We all know by now that the best place to spend your time during summer is either on top of or in the water! Yes it’s hot of course, and we know that it is not so tempting to spend time outside, but the waters of Doha does promise you some fun in the sun, which makes it all worthwhile.
Unfortunately there are not many natural and public beaches in Doha to cool down during the hot summer months. So if you don’t want to spend your cash on a hotel swimming pool or drive all the way to the other side of the country for a day at the beach, we have a great alternative for you.
How about a “quick splash” combined with some watersport activities to get the adrenaline pumping again? We have listed three recommended places to visit:
Visit Aqua Park Qatar
The first ever theme park in Qatar offers action-packed water fun! With more than 15 adrenaline-charged water attractions, the Aqua Park has all the ingredients that would allow you to set the tempo for your day out.
Catch a wave in the wave pool (which has six different patterns and intensities of artificial waves), drift off in the surf or let the waves carry you away! Test your fear of heights on the four-storey high water slide, or ride the boomerang if you dare! This include a series of hair-razing twist and turns in the dark with surprising dips and curves to ensure this gets your heart rate rising.
But if you are looking for a more relaxed time, grab a tube and enjoy a lazy river cruise meandering around the park. Or cool off in the Lagoon Pool with a soothing massage in the Jacuzzi Cave.
The park is the perfect playground for families and friends that would like to enjoy a day out in the sun! It is also good to know that there are lifeguards on duty but of course the responsibility lays with oneself first.
The park is located 30km outside of Doha and open from 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on weekdays, with a special Ladies Day on Tuesdays from 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, the park is open from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. and Saturday are Family Days from 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Visit Katara Beach
Conveniently located in Doha, spanning just over 1.5km, you will find this natural beach. A perfect setting for either a relaxing day of bathing in the sun or doing the exact opposite; testing out all their action-packed beach activities.
Water-skiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, parasailing, jet ski and banana rides. Windsurfing, Hobie Cats, sea paddleboats or kayaking – pick and choose your favourite activity and go out and play! All the activities vary in price and works on a first come, first served basis. It is also good to know that you can take lessons in some of the activities, but pre-booking for this is required. There is also a children’s play area as well as child-friendly watersport activities to do. The beach is open during summer from 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Please note that there is a strict dress code for ladies and men at the beach – more information can be found on their website about this.
Call a Friend – Privately Owned Speedboats
Then of course, it is not always “what you know, but who you know”. Some expats and locals alike invest in a speedboat during their time in Qatar so you can go out and make a splash whenever you like! There are three main marinas where you can moor your boat in Doha, one at the Marriot Hotel and the other at The Pearl, Porto Arabia and at Qanat Quartier beach. So when you are lucky enough to meet someone that owns a boat, pack in your cooler box with ice cold drinks and some snacks, watersport equipment, lifejackets and head out for some fun in the sun!
No matter what time of year you will always find something to do in Qatar! And the hot summer months which limits our other activities creates the perfect opportunity to explore the water adventures Qatar has to offer. No excuses come and visit!
Contact Details:
| Aqua Park Qatar | www.aquaparkqatar.com/en/ | +974 449 05872/73/78 |
| Katara Beach | www.katara.net/english/the-village/fun | +974 4408 1985 |
| Call a Friend 😀 | www.facebook.com |
Words by: Eulogy van Dyk
Photos by: Erlanka Paquet
