Day 3 in Paphos: Latchi, Blue Lagoon and Akamas by Rental Car
DAY 3 Explore Latchi, the Blue Lagoon and the Akamas Peninsula by Rental Car
If you are staying in Paphos and have rented a car, we recommend dedicating your third day to exploring Latchi, also known as Latsi, and the beautiful north-western coastline of Cyprus.
This self-drive route from Paphos takes you to Latchi Harbour, the famous Blue Lagoon boat trips, peaceful beaches, local Cypriot taverns, the Baths of Aphrodite, and the hiking trails of the Akamas Peninsula.
Located around 30–40 minutes from Paphos by car, Latchi offers a completely different landscape, atmosphere, and coastline. It is one of the best day trips from Paphos for travellers who want to discover the natural side of Cyprus beyond the usual tourist attractions.
Important driving note: This route is suitable for standard rental cars when you stay on paved public roads. Do not drive into the Akamas Peninsula on unpaved tracks, rocky roads, beaches, forest paths, or protected off-road areas. The Blue Lagoon is best reached by boat from Latchi Harbour.
ROUTE Day Three Route Overview
- Start from Paphos, Chloraka, Coral Bay, Peyia or Kato Paphos.
- Drive towards Polis Chrysochous and Latchi Harbour.
- Take a boat cruise from Latchi Harbour to the Blue Lagoon.
- Enjoy the beaches and clear waters around Latchi.
- Have lunch at a local Cypriot tavern.
- Visit Yialos Beach or another peaceful beach in the region.
- Continue to the Baths of Aphrodite.
- Walk part of the Aphrodite or Adonis Nature Trail.
- Return to Paphos in the evening.
WHY Why Visit Latchi from Paphos?
One of the unique characteristics of Cyprus is the difference in weather and sea conditions between the west coast around Paphos and the north-west coast around Latchi.
When strong winds and rough seas affect Paphos, the waters around Latchi are often calmer and more peaceful. This is partly because the coastline is naturally sheltered by the Akamas Peninsula.
For visitors with a rental car, this gives you flexibility. If the sea is rough in Paphos, you can drive to Latchi and often find calmer conditions, a more relaxed atmosphere, and excellent options for swimming, boat trips, and lunch by the harbour.
Rentamania LTD tip: Latchi is one of the best alternatives when you want a beach day but the sea around Paphos is windy or rough.
STOP 1 Latchi Harbour and Blue Lagoon Boat Trips
The first destination we recommend is Latchi Harbour, a picturesque fishing port and one of the main gateways to the Akamas coastline.
From the harbour, visitors can join one of the many boat cruises to the famous Blue Lagoon, one of the most beautiful swimming locations in Cyprus.
The Blue Lagoon is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water, bright sandy seabed, excellent snorkeling conditions, and dramatic coastal scenery. For many visitors, the colour of the water feels almost tropical.
Most boat excursions reach the lagoon within approximately one hour. Boats usually remain anchored long enough for passengers to swim, snorkel, relax, and enjoy the scenery.
Depending on the boat operator, cruises may include soft drinks, refreshments, traditional Cypriot food, freshly prepared barbecue, or souvlaki.
Recommended time: 3–5 hours including the boat trip.
Important: Do not try to reach the Blue Lagoon by driving a standard rental car through the Akamas tracks. The safest and most comfortable way is to take a boat from Latchi Harbour.
STOP 2 Enjoy the Beaches of the Latchi Region
The coastline around Latchi is known for its relaxed atmosphere, clear water, and beautiful Mediterranean views.
Unlike some heavily developed tourist areas, many beaches near Latchi retain a quieter and more local character. They are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, family outings, and photography.
Visitors often enjoy the combination of calm sea, mountain views, small beach areas, and traditional taverns close to the water.
Good for:
- Swimming
- Sunbathing
- Snorkeling
- Family beach stops
- Photography
- A relaxed local atmosphere
Recommended time: 1–2 hours.
STOP 3 Discover Local Cypriot Restaurants
One of the hidden advantages of visiting Latchi is its food culture. The area is well known for fish taverns, traditional Cypriot dishes, grilled meat, fresh salads, and relaxed restaurants near the harbour.
Many restaurants and taverns in the region serve both local residents and visitors, which often creates a more authentic atmosphere than in the busiest tourist zones.
If you want a more local experience, choose taverns that are popular with Cypriot families. These places often offer generous portions, traditional recipes, and good value for money.
Food tip: Latchi is an excellent place to try grilled fish, seafood, souvlaki, village salad, dips, and other traditional Cypriot dishes.
Recommended time: 1–1.5 hours.
STOP 4 Relax at Yialos Beach
A lesser-known gem of the region is Yialos Beach, a peaceful coastal location appreciated by local residents and visitors looking for a quieter beach experience.
This beach is known for clear water, natural surroundings, a relaxed atmosphere, fewer tourists, and the possibility of finding a more peaceful Mediterranean setting away from crowded resort beaches.
If you enjoy simple, natural beaches rather than heavily organised beach clubs, Yialos Beach can be an excellent stop during your day trip.
Recommended time: 45–90 minutes.
STOP 5 Baths of Aphrodite
After enjoying the coastline, continue to one of Cyprus's most famous mythological sites: the Baths of Aphrodite.
According to ancient legend, this is where the goddess Aphrodite met her beloved Adonis. The site is surrounded by greenery and offers a peaceful contrast to the beaches and harbour.
Visitors can see the natural grotto, freshwater spring, shaded vegetation, and the area connected with one of the island's most famous myths.
Local legends also associate the area with love, beauty, and ancient rituals, making it one of the most symbolic natural attractions in Cyprus.
Recommended time: 30–60 minutes.
STOP 6 Hike the Aphrodite and Adonis Nature Trails
The Baths of Aphrodite area also serves as the starting point for two of the island's most impressive hiking routes:
- Aphrodite Nature Trail
- Adonis Nature Trail
These trails wind through the Akamas Peninsula and offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Akamas coastline, pine forests, rocky cliffs, and wild Cypriot landscapes.
The full routes can take several hours, but even a shorter walk gives visitors a chance to experience some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Cyprus.
For travellers seeking nature, photography, and outdoor adventure, the Aphrodite and Adonis trails are among the finest hiking experiences near Paphos.
Recommended time: 45 minutes to 4 hours, depending on your route and fitness level.
Hiking note: Wear proper shoes, take enough water, avoid hiking during extreme heat, and check the route before starting. Even a short walk can be rewarding if you do not want to complete the full trail.
PLAN Suggested Day Trip Itinerary
- Morning: Leave Paphos, Chloraka, Coral Bay or Peyia and drive towards Latchi Harbour.
- Late morning: Take a Blue Lagoon boat cruise from Latchi Harbour.
- Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Cypriot meal at a local tavern in Latchi or nearby Polis.
- Afternoon: Relax at a beach in the Latchi region or visit Yialos Beach.
- Late afternoon: Visit the Baths of Aphrodite and walk part of the Aphrodite or Adonis Nature Trail.
- Evening: Return to Paphos before dark, or stop for dinner on the way back.
TIPS Practical Tips for Visiting Latchi and Akamas
- Start early if you plan to take a Blue Lagoon boat cruise.
- Book popular boat trips in advance during high season.
- Take swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, and drinking water.
- Bring a phone charger or power bank for navigation and photos.
- Use official parking areas near Latchi Harbour and the Baths of Aphrodite.
- Do not drive standard rental cars into the Akamas off-road tracks.
- Use a boat tour, guided tour, or hiking trails to explore the protected natural areas safely.
- Avoid hiking in the hottest hours of the day during summer.
CAR Which Rental Car Is Best for This Route?
For the paved-road route from Paphos to Latchi, most standard rental cars are suitable. A compact car is usually enough for couples or solo travellers, while families may prefer a larger car, SUV, or 7-seat minivan for extra comfort.
If you are carrying beach bags, snorkeling equipment, children's items, or hiking gear, choosing a slightly larger vehicle can make the day more comfortable.
Rentamania LTD tip: Tell us how many passengers you have, where you are staying, and what you plan to do. Our local team can help you choose the most suitable vehicle for your day trip.
FAQ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Latchi worth visiting from Paphos?
Yes. Latchi is one of the best day trips from Paphos by rental car. It offers clear water, boat trips, local restaurants, quieter beaches, and easy access to the Baths of Aphrodite and Akamas hiking trails.
How far is Latchi from Paphos by car?
Latchi is usually around 30–40 minutes from Paphos by car, depending on your starting point and traffic conditions.
Can I drive to the Blue Lagoon with a rental car?
Standard rental cars should not be driven through the Akamas off-road tracks to reach the Blue Lagoon. The recommended option is to park in Latchi and take a boat cruise from the harbour.
Is the Paphos to Latchi route suitable for families?
Yes. The route is suitable for families, especially if you combine a boat trip, beach time, lunch, and a short visit to the Baths of Aphrodite.
What should I bring for this day trip?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, comfortable shoes, a phone charger, and some cash for small purchases, taverns, or boat trip extras.
Can I hike in Akamas during this trip?
Yes. You can walk part of the Aphrodite or Adonis Nature Trail from the Baths of Aphrodite area. The full trails can take several hours, so plan your time carefully.
WHY US Why We Recommend Latchi and Akamas
If you only have a few days to explore Cyprus, the Latchi and Akamas region offers one of the most complete pictures of what makes the island special.
Here you can experience clear Mediterranean waters, sandy beaches, traditional Cypriot cuisine, scenic coastal views, ancient mythology, protected natural landscapes, and some of the best hiking routes near Paphos.
From our experience at Rentamania LTD in Chloraka, Paphos, this area represents one of the most rewarding day trips available by rental car.
This route is ideal for travellers who want:
- A scenic drive from Paphos
- A Blue Lagoon boat cruise
- Clear water and relaxed beaches
- Traditional Cypriot food
- Mythological sites
- Nature trails and panoramic views
- A peaceful alternative to busy resort areas
RENTAL Explore Cyprus with Rentamania LTD
Whether you choose a Blue Lagoon boat excursion, a relaxing beach day, a traditional Cypriot lunch, or a walk through the Akamas nature trails, Latchi offers an unforgettable Cyprus experience.
Rentamania LTD is a local car rental company based in Chloraka, Paphos. We help visitors explore Cyprus with flexible vehicle rental, hotel delivery, airport delivery, local advice, and responsive customer support.
Whether you need a compact car, a family vehicle, a 7- or 8-seat minivan, a 125cc scooter, or another suitable vehicle for your trip, our team can help you choose the right option.
Contact Rentamania LTD today and start planning your self-drive day trip from Paphos to Latchi, the Blue Lagoon and the Akamas Peninsula.
Author: Rentamania LTD Team
Location: Chloraka, Paphos, Cyprus
Last Updated: June 2026