Cyprus Weather & Sea Temperature by Month

Turquoise sea at Fig Tree Bay, Cyprus

Cyprus is the sunniest island in the Mediterranean — around 340 days of sunshine a year — with a long, hot summer and mild winters. This guide shows the average air and sea temperature for every month, so you can pick the right time for your trip, whether you are chasing peak beach heat or the gentler shoulder season.

Cyprus weather & sea temperature by month

Month Avg high (air) Sea temp Good for
January 16°C 17°C Winter sun, Troodos snow
February 17°C 17°C Quiet, mild, almond blossom
March 19°C 18°C Spring walks, wildflowers
April 22°C 19°C Warm days, first swims
May 26°C 22°C Ideal — warm sea, few crowds
June 30°C 25°C Beach season begins
July 34°C 27°C Peak heat & nightlife
August 34°C 29°C Warmest sea of the year
September 30°C 27°C Ideal — hot sea, calmer resorts
October 27°C 25°C Warm swims, golden light
November 22°C 22°C Mild, greener, good value
December 18°C 19°C Winter sun, festive breaks

Figures are typical coastal averages; inland Nicosia runs hotter in summer and the Troodos mountains are cooler year-round.

The best time to visit Cyprus

For the best balance of warm weather and elbow room, aim for late April to early June or September to October. In these shoulder months the sea is warm enough to swim, the air is comfortable for sightseeing, and prices and crowds are lower than in high summer. July and August are gloriously hot and lively, but the midday heat can be intense — especially inland — so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.

When can you swim in Cyprus?

The swimming season is long. The sea climbs above 20°C from around May and stays warm through to November, peaking at 28–29°C in August — bath-like and perfect for children. Hardy swimmers happily dip year-round; even in January the sea sits around 17°C, warmer than much of the Mediterranean in spring. See our guide to the best beaches in Cyprus for where to take the plunge.

Season by season

Spring (Mar–May): the island’s prettiest season — green hills, wildflowers, warm days and a sea that’s swimmable by May. Summer (Jun–Sep): hot, dry and sunny with barely a cloud; the beaches and resorts are at their liveliest. Autumn (Oct–Nov): the sea is still warm from summer, the light turns golden, and the crowds thin. Winter (Dec–Feb): mild and sunny on the coast (16–18°C), while the Troodos mountains can get enough snow to ski above 1,200 m — you can genuinely swim and ski in the same week.

Rain & sunshine

Cyprus is dry. Almost all the rain falls between November and March, and even then it comes in short bursts rather than long grey spells. From May to October you can expect near-unbroken sunshine, which is why the island is such a reliable summer-holiday bet.

What to pack

For May to October, pack for heat: light clothing, a hat, strong sun cream and swimwear, plus a light layer for breezy evenings. In the shoulder months add a jumper for cooler nights. If you visit in winter, bring a warm layer and a rain jacket — and proper footwear if you plan to head up into the Troodos.

Cyprus weather FAQ

What is the best month to visit Cyprus?

May, September and October offer the best mix: a warm sea, comfortable temperatures for sightseeing, and fewer crowds than peak summer.

How warm is the sea in Cyprus?

It ranges from about 17°C in winter to 28–29°C in August. It stays above 20°C from roughly May to November.

Can you swim in Cyprus in winter?

The sea is around 17°C in January and February — brisk but swimmable for the hardy. Most visitors find May to November the comfortable swimming season.

How hot does Cyprus get in summer?

Coastal highs reach 33–35°C in July and August, and inland Nicosia can top 40°C. Plan activities for mornings and evenings in peak summer.

Does it snow in Cyprus?

Yes — in the Troodos mountains above about 1,200 m from January to March, where there is even a small ski area. The coast stays mild.