Abu Dhabi is lucky enough to boast gorgeous swathes of white-sand beach that are lapped by warm, crystal-clear aquamarine water – some have even been awarded the internationally recognised Blue Flag status. In addition, many of the best beaches provide excellent leisure facilities, including thrilling watersports and exclusive beach clubs.
Corniche Beach is divided into three sections and caters for families, singles and the general public, while nearby Yas Island offers kilometres of pristine white sand on which to relax. Beach-goers also have the option of hopping aboard the Yas Express, which transports guests from the beach to the island’s leisure facilities, including Ferrari World and Yas Mall. Saadiyat Island is the location of two of our featured luxury beachfront resorts – which both nestle against the environmentally protected Saadiyat Beach – and boasts two stylish beach clubs that are perfect for spending the day at. Saadiyat Beach Club boasts an outdoor pool, spa, beach cabanas, a bar and restaurants – it’s possible you may also see dolphins playing off-shore or Hawksbill Turtles that have nested on the beach for many years. Alternatively, Nation Riviera Beach Club is a great family option and comprises a private beach, gym, kids’ club, cabanas, pool, swim-up bar, restaurant and an open-air Jacuzzi. Beach activities include volleyball, football, table tennis, kayaking and paddleboarding – there is also a jogging trail. A lesser-known gem is the splendid Mirja Beach; much quieter and home to an annual watersports festival that attracts championship-winning kite-surfers, wakeboarders and surf-ski kayakers from around the globe.