The Best Hotels in Ayia Napa for Every Traveller

Perched on the slopes above the Ayia Napa coast, with lofty views from its rooftop pool, Napa Suites is a place to see and be seen. It’s got all of the Insta-poser perks you could want: slick white-and-turquoise decor, a sushi bar, cushioned navy daybeds and photo-ready views from the rooftop bar. Book a garden suite for your own private terrace and pool.

Overlooking one of the area’s most famous stretches of sand, the luminous Nissi Beach, NissiBlu has a zen-like, East Asian vibe thanks to minimalist cream walls and wood panelling, huge windows and tropical bird motifs. Glassy balconies overlook the Med and let in tonnes of light; downstairs, you’ll find a kitsch pink-chaired buffet restaurant, a serene patio area, indoor and outdoor pools (as well as a kids’ pool) and a tranquil spa.

Set opposite a picturesque fishing harbour and sandy Limanaki Beach, this friendly, established hotel may not be cutting-edge in design, but it operates like clockwork. With a handful of distinctive restaurants and its own gelateria, it’s popular with families; meanwhile, its polished blue, white and pine rooms have generous balconies and terraces. Separate main and kids’ swimming pools help make the huge terrace fun for everyone.

Spilling out onto soft golden sands, this four-star has attractive thatched parasols among its garden palms. Sit under a bougainvillea-draped pergola or on squishy bean bags by the handsome main pool, or supervise around the kiddie one; then retreat to light, modern rooms with sea views and immaculate white linen. A choice of six restaurants and bars (plus private dining options) means you won’t get bored by night, either.

Close to shimmering, sandy Grecian Beach, Napa Mermaid is a hit with couples thanks to its stylish interiors, tropical-feel pool area, romantic modern-minimal rooms and sultry spa. Take the hint at Bubbles Pool Bar and order some fizz; or book a spot in Andama Bar at sunset for live music among fluttering white curtains. A buffed-up gym sparks joy for fitness fans, too.

Despite its name, this is a spot to be seen, though you will lose yourself in the twinkling sea views and rippling shallows opposite. Close to Nissi Beach and the bar scene of Ayia Napa town, the waters in front of the hotel are a shallow lagoon – ideal for children or anyone who loves to paddle rather than swimming lengths. Rooms are simple blue-and-white numbers – go for one with a sea-view balcony to add a touch of glamour.

Perched right on the sands of Blue-Flag Makronissos Beach, this clubby four-star occupies a huge stretch of sand, with rows of cushioned, palm-thatched loungers and plump white beanbags to sunbathe on. Rooms are smart and modern with lashings of dove-grey and oyster (family rooms have cute bunk beds), but you’ll spend much of your time out by the lagoon-style pool when not on the beach.

This family-run, Nissi Beach number has direct access to the sands. Rooms are chic and spacious in plum, silver and royal blue, many with sparkling sea views; groups of friends will find great value in a triple room, too. Downstairs, you’ll find indoor and outdoor pools, a generous gym and exciting kids’ club, play areas and water slides for the little ones.

Just 300m (1,000ft) from Pantachou, the nearest sandy beach, Nestor has smart white rooms with all the essentials – some with lovely sea-view balconies – as well as a huge shared pool and sociable poolside restaurant. The on-site spa has a soothing indoor pool and reasonably priced massages and facials: go for the Sun Soother on your final day to slather that tan in cooling moisture.

On Nissi Beach, close to bars and beach clubs, Mon Repos has a simple, modern feel that’s best experienced on its blinding-white pool patio, fringed by palms and bougainvillea. Chill by the powder-blue pool or make the short walk to the sea, then get a great night’s sleep in bright, clean, refurbished rooms. Despite the location, this one has a perennially relaxed feel that will suit older couples or families with small children.