What better outdoor entertainment can you find here all year around, at close proximity and at no expense! Whether to swim in the clear waters on either coast or to spend a few hours beach combing and building sand castles, everyone comes away relaxed. The sun can be deceptively strong, so hats, sun cream and UV protection suits are a must at any time of the year. Dogs are not allowed on many 'in town' beaches so if you have a family pet watch out for signs prohibiting their access.

Occasionally, due to the beach configuration and man made breakwaters, eddies and undercurrents do occur. The only advice is to go with the flow, don't fight it, as the currents are very localized. There is very little sea life that will harm you on the Arabian Gulf coast but look out for colored jelly fish at certain times of the year (September/October in particular) and the odd ray which basks in the shallow waters. Stamp your feet as you walk into the sea and most rays will glide away out to sea. On the East coast, one should take more care, as in addition to the jelly fish and rays, camouflaged Stone Fish plus sea urchins occur in the rocky waters and Cone Shells (look for the diamond shaped pattern) in the Musandam area, all of which can cause serious problems.

Dress restrictions do apply on the Sharjah beaches and ladies should be suitable attired.


Some of the beaches are

Al Khan Lagoon:

The middle lagoon between Sharjah and Dubai has no boat or jet ski restrictions so it is popular with both water and jet skiers. Mornings tend to be quiet and relaxing and the afternoons are active. The beach may be littered by the sea is generally clean and refreshing and the dress code more relaxed.

Al Khan Beach:

Al Khan beach stretches from the old village of Al Khan to Layyeh power station. The beach between Lou'Lou'a hotel and the power station has been fenced off with no access for vehicles so you have to carry your gear to this safe, gently shelving shore.

Corniche Beach:

The sandy palm lined corniche beach runs from the Sharjah Women's Club all the way to Coral Beach Hotel. Parking is available alongside the beach and dress restrictions do apply here. Currents can occur and the beaches carry warnings to this effect.

Hamriyah Lagoon:

Visible from the road to Ras Al Khaimah by Hamriyah Free Zone, this protected lagoon is frequented by jet and water skiers and windsurfers.

Khor Fakkan:

The Oceanic Hotel's beach is really the only beach in the town and the hotel charges to use its facilities. Along the coast there are many beautiful rocky outcrops with sandy beaches to stop off for a quick dip or spend the day and have a barbecue. Camp sites are also readily available.