Lara beach is a very famous attraction in the Akamas National Park. It is located on the western coast of the peninsula. This beach is widely known in scientific circles as a place where sea turtles lay their eggs. The beach is under state protection.
Lara beach is open for swimming, but it is located at a distance from populated areas, so there are very few people here. From June to August, two species of turtles come to Lara beach: green turtles and Caretta turtles (leathery). Turtles do not live in Cyprus, but come to the beach only to lay eggs.
Turtles crawl ashore at night to lay their eggs. During the summer season, night visits to Lara beach are prohibited. In the morning, employees of the reserve put special nets over the turtle clutches to protect the turtle eggs from animals and people. They transfer unsuccessful clutches to the incubator. If the turtles hatch weak, they are kept in aquariums to gain strength, and then released into the sea.
Lara beach is most convenient to visit during an excursion to the Avakas Gorge. It is located in close proximity to the beach.
