Dubai may be famed for its soaring skyscrapers and desert adventures, but its coastline is equally spectacular. In fact, hitting the beach is one of the top things to do in Dubai for visitors and residents alike. The city’s beaches offer a blissful mix of soft golden sand, warm Arabian Gulf waters, and stunning views of the skyline. Many of these shores rank among the most popular Dubai tourist locations, providing both relaxation and recreation in a semi-tropical paradise. Below is a well-structured list of Dubai’s best beaches – each with its own unique charm – followed by some handy tips for enjoying the seaside in this vibrant city.

JBR Beach (Marina Beach)

A view of JBR Open Beach in Dubai, with the Ain Dubai Ferris wheel and the AquaFun inflatable water park visible offshore.

JBR Beach – also known as Marina Beach – sits in the heart of the lively Dubai Marina district. Skyscrapers from the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) complex tower just behind the sand, and the gigantic Ain Dubai Ferris wheel (the world’s largest) stands on the horizon. This iconic urban beach is Dubai’s most photographed shoreline, easily ranking among the world’s coolest city beaches. What makes it special: JBR Beach offers a perfect blend of city and sea. An open-air promenade called “The Beach” lines the coast here, packed with restaurants, cafés, shops, and even camel rides on the sand for that extra Dubai flair. The beach itself has milky-white sand and shallow turquoise waters ideal for families with kids. Adventure seekers can rent kayaks, go jet skiing, or tackle the floating AquaFun water park just offshore. Despite the upscale surroundings, the public areas of JBR Beach are free to access – just arrive early to snag a spot on the sand, especially on weekends when it fills up fast.

Kite Beach

If you’re into water sports or a more laid-back vibe, Kite Beach is a must-visit. Located in the Jumeirah area, this stretch of sand is famous for kitesurfing and an active beach scene. What makes it special: Kite Beach has a refreshingly natural, uncommercialized atmosphere. There are no towering hotels or malls here – just sand, wind and the sea as far as the eye can see. Steady breezes make it the go-to spot for kite surfers (equipment rentals and lessons are available right on the beach). Even if you’re not into extreme sports, you can enjoy swimming, beach volleyball, or jogging along the palm-lined promenade. A dedicated cycling track and a cluster of food trucks and cafes give visitors plenty of options to stay active and fueled up. Kite Beach is completely free, with clean public facilities and lifeguards on duty – perfect for a casual day of sunbathing or an energetic afternoon catching waves. Don’t forget to look up: the colorful kites dotting the sky make for great vacation photos.

Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim Beach)

For postcard-perfect views and tranquil vibes, head to Sunset Beach, also known as Umm Suqeim Beach. This picturesque public beach sits next to the Umm Suqeim Park and right behind the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel (the sail-shaped landmark). What makes it special: Sunset Beach is the spot for that classic Dubai photo with the Burj Al Arab in the background. While non-guests can’t enter the private island of the Burj Al Arab, this beach provides a convenient vantage point for admiring it and capturing stunning sunset snapshots. Families love Sunset Beach for its calm environment and amenities – there are free showers, toilets, and even a playground and shaded areas in the adjacent park, making it one of the best choices for those with kids. True to its name, the sunsets here are breathtaking as the sky turns amber over the Arabian Gulf. And here’s a unique perk: during hot summer months, Sunset Beach offers night swimming with floodlights and 24/7 lifeguards, so you can take a refreshing dip even after dark. Whether you visit at dawn, daylight, or night, this beach’s serene charm and the silhouette of the Burj Al Arab will leave a lasting impression.

La Mer Beach

Trendy and vibrant, La Mer is a contemporary beachfront destination in the Jumeirah 1 area. It combines a beach with shopping, dining, and entertainment – all with a colorful, modern design. What makes it special: La Mer Beach stands out for its blend of leisure and style. The shoreline is lined with palm trees, art installations, and cabana-style seating, creating a fun and Instagram-worthy setting. You’ll find boutique shops, ice cream parlors, and chic restaurants just steps from the sand, perfect for when you need a break from the sun. La Mer originally featured two beach coves flanking a low-rise retail area, with the Laguna Waterpark at its center. (Laguna, once one of the popular water parks in Dubai, is now closed for redevelopment as of 2023.) Even so, the southern section of La Mer remains open as a relaxed public beach with tranquil waters and free facilities. Highlights: The atmosphere here is very family-friendly – kids can build sandcastles or play at the splash pad areas, while parents lounge under the sun umbrellas. There are showers, changing rooms, and even beach librarians lending books. As the day winds down, enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk: the combination of street art, seaside murals, and a “ghost town” of quirky former shops gives La Mer an artsy, laid-back charm unlike anywhere else in Dubai.

Palm West Beach (Palm Jumeirah)

Palm West Beach is the go-to spot on the famous Palm Jumeirah island for those seeking a glamorous beach day. This long stretch of imported white sand lines the western trunk of the Palm, offering splendid skyline views and upscale beach club vibes. What makes it special: Palm West Beach combines luxury and leisure. It’s part of the Palm Jumeirah – an artificial island known for its luxury resorts and attractions (the Palm is home to Atlantis’s Aquaventure, the planet’s largest water park). The beach itself features a pedestrian boardwalk and a series of high-end beach clubs, restaurants, and lounge areas along the shore. You can walk onto the sand freely and enjoy the scene, but keep in mind that most lounge chairs or infinity pools belong to venues that charge a fee for day passes or minimum spend. Highlights: This is the beach to splurge on if you want a taste of Dubai’s luxury lifestyle. By day, you can rent a cabana or sip a mocktail at trendy spots like Surf Club or Beach by FIVE, and by evening, the beachfront comes alive with fire pits and DJ music under the stars. Palm West is also one of the best places for sunset – you’ll have a panoramic view of the Dubai Marina skyline lighting up as the sun sinks, which is absolutely breathtaking. With its upscale bars, golden sands, and 5-star amenities, Palm West Beach offers a memorable mix of relaxation and indulgence.

Al Mamzar Beach Park

Al Mamzar Beach Park is a hidden gem for those willing to venture a bit outside central Dubai. Located on the city’s northern edge near the Sharjah border, this expansive park encompasses five pristine beaches plus green picnic lawns and swimming pools. What makes it special: Al Mamzar offers a resort-like beach day without a resort price tag. There is a small entry fee (about 5 AED per person or 30 AED per car), but it’s well worth it for the facilities and scenery. Inside, you’ll find beautifully maintained beaches with calm, lagoon-like waters that are great for swimming. Palm trees and grassy areas provide spots to picnic or barbecue, and there are 15 rentable chalets for those who want a private family hangout with air-conditioning. The park even features shaded pools, barbecue areas, playgrounds, and a skateboard park, making it “a paradise for families, fitness enthusiasts, and beach lovers alike”. Lifeguards are on duty, and showers and changing rooms are available, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for all ages. Al Mamzar Beach Park is less crowded than the city beaches, so you can unwind with a bit more peace and space. Tip: Mondays and Wednesdays here are ladies’ days (only women and young children allowed), offering a culturally comfortable environment on those days. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, fire up a grill, or just relax under a palm tree, Al Mamzar delivers a full day of fun in the sun.

Al Sufouh Beach (Black Palace Beach)

Also known as “Black Palace Beach” or the “Secret Beach,” Al Sufouh Beach is a serene escape tucked between Dubai’s royal palaces and the Palm Jumeirah Island. It’s a bit tricky to find – down an unmarked sandy path off Al Sufouh Road – but that’s part of its charm. What makes it special: Seclusion and natural beauty. Al Sufouh Beach is quiet, relatively undeveloped, and blissfully free of crowds. There are no hotels, no loud beach clubs, and no rows of rental sunbeds here – just open beach and calm seas, reminiscent of Dubai’s coastline before the big development boom. The sands are soft and the water is crystal-clear, making it perfect for a peaceful swim or a picnic on the shore. Highlights: The real draw at Black Palace Beach is the view. From this single spot, you can see the lavish Burj Al Arab on one side and parts of the Palm Jumeirah on the other, giving you a unique panorama of two of Dubai’s most famous landmarks. At sunset, the scene is especially magical – the Burj Al Arab’s silhouette glows in the distance while the sky turns shades of orange and pink over the gulf. Photographers and sunset lovers will be in heaven. Best of all, Al Sufouh Beach is completely free to access and open 24 hours. Keep in mind there are no facilities (no restrooms, shops, or lifeguards), so come prepared with water, snacks, and shade. The untouched feel of this beach is what makes it special, so be sure to carry out any trash and help keep this hidden oasis clean.

Sunset at Umm Suqeim (Sunset Beach) with the iconic Burj Al Arab in view.

Tips for Visiting Dubai’s Beaches

To make the most of your beach day in Dubai, keep these pointers in mind:

• Respect local customs: While Dubai’s beaches are very international, it’s important to remember the Do’s and Don’ts When Traveling to Dubai. Swimwear is allowed on the beach, but nudity or topless sunbathing is strictly prohibited. When leaving the beach area, women and men should cover up (e.g. throw on a shirt or a cover-up) out of respect for local norms. Public displays of affection and alcohol consumption on public beaches are not allowed, so enjoy responsibly and modestly.
• Getting around: Dubai’s coastline is spread out, so plan your transport. Some beaches (like JBR and Kite Beach) are easily reached by taxi or public transit, but others like Al Mamzar or Al Sufouh are farther afield. You may want to rent a car in Dubai for flexibility if you plan to beach-hop across the city. Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps or check if your hotel offers shuttle services to popular beach spots.
• Beach costs and amenities: The good news for your Dubai Trip Cost , most public beaches in Dubai are free to enter. JBR, Kite Beach, Sunset Beach, and Al Sufouh all have free access. You’ll only spend money on extras like renting sun loungers, umbrellas, or trying water sports. Beach parks like Al Mamzar have a minimal entry fee, and private club beaches (e.g. on the Palm) charge for facilities. Decide what experience you want and budget accordingly. Buying snacks from grocery stores beforehand can also save money compared to beachfront cafés.
• Best time to go: Dubai is sunny year-round, but summer midday heat can be extreme. For a comfortable experience, visit in the cooler months (November to March) when daytime temperatures are pleasant. If visiting in summer, hit the beach early in the morning or late afternoon. Many beaches have evening lighting – for example, you can swim at night at Umm Suqeim – which can be a novel way to beat the heat. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and staying hydrated, as the sun can be strong even in winter.
• Additional fun: Consider pairing your beach day with other coastal attractions. For instance, after enjoying JBR Beach, you can stroll through the adjacent Dubai Marina Walk or take a short ride to the lively Pier 7 dining precinct. If the ocean isn’t enough excitement, some beaches are near famous water parks (Wild Wadi Waterpark is near Sunset Beach/Umm Suqeim, and Atlantis Aquaventure is on the Palm). These water parks in Dubai offer thrilling slides and pools – a perfect add-on for families seeking more water fun.

Dubai’s beaches truly offer something for everyone, from bustling social hubs to tranquil hideaways. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a family with kids, or someone just looking to unwind by the sea, you’ll find a beach in Dubai that fits your vibe. In a city filled with world-famous attractions and Dubai tourist locations, its beautiful beaches stand out as must-visit gems – each promising a sun-soaked day of relaxation and the chance to experience Dubai’s coastal charm at its best. Enjoy your beach hopping in the City of Gold, and don’t forget to catch those magical Arabian Gulf sunsets!