Beach attractions in Dubai – where to go, what to do, which beaches to choose?

If you dream of a beach holiday in Dubai, the emirate’s coastline will easily raise the bar for every place you’ve known so far. Crystal-clear water, golden sand, views of skyscrapers and some of the best beaches with sun loungers, where you can spend the whole day – from your morning coffee until sunset.

In this guide I’ll show you the best beaches in Dubai, suggest what to do at the beach in Dubai, where to find free beaches in Dubai, and which spots are best for families, and which for water sports fans and nightlife lovers.

If you want to dive even deeper into the topic, check out our articles:

• 7 most beautiful beaches in Dubai

• Beaches in Dubai – a practical guide

The best beaches in Dubai – quick overview

What are the best beaches in Dubai?
The same names come up again and again:

• JBR Beach – perfect for a full day out, with restaurants, shops and a floating waterpark,

• La Mer Beach – an “Instagrammable” beach with colourful walls and atmospheric cafés,

• Kite Beach – a mecca for kitesurfers and activity lovers,

• Sunset Beach – famous for its postcard-perfect view of Burj Al Arab,

• Al Mamzar Beach Park – a greener, quieter option with BBQ and picnic spots.

This is where you’ll find Dubai’s nicest beaches – the ones that combine good infrastructure, nice water and interesting views.

If you want to plan full days by the sea and in the city, also check our Dubai attractions section – it’s easy to combine beach time with a visit to Burj Khalifa or a Marina cruise.

JBR Beach – a beach with attractions and restaurants

If you’re looking for Jumeirah beach attractions in “all inclusive” mode, you’ll find them at JBR Beach.

It’s one of the most popular places for a seaside day out in Dubai:

• long, wide beach with soft sand,

• beaches with sun loungers – you can rent a lounger + umbrella set or just lay down your own towel,

• lots of cafés and eateries – truly beaches with restaurants in Dubai,

• playgrounds and splash areas – great Dubai beaches with attractions for children,

• in the evening – open-air cinema, strolling along The Walk and a spectacular view of Ain Dubai.

If you’re after a spot where “something is always happening”, JBR is number one. It’s also a great base for accommodation – you’ll find plenty of hotels nearby, which we describe in the “where to stay in Dubai” guide on Two Continents.

La Mer Beach – colourful beach with a city vibe

La Mer Beach is a great pick if you want beautiful beaches, but wrapped in a more urban, slightly “artsy” setting. It’s one of the prettiest beaches in Dubai when it comes to photo vibes:

• wooden walkways, murals, industrial details,

• lots of cafés, restaurants and dessert spots – ideal for an evening stroll,

• children’s zones, showers, changing rooms,

• the option to rent sun loungers and umbrellas.

It’s one of those beaches that offer beautiful views and work perfectly for an afternoon city walk followed by dinner by the water. If you’re planning beach time in Dubai in winter, La Mer is a great choice.

Kite Beach – for water sports lovers

Where can you do water sports in Dubai?
The best answer is Kite Beach.

This is where you’ll find:

• kitesurfing and windsurfing,

• SUP boards and kayaks,

• a running track along the beach – ideal for beach workouts,

• beach volleyball courts, street workout area, skatepark.

If your plan is an active day and you’re wondering what to do at the beach in Dubai besides just lying down, Kite Beach is for you. As a bonus, it’s also one of the best beaches with a view of Burj Al Arab – especially at sunset.

Sunset Beach – the best view of Burj Al Arab

Sunset Beach (sometimes called Jumeirah Public Beach) is a classic. This is where those postcard shots are taken: sand, sea and the iconic Burj Al Arab in the background.

Why it’s worth a visit:

• it’s one of the most famous beaches with a view of Burj Al Arab,

• a fantastic spot for a walk at sunset (no surprise, given the name),

• it still feels calmer and more laid-back than JBR.

This isn’t a beach packed with cafés and restaurants, so if you want very extensive infrastructure, you’re better off at JBR or La Mer. But if the photo matters most – Sunset Beach wins.

Al Mamzar Beach Park – a green oasis by the sea

Al Mamzar Beach Park lies a bit further from the centre, on the border with Sharjah, but it’s definitely worth remembering if you’re planning a quieter beach day in Dubai.

What you’ll find here:

• several coves with sand and calm water,

• lots of greenery, cycling paths, BBQ areas,

• playground and picnic zones – a great family beach,

• the option to rent beach chalets.

It’s a perfect answer to the question: Where in Dubai are the best family beaches? – Al Mamzar will be in the top 3.

Free beaches in Dubai – are the beaches public?

Are beaches in Dubai free?
Yes – a large part of the coastline is public beach. In practice, it looks like this:

• JBR Beach, Kite Beach, Sunset Beach – entry is free, you only pay for extras (sun loungers, water sports, parking),

• some hotels have their own private stretches of beach – access is for guests or with a paid day pass,

• Al Mamzar Beach Park – there’s a small entrance fee to the park itself, but it’s still a budget-friendly option by Dubai standards.

If you’re looking for specific spots for public beaches in Dubai, check the article “Most beautiful beaches in Dubai” – we break the topic down in detail there.

What to do at the beach in Dubai? Ideas for a day by the water

There are plenty of ideas – from total chill to full-on activity:

• classic beach lounging in Dubai in winter – sun lounger, book, swim in the sea,

• water sports in Dubai – jet skis, parasailing, flyboard, SUP, kitesurfing,

• walks along the promenade, a bit of shopping and dinner in one of the seaside restaurants,

• fun at the inflatable water park off JBR Beach,

• morning jog or yoga at sunrise.

If you prefer someone else to arrange the plan for you, check the organised trips to Dubai section on Two Continents – some of them include a dedicated beach day combined with other attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the best beaches in Dubai?

The most popular ones are JBR Beach, La Mer Beach, Kite Beach, Sunset Beach and Al Mamzar Beach Park. Each has a different vibe – from lively, entertainment-focused JBR, through colourful La Mer, to the more peaceful Al Mamzar.

2. Are beaches in Dubai free?

Yes, many beaches are public and free – you only pay for extra services (sun loungers, water sports, parking). Some hotel beaches are private and available to guests or with a paid daily pass.

3. Where can you do water sports in Dubai?

The widest choice is at JBR Beach and Kite Beach – from jet skis and SUPs to flyboard and kitesurfing. Along the promenade you’ll find plenty of rental shops and schools.

4. Can you swim in the sea in Dubai?

Yes, swimming in the sea is absolutely possible and very popular – especially in autumn, winter and early spring, when the water temperature is pleasant. Just respect lifeguard flags and remember that night swimming is officially prohibited.

If you want to match the beaches to your holiday style – more family-friendly, active or luxury – start with the 7 most beautiful beaches in Dubai, then add your chosen Dubai attractions and favourite hotel. That way, your beach holiday in Dubai will be exactly what you imagined.