There’s no better way to relax here in Dubai than spending a few hours on the beach – and there’s plenty to choose from. The public beaches are free and provide great swimming and sun bathing. At various points along the Jumeirah Beach road, you could turn towards the sea and find yourself a little haven of peace and tranquillity. Probably the best stretch of public beach is situated close to the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and as well as soft sand and a warm sea, you have a great view of the Burj Al Arab Hotel.
But, if lounging on sun beds with all the facilities and snacks and drinks on hand, then visiting one of the two beach parks is a must:
Jumeirah Beach Park
Jumeirah Beach Park is situated about half way down the Beach Road. The entrance fee is Dhs5 per person and Dhs20 per car. It is Dhs20 to hire a sun bed, but you are advised to get there early, especially on a week-end, as they go quickly. The park comprises a one-kilometre stretch of beach with plenty of palm trees for shade. At both ends of the park there is a café and an ice-cream shop. There are showers and toilets, and lifeguards patrol up until sunset when swimming is not allowed. Away from beach there are plenty of grassed areas and play areas for the kids as well as barbecue areas.
Al Mamzar Beach Park
Al Mamzar Beach Park near Hamriya Port. Simply take the coast road through the Shindaga tunnel and follow the signs. This area has four clean beaches where there are sheltered areas for swimming and changing rooms with showers. There are small shops for the essentials and a bigger restaurant and coffee shop. Barbecue areas can be rented out and there are also two swimming pools. Lifeguards regularly patrol and you can also hire bikes or take the train to get about the huge park. Entrance fee is Dhs5 per person or Dhs30 per car including all occupants. You also pay Dhs10 per adult and Dhs5 per child for use of the pool.
Umm Suqeim Beach
This free public beach is situated between the fishing village and Jumeirah Beach hotel, the strip of pearl white sand is popular with everyone from tourists who like to sunbathe besides the Burj Al Arab, to surfers and tri-athletes.
Kite Beach
Kite Beach or “Wollongong Beach” is located along the beach fronts of Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim, near the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the old Wollongong University (now an art centre). This is the only beach approved by Dubai Municipality for kiting, their lively antics make great entertainment for those pursuing less energetic activities.
Dubai Open Beach
Dubai’s most well known free public beach, located in Jumeirah near the Lime Tree Cafe, this glorious beach has plenty of facilities including toilets, lockers, showers and various shops selling ice creams and snacks.
JBR Beach
Located in Dubai Marina, this free public beach has great views out to the Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis. There are not many facilities on the beach itself, but it is close to The Walk – a sea promenade with restaurants, cafes and shops.
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