lifestyle
Best Beaches in Jeddah — Public, Private & Resort Options
Jeddah sits on the Red Sea coast and has some of the most beautiful beaches and coral reefs in the world. From free public beaches to private resort beaches with full facilities, the options for a beach day in Jeddah are plentiful. This guide covers the best beaches in Jeddah, what to expect, costs, and practical tips for expats and visitors.
Highlights
- ★The Red Sea off Jeddah has world-class coral reefs — snorkelling and diving are exceptional, with visibility often exceeding 20 metres.
- ★Jeddah has both free public beaches and paid private resort beaches with changing rooms, restaurants, and water sports.
- ★Public beaches in Jeddah are mixed (families and individuals welcome) — modest swimwear is expected.
- ★North Jeddah (Obhur area) has the best concentration of beach resorts and private beach clubs.
- ★Beach season is effectively October to April — summer (May–September) is extremely hot and humid, making beach visits uncomfortable outside of early morning.
- ★Water sports available: jet skiing, wakeboarding, banana boats, snorkelling, and scuba diving are all widely available along the Jeddah coast.
Who Is This For?
Expats, residents, and visitors in Jeddah looking for beach options — whether free public beaches or paid resort beaches with facilities.
Directory
The main public beach along Jeddah's Corniche. Free access. Clean with good facilities including walking paths, food vendors, and play areas. Best in the evening when temperatures drop. Part of the wider Corniche development.
📍 View on Google MapsNorth Jeddah's most popular beach area. A mix of public access and private chalets/resorts. Clear water, good snorkelling close to shore. Many families rent beach chalets for the day or season.
📍 View on Google MapsPopular private beach resort north of Jeddah. Day passes available. Beach access, pool, water sports, and food facilities. Good for a full family beach day. Book ahead on weekends.
📍 View on Google MapsUpscale beach resort north of Jeddah. Private beach, pool, water sports, and good dining. Day passes available. One of the better resort beach options for expats wanting a full-service beach experience.
📍 View on Google MapsFor families with children — Fakieh Aquarium and water park on the Corniche. Water slides, dolphin shows, and marine exhibits. A good alternative to a beach day for younger children.
📍 View on Google MapsDiving operator offering Red Sea diving trips from Jeddah. PADI courses and guided dives. The Red Sea reefs off Jeddah are world-renowned — suitable for beginners and experienced divers.
📍 View on Google MapsPractical Tips
- 💡The best beach season is October to April — avoid the height of summer (June–August) when heat and humidity make outdoor activities very unpleasant.
- 💡Early morning (6–9am) in summer is the exception — if you want to swim during hot months, go at sunrise.
- 💡Modest swimwear is expected at public beaches — covered swimwear for women, board shorts for men. Full swimwear (bikini) is acceptable at private resort beaches.
- 💡The Red Sea coral reefs are spectacular for snorkelling — bring your own mask and fins or rent from beach operators. Even the shoreline near Obhur has good coral.
- 💡North Jeddah (Obhur Al Shamaliyah) has the best beaches and cleanest water — worth the 40-minute drive from central Jeddah.
- 💡Beach chalets in Obhur can be rented by the day or season — ask local expat Facebook groups for recommendations on where to rent.
- 💡Jellyfish are occasionally present in the Red Sea — ask locals about current conditions before swimming.
- 💡Bring cash for beach vendors, parking, and small facilities — not all beach areas have card payment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are beaches in Jeddah free?
Public beaches along the Corniche and in Obhur are free to access. Private resort beaches charge day pass fees — typically SAR 100–300 per adult depending on the resort, often including access to pools and facilities.
Can women swim at public beaches in Jeddah?
Yes — women can swim at public beaches in Jeddah. Modest swimwear (covering shoulders and legs) is appropriate at public beaches. At private resort beaches with a more international clientele, standard swimwear is generally acceptable. The social atmosphere has become significantly more relaxed in recent years.
Is the Red Sea safe to swim in near Jeddah?
Yes — the Red Sea off Jeddah is generally safe for swimming. Currents are mild close to shore. The water is warm year-round (25–32°C). Coral reef areas require care to avoid cutting yourself on coral. There are no significant shark incidents in the Jeddah coastal area.
Where can I go scuba diving near Jeddah?
The Red Sea reefs off Jeddah are world-class for diving. Several dive operators in Jeddah offer guided dives, boat trips, and PADI certification courses. Popular dive sites are north of Jeddah near Obhur and further north towards NEOM. The visibility, coral diversity, and marine life are exceptional.