The 5 best beaches to see in Dubai

The best beaches in Dubai, both natural and artificial, offer a wealth of fun activities for adults and children alike. Visitors come to this emirate for its luxury and innovation, which are reflected in its world-class hotels and stunning feats like the Palm Jumeirah. The coastline offers a stunning array of beaches, each presenting its own unique charm, from serene stretches ideal for relaxation to vibrant spots buzzing with exciting things to do. With amenities that cater to every style of beachgoer, these coastal jewels are a must-see on any travel itinerary. Dive into our guide to uncover the top beaches that make Dubai a beach lover’s dream destination.

01

Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim Beach)

An excellent choice at any time of day

A favorite among locals and tourists alike, Sunset Beach is renowned for its glorious sunset views over the Arabian Gulf, which paint the sky with a mesmerizing palette of colors around the world-famous sail-shaped Burj Al Arab. Capturing this shot, either as a postcard-worthy landscape image or a backdrop for a family portrait, makes an excellent souvenir.

Although named for the most photogenic time of day to visit, sunset marks only the beginning of an evening of beach fun thanks to an array of floodlights. This transforms a typical beach trip into a cool, relaxed evening experience after the heat of the day has passed, where the crowds gradually fade away and the surf is gentler. Swim until lights-out at midnight.

When the wind picks up, it creates the ideal conditions for surfing, so it’s no surprise to see surf schools and rental places in this area. Some even offer drop-in sessions, so you or your kids can catch a wave and hone your skills with the guidance of an expert. Alternatively, rent an umbrella and check out one of the book-sharing kiosks to borrow a great vacation read. These little libraries are available for people to donate, borrow, or trade books at will and include titles in Arabic, English, and more for both grown-ups and children.

While it’s more low-key than some of the resort-style beaches, the key amenities are all present. Free changing rooms and showers are available for those who’ve been in the water, and lifeguards are on duty during the day and attend the floodlit zone while the lights are on. The beach’s central location puts it within walking distance of a multitude of hotels, but there’s also parking for cars and bikes, and bus stops a couple of minutes away. Refreshments can be found at Sunset Beach and in the surrounding streets, ranging from casual coffees and fast food to upscale restaurants that benefit from the fantastic views.

02

Kite Beach

Action-packed paradise and social hub

Kite Beach is a dynamic destination with adrenaline-pumping activities and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a haven for fitness enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, and sits on an 8.7-mile-long coastal fitness track that supports running, cycling, and skating, all with stunning sea views. This continuous path is dotted with frequent water stations, making workouts both scenic and convenient.

The beach is celebrated for its wind-driven water sports, especially the one that it’s named for. Consistent breezes make it an ideal spot for kitesurfing and paddleboarding, among other sports. On-site schools offer lessons for beginners, while advanced riders can chase speed and airtime. Kids needn’t miss out, and there are shaded play zones and supervised swimming areas that families will love.

In the evening, Kite Beach transforms under powerful floodlights, extending the fun into the night with lifeguard-protected swims and nighttime sports, like volleyball and rollerblading, that become more comfortable after the sun’s heat has cooled off. In addition to all the activities on offer, this beach is a great social spot that benefits from regular food trucks supplying favorites like acai bowls and gourmet burgers right by the sand.

For those looking to elevate their beach day, sunbed day passes and secure lockers are available, simplifying planning and allowing visitors to focus on enjoying their time by the sea. If you’re not staying at a hotel on Kite Beach, there’s plenty of parking for those driving in, though the lots can fill up fast on weekends. Whether you’re there for the action or the atmosphere, Kite Beach promises an unforgettable experience on Dubai’s shores.

03

Marina Beach (JBR)

Urban coastal haven

With an extensive variety of accommodations, from luxury resort hotels and serviced apartments to less formal vacation rentals, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) draws a lot of visitors each year and is well-appointed to cater to their needs. One of the key features is Marina Beach, a true urban oasis, where the vibrant boardwalk known as The Beach at JBR integrates sun loungers, cafes, and retail shops into a single waterfront circuit. Here you’ll be able to swim, shop, and find a delicious brunch, all in one location.

Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty of thrills here, with options like jet skiing and parasailing to get their adrenaline pumping. There are equipment rental places right on the sand where you can get a drop-in wakeboard lesson or book a ride on an inflatable banana boat. There’s even a whole inflatable water park where whole families can scramble over big, squishy obstacles.

There’s plenty more grown-up fun on the cards, too, beginning when golden hour hits the dramatic skyline backdrop and creates amazing conditions for capturing stunning photos. In the evenings, the beach comes alive with pop-up movie screenings and seasonal events, in addition to the lively international restaurant scene. There’s a social atmosphere that’s just waiting to embrace couples or groups looking for a vibrant night out.

Getting to Marina Beach is a breeze thanks to seamless transit links, including tram and metro access, as well as short taxi rides. Plan visits with extra time on weekends, as this popular area fills up quickly. The juxtaposition of steel-and-glass towers against the open water offers photo-friendly contrasts, particularly during sunrise or the blue hour. Marina Beach is a must-visit for those seeking a lively, urban beach experience in Dubai.

04

Palm West Beach

Relaxation in the lap of luxury

Palm West Beach is situated on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, which is known for high-end resort hotels. This highly desirable retreat offers an upscale blend of relaxation and entertainment. The 1-mile shaded boardwalk along the Palm’s trunk provides uninterrupted views of the Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence skyline, making it an ideal spot for leisurely sunset strolls and taking family photos.

The promenade is not just about the views; it also has a welcoming social scene where beach clubs like KoKo Bay, Surf Club, and Lucky Fish offer laid-back music and private cabanas, creating an excellent setting for leisurely afternoons by the sea. Sip cold drinks on a plush sunbed, or dip into an infinity pool and enjoy the views.

Mornings at Palm West Beach are all about wellness, with options like jogging or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in the calm waters. Following a morning workout, visitors can ease into a beachfront brunch, with weekdays offering smaller crowds and quicker service. As the sun sets, the beach’s day-to-night flexibility shines, with DJ sets and lounge lighting transforming the area into a lively nightspot. Booking ahead is recommended for prime tables during peak times. Pet owners will find Palm West Beach to be a rare gem in Dubai with designated pet-friendly zones, allowing well-behaved dogs to enjoy the waterfront within posted guidelines.

Whether you stay in a luxury hotel on the Palm, opt for a day pass at one of the beach clubs, or book a table at a fine-dining restaurant, this is a one-of-a-kind destination. Palm West Beach offers a unique experience that captures the essence of Dubai’s modern beach culture.

05

La Mer Beach

An aesthetic delight

A design-forward destination, La Mer Beach combines urban aesthetics with beachside relaxation. Its sheltered sands are surrounded by industrial-chic boardwalks, street art, and colorful beach huts, creating a distinctive atmosphere that’s highly photogenic. Despite being a public beach that’s free to enter, premium amenities like lounger and cabana rental and valet parking make it feel more like a resort.

There are plenty of activities on offer beyond sunbathing, including water sports rentals and a surf and play zone. Dining at La Mer is a delight, with a broad selection of eateries opening onto the beach. Some of the more upscale restaurants are ideal for a leisurely dinner followed by drinks, making it all too easy to spend a whole day here. Between dining and diving spots, there are concept stores and boutiques to browse for an unconventional souvenir.

The beach makes a great base for a family day out too, with nearby attractions including a movie theater. This makes it easy to combine active fun, entertainment, and relaxation all in one visit. For those looking to avoid the crowds, weekday afternoons offer shorter waits.

La Mer’s design-forward programming ensures that there’s always something new to discover, with regular pop-ups, seasonal dining rotations, public art commissions, and evolving installations. This makes staying at a La Mer hotel not only a good idea for daytime leisure but also ensures access to a hub of discovery and nightlife. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular visitor, La Mer Beach offers a fresh and vibrant experience on Dubai’s coastline.

Dubai’s beaches offer a diverse array of experiences, from serene sunbathing spots to bustling hubs of social activity and fun sports to try. From ultimate relaxation to exciting adventures to a taste of local culture, these shores provide the ideal setting for creating unforgettable memories. Each beach has its own unique charm and amenities, catering to every type of traveler, so it’s likely that at least one of them stood out to you. Ready to plan your visit? Explore our travel guides for more inspiration and discover the best accommodations and packages in Dubai for your beach vacation.