Introduction Best Beaches Dubai
Having lived in Dubai for nearly 20 years I can vouch for the quality and variety of the beaches in Dubai. There is a mix of private beaches associated with hotels and beach clubs, but also a large range of public beaches with free entry, lots of activities, food and beverage and more.
Security and safety are taken very seriously in Dubai, so you will find lifeguards everywhere, as well as regular patrols by beach security, the police and hotel staff where appropriate.
There are lots of water-based activities such as yachts, fishing, team sports, fun parks, swimming, water skiing, and others as well.
This first post about what to do in Dubai will concentrate on the public beaches in Dubai, located along the city’s coast.
Table Of Contents
Jumeirah Beach Residences Open Beach
Overview
Jumeirah Beach Residence Open Beach is a popular public beach located in the heart of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is a long stretch of sandy shore that offers stunning views of the Persian Gulf and the iconic Dubai skyline. The beach is known for its crystal clear waters and the wide range of activities it offers visitors.
This is a great area because it is located close to a large range of hotels, shops and restaurants. There are lots of activities as well, so it’s easy to spend the whole day and find something to do.
One of the best things about Jumeirah Beach Residence Open Beach is its accessibility. It is easily reachable by public transport or car, and plenty of parking spaces are available. The beach is free to access, and there are no entry fees.
Once you’re on the beach, you can enjoy various activities. If you’re a water sports enthusiast, you can try jet skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding, and more. Several companies offer scuba diving and snorkelling tours. For those who prefer relaxing activities, the beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling along the shoreline.
Another great feature of Jumeirah Beach Residence Open Beach is the variety of amenities available. Plenty of beach loungers, umbrellas, and towels are available for rent, and the beach also has showers and changing rooms. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby that serve a variety of cuisines.
Transportation Links
To get to JBR, you must go through Dubai Marina, which is serviced by two metro stations, DMCC and the Sobha Reality metro stations on the Red Line. These metro stations are then connected to the Dubai Tram network that services Dubai Marina and JBR. Get off the tram at the JBR tram stations, and there is still a 5-10 minute walk to the actual beach.
Alternatively, you can grab a taxi from any part of the city but be warned, traffic in Dubai Marina and JBR can be very heavy in the peak times of the day, like commuting. Give yourself plenty of time to get around.
8, 84, N55 stopping at JBR residence stations 1 or 2
La Mer Beach
Overview
Facilities at La Mer Beach include showers, changing rooms, restrooms, prayer rooms, and a first-aid station. Several restaurants, cafes, and food trucks are also located along the beachfront, offering a variety of cuisines and snacks. Additionally, retail shops sell beachwear, souvenirs, and other items.
La Mer Beach is a popular seaside destination in the Jumeirah 1 neighbourhood of Dubai, UAE. The beach spans over 2.5 kilometres and offers a wide range of facilities and activities for visitors.
As for activities, La Mer Beach is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. There are also water sports facilities where visitors can rent equipment for activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet-skiing. In addition, there is a kids’ water park area, a trampoline park, and a cinema complex showing the latest films.
La Mer Beach is open to the public, and admission is free, though some activities and facilities may have additional charges. The beach is accessible by car or public transportation, and ample parking is available. Overall, La Mer Beach is a vibrant and exciting destination for Dubai visitors looking for sun, sand, and sea.
Transportation Links
La Mer is not directly served by the metro system. The nearest metro station is the World Trade Center metro station, which is too far to walk. You must take a taxi from there, or directly from your home.
Buses
8,9, C10 stopping at Jumeirah Center Bus stop
Jumeirah Open (Umm Suqeim) Beach
Overview
Jumeirah Open Beach, also known as Jumeirah Public Beach, is a popular beach destination located in the Jumeirah neighbourhood of Dubai, UAE. The beach is known for its beautiful white sand and clear turquoise waters, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.
One of the main reasons why Jumeirah Open Beach is so special is its location. The beach offers stunning views of the iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel, one of Dubai’s most recognizable landmarks. Additionally, the beach is close to several popular attractions, such as the Jumeirah Mosque and the Dubai Canal, making it a convenient destination for tourists.
The beach offers a range of amenities and facilities, including showers, changing rooms, restrooms, and several food and beverage outlets. There are also several shops selling beachwear and souvenirs. Additionally, there are lifeguards on duty to ensure the safety of visitors.
The views are changing as I post this because a new resort is under construction called the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, next to Jumeirah Beach Hotel. It will look beautiful when it is complete, and you can still enjoy the public beach as it is now. A nice little park beside the beach is also great for families.
Transportation to Jumeirah Open Beach is relatively easy, as several bus routes and taxi services run there. There is also ample parking available for those who prefer to drive. Overall, Jumeirah Open Beach is a beautiful and relaxing destination that offers a variety of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy.
Transportation Links
The area is not served by the Dubai metro, the nearest station is the Mall of the Emirates, but you can take a taxi or bus from that metro to the beach or wherever you are staying in the city.
Buses
8,81, 88, N55 stopping at Jumeirah Center Bus stop
Kite Beach
Overview
First, as the name suggests, it’s a top spot for kite surfing. If you’re into that, you’ll find plenty of like-minded folks catching some air and showing off their skills. Even if you’re not a kite surfer yourself, it’s pretty fun to watch the action and feel the energy of the place.
But even if you’re not a kite surfer, Kite Beach is a great spot to hang out and soak up some sun. The beach is pristine and well-maintained, with soft sand and clear, turquoise water. There are plenty of spots to set up your beach chair and umbrella, and the views of the iconic Burj Al Arab in the distance are pretty amazing.
If you’re feeling active, there are plenty of other things to do at Kite Beach besides kite surfing. You can rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the waters or take a jog or bike ride along the paved path that runs along the beach. There’s even a small skate park and outdoor trampoline park nearby for those looking for a little more action.
In my opinion, one of the best things about Kite Beach is the food scene. Plenty of food trucks and stalls sell all kinds of tasty treats, from fresh fruit smoothies to shawarma wraps and fish tacos. And if you’re looking for something a little more upscale, there are some great restaurants and cafes nearby with amazing views of the beach and the Dubai skyline.
It’s my favourite beach in Dubai because you have a lot of activities, cafes, a walking/cycling/running track, a great beach, and swimming facilities. There are, of course, lifeguards present to watch over everyone as well. It’s a short walk to Jumeirah Beach Road, where you can find mini-malls, more restaurants, bicycles for hire, and more.
Watching people fly their kites is also tremendous fun.
Transportation Links
The area is not served by the Dubai Metro, the nearest station is Onpassive Metro, but you can take a taxi or bus from that metro to the beach or wherever you are staying.
Buses
8,81, 88, N55 stopping at Umm Sequeim 1-2.
Secret Beach Dubai – Al Sufouh Beach
Overview
The supposed ‘Secret Beach’ is not really that secret anymore. The beach is located between the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah. It’s a more relaxing spot for those seeking a quieter, more laid-back beach experience.
First of all, the beach itself is beautiful. The sand is soft and white, and the water is crystal clear and calm. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or lounging in the shade with a good book.
One thing to note, though, is that there aren’t a ton of amenities at Al Sufouh Beach. Some basic facilities like bathrooms and showers, but not much else. So this might not be the best spot if you’re looking for a beach with many restaurants, cafes, and water sports rentals.
That being said, there are a few cool things to do at Al Sufouh Beach. One of the best is to walk along the Corniche, which runs along the beach and offers some stunning views of the Dubai skyline. There are also some nice parks and green spaces nearby if you’re looking for a change of scenery.
Another cool thing about Al Sufouh Beach is that it’s a great spot for watching the sunset. The beach faces west, so you can watch the sun dip below the horizon over the water, which is pretty magical.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quiet, peaceful beach experience in Dubai, Al Sufouh Beach is worth checking out. Just be sure to bring everything you need since there aren’t a ton of amenities on site.
This is another favourite spot of mine as it is less crowded than the other beaches and thus quieter.
Transportation Links
The area is not served by the Dubai metro, the nearest station is the Dubai Internet City metro, but you can take a taxi from that metro to the beach or wherever you are staying.
Buses
8, 88, N55 stopping at Dubai College 1
Mamzar Beach Park
Overview
I have been to this beach a couple of times only over the years because it it right on the border with Sharjah, a long way from where I have lived in Dubai. I do recommend it though, as it is very family-oriented, tidy and with lots of great facilities.
Al Mamzar Beach Park seamlessly combines beach and park services, making it a unique leisure destination. The park covers an expansive 106 hectares and offers a variety of recreational activities for all ages.
Al Mamzar Beach features five pristine beaches perfect for sunbathing or swimming. Families can also enjoy three stunning pools, providing an alternative to sandy shores. Before reaching the soft white sand, you’ll cross a large section of manicured lawn, surrounded by swaying palm trees so it almost feels like you are in the tropics.
The beach is well looked after but it is not free to enter. At the time of writing it costs AED 5 per person to enter, but for this very low price you have some excellent facilities and a very family friendly enviornment.
Transportation Links
The area is not served by the Dubai metro, so the only ways to get there are by car, taxi or bus.
Buses
C15 and C28 stop within walking distance of the park.
Video Tour
Beaches In Dubai Conclusion
These are only the first 5 of Dubai’s great beaches, and we will cover more in the future. There are hundreds of km of beaches in Dubai when you count all the off-shore islands and the main coastline. We can expect to see this grow and develop over time. The beaches are there to enjoy, so get out there and have fun!
Useful Links
- More information about Dubai beaches can be found HERE
- More information about Dubai can be found HERE
- Some tremendous fine dining options are HERE
- The Beach JBR (next door) can be found HERE
- If you are coming to visit the beaches of Dubai then check out the entry requirements.
- If you like to go to resorts then check out the best resorts in Dubai.
- Want to hang out on a yacht?
What To Do In Dubai – Key Takeaways – Dubai Beaches
- The Dubai government has made a huge investment in its beaches, which are seen by all the great new facilities.
- All the beaches are protected by lifeguards. Please follow the local instructions for each beach.
- No pets are allowed on any beach.
- Be careful about your belongings. The level of crime is small but use common sense.
- Do not take pictures of anyone without their permission.
- In the winter months, the water can be quite cold.
- Enjoy yourself, have fun, and dispose of your rubbish in the bins provided.
- The beaches are a brilliant start for what to do in Dubai.