Al Hamra beach is one of Ras Al Khaimah’s quieter coastal stretches, known for its open shoreline, calm waters, and proximity to established residential and resort communities. Located near Jazirat Al Hamra and Al Hamra Village, the beach attracts residents, families, and visitors looking for a relaxed alternative to busier tourist beaches. With free public access, nearby lifestyle amenities, and year-round usability, Al Hamra beach continues to be a popular coastal spot in the northern UAE. In this guide, find out:
- Location of Al Hamra Beach and how to get there
- Timings, entry, and facilities at
- What to do at Al Hamra beach: Activities and experiences
- Best times to visit and tips
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Location of Al Hamra Beach and how to get there
Al Hamra beach lies along the western coastline of Ras Al Khaimah, next to the historic town of Jazirat Al Hamra. The public beach section is approximately 18 km from Ras Al Khaimah city centre and around 35 km from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.
The most direct access is via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Salem Road (E11) and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), making the beach easily reachable from both within the emirate and neighbouring emirates.
Those driving from Ras Al Khaimah city can reach the beach in roughly 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are widely available and commonly used by visitors, with airport taxi fares averaging around AED 80.
Inter-emirate buses operate between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, though travel times can extend to three to four hours, after which local transport or taxis are required for the final stretch. Public transport access within the area is supported by routes operating near public transport options around Al Hamra, which serve nearby residential and commercial zones.
Exact Address
Al Nakheel, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Timings, entry, and facilities at Al Hamra Beach
Al Hamra beach is accessible throughout the day, but facilities vary depending on whether visitors use the public beach area or nearby private clubs and resorts.
| Category | Information |
| Beach access hours | Open 24 hours for the public beach. Sunrise to sunset is considered the most comfortable time to visit. |
| Entry fee | Free for general public access. Charges apply only when using private resort or club facilities. |
| Resort and club facilities pricing | Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club charges approximately AED 25 for adults and AED 10 for children. Water sports rentals such as kayaks and paddleboards start around AED 100 per hour, while jet skis cost more depending on duration. |
| Facilities available | Public beach areas have limited amenities. Visitors should bring food, water, and shade. Hotels, resorts, and dining options are located nearby within Al Hamra Village. |
What to do at Al Hamra beach: Activities and experiences
Al Hamra beach offers a mix of laid-back beach activities and organised experiences through nearby clubs and resorts. Its setting also places it close to retail, dining, and cultural attractions, making it suitable for both short visits and full-day outings.
On the Al Hamra Beach
The shoreline is known for its calm and shallow waters, making swimming comfortable for families and casual beachgoers. Many visitors spend time sunbathing, walking along the sand, or collecting seashells, especially during early morning or late afternoon hours. Picnicking is common, although visitors need to be self-sufficient as the public beach does not offer built-in picnic facilities.
Overnight camping is permitted, provided visitors bring their own equipment and follow local safety and cleanliness guidelines. There are no designated camping zones, restrooms, or lighting facilities on the public beach, so preparation is essential, particularly during warmer months.
Water sports and club activities in Al Hamra Beach
Organised water sports are primarily offered through Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club. Activities include paddleboarding, kayaking, pico boats, jet skis, banana boats, and water skiing. Non-members can access rentals at standard rates, while club members may benefit from additional leisure options and scheduled events.
Dining, shopping, and relaxation in Al Hamra Beach
A short drive from Al Hamra beach brings visitors to shopping and dining destinations near Al Hamra Village, where more than 130 retail outlets, VOX Cinemas, and family entertainment spaces operate year-round. Beachfront resorts within Al Hamra Village also offer cafes, seafood restaurants, and fine-dining options, including properties such as Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah and The Ritz-Carlton nearby.
Evening strolls along marina walkways and outdoor terraces add to the relaxed atmosphere, especially during cooler months when outdoor seating becomes popular.
Nearby cultural and historical attractions
Just minutes from Al Hamra beach lies Jazirat Al Hamra, often referred to as the ghost town. This abandoned coral-stone settlement features traditional homes, mosques, and courtyards that reflect pre-oil-era life in the UAE. Entry is free, and early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended due to limited shade.
Guided cultural experiences are also available at the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, where restored buildings and curated tours offer deeper insight into the region’s architectural and social history. These attractions complement the broader cultural landscape in Ras Al Khaimah.
Best times to visit and tips
Planning the timing of your visit can make a noticeable difference to comfort and overall experience at Al Beach, especially during warmer months.
● Seasons
Winter months from November to February offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures that are ideal for swimming, walking along the shore, and outdoor dining. Summer months are much hotter, but the beach remains usable during early mornings and evenings when temperatures are lower.
● Time of day
Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit Al Hamra beach, offering cooler conditions, fewer crowds, and softer natural light. These hours are also popular with residents living in family-friendly communities across Ras Al Khaimah who prefer relaxed outdoor settings.
● Essentials to bring
Visitors should carry sunscreen, hats, sufficient drinking water, and light snacks, as public facilities are limited. Suitable swimwear is recommended, along with modest cover-ups when stepping away from the beach or visiting nearby public areas.
Key takeaways
Al Hamra beach offers a peaceful public shoreline with free access and minimal crowds. Facilities on the public beach are limited, but nearby resorts, clubs, and retail centres provide dining and leisure options. Swimming, picnicking, water sports, and cultural exploration make it suitable for varied interests. Winter and off-peak hours remain the best times to visit.
FAQs
No, general access to the public beach is free. Fees apply only when using private resort facilities, marina services, or water sports rentals.
Public areas have very limited amenities. Visitors should bring their own food, water, and shade, or rely on nearby resorts and retail centres.
Kayaks and paddleboards typically start around AED 100 per hour, while jet skis and motorised activities cost more. Prices vary by operator and duration.
Yes, camping is allowed, but there are no formal campsites or facilities. Visitors must bring all necessary equipment and plan according to weather conditions.
The beach is around 20 minutes by car from Ras Al Khaimah city centre. From Dubai, travel time via E311 is approximately one hour, depending on traffic.
