Beach weddings in Cyprus

Where to marry by the sea in Cyprus, the best time of day, and how to plan the photographs and film around the sun and the wind.

Cyprus has more than 300 days of sun a year, and the coast changes from one end of the island to the other: clifftops and coves in Paphos, long sandy beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras, and seaside venues in Larnaca and Limassol.

When to marry. Late afternoon. The light is softer, the sand is cooler, and the portraits can follow straight after the ceremony, in the last hour before sunset.

The wind. Most beaches have a sea breeze. Veils and hair move, which looks beautiful in photographs, but vows need wireless microphones to be heard in the film.

Where. Paphos for clifftops and coves, Ayia Napa and Protaras for white sand and clear water, Larnaca for relaxed seaside venues such as Galu Seaside.

Planning the day. Allow 30 to 45 minutes for your couple session close to sunset or just before dinner, and keep the ceremony short enough that your guests stay comfortable in the sun.