Green Bay Diving Site
Tucked along the golden coastline of Protaras, Cyprus, Green Bay—often affectionately referred to as “Turtle Bay”—has earned its reputation as one of the island’s most beloved dive and snorkel spots. With its calm, crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and striking underwater statues, Green Bay offers both novice and experienced divers a chance to explore a hidden world beneath the surface.
A Beginner’s Paradise with Something for Everyone
Green Bay is widely known as one of the best shore-diving locations in Cyprus, particularly favored by beginners. The entry is from a small sandy beach and leads into a gently sloping seabed. The water remains shallow for a long stretch, reaching depths of around 10 meters at its deepest commonly explored areas. This makes it ideal for learning to dive, practicing buoyancy, or simply snorkeling in safe conditions.
Despite being beginner-friendly, the site is far from boring. Experienced divers also flock here to enjoy the marine life, the underwater rock formations, and the human-made features that give Green Bay its distinctive character.
What Awaits Under the Surface
Underwater, Green Bay is alive with movement. Schools of silver bream dance through shafts of light, while more solitary creatures like trumpetfish and wrasse navigate the seagrass beds. The sandy bottom is often dotted with starfish, while camouflaged octopuses and cuttlefish tuck themselves into crevices.
But what truly sets Green Bay apart are the underwater sculptures. Inspired by ancient Greek art, these statues rest on the seabed like a submerged museum, evoking the ruins of a lost civilization. Divers often pause to hover around these stone figures—some sitting, others standing, all surrounded by curious fish. There are also replica amphorae scattered in certain areas, enhancing the sense of mystery and antiquity.
Turtle Encounters
Green Bay didn’t earn the nickname “Turtle Bay” by accident. The site is known for its regular visits from green sea turtles, which can often be spotted gliding gracefully through the water or feeding on the seagrass near the rocky outcrops. These encounters are magical, especially for first-time divers and snorkelers, offering a rare chance to swim alongside one of the ocean’s most graceful creatures in their natural habitat.
Natural and Artificial Attractions
Beyond the marine life and statues, Green Bay’s underwater landscape includes gentle rock ledges and small caverns. Just a short swim from the main dive area, a few shallow caves and archways provide additional excitement for adventurous divers. These areas attract species like lionfish, moray eels, and even nudibranchs for those with a keen eye.
Some parts of the dive site are set up as training platforms, making it ideal for diving schools and certifications. In fact, Green Bay is often the first open water dive for new PADI and SSI students in the region, thanks to its controlled environment and excellent visibility.
Facilities and Accessibility
Green Bay is easily accessible from the main road and has parking areas nearby. Although it’s not a large beach, it’s well-equipped with basic facilities including:
- Sandy shoreline for easy gear setup
- Access points for shore dives
- Shaded areas or nearby cafes for post-dive relaxation
- Dive shops and rental gear available just a short drive away
It’s common to see groups of divers, snorkelers, and swimmers all enjoying the waters harmoniously. Whether you're bringing your own gear or joining a guided dive, the site is very user-friendly.
Underwater Photography Hotspot
Photographers love Green Bay for its excellent visibility and consistent lighting conditions. The combination of marine life, statues, and shallow depths makes it a dream site for capturing memorable underwater shots. The stillness of the water also makes it easier to take crisp, clear photos without the challenge of strong currents or low light.
When to Visit
The best time to dive Green Bay is between May and October, when the water temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C. During this period, visibility often exceeds 20 meters, and marine life is especially active. Early morning or late afternoon dives tend to be quieter, offering a more peaceful experience and the chance to observe shy creatures before they retreat.
Tips for a Great Visit
- Arrive early: It’s a popular spot, especially in summer.
- Bring a rash guard or wetsuit: Even in warm weather, a thin suit helps protect against sunburn and minor stings.
- Watch the marine life, but don’t touch: Turtles and other animals should be observed respectfully.
- Plan a second dive: Many visitors return the same day to explore more of the statues and caves they missed the first time.
The Magic of Green Bay
What makes Green Bay so special isn’t just the underwater statues or the photogenic turtles. It’s the welcoming nature of the place. Whether you’re taking your first breaths underwater or adding to years of dive log entries, Green Bay leaves an impression. It’s a dive site that invites curiosity, rewards patience, and always delivers something beautiful—above and below the waterline.
