Image of the day

The clear coastal waters of the Akamas Peninsula, Cyprus

Earth Observation | Copernicus
Coastal Environment
Marine Environment
Marine Resources
Akamas Peninsula
Location: Cyprus
Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery

Stretching along the north-west coast of Cyprus, the Akamas Peninsula forms a rugged coastal landscape bordering Chrysochou Bay. The area is recognised for its ecological value, supporting diverse Mediterranean habitats, endemic plant species, and important coastal ecosystems. Coastal bathing water quality is an important indicator of environmental conditions and for public health. In its European Bathing Water Quality in 2025 assessment, the European Environment Agency (EEA) reported that Cyprus recorded the highest share of high-quality coastal bathing waters in Europe, with 100% of its bathing waters classified as excellent.

Acquired by one of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites on 18 June 2025, this image shows the rugged terrain of the Akamas Peninsula, with Chrysochou Bay visible to the east in deep blue tones. Bright turquoise coastal waters reveal shallow nearshore areas, while agricultural fields and small settlements are distributes across the lower-lying eastern coastal plain. 

Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery supports the monitoring of coastal environments, land use, and water quality indicators, providing valuable information for environmental management and the protection of coastal landscapes.