Protaras is one of the most popular beach vacation destinations in Cyprus, and it has the lodging options to prove it. There are around 100 hotels to choose from in this resort town, and the apartment rentals are numerous as well. Essentially linked to the nearby resort town of Pernera, Protaras is just ten minutes from the Cypriot party capital of Agia Napa. All of these destinations can satisfy the need for nightlife, not to mention lodging, and when the sun comes up, their beaches make ideal places to hang out. Protaras, as is true of Pernera, is more family-friendly than Agia Napa, so families might prefer it when looking to get away from it all on Cyprus's sunny east coast.

As is true of all the beaches in Cyprus, the beaches in Protaras are most crowded during the peak summer season. Mid-July to mid-August is an especially busy time of year, and it can be hard to find a room at one of the Protaras hotels during this period if you don't book ahead. The bulk of the area visitors opt to go with holiday packages that take care of their lodging for them. These packages also tend to include other things, such as accommodations and car rentals, and discounts are typically standard. Some of these packages can even include meals, which can be especially convenient for those who want to worry about little more than relaxing and having a good time.

Hanging out at the beach tops the list of things to do in Protaras Cyprus, and there are plenty of good area beaches to choose from. Protaras Beach tops of the list of beaches in Protaras in terms of popularity, and it is a long and sandy strip that is backed by large resort hotels. Various water sports, such as paddle boating and water skiing, can be enjoyed at Protaras Beach, and umbrellas are available for rent if you want shelter from the hot summer sun. Lounge chairs can also be rented if you want to kick back and relax. Perhaps you'll be interested in catching up on some sleep before you enjoy another slice of Protaras nightlife.

Cyprus Map

Beach enthusiasts can visit any number of area beaches on a Protaras getaway, including Pernera Beach and Konnos Beach. The former offers soft sand and good swimming. It is also home to a scuba diving operator. Scuba diving is one of the most rewarding things to do in Protaras Cyprus, as the area waters are home to some impressive dive sites. As for Konnos Beach, it is widely considered to be the best beach in the region, as it boasts a Caribbean feel and is ideal for swimming.

When the sun starts to set on the eastern coast of Cyprus, the Protaras nightlife starts to heat up. The bars and clubs in this resort town aren't as raucous as those that can be found in nearby Agia Napa, and all things considered, they are better suited for couples. The trip over to Agia Napa is a short one if you're up for a livelier slice of nightlife. Save for the Spanish island of Ibiza, Agia Napa just might be the most popular place to party in Europe during the summer season. Should you prefer the Agia Napa nightlife to the more watered-down Protaras nightlife, a local bus runs a route between the resorts during the peak season. You can also hire a taxi if you don't want to drive yourself.

In addition to visiting Agia Napa and the other area resorts, those who are looking for things to do in Protaras Cyprus can also arrange side trips to some of the larger towns in the area. To the near north is the walled city of Famagusta, where glorious Golden Beach figures among the attractions. Heading south of Protaras around Cape Greco, it doesn't take very long to get to laid-back Larnaka. The picturesque streets of Larnaka encourage walking tours, and Larnaka visitors can always head to the nearby Lefkara villages to buy some renowned Lefkara lace. There's no shortage of interesting ways to keep busy when you're not enjoying the beaches in Protaras, which is why it's one of Cyprus's most popular vacation destinations.