Before you pack your bag and go dive in the water, keep in mind that Qatar strictly adheres to modesty. That said, people should refrain from wearing revealing swimsuits at public beaches. However, these rules are slightly relaxed at private beaches, resorts and hotels.
The following are Qatar’s best beaches to enjoy the winter sun and your favourite sand spot.
The Purple Island – Al Khor
Known as the “Purple Island,” this beach in Al-Khor features abundant plants and weeds that turn purple in full bloom. Located on Qatar’s northernmost coastline, this beach is easily accessible by car and offers camping spots with stunning views.
The beach also has various facilities, such as showers and changing areas for kids and adults. There is also a grassy area for picnics.
There are also many water activities on this beach, like kayaking, parasailing, snorkelling, and others. From swimming to barbecue picnics and leisurely walks, the beaches offer endless entertainment for every kind of fascination.
Moreover, if you are lucky, you might spot wild birds and flamingos roaming around in their natural habitat. There are also several food options in restaurants serving various tasty dishes.
How to get there?
Reaching Al Khor is no longer a hassle. Just drive on the new Al Khor Road in Doha and follow the signs to Purple Island.
Fuwairit Beach
Fuwairit Beach is located in the northern areas of Qatar. It has clear turquoise water, pristine white sand and colourful seashells scattered all around. The beach is home to a unique turtle species called the Hawksbill turtle.
Visitors are strictly prohibited from interacting with these turtles, and the section is fenced during the hatching season.
With calm and shallow waters, this beach is an ideal spot for swimming, even for children. Camping is another popular activity, allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking sunrise views right from their tents in the morning.
Renowned among kite surfers worldwide, the beach provides excellent conditions for kitesurfing. On windy days, the rapid waves make it a fantastic location for kitesurfing without hesitation.
Nearby, you can explore attractions like Al Dhakira Natural Reserve, Maroona Beach, and Jebel Fuwairit Beach. You will find several water sports and activities here. However, there are not many eateries nearby, so be sure to take some food and drinks along.
How to get there?
To reach the beach, set off early in the morning. It takes 1-2 hours to reach from Doha.
- Drive from Doha towards the Al-Shamal Road to the North.
- After driving 44 km, take a right at the sign of Fuwairit.
- Follow the road leading to the Fuwairit Village.
- After entering the village, take a right onto the off-road and drive for another 1.5 km.
- Here you will notice a rocky area with hills.
- That’s it, you are there.
Zekreet Beach
The Zekreet beach, also known as Ras Abrouq Beach, is among the top beaches in Qatar. It has crystal-clear blue water and fascinating limestone sands. It is about 90 km from Doha and is also one of the most scenic areas. It has many camping sites where you can enjoy sunsets and starry nights.
The main highlight of this beach is its limestone escarpment, with its cliffs, pillars and rocks creating a striking topography. Along the shoreline, sedimentary rocks and massive mushroom-shaped limestone formations offer a stunning view to the visitors.
You can enjoy many water sports here, such as surfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving. In the nearby desert, there is also a hidden photography gem: the Richard Serra Art Piece. For food, you will find several barbecue grills and 2-3 small cafes nearby.
How to get there?
Zekreet Beach is located approximately 90 km from Doha. To reach it,
- Drive 80 km along the road to Dukhan.
- Then turn right at the Zekreet junction.
- While you can go there in a standard car, a 4×4 vehicle would offer a more comfortable ride.
Katara Beach
Among the various Doha beaches, Katara is the nearest. 1.5 km away from the Katara Cultural Village, this beautiful beach features a sandy stretch with shaded areas. There are also many water sports and activities for kids and adults and a separate kids’ play area.
The beach is best for families. Single men are not allowed in the family section and have a separate area south of the beach. Moreover, you don’t need to go far from the beach for food. There are many restaurants and food vans nearby, serving delicious seafood and barbecue items.
Water activities at Katara Beach include knee-boarding, water skiing, wakeboarding, traditional dhow riding and kayaking.
How to get there?
Katara Beach is located inside the Katara Cultural Village. You can go there via car or a taxi. The nearest metro station to Katara is on the Red Line in Doha.
Simaisma Beach
Head to Simaisma Beach if you want to get away from the city hustle and bustle. It is one of the most peaceful beaches in Qatar. Located in the mangrove forest of Simaisma, this beach is famous for fishing. Fishermen use Hadra traps to catch shrimp and other small fishes.
The beach was recently opened to the public, so you won’t find a crowd. However, there are lots of activities and facilities here. These include a separate kids’ area with several food kiosks and ice cream vans.
There are many barbecue grills available, with cool shaded areas to enjoy your food in peace. Moreover, a few traditional mosques and shops are located at the beach to keep the atmosphere conventional and authentic.
How to get there?
Simaisma Family Beach is located about 40 kilometres from Doha. It typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes to reach by cab.
Al Wakrah Beach
Among the nearest beaches in Doha is another gem. Al Wakrah Beach is a perfect place to enjoy a fun-filled family time. The beach is easily accessible by car and just 30 minutes away from Doha.
The water here is clear, clean, and shallow, perfect for your little ones to swim and splash. Moreover, there is a separate kids’ play area for those who don’t want to swim in the water. The beach area also has abundant mangroves, a gorgeous landscape, and exotic wildlife.
The best part is yet to come. You can enjoy a mini spa on Al Wakrah beach. The sea is home to a unique fish species capable of nibbling the dead skin off your feet. Incredible, isn’t it?
Moreover, there are several eating options available nearby.
How to get there?
The beach is roughly 30 kilometres from central Doha, accessible via the Ras Abu Abboud Expressway.
This is the list of Qatar’s best beaches. However, it is important to mention that many beaches are under renovation. Visitors can still enjoy them, but bring your essentials, such as drinks, food, and beach parasols.
FAQs
1. Can I rent Water Sports Equipment on Beaches in Qatar?
Yes, several beaches in Qatar offer water sports equipment for rent. For example, Katari and Zekreet Beach have a few rental shops where you can find kayaking, snorkelling, and paddleboarding gear. However, you must check their availability beforehand.
2. What is the Best Time to Visit Qatar Beaches?
The best time to visit the beaches in Qatar is in the colder months, from November to April. The summer season is scorching, so it is only advisable to visit beaches if you can handle the heat.
3. Are There any Rules and Regulations to Follow when Visiting the Beaches in Qatar?
Yes, there are specific rules you should follow. Dress modestly, especially at public beaches. Moreover, littering is strictly prohibited. Other rules include proper camping, barbecuing and avoiding wildlife encounters like the Hawksbill turtle at Fuwairit Beach.
4. Is Overnight Camping Allowed on the Beach?
Overnight camping is allowed on beaches like Al-Khor and Zekreet. However, due to high demand, you must bring your own camping gear.
5. Can I Bring my Pet along on the Beach?
While some beaches allow pets, some might have restrictions. It is essential to check the beach rules and regulations before visiting. Also, ensure that your pet is trained and well-behaved around other visitors. Remember to clean up the mess to maintain the beach’s cleanliness afterwards.
Nothing beats the week’s tiredness like a day out on the beach. Qatar has some of the best beaches to unwind and make memories. With this guide, you can enjoy at your preferred location!
For more information on entertainment in Doha, check out Property Finder’s blogs!
