Ayia Napa in May – A Mum & Daughter Escape 🌊☀️
Travel dates: 27th April – 4th May 2024
Trip style: Independent booking – we prefer to book it ourselves as we usually save more, get more choice and get more for our money.
Why Ayia Napa – Travel – Where to stay – Beaches – Exploring – Dining out – Things to do – Tools
Why We Chose Ayia Napa in May 🌸
Our first-ever visit to Cyprus was a mum-and-daughter getaway, and we wanted sunshine, beaches, and plenty to see – but without the late-night clubbing crowds Ayia Napa is famous for. Visiting Ayia Napa in May meant warm weather, calmer beaches, and a much more relaxed vibe.
We were there in May and saw 30°C days, so those ‘averages’ aren’t the whole story!
Ayia Napa: Monthly Average Temperature
Long-term climate averages • Data shown in °C
Getting There 🚢🚆✈️
We caught the train to Gatwick Airport as there are no local flights to us. The train was busy, but starting from Portsmouth harbour meant we got seats together with a table (although our suitcases didn’t fit underneath) – a rare travel win! Check out your train travel options to the airports here 🚂.
EasyJet flies to Larnaca (LCA) from Gatwick’s South Terminal, so after arriving at the North Terminal we hopped on the free 2–3 minute shuttle train. You can also fly to Larnaca (LCA) from loads of other airports — pick your nearest click🖱️ to start your search.
Bag drop and security were surprisingly smooth… until our plane developed a fault. We were boarded, seatbelts on, bags in the overheads – ready to start our holiday – when the captain announced a ‘technical issue’, shortly followed by one of the stewards cheerfully advising us we could ‘call friends and family.” No problem, we thought… until it turned into a long wait. After over an hour of updates that didn’t sound much like progress, we were told to get off the plane, one side at a time to avoid tipping the plane over 😶. Then, when we asked if the replacement aircraft had been checked, the reply was comedy gold: “Well, it’s a spare plane, it’s been sat here for a while.” Not exactly the reassurance you’re looking for before a 4.5-hour flight! 😅 Always remember, screenshot times for compensation claims!
Eventually, EasyJet found another aircraft and, about two-and-a-half hours later than planned, we boarded the second plane, hello leg room, it’s a bigger plane! As we settled in, customer service offered everyone a complimentary soft drink & snack… but honestly, after all that waiting, we were thinking more along the lines of “where’s the beer?” 🍺
This time, everything went smoothly and we finally took off & landed safely in Larnaca, we’ve never had a landing approach over water before, what a sight! Despite the rocky start, Cyprus was waiting — and it was more than worth the delay. If you’re ready for golden beaches, warm evenings, and a dash of adventure, it’s time to plan your own trip.
A Limousine Welcome 🚖✨
We’d booked our airport transfer via the “Everything Ayia Napa (& Protaras)” Facebook group, and despite the delay our driver was waiting – with a name card – ready to whisk us away in… a limousine! Not a bad start to our trip. The drive to Ayia Napa was quick at that time of night, and soon (4am) we were checking into La Casa di Napa, our home for the week.
Where We Stayed – La Casa di Napa 🏨🌴
For our Ayia Napa in May base, we booked a one-bedroom apartment at La Casa di Napa – and it turned out to be a brilliant choice – this is why we book everything ourselves, they didn’t show on any travel agent search!
Check out its location on our map.
Ayia Napa Hotel Review – Facilities & Perks We Loved
🛏️A comfy bed – always a blessing after travel delays!
🛌A sofa bed – technically available… though it seemed to require magic skills to operate. We never did manage to get it out! 🪄
🔪Self-catering kitchen – perfect for making snacks or light meals, with a small shop just two minutes away for essentials. A good sized fridge/freezer was very useful.
🆒Air-conditioning in both the bedroom and lounge – a welcome relief after warm days exploring, with separate controls so we could keep each space just how we liked it.
🤽A lovely large pool – a bit chilly at first, but we’re British, so of course we braved it! Once in, it was perfect. No sunbed wars here – just a relaxed, friendly vibe, and everything was spotlessly clean.
🍹Poolside bar – serving both soft drinks and alcoholic options, plus “bar snacks” that were actually full, tasty meals. We loved their smoothies, with & without an adult addition 😏
🥐Buffet breakfast included – plenty of choice each morning, from continental to hot options, and always fresh. I loved the apple cake for breakfast, why not!
🍚Dinner available – the food was great, but we were usually out exploring in the evenings.
🧑Helpful, welcoming staff – even at 4am when we arrived, they greeted us with smiles and made check-in easy.
🛜Free Wi-Fi for guests with good signal.
The location is set slightly up a mild incline from town – nothing too challenging, but be ready for a few potholes on the walk. Being just a short stroll from Musan Beach and the town centre meant we could dip into the action when we wanted but still enjoy a peaceful, non-touristy atmosphere. What really stood out was the sense of space and friendliness – no packed-in feeling, no pressure to rush. It felt like a place where people genuinely relax, whether for a quick break or a longer stay.
Want to book La Casa di Napa or explore other stays in Ayia Napa? Our search brings you amazing deals! Book your hotel and flights together to save £££ — and save even more while earning points with the One Key Rewards Program.
Beaches – Nissi vs Sandy 🌊
No trip to Ayia Napa is complete without at least seeing Nissi Beach – it’s the one you’ll see in all the glossy Cyprus brochures. Soft golden sand, crystal-clear water… and, in our case, far too many people. Even out of the main season, it was packed. We decided to walk there from Musan Beach, which takes you along the coastal path. It’s a pleasant but not a short stroll with beautiful sea views and you can have nose at some of the beachfront hotels. You can see the distance on our map.
Nissi Beach was already full by the time we arrived (11am ish). We found a spot squished in-between sunloungers (I feel sunbed wars happen here) and others on the sand. Getting in and out of the sea felt like a marathon climb, but it was a clear beautiful blue. After 15 minutes we decided the atmosphere just wasn’t our scene. Nissi Beach seems to be geared towards clubbing crowds, hotel beach parties, and watersports – great if that’s what you’re after, but definitely not for us.
We headed back to Sandy Beach which we stopped at on our walk to Nissi Beach for a lovely iced Coffee so we grabbed a shake and snagged two loungers from many choices (a charge for these). It was much quieter, calmer, and far more relaxing.
Exploring Ayia Napa
By day, Ayia Napa’s streets are a lively mix of souvenir shops, cafés, and the constant buzz of 4×4 quads zipping past. There’s everything from quirky boutiques to big-name fast food like McDonald’s, but in May the atmosphere is relaxed and free from the peak-season rush. We spent time wandering at our own pace, browsing, picking up gifts, and stopping for drinks in the sunshine – whether it was a chilled frappé, a fresh juice, or something a little stronger.
Photo by Air-Holiday)
Photo by Air-Holiday- Photo by Air-Holiday
- Photo by Air-Holiday
In the evenings the town takes on a different energy. We wandered through the strip and the central square, where restaurants and bars were just starting to come alive. It felt lively enough to be exciting, but not overwhelming – a far cry from the late-night party scenes Ayia Napa is famous for later in the summer.
We also visited Parko Paliatso, Ayia Napa’s fun fair. While the rides and music weren’t really our scene, we did go on the Ferris wheel – and the views from the top were worth it, giving us a different perspective over the town lit up at night. After that, we ended the evening with a stroll along the promenade. Clean, tidy, and lined with friendly faces, it felt worlds away from England – the gentle sea breeze, palm trees, and that relaxed Mediterranean pace of life making it the perfect way to wind down.
Dining Out 🍴
Ayia Napa is full of fantastic eateries, from casual cafés to family-run tavernas serving traditional Cypriot dishes. Every meal came with a dose of warm Cypriot hospitality.
- Old Village Tavern – a charming spot & our favourite, serving hearty, traditional Cypriot dishes. The flavours were rich, portions generous, and the setting felt authentically local. The best Mozzarella Sticks around!
- Zorbas Bakery – perfect for a sweet treat stop or two. We popped in for cake… and may have left with more than one, once or twice! MUST VISIT!
- Los Mexicanos – a vibrant, colourful place that brought a taste of Mexico to Cyprus. Great food and plenty of flavour.
- Gary’s Bar & Grill – hands down the best English breakfast in Ayia Napa. Ideal for starting the day with a bit of home comfort.
- Levanta – not just delicious food, but also the best reaction from the staff when they saw how much we enjoyed it. Friendly, genuine, and clearly proud of their cooking.
- The Queen Vic – British-themed pub with a playful atmosphere. Probably more attentive during peak season!
The places we wanted to visit but ran out of time:
- Glass House – for its sleek modern dining and views.
- The Marina – to enjoy the harbour setting.
- Protaras – a change of scenery and more restaurant exploring.
- The Mexican opposite the Old Village Tavern – it looked tempting every time we walked past.
- Blueberry’s – generous portions, tasty dishes, say no more!
- Roof Burger Bar – Burger’s with a view.
Things to Do in Ayia Napa 🌅🐢🏛️🌊
One afternoon we joined The Galaxy glass-bottom boat trip to spot turtles and explore the coastline. The views were stunning, but we were disappointed to see that rules about not touching turtles weren’t being enforced – in fact, the captain encouraged it. As magical as it was to see turtles up close, we’d love to see stricter protection for them so these encounters remain safe for the wildlife. It’s a shame, as the trip was otherwise much more up our street – a faster boat, less waiting around, and a more fun compared to some of the larger, slower cruises.
If, like us, you value animal welfare, it’s worth looking for wildlife-friendly tours where guides follow strict “no-touch” policies. Platforms like GetYourGuide offer several eco-conscious options in Cyprus, from responsible turtle-spotting cruises to snorkelling trips that focus on observation rather than interaction. These tours not only protect the animals but also give you a richer experience, knowing you’re helping preserve the local marine life for future visitors.
A Splash at WaterWorld 🌊🎢
We also spent a few hours at WaterWorld, one of Europe’s largest themed waterparks — and it was well worth it. The theming around the park is fun and creative, and everything felt well looked after: clean, in good condition, and easy to navigate.
Highlights for us were drifting along the lazy river and watching the action in the large wave pool (though we were a bit unlucky — by the time we arrived the waves were only running for a minute or so). For thrill-seekers there are plenty of big slides, while younger visitors have smaller, gentler rides to enjoy.
Around the pools you can upgrade to private cabanas for extra comfort, but there are also plenty of free loungers dotted throughout the park. We can imagine in peak summer these would be snapped up quickly, but when we visited there was still space to relax.
The only downside was lunchtime: with limited eateries on site, we ended up queuing for over 45 minutes. That said, when the food finally came it was tasty and freshly prepared. Overall, WaterWorld was a fun way to break up the beach days and add some variety — especially if you enjoy theme parks with a splash of adrenaline.
Moving on, more things to do…
A trip not to miss: Ghost-Town Famagusta
One of the most unforgettable outings of our Cyprus trip was a visit to Varosha, the ghost town of Famagusta. Once a glamorous seaside resort in the 1970s — attracting celebrities and holidaymakers from around the world — it now stands eerily silent, frozen in time since the Turkish invasion of 1974. Wandering its empty streets is haunting yet fascinating; it’s the kind of place that makes you pause and reflect on the human side of history.
Our day began early with hotel pick-up, followed by an hour or so drive in a small minibus towards the border. Crossing from the Republic of Cyprus into the Turkish-controlled north was an experience in itself. Our guide clearly explained the process — what to do, what not to do — and collected our passports to present at the checkpoint. As soon as we crossed, the change was immediate. Abandoned buildings began to dot the landscape, some slowly crumbling, others standing stubbornly against the passing years.
Arriving in Varosha, our guide reminded us not to point cameras openly or photograph near guarded buildings or officials. He led us through the eerily quiet streets, sharing stories of his childhood, pointing out where his family home stood empty behind fences, and describing the chaos of the invasion. His words painted a vivid picture of a thriving community lost overnight, and the walk became more than just sightseeing — it was a deeply personal history lesson. One reason we were glad we went for a tour.
- Photo by Air-Holiday
- Photo by Air-Holiday
- Photo by Air-Holiday
- Photo by Air-Holiday
The beach itself is striking — golden sand, clear turquoise waters — but the backdrop of deserted hotels along the promenade gives it an almost surreal, film-set quality. We took a few photos while exploring, though strangely, many of Mum’s images came out in black and white despite her camera not being on that setting — and only some of them. It added to the eerie feeling that hangs over the town.
- Photo by Air-Holiday
- Photo by Air-Holiday
- Photo by Air-Holiday
After leaving the ghost town, we made our way into the main part of Famagusta, which had a completely different atmosphere — lively, colourful, and clearly aimed at visitors. Narrow streets were lined with small souvenir shops selling postcards, handmade crafts, and local treats, while cosy cafés offered shaded spots to relax with a drink. Between the modern shopfronts, we spotted incredible architecture from different eras, still standing strong despite the years.
One highlight was climbing the extremely steep concrete stairs up the old city wall. From the top, the view was breathtaking — on one side, the sparkling blue Mediterranean; on the other, a bustling working dock with cranes, cargo ships, and the hum of industry. The contrast between the calm, tourist-friendly streets and the busy port life just beyond the wall was fascinating.
- Taken by Air-Holiday.
- Taken by Air-Holiday.
- Taken by Air-Holiday.
- Taken by Air-Holiday.
- Taken by Air-Holiday.
Practical Tips for Visiting Varosha 💡
- Driving over the border: If you’re in a hire car, check your rental agreement and insurance carefully — not all companies allow cross-border travel. Get written confirmation and keep all documents handy.
- Border checks: Passports are inspected at the entrance/security check, and you are very much under observation throughout your visit. Remember, Varosha remains under Turkish control, so in effect, you are visiting another country.
- Opening hours: Varosha is currently open daily from 9am to 7:30pm.
- Exploring: You can hire a bike or simply walk, though note there are no benches if you want to rest.
- Mobile roaming: Your phone will likely switch to a Turkish network, so check your roaming plan to avoid unexpected charges. Drimsim covers you!
- Travel insurance: Ensure your policy covers both Cyprus and Turkey before you go. Compare your options with our affiliate we use.
Varosha is not your typical holiday attraction. It’s a rare and sobering glimpse into a moment in history that remains unresolved. While the sea sparkles and the sun warms your face, the silence of its streets is a reminder of the fragility of peace.
Why May in Ayia Napa Works 💛
- Warm but not uncomfortably hot ☀️
- Beaches and attractions open, but not overcrowded 🏖️
- A relaxed, friendly atmosphere without the peak-season party scene 🍹
- Flights and accommodation are cheaper.
Final Thoughts 🌍
Some places you visit once. Others call you back. Cyprus – and Ayia Napa in May – is definitely the latter for us. Between peaceful beaches, fascinating history, and warm hospitality, it’s the perfect choice for a relaxed mother-and-daughter getaway.
💡 Tip: If you want to combine relaxation with exploration, base yourself in Ayia Napa in spring and take day trips to nearby sights like Cape Greco, Larnaca, and Protaras.
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