We hate to sound like a broken record but the weather is beautiful right now and we’re spending less and less time indoors.
Luckily there are so many beautiful outdoor spaces to explore in Abu Dhabi.
But, if you just want to kick-back and relax and do next to nothing while taking in the sights and sounds, a beach day is as good as it gets.
Got your bag packed, sunscreen on and a book in hand?
Here are the best beaches to check out in Abu Dhabi during the cooler months.
A’l Bahar
One of the most popular destinations for topping up your tan is this stretch of sand located on the Corniche. With an outdoor gym, basketball and volleyball courts, shops, restaurants, cafés and gaming area, there’s plenty going on. Not to mention the Aqua Fun obstacle course. There’s plenty to see and do here if you get stir-crazy sunning yourself.
Free, activity prices vary. Daily 7am-sunset. Corniche www.al-bahar.ae.
Al Bateen Beach
If you’re after scenic views, then looking out to the sea and at Hudayriat Bridge is on offer at Al Bateen beach. With calm waters across the 800m stretch of sand you can chill out for the day. Not one for relaxing? Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available to rent so you can burn off some energy. When hunger strikes there are a number of cafés ready to serve you. Perfect.
Free. Open daily 8am-sunset. Al Bateen, Khalifa Al Mubarak Street, off Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street.
Al Maya Island and Resort
If you fancy a retreat that makes you feel like you’re really getting an escape, then Al Maya Island and Resort could be just the ticket. An ideal place for a day of relaxation or a party to let your hair down, you can hop on a boat at the marine near Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana for the 20-minute journey on the water. Once there you can lounge for the day by the pool or on the beach or chill at the poolside bar. Fridays are more of the party days if that’s your thing and Saturdays tend to be more chilled. Day passes start from Dhs100 inclusive of boat transfer.
From Dhs100. Fri-Sat 10am-8pm, www.almayauae.com.
Corniche
You’ve probably driven past it many times but have you ever packed your bags and headed to the public beach on the Corniche for the day? With the Abu Dhabi skyline as the background, this massive public beach is free and open to the public every day. The family friendly spot has calm waters, plenty of space to set up camp and facilities including beach volleyball and football. Plus the seaside boardwalk has a number of small parks, cafes, restaurants and places to enjoy some shade if the sun is getting a bit much.
Free. Daily 8am-8pm. Corniche.
Hudayriat Island
Head over the iconic bridge and you’ll find this leisure destination lying in wait. A popular spot for fitness fans and families looking to relax, the 600 m-long beach is a quiet place to chill, with calm waters you can jump in for a relaxed swim to beat the heat. For those feeling active there are cycling tracks, football and basketball courts as well as watersports equipment to rent. Plus, with food trucks on site, you can refuel whenever required too to keep you energy levels up.
Free. Open daily 8am to 7pm. Hudayriat Island.
Soul Beach
Soul Beach is the newest waterfront destination in the city located on Saadiyat Island and is part of the Mamsha Al Saadiyat Community. Once there you’ll find 1 km of pristine, manicured beach on Saadiyat Island. There are 400 sun loungers with parasols and a 400 m swimming zone in the ocean. A range of cafés and shops are expected to open in the coming months offering you a place to grab a drink or a bite to eat. Weekday access costs Dhs50 per person and on weekends it’s Dhs75. With your entry fee you’ll get access to a sun lounger and parasol included.
From Dhs50. Saadiyat Island, www.facebook.com/SoulBeachSaadiyatIsland.
Yas Beach
There’s always a great atmosphere at this Yas Island beach club. The club is home to restaurants and a bar, as well as being a spot to enjoy plenty of watersports. There’s a fee to get in, but it’s also free if you’re staying at any of the hotels on Yas Island. So if you get tired of being by the pool on your holiday or staycation you can head along to this cool beach club for the day for a different experience.
Open daily 10am-7pm. Dhs60 (adults, Sun-Thu), Dhs120 (adults Fri-Sat, public holidays), free (kids 11 and under when with an adult). Yas Island www.yasbeach.ae (056 242 0435).
Zaya Nurai Island
Zaya Nurai Island is quite special. A short boat trip from Saadiyat Island, this island retreat feels a world away from the busy streets of downtown Abu Dhabi. Once there you’ll find inviting pools, pristine beaches, restaurants, bars, postcard-worthy photo opportunities with the sea swings and more. It’s not cheap to visit for the day but for your Dhs480 for a day pass you’ll get Dhs420 back to spend on food and drinks on the island, which works out as quite good value if you’re making a day of it.
Dhs480 per person, including boat transfer. Booking required. Open daily 10.30am-11pm. www.zayanuraiisland.com (02 506 6274).
