Splash out

Novotel
A nice small beach area attached to the Arabian nights-style hotel. Public welcome on weekdays BD20 single, BD25 couple, BD35 family (2 adults and 2 kids under 12) – also allows use of gym, sauna, Jacuzzi and pool. Hotel guests only at the weekend.
Call (17 298 008)

Lost Paradise of Dilmun
Yes, it’s part of the water park and yes, it’s a man-made beach, but then so are most of the others and this one comes with a wave machine which we like…a lot and, if you get bored lying in the sun, you can take in a whole bunch of water-based rides too. Entry is BD15 for adults and BD7 for kids under 1.2m tall.
Call (17 845 100)

Push the boat out

Jarada
Tidal island Jarada, which is about 40 minutes away by speed boat, has been described by a colleague as ‘a lump of sand’ but if you like your beaches pretty much deserted, no Jet Skis, no beach bar, no music, then this might be the one for you. Don’t have a boat? Trips go regularly from Coral Bay and also through Jarada Tours.
Call (39 643 222)

Hawar Islands
A big favourite with bird watchers, these islands, off the coast of Qatar, are around 55 minutes away by boat. The main island is home to the Tulip Inn, where facilities are either for overnight guests or groups of 16-plus on a trip day package.

However, if you have access to a boat the other islands and the area of Hawar away from the hotel make for an interesting visitww.
Call (17 849 111)

Overnighters

Sofitel, Ritz-Carlton, Al Bander and Hamala Beach Resort also have private beaches available for members and hotel guests only.