Sea Caves Paphos and the Edro III Shipwreck: Discover Peyia’s Coastline, Cyprus
Sea caves in the limestone cliffs and the stranded cargo ship Edro III, just 11 minutes from Coral Bay – with directions, parking and tips
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The Sea Caves near Peyia are one of the most beautiful natural sights in the Paphos region of Cyprus: the sea has carved caves, arches and rock formations into the pale limestone cliffs, and the water glows turquoise. Just a few hundred metres away lies the Edro III shipwreck, a cargo ship that has sat on the rocks since 2011. From Coral Bay you can be there in about ten minutes.
Sea Caves and Edro III at a Glance
- Where: on the coastline between Coral Bay and Agios Georgios, in Peyia, Paphos district.
- From Coral Bay: about 7 km, roughly 11 minutes by car.
- Entry: free – the coast is open to visit at any time.
- Best for: photos, a walk along the cliffs and sunset.
- Good to know: no lifeguards, no shade and no kiosks right at the caves.
The Sea Caves of Peyia: Natural Caves in the Cliffs
The Sea Caves are natural caves that wind and waves have carved into the limestone over a very long time. Along the coastline, small coves, rock arches and overhanging cliffs alternate. From the top you look down into deep caves where the Mediterranean roars when the sea is rough. On calm days the water is crystal-clear and you can see the bottom – a breathtaking backdrop and one of the natural wonders of the Cypriot coast.
The best way to explore the area is on foot along the cliffs. A coastal path runs along the shore, with several viewpoints where you can discover the caves from different angles. Wear sturdy shoes – the rock is sharp and crumbly in places.
Swimming and Snorkelling at the Sea Caves
In calm weather the spot is popular with people who like to swim and snorkel. But there is no beach, no ladder and no lifeguard. Only go into the water when the sea is flat, and never alone. We advise against cliff jumping: from above it is hard to judge the depth, and there are rocks below the surface.
Tip: Sunset at the Sea Caves
The Sea Caves are at their most beautiful at sunset: the cliffs face west, the sun sinks straight into the sea and turns the limestone golden. Many visitors arrive in the late afternoon and stay until dark – an unforgettable end to a day in Cyprus.
The Edro III Shipwreck: Peyia’s Famous Wreck
The Edro III was a cargo ship around 80 metres long, sailing under the flag of Sierra Leone. On 8 December 2011 it ran aground off Peyia in heavy seas on its way from Limassol to Rhodes, carrying a cargo of plasterboard. All nine crew members were airlifted to Paphos by a British military helicopter.
By October 2013 fuel and other pollutants had been removed, and attempts to tow the ship away were abandoned. Since then the vessel has rested at an angle on the rocks and has become one of the most photographed sights in the west of Cyprus.
Can You Board the Wreck?
No. Climbing onto the ship is dangerous and not allowed, and swimming out to it is not a good idea either. The rusty hull is unstable and waves break against the rocks. The best photos are taken from the shore anyway.
Getting There: Car, Bus, Boat Cruise or Tour
By car: From Coral Bay, follow the coast road north towards Agios Georgios. After about 7 km and around 11 minutes you reach the sea caves area. There is informal roadside parking near the caves and the wreck. Local buses run from Paphos to Coral Bay; from there it is a longer walk along the rugged coastline.
On foot: From the Sea Caves to the Edro III shipwreck it is only a few minutes’ walk along the coast.
On a tour: Several jeep tours from Paphos stop at the Sea Caves on their way to the Akamas peninsula. From the sea, boat trips from Paphos harbour cruise along this coast towards Coral Bay.
Paphos: Land Rover Jeep Safari Coastal Tour and Blue Lagoon
About 7 hours with pick-up in Paphos, including a photo stop at the Sea Caves near Peyia before heading on to the Akamas peninsula. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from over 1,500 reviews on GetYourGuide (October 2026).
If you book through this link, we earn a small commission – the price stays the same for you.
Tips for Your Visit to This Natural Attraction
- Bring water and sun protection: there is no shade right at the caves.
- Wear sturdy shoes: the limestone is sharp.
- Keep away from the edge: the cliffs are undercut in places.
- Check the weather: in a westerly wind the waves crash high into the caves – spectacular, but no day for a swim.
Discover More Attractions Around Peyia: Island, Restaurants and Beaches
- Agios Georgios: the small fishing harbour with fish restaurants and the church of St George, about 10 minutes further north. Off the harbour lies the island of Yeronisos (St George’s Island), where archaeologists have excavated the remains of a Hellenistic sanctuary.
- Lara Bay: the turtle beach on the Akamas peninsula, reached by a dirt track.
- Peyia Village: the village above the coast with its square, cafés and views over the bay.
- Coral Bay: the best-known sandy beach in the area, with sunbeds, water sports and restaurants.
FAQ: Sea Caves Paphos
Where are the Sea Caves in Paphos?
On the coast of Peyia, between Coral Bay and Agios Georgios, about 25 minutes north of Paphos town.
Is there an entrance fee for the Sea Caves?
No. The Sea Caves and the Edro III shipwreck are free to visit.
Can you swim at the Sea Caves?
Only when the sea is calm and if you are a confident swimmer. There is no beach and no lifeguard.
When did the Edro III run aground?
On 8 December 2011, during a storm. The crew were rescued.
How far are the Sea Caves from Coral Bay?
About 7 km. By car you will be there in around 11 minutes.
Last updated: October 2026. Sources: history of the Edro III from Wikipedia and paphoslife.com, drive time by route planner (OSRM, 09.10.2026), tour details from the provider on GetYourGuide. Cover photo: The neek via Unsplash.
Where to Stay Near the Sea Caves
Our accommodation – two villas in Coral Bay – is only about ten minutes from the Sea Caves – perfect for a spontaneous trip at sunset. Private pools, booked directly with your host.
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