Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Al Aqah
Al Aqah is known for having the eastern coast's best beaches, flanked by high-end hotels.
This is prime
snorkelling and diving
territory, and even beginners can have a satisfying experi-
ence thanks to
Snoopy Island
, named by some clever soul who thought the shape of this
rocky outcrop about 100m offshore resembled the
Peanuts
cartoon character sleeping atop
his doghouse. The 2008/09 red tide killed off much of the coral, but the waters here still
teem with all sorts of colourful critters, including - if you're lucky - green sea turtles and
(harmless) black-tip reef sharks. The best time to hit the water is in the morning, as the
tide may cloud the water around midday, and afternoon winds may make it choppy. Also
watch out for jellyfish.
Sleeping & Eating
Le Méridien Al Aqah
Beach Resort$$
RESORT
( 09-244 9000;
www.lemeridien-alaqah.com
;
Dibba Rd, Hwy E99; from d Dh850; )
This glass-
and-concrete behemoth competes with the mountains for height and does a fine job of de-
livering all the trappings of a beach vacation. Pass the days lazing poolside, hitting the spa
or exploring an offshore wreck, then retreat to big, balconied rooms overlooking the lush
gardens and private beach. Kids get their kicks in the Penguin Club, older ones can make
friends in the Teens Club.
Among the nine bar and eateries, the elegant
Swaad
(mains Dh80-130; 7-10.30pm)
beckons
with stellar Indian dinners, while
Sapore
(mains Dh55-195; noon-3.30pm & 7-10.30pm)
is a ro-
mantic Italian eatery. For cocktails with a view head up to
Astros
(
6pm-1am)
on the 20th
floor, or stay beachside for snacks and
sheesha
at
Gonu
(
noon-5pm & 7pm-midnight)
, which
also serves delicious grilled fish and seafood.
Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort$$
RESORT
( 09-244 5555;
www.sandybm.com
; off E99, Al Aqah; d from Dh550, ocean view d Dh800, 1-/2-bedroom cabin
Dh700/920; )
Opposite Snoopy Island, this simple, family-oriented resort oozes retro
charm, especially if you're staying in one of the cabins dotted around the flowery gardens.
Each has its own barbecue grill, so you can wrap up a day of snorkeling off the lovely
white-sand beach with a home-cooked meal rather than a mediocre one at the restaurant.
