Everything here is within a 15-minute drive. Park at the tourist pavilion on the inland side of the road and use the underpass to reach the beach.
1 Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock)
The main stack rises from the sea just off a beach of smooth grey and white pebbles, with smaller rocks around it. The water is clear and deep a few metres out. Local lore promises eternal youth (or love, depending on who tells it) to anyone who swims around the rock — but the sea here is exposed and currents can be strong, so only swim in calm conditions.
Practical: Free. Car park and café-restaurant on the inland side of the road; underpass to the beach. No lifeguard; no shade on the beach.
2 The cliff-top viewpoint
East of the beach, the old road climbs along white chalk cliffs. A lay-by with a viewpoint gives the classic panorama of the rocks, the bay and the coastline towards Paphos.
Practical: Pull in carefully — this is a busy road with bends.
3 Palaepaphos and the Sanctuary of Aphrodite (Kouklia)
Old Paphos was one of the most important religious centres of the ancient Greek world, and its Sanctuary of Aphrodite drew pilgrims for over a thousand years. Today the remains are low walls, foundations and mosaic floors, with a small museum in the medieval Lusignan manor house. It is part of the Paphos UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Practical: In Kouklia village, about 4 km west of the rock. Ticketed (a few euros). Allow about an hour.
4 Swimming at the rock
The pebble beach shelves quickly into clear water — wonderful on a calm day. On windy days waves break hard on the stones; stay out.
Practical: Bring water shoes for the pebbles and something to lie on.
5 Pissouri Bay and village
East of the cliffs, Pissouri has a sheltered sandy-pebble bay with tavernas and water sports, and a hilltop village with a pretty square and views over vineyards and the sea.
Practical: About 15 minutes by car from the rock. A good overnight stop between Paphos and Limassol.
