerned about. This is where passions are rather… cooled. Therefore, Nissi Beach is not the right place for those seeking absolute peace and solitude.
By bicycle or motorcycle
Those who want more peace and quiet can continue a few kilometers further to Makronissos Beach. But there is no guarantee of absolute peace there either. New Golden Beach, before Nissi Beach, is considered much quieter.
For these beaches the most practical way to get around is by rented bicycle or motorbike, which are available everywhere. On the beaches of Fig Tree Bay, north of Ayia Napa, a car is preferred, but one should not expect isolation there either.
Around Cape Greco there are small, quiet coves where one can enjoy a little privacy.
For real isolation, one must travel to northwestern Cyprus, to the Akamas region. From Ayia Napa, the journey takes three to four hours. North of Polis Chrysochous there are excellent beaches and even further west are the Baths of Aphrodite, where, according to legend, the goddess bathed.
Beaches with sand and pebbles
In Larnaca the beach is located within the city and continues along Larnaca Bay. In Limassol there are smaller sandy and pebble beaches in the hotel zone, as well as Dasoudi Beach (sand and pebble) and Venus Beach (rocks and sand).
Note: Renting a sunbed and umbrella costs one Cyprus pound per day. Many beaches also offer opportunities for various water sports, from parasailing to water skiing and windsurfing.
Text: Ninni Jonzon
Photos: Bengt Dobrin
