Diving in Paphos & Coral Bay

Explore 27 dive sites in Paphos & Coral Bay, Cyprus. Ocean conditions, marine species, and dive centres.

Best Time to Dive in Paphos & Coral Bay

The warmest water temperatures in Paphos & Coral Bay occur in January, averaging 18.1°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 18.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 18.1°C (air: 13.4°C)
  • February: 18.1°C (air: 13.2°C)
  • March: 18.1°C (air: 14.6°C)
  • April: 18.1°C (air: 18.4°C)
  • May: 18.1°C (air: 21.9°C)
  • June: 18.1°C (air: 25.4°C)
  • July: 18.1°C (air: 28.8°C)
  • August: 18.1°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • September: 18.1°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • October: 18.1°C (air: 23.0°C)
  • November: 18.1°C (air: 18.7°C)
  • December: 18.1°C (air: 15.2°C)

Marine Life in Paphos & Coral Bay

Home to 44 recorded species including 26 reef fish, 9 sharks & rays, 3 other, 2 whales & dolphins, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs, 1 soft corals.

Dive Site Difficulty in Paphos & Coral Bay

Paphos & Coral Bay has 2 beginner, 2 intermediate dive sites - suitable for divers of all levels.

Recommended Packing List for Paphos & Coral Bay

Based on average water temperature of 18.1°C.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 18°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Marine Protected Areas in Paphos & Coral Bay

  • THALASSIA PERIOCHI NISIA - Site of Community Importance (Habitats Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • PERIOCHI POLIS - GIALIA - Special Areas of Conservation (Habitats Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • THALASSIA PERIOCHI MOULIA - Site of Community Importance (Habitats Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • ZONI EIDIKIS PROSTASIAS CHERSONISOS AKAMA - Special Protection Area (Birds Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • AKROTIRIO ASPRO - PETRA ROMIOU - Special Protection Area (Birds Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • KAVO GKREKO - Site of Community Importance (Habitats Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • MPA Lara-Toxeftra - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Ia)
  • Lara-Toxeftra Turtle Reserve - Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance (Barcelona Convention) (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • SPA KAVO GKREKO - Special Protection Area (Birds Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • MPA Agios Georgios Alamanou - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • MPA Amathounta - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • AKROTIRIO ASPRO - PETRA ROMIOU - Special Areas of Conservation (Habitats Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • MPA Ayia Napa - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • MPA Ayia Napa Sea Caves - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • MPA Dasoudi - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • MPA Geroskipou - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • MPA Halavro - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • MPA Kakoskali - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • MPA Kavo Gkreko - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • MPA Larnaca - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • MPA Mpania - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • MPA Paralimni - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)
  • MPA Peyia Sea Caves - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • OCEANID - Special Protection Area (Birds Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • CHERSONISOS AKAMA - Special Areas of Conservation (Habitats Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • OCEANID - Special Areas of Conservation (Habitats Directive) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • MPA Zenobia Shipwreck - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Not Assigned)

Getting to Paphos & Coral Bay - Nearest Airports

  • Paphos International Airport (PFO), Paphos - 16 km away, approx 32 min travel time
  • Ercan International Airport (ECN), Tymbou (Kirklar) - 90 km away, approx 113 min travel time
  • Larnaca International Airport (LCA), Larnaca - 93 km away, approx 116 min travel time

Dive Sites

Dive Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical water visibility and temperature conditions for diving in Paphos and Coral Bay throughout the year?
For diving in Paphos and Coral Bay, the best water temperatures recorded are 18.07°C for Month 1, Month 2, and Month 3. While specific data on year-round visibility is not provided, these temperatures indicate comfortable conditions during those periods. Divers can expect a pleasant experience in the Mediterranean waters of Cyprus.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to encounter in the Paphos and Coral Bay region?
While specific marine life species are not detailed in the provided data for Paphos and Coral Bay, the region is noted for its marine reserves. These protected areas typically host a diverse range of Mediterranean flora and fauna. For general information on species found in the region, you can consult DivePlnr's wildlife database.
Which are considered the best dive sites in Paphos and Coral Bay for both beginner and experienced divers?
For beginner divers, excellent reef sites include Amphitheatre and Agios Georgios Pegeia Beach. More experienced divers will find a wealth of intermediate wreck dives such as M HARB (PROBABLY), GREAT HARMONY, DIMITRIOS II, and the impressive EDRO III. The region also offers unique geological formations like caves and amphitheatres for exploration.
Is the Paphos and Coral Bay dive region suitable for new divers, or is it primarily recommended for more experienced individuals?
The Paphos and Coral Bay dive region is suitable for both new and experienced divers. Beginner-friendly reef sites like Amphitheatre and Agios Georgios Pegeia Beach offer gentle introductions to diving. For those with more experience, there are numerous intermediate wreck dives and challenging reef explorations available.
What is the optimal time of year to go diving in Paphos and Coral Bay for the best conditions and marine life sightings?
Based on available data, the optimal time for the best water conditions in Paphos and Coral Bay includes Month 1, Month 2, and Month 3, all featuring water temperatures of 18.07°C. While specific details on peak marine life sightings are not provided, these months offer comfortable diving temperatures. For more comprehensive seasonal insights, you can refer to DivePlnr's when-to-dive guide.
Are there any significant wreck dives or unique underwater geological formations to explore in the Paphos and Coral Bay area?
Yes, Paphos and Coral Bay is rich in both wreck dives and unique geological formations. Divers can explore numerous intermediate wreck sites such as M HARB (PROBABLY), GREAT HARMONY, ACHILLEAS, and the famous EDRO III. The area also boasts fascinating underwater caves and natural amphitheatres, offering diverse exploration opportunities.
How can travelers conveniently access the main dive areas and specific dive sites around Paphos and Coral Bay?
Travelers can conveniently access the main dive areas and specific dive sites around Paphos and Coral Bay through the 15 dive centres operating in the region. These professional centres typically provide transport to the various sites, ensuring easy access for divers. They are well-equipped to guide you to the best spots along the west coast of Cyprus.
What are the common underwater topography features that divers will find when exploring dive sites in Paphos and Coral Bay?
When exploring dive sites in Paphos and Coral Bay, divers will encounter a variety of common underwater topography features. These include extensive reef systems, numerous fascinating wreck sites, and unique geological formations such as caves and natural amphitheatres. The west coast of Cyprus offers a diverse and engaging underwater landscape.