LTurtleara Bay - on the north-west coast of Cyprus is an extensive, often near-deserted sandy beach and one of the few remaining havens for loggerhead and green turtles.  Monk seals also dwell in the sea caves around the Akamas peninsula.
 
In June turtles from all across the Mediterranean descend on the beaches of Western Cyprus. They arrive in their hundreds under cover of darkness, choosing sand high up on the beaches in which to lay their clutch of eggs.  Eggs hatch in around seven weeks. A mad dash to the sea by the hatchlings then ensues. Again, not all of them will make it, the wildlife picking them off before they can reach the relative safety of the water
 
Lara Bay is now a protected area during the turtle breeding season.  Conservationists work to protect the eggs and to escort hatchlings to the sea.
 
Turtle watching is best performed from afar so as not to disturb these beautiful aquatic reptiles. Evening twilight or dawn break are the best times to see the turtles waddle across the sands
 
It requires an adventurous spirit and takes a four-wheel drive and a tolerance of pot holes.  Best to take a picnic, although there is an open-air restaurant at Lara.
 
The Akamas peninsula has some fantastic walks, the most beautiful and varied coastline and, in spring a some breathtaking flora.
 
Alternative good beaches, but without the wonderful wildlife would be:
Coral Bay, Konnas Bay Aphrodite Beach and Cape Greco.

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