Discover Dubai’s Top Beaches
Dubai is home to an extensive coastline, offering a variety of beaches catering to different preferences. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere with cafes and watersports or a secluded spot with pristine sand and water, Dubai has it all. Here’s a guide to the best beaches in the city, so you can choose the perfect one for your day by the sea.
1. Kite Beach – The Best in the City
Located in the heart of Dubai, Kite Beach is hands down the best beach in the city. It offers easy parking, soft sand, and clear waters. This beach is perfect for those who love water sports, beach volleyball, or just relaxing by the shore.
Amenities and Activities at Kite Beach
Kite Beach is also home to Sole Mio, a beautiful and easy-going beach club where you can rent sunbeds and enjoy a relaxed vibe. The area is packed with cafes and restaurants, including the famous Salt Burger, known for its delicious sliders. Additionally, there is a dedicated running and cycling track, making it a great spot for fitness enthusiasts.
Directions: Link
2. Sunset Beach – Quiet and Scenic
If you prefer a quieter beach experience, Sunset Beach is a great option. Located near Kite Beach, it offers beautiful views, especially at sunset. However, it lacks many amenities, with only two cafes and basic facilities like showers and toilets.
Why Visit Sunset Beach?
It’s less crowded on weekends compared to Kite Beach, making it a peaceful retreat. If you don’t mind a short walk, you can easily visit Kite Beach for more services and activities.
Directions: Link
3. Black Palace Beach (Secret Beach / 4×4 Beach) – Closed
Unfortunately, Black Palace Beach, also known as Secret Beach or 4×4 Beach, is no longer accessible to the public.
4. Al Mamzar Beach – Beautiful but Remote
Al Mamzar Beach Park is a hidden gem with stunning sand and clear water. However, it is located far from most popular areas like Downtown and Marina. If you’re staying in Bur Dubai, Deira, or Mamzar itself, it’s worth the visit. Otherwise, the distance might not justify the trip.
What to Expect at Al Mamzar Beach
The beach is quiet and almost deserted, but there are limited cafes and no entertainment options available.
Directions: Link
5. JBR Beach – Lively but Not Ideal for Swimming
JBR Beach is extremely popular due to its location next to a huge mall and its view of the Dubai Ain (Ferris wheel). However, while it’s a great place for dining and entertainment, the beach itself is not the best. The water quality is poor because it’s within a lagoon, making it less appealing for swimming.
Who Should Visit JBR Beach?
If you’re staying in Dubai Marina, this beach is convenient. However, if you’re coming from Downtown or Barsha, Kite Beach or Sunset Beach would be a much better choice.
6. Open Public Beach (Near Burj Al Arab) – Great Views, Rough Waters
This beach offers a fantastic view of the Burj Al Arab, making it a scenic spot for pictures. However, parking is difficult, and taxis are hard to find (Uber is recommended). The beach lacks amenities like umbrellas, sunbeds, changing rooms, restaurants.
Things to Know About Open Beach
Waves and strong currents make swimming less enjoyable compared to Kite Beach. However, if you enjoy watching surfers, this is a great spot. The beach is a tourist hotspot, and you may be disturbed by buses transporting large groups of visitors due to its proximity to the Burj Al Arab hotel.
Directions: Link
7. La Mer – Closed
La Mer, once a popular beach destination, has been permanently closed and is no longer accessible.
Final Verdict: Which Beach Should You Visit?
- Best Overall Beach: Kite Beach
- Best Quiet Beach: Sunset Beach
- Best for Scenic Views: Open Beach (Burj Al Arab)
- Best if You’re Staying in Deira/Bur Dubai: Al Mamzar Beach
- Best for Dining and Entertainment: JBR Beach (but not for swimming)
For the perfect beach day, Kite Beach is the ultimate choice – it’s central, has great sand and water, and offers plenty of facilities. If you prefer something quieter, Sunset Beach is a solid alternative. Wherever you go, Dubai’s beaches offer something for everyone!
