Bahrain is often maligned as an island with no beaches. But, in fact, there are several…if you know where to look. BTM rounds up spots both private and public where you can get the sand between your toes. PRIVATE Coral Bay A sandy beach and large pool with a swim-up bar plus access to food from the venue’s various restaurants make this a favourite relaxation spot. You can indulge in the full spectrum of recreational facilities, such as boating and numerous types of water sports. There are also regular events held on the beach which is open daily from 9am to 8pm. Entry is BD8 on weekdays and BD10 at weekends. Kids aged five to 12 pay BD5 during the week and BD8 at weekends. US military pay BD5. Call 39 777-701. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay A 160-metre expanse of white sand beach curves along the private island’s sun-drenched southern shore. Set amidst lush landscaping, staff offer everything from fresh fruit skewers and refreshing beverages, to an array of highend sun care products and a chair-side sunglasses cleaning and repair service. Food is served directly on the beach and after dark, the space hosts torch-lit events. Entry is BD25 on weekdays and BD50 at weekends. Book a 60-minute spa treatment during the week and enjoy complimentary beach access. Call 17 115-000. Lagoona Beach Resort Lagoona Beach is a luxury resort and spa in Janabiya which boasts a great sandy beach offering a huge range of recreational activities from waterskiing and wake boarding to Seabreacher – a unique vessel that can dive, jump and roll like a dolphin. Just five minutes’ drive from the Saudi causeway and open daily from 8am to 8pm, a day pass costs BD15, BD10 for kids up to 12 years, under-fives go free. Call 16 630-000. The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain A gorgeous crescent of white sand beach where attendants will bring you cold water to stave off the heat. There are sunbeds and shades and also a private island. Long recognised as one of the island’s best beach venues, access is via Royal Beach Club membership or through day passes priced at BD25 per person for weekdays and BD50 per person for weekends. Call 17 580-000. Bahrain Yacht Club A members’ club but open to the public. There’s a decent-sized sandy beach, from which dolphins can sometimes be seen cruising past, as well as a pool and recreation area. There is also the option to hire canoes and paddle out into the sheltered lagoon in front of the club. Entrance is BD4 which also allows use of the bar and restaurant. Call 17 700-677. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa A true getaway, while still on the mainland, the beach at Sofitel is glorious dark sand and looks straight out to sea, well away from any development. There’s also a large pool with a kids’ entertainment area and a recently opened beach bar serving bistro-style snacks. Day passes cost BD15 during the week and BD30 at weekends. Kids aged four to 17 years get a 50 per cent discount and under-fours go free. Call 17 636-363. Life’s a BEACH lifestyleoutandabout Lagoona Beach Resort Coral Bay The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa 82 March 2019 www.bahrainthismonth.com
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