| Fig Tree Bay | |
|---|---|
 August 2016 | |
 | |
  Fig Tree Bay | |
| Location | Protaras, Cyprus |
| Coordinates | 35°00′46″N34°03′32″E / 35.0128°N 34.0589°E |
| Ocean/sea sources | Mediterranean Sea |
Fig Tree Bay is a beach in Protaras, Cyprus. It was named Europe's third best beach by TripAdvisor in 2011, [1] though it had dropped to 13th place by 2013. [2]
As with all beaches in Cyprus, access to the public is free, whilst the hiring of sunbeds and umbrellas is chargeable. A municipal car park provides parking within a short walk. The beach stretches for 500 metres, and the waters are clean enough for the beach to have been awarded blue flag designation. [3] The beach takes its name from the fig trees located close to the coast. [4]
There is an uninhabited islet easily reached by swimming through the shallow waters, the location of which provides a good shelter for the rest of the beach. The islet is covered with low-level local vegetation. In contrast to other local beaches, such as nearby Nissi, Fig Tree Bay has become a popular destination for families. Water sports such as water-skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing are available. From April to October, lifeguards and lifesaving equipment are available on the beach from 9am to 6pm.[ citation needed ]
In 2010, during structural improvements to the beach, an ancient Greek tomb was unearthed. [5]
In 2018, the Paralimni municipality pumped ocean sand onto the shoreline to prevent erosion. [6]
The song "Fig Tree Bay" from English musician Peter Frampton's 1972 album Wind of Change is about the beach.