From buzzing tourist hot spots to secret sandy spaces, we’ve searched high and low for the finest beach destinations around.
We know Qatar has got some great beaches, but what about further afield? For all the inspiration you need for your next holiday, long-overdue stay-cay or mini break, read on. Here are the best beaches in the Middle East.
Al Kabir Beach, Farasan Islands
Part of the archipelago known as the Farasan Islands, Al Kabir Beach is quite rightly famed for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive biodiversity, intensely blue ocean and pure white sand.
The world-class snorkelling and scuba diving here means that Farasan Island is considered a bucket-list destination for both professional and amateur underwater adventurers. This slither of paradise has plenty to offer those that wish to keep their heads above sea level too though: go fishing, paddle boarding and mangrove exploring or visit the nearby Ottoman Fort, Najdi Mosque and sandstone heritage village Al Qassr. Should you wish to add a city break element to your idyllic island stay the port city of Jizan is of course close by.
Where to stay: Farasan Hotel and Farasan Corel Resort are the only two hotels on the island and while they both serve their purpose, for your money (and to really experience the island at its finest) camping is the way to go.
Al Mughsail Beach, Salalah
With its verdant landscape and dramatic topography (craggy mountains, deep wadis and gushing waterfalls), Salalah is a stunner of a destination.
We’re here to talk about beaches though and on that sandy front the coastal city doesn’t disappoint. Visitors to Al Mughsail beach, located around 40 minutes’ drive from Salalah centre, can expect beautiful white sandy stretches dotted with coconut trees, miles of turquoise blue sea and some totally tropical vibes.
Strike out on the aptly named Zig Zag roads and not only will you encounter astonishing views, you’ll spot Oman’s famous frankincense trees too (learn more about the ancient tree resin at the Land of Frankincense Museum in Al Baleed Archaeological Park).
Alternatively, take a jaunt into town and head to the bustling Al Husn Souk where the meandering alleyways of the old market are lined with shops and stands selling frankincense, nuts and spices, perfume, traditional Omani clothes and more.
Where to stay: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara was the first luxury villa resort in Salalah and it sets the bar high.
anantara.com/en/al-baleed-salalah.
Cleopatra Beach, Turkey
A beach fit for an Egyptian queen, no less. Widely regarded as one of the best beaches in Turkey thanks to its sugary, coarse-grained sand and glassy-green water, the legendary Cleopatra Beach is well-equipped – snack bars, loungers for hire, plenty of water sports and a nearby promenade lined with restaurants, shops and bars.
Conveniently located close to the glamorous resort town of Alanya, the beach is a great start-off point for a whole array of activities and excursions. Children will love a sunset trip to amusement park Aktur Park, with its roller-coasters, rides and fairground attractions, while a mosey into the historical city centre to see the iconic Red Tower is a must for many. From there you can also take a cable car up to the medieval Alanya Castle or seek respite from the sun by heading underground to explore the impressive stalactites and stalagmites in the 15,000-year-old Damlatas Caves.
Where to stay: The Kleopatra Beach Hotel is a relaxed, family-friendly hotel right on the beach.
feriahotels.com/kleopatra-beach.
Dead Sea, Jordan
Can you even claim to be a seasoned beach traveller until you’ve slathered sulphurous black mud over yourself on the small but mighty Dead Sea beach before hotfooting it into the famous mineral-rich water?
Self-administered spa treatment complete, the exploring can really start. The ancient archaeological gem that is the red rose city of Petra is only two hours’ drive from the Dead Sea and should be on every visitor’s to-do list. Watching the sun rise or set over the spectacular rock formations and otherworldly desert landscape of Wadi Rum is another must-– it’s up to you whether you explore the surrounding area by camel, 4×4 or foot.
Where to stay: For five-star luxury in the heart of Jordon Valley the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa is a stellar shout (there’s a floating pontoon and an infinity pool with views of the Dead Sea – enough said).
hilton.com/en/hotels/ammdshi-hilton-dead-sea-resort-and-spa.
Musandam, Oman
Characterised by jutting mountains, sweeping slopes, desert terrain and of course gorgeous beaches, Musandam Peninsula is arguably the glittering jewel in Oman’s crown.
This stunning coastal area is known for its pristine sandy beaches, fantastic snorkelling and dolphin-spotting opportunities. With that firmly in mind, no visit to Musandam would be complete without setting sail out over the turquoise waters on a traditional wooden dhow, taking in the coastal fjords and of course leaping from said dhow, snorkel and mask firmly in hand.
You’ll want to soak up the local culture too. Slip back in time and embark on a guided tour of the many ancient Omani villages and heritage sites dotted around the mountainside, attempt to master the art of traditional hand-line fishing or head into the Khasab town centre to do a spot of shopping – while you’re there you could even pay the impressive local fish market a visit and seek out the catch of the day for supper.
Where to stay: A lesson in eco-friendly beachside chic, Six Senses Zighy Bay offers a winning combination of tradition, modernity and sustainable luxury.
sixsenses.com/en/resorts/zighy-bay.
Marsa Alam, Egypt
As Red Sea beaches go, those that make up the 50km-long swathe of sand known as Marsa Alam are some of the best. From quiet spots where you can sink into the sand and relax in solitude to more built-up areas with sunloungers, cafés and water sports options a-plenty, there’s something for everyone here.
The snorkelling and scuba diving is sensational. Abu Dabbab Beach is one of the only places in the world where you can spot the endangered dugong sea cow, while giant sea turtles swim in the shallows and the water shimmies with marine life. There’s also plenty to keep experienced divers entertained, with a clutch of offshore reefs, small shipwreck and swim-through canyon and caves.
Stepping away from the beach, the nearby Aqua Coraya waterpark is a popular day out, as is wandering around swanky Port Ghalib to the north of Marsa Alam and taking in the shops, spas and restaurants. Alternatively, head to Wadi El Gemal National Park to explore the ancient Roman towns and mining settlements, go quad biking or book in for a traditional desert safari.
Where to stay: For something a little more offbeat (and more budget-friendly) than the numerous five-star hotel offerings, why not stay in one of eco-lodge Marsa Shagra’s well-equipped tents dotted along the shoreline.
redsea-divingsafari.com/villages/marsa-shagra.
Na’ama Bay, Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Nestled between the desert peninsula of Sinai and the Red Sea, Sharm El Sheikh ticks a lot of beach holiday boxes: enviable winter weather, abundance of sandy beaches, entertainment options and incredible dive sights.
Base yourself in Na’ama Bay and the well-known sweep of sand will provide all the opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling and sun-induced mid-afternoon snoozing you could wish for. In the evening the busy seafront strip comes alive; do take a stroll along the beachfront promenade to admire the glittering resorts, restaurants, shops and clubs.
There’s plenty of shopping (and haggling) to be done in the bazaars that make up The Old Market and should you wish to venture further afield, a trip to multihued natural wonder Coloured Canyon certainly won’t disappoint. If you’ve got time on your hands and an appetite for adventure, exploring Mount Sinai is a must.
Where to stay: While there are numerous options to choose from, we like Eden Rock Resort for its cliff-top location, fabulous views of the bay below and excellent amenities.
booking.com/hotel/eg/eden-rock.html.
Nissi Beach, Cyprus
One of Europe’s greatest beaches, Nissi Beach promises sun-kissed hours spent wiggling toes in the pearl white sand and luxuriating in the clear blue water.
While the overall vibe is tranquil, the lively atmosphere picks up as the afternoon wears on, with revels embracing the holiday spirit at various daytime beach parties. That said, it’s nearly always possible to find a quiet, crowd-free area too.
A small nearby island with an excellent water sports centre sees enthusiastic beachgoers trying their hand at jet skiing, banana boat riding, parasailing and the like, while giant Ancient Greek themed waterpark WaterWorld delights water babies old and young thanks to its 18 exciting rides.
Authentic tavernas with shaded, sun-dappled gardens line the side streets behind the beach and serve up excellent fish mezze and local specialties long into the evening. And speaking of evening, head to the party town of Ayia Napa (just 15-minutes’ walk away) and you’ll be inundated with opportunities for tearing up the dance floor.
Fancy something more sedate? A daytime wander around the town’s shaded squares and Medieval monastery offers a glimpse into the Ayia Napa of the past (and plenty of chances for souvenir buying too). If you really want to escape the hustle and bustle in favour of coastal calm, head to Cape Greco where the water is spectacularly blue and there’s a beautiful national park to explore.
Where to stay: With its tropical gardens, beachfront location and excellent amenities Nissi Beach Resort remains one of the most popular choices.
nissi-beach.com.
Olu Deniz, Turkey
Backed by a mesmerising, pine tree-lined mountain range and famed for its picture-perfect, sapphire blue lagoon, Olu Deniz, just south of Fethiye on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is paradise-like in its beauty.
The stretch of white shingle-sand that leads up to the gorgeous unspoilt lagoon is ideal for sunbathing and is bordered by a bustling promenade lined with restaurants and cafés should you get peckish. As insiders will attest though, Olu Deniz is best viewed from above and the area is known as one of the world’s top spots for paragliding. Provided you steel your nerves, you too can hurl yourself off the 1,960m Babadag Mountain.
Should you wish to keep your feet on the ground, the port city of Fethiye is around 30-minutes’ drive away. Here you can stroll around the pretty old town of Paspatur and do some shopping along the way, lunch in style at one of the restaurants in Fethiye Marina or visit the ancient Tombs of Amyntas.
Where to stay: The small, stylish and wonderfully tranquil Beyaz Yunus Hotel is homely and welcoming with lovely gardens and fabulous sea views.
beyazyunus.com/en.
Qurum Beach, Shatti al Qurum, Muscat
Easily accessible and popular with both tourists and locals, it you want to snag a prime spot on the sand head to Qurum Beach early.
There’s a whole lot going on in this upbeat city-beach area; go snorkelling, scuba diving or rock climbing, rent a jet ski, settle under a palm tree with a good book or meander along the trendy beachfront stopping for refreshments at one of the many restaurants and cafés.
During your visit be sure to carve out the time to take in some of Muscat’s architectural wonders (Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and 16th-century Al Jalali Fort are must visit spots). Should you wish to take things in a sophisticated direction, an evening spent at the spectacular Royal Opera House Muscat is also an absolute treat.
Where to stay: This vibrant district certainly isn’t short on high-end hotels and resorts, but we particularly like the ultra-luxe W Muscat.
marriott.com/hotels/travel/mctwh-w-muscat.
Sealine Beach, Mesaieed
Ask any Doha resident to name their favourite stretch of sand and Sealine Beach is likely to feature highly on the list. Thanks to the amenities and variety of on-site activities this spot is particularly well suited to families; as well as swimming, frolicking in the surf and building sandcastles, there are playgrounds to explore and a number of restaurants.
When you (or more likely your little ones) tire of sunbathing, you can ride a camel, try dune bashing or even embark on a safari tour. And as any insider will tell you, the sunsets at Sealine Beach are sensational.
Where to stay: Sealine Beach Resort boasts iconic status when it comes to hotels in Qatar.
sealinebeachqatar.com.
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