The Amwaj Islands: beaches and lagoon life near the airport

Why visit the Amwaj Islands

Bahrain's natural coastline is often shallow, rocky or taken up by ports and development, so many of its best beaches are man made. Amwaj, whose name means waves, was one of the first freehold developments in the country and now has apartments, villas, resorts and a lively lagoon district. It suits families, beach lovers and anyone with a long layover who wants sea air rather than a city hotel.

The Lagoon

The heart of Amwaj is the Lagoon, a circle of cafés, restaurants and shops around calm water. In the cooler months it is lovely in the evening, with outdoor tables, children playing and boats moored nearby. Food ranges from Arabic grills and seafood to burgers, sushi and Italian. Some restaurants in hotels and licensed venues serve alcohol, while many do not.

Beaches and resorts

The resort hotels, such as the Art Rotana, have private beaches, pools and kids' clubs, and some offer day passes to non guests. There are also small public beaches where residents swim in the evening. The water is calm and warm, and in summer it can feel like a bath, so the best beach weather is from October to April.

Watersports and boat trips

Paddleboarding, kayaking and jet skis are offered from some beaches and hotels. Local operators run fishing trips and boat outings into the Gulf, including to sandbanks that appear at low tide. Choose licensed operators, check that life jackets are provided and agree what is included before you set off.

Nearby sights

From Amwaj, the old town of Muharraq is about fifteen minutes away for the Pearling Path, halwa makers and Arad Fort. Marassi Beach and its mall are closer still. Manama is roughly half an hour by car, depending on traffic.

Food

Beyond the Lagoon, hotel restaurants give you the widest choice, and supermarkets on the islands make self catering easy if you rent an apartment. For truly local food, head into Muharraq for breakfast or halwa.

Where to stay

Choose a resort if you want a beach and pool on your doorstep, or a holiday apartment for longer stays and families. Amwaj is quieter than Manama in the evening, so if nightlife matters, split your stay or plan taxis. Compare options on our travel page.

A quick history

Work on the islands began in the early 2000s, when Bahrain opened up freehold property to foreign buyers for the first time. Amwaj became a pioneer, with homes, apartments and hotels built around canals and a central lagoon. Today a mix of Bahraini families, expatriates and visitors live and holiday here, which gives the islands a friendly, international feel and a slower pace than the capital.

Getting around

Amwaj is connected to Muharraq by causeway. Taxis and ride hailing apps are the easiest way to reach the islands and to explore the rest of Bahrain. Within the Lagoon area you can walk, though in summer even short walks can be uncomfortable in the heat of the day.

Practical tips

Swimwear is fine on hotel and resort beaches but cover up when you leave them, including in malls and the Lagoon. Bring strong sun protection and drink plenty of water. During Ramadan, restaurants may only serve in screened areas in daylight hours. Plan beach days around the cooler months, and use our places to visit list and the free trip planner to build the rest of your trip.