Dubai has miles of beautiful beaches stretched along the Gulf coast. Although some have been developed by luxurious resorts and beach clubs, there’s still plenty of shoreline where visitors can take a dip for free.
The crystal-clear turquoise waters are best enjoyed between September and May. Moreover, many of Dubai’s beaches have undergone significant infrastructure improvements in recent years, now offering changing rooms, toilets, showers, sun lounger and umbrella rentals, sports facilities, jogging tracks, playgrounds, and kiosks.
Here are the best beaches in Dubai.
Editor’s note: During COVID-19, please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government health advice. Events may be subject to change.
Kite Beach
Best beach for kitesurfing and outdoor activities
Kite Beach is a long and pristine stretch of white sand, offering numerous activities such as kitesurfing, beach tennis, beach volleyball, and kayaking. The beach features abundant facilities, including showers, wi-fi, toilets, and changing areas.
On weekends, a seaside market filled with food trucks, cafes, and pop-up shops attracts many visitors. If you prefer a nighttime swim, the southwestern stretch of Kite Beach is illuminated and safe for evening dips.
Sunset Beach
Best beach for surfing and views of the Burj Al Arab
This wide, sandy public beach north of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel is ideal for capturing the perfect selfie with the Burj Al Arab as a backdrop. Sunset Beach is Dubai’s only viable surfing beach, with gentle waves suitable for beginners. While the waves are not as grand as those in Hawaii, they provide a great experience for newly budding surfers. The prime surfing months are typically from December to February.
Sunset Beach is equipped with excellent amenities, including toilets, showers, changing cubicles, and even wi-fi access through Smart Palms. There’s a designated illuminated area for swimming at night.
JBR Beach
Best beach for staying out all day
JBR Beach is a clean, vibrant beach area endowed with numerous facilities, including showers, toilets, and changing rooms housed in distinctive panel pods. Children can enjoy a splash zone, while fitness enthusiasts can access an outdoor gym. Located adjacent to The Beach at JBR and The Walk at JBR, it boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes, ensuring visitors have all they need for a delightful day by the beach.
Nikki Beach Dubai
Best beach to see and be seen
Nikki Beach Dubai is a trendy venue situated on the emerging Pearl Jumeirah residential peninsula. This popular spot attracts a glamorous crowd who come to enjoy the pool, lounge on daybeds, savor seafood, and celebrate the sunset with refreshing drinks.
Al Mamzar Beach Park
Best beach for families
Al Mamzar Beach Park encompasses a series of beautiful sandy stretches complemented by family-friendly facilities, such as a swimming pool, playgrounds, picnic areas with barbecues, water sports, and bicycle rentals. Although dining options are limited, the park encourages visitors to bring their own picnic for a fun-filled day outdoors.
La Mer
Best beach for seeing what’s new in Dubai
La Mer is one of Dubai’s newest beachfront destinations, showcasing shops, restaurants, a waterpark, and a spacious beachfront with hammocks. Opened in 2018, it provides free access for sunbathers and features an inflatable playground that kids will adore. Visitors can choose from a wide variety of nearby dining options.
Club Mina
Best beach club for little ones
Stretching along more than a quarter mile of private beach, Club Mina stands out as a family favorite. This beach club features five pools, including a shaded area for children. There’s even a children’s club, plus a water sports center for family fun. Parents can unwind and enjoy refreshing cocktails at the swim-up bar, and children get free admission on Tuesdays.
