Beach club culture is more popular and sophisticated than ever before. These increasingly decadent destinations blend exclusivity, relaxation, social status and high entertainment into a magic formula, resulting in unparalleled enjoyment beside the sea. With luxury trappings in rich supply, atmosphere and experience set the best beach clubs apart. Whether it’s a secluded state of deep relaxation, or the high-energy thrill of a cocktail party in the air – or perhaps even a bit of both – the beach clubs of Dubai boast a smorgasbord of options when it comes to ambience and vibe, catering to almost every whim and desire. A dynamic, evolving, sophisticated scene on the coast of the shimmering Emirate – here is our guide to the best ones.
Twiggy by la Cantine
Amid sumptuous surroundings, there’s an elegant and distinctly retro feel to Twiggy By La Cantine. This wonderful beachside spin-off of French restaurant La Cantine du Faubourg is, as the name suggests, inspired by Twiggy, the iconic 1960s model. The cultural influence of the movement she spearheaded was huge – hence a honeypot beach club in Dubai being liberally adorned with stylish décor in her name, fully six decades after her pomp. French Riviera in the Gulf – that’s the concept here, and it’s a convincing one. There are a multitude of exceptional offerings at ‘Twiggy’, and the epicentre of the club – which is based at the Park Hyatt – is a stunning 100-metre infinity lagoon pool overlooking the tranquil waters of Dubai Creek. Mediterranean-inspired pool-side snacks are served straight to guests by the pool, whilst a more extensive menu is on offer at the boho-chic mezzanine restaurant. A plethora of delicious dishes such as fresh sushi platters, sea bass carpaccio with black truffle and honey-glazed wagyu short ribs are amongst the mouth-watering options found on this fine menu. Long lunches can become particularly leisurely and stretch out until sunset, while Twiggy now welcomes families, with excellent entertainment options for the kids. With a Burberry takeover of its loungers and umbrellas, as well as Dyson hair dryers in the changing rooms, every detail here makes a difference.
Nobu by the Beach
Beachfront exclusivity reaches a real zenith with the VIP private plunge pool cabanas on offer at Nobu By The Beach. Accommodating up to 10 guests, each one is overflowing with luxury and decadence – and the panoramic ocean views are not to be missed. Across the club itself, which is based at Dubai’s majestic Atlantis The Royal, guests can choose from various seating options, including plush sun loungers, ‘double’ daybeds, and an extensive range of cabanas, many of which are equipped with air conditioning for those steamy summer months. There is generous spacing to ensure a degree of privacy among guests, some of whom are likely to be recognisable. Exclusive services include in-cabana spa treatments, ultrasonic cleaning for jewellery and sunglasses, and a speedy floating food and beverage service (along with complimentary treats like Nobu popsicles and mochi ice cream). The Nobu restaurant brand is held in high regard all over the world for its culinary excellence and minimalist Japanese aesthetic. In Dubai, dining standards are impeccably high – whether eating at the peaceful indoor restaurant, the buzzing outdoor terrace, or sampling the satisfying poolside menu. At the right times, a live DJ enhances a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere.
Gigi Rigolatto
Located at Dubai’s J1 Beach, ‘Gigi’ is a highly distinctive Italian restaurant and beach club, where French-Mexican architect Hugo Toro has successfully captured the essence of a Mediterranean garden in Jumeirah 1. Winding wooden paths are filled with lush borders – with bougainvillaea, jasmine, fig, olive, and lemon trees all fighting for attention. These sumptuous surroundings set the tone, with both the private pool and private stretch of beach lined with super-comfortable linen loungers, all shaded by beautifully-tasseled floral print umbrellas. The interior of Rigolatto takes inspiration from a grand Italian country home – with red-brick archways, mature olive trees, and long wooden tables – while the menu pays homage to the flavours of Italy’s coastline, from the northern region of Tuscany to the southern tip of Puglia. Dishes include linguine alle vongole, seared turbot fillet, and grilled octopus served with lemon mayonnaise. Set beside the pool, the Bellini Bar offers the chance to sample aperitivo culture – in short, one stimulates the appetite with a pre-dinner drink. As the sun starts to go down and day becomes night, a programme of relaxed entertainment takes place. The ‘Gigi Circus’ is a new enterprise: a dedicated kids’ club featuring trampolines, water games, a gaming area, and table tennis, while Gigi Beach Club boasts a huge boutique – over 40 international brands with high-end swimwear, accessories, branded merchandise, and unique household items.
Barasti
Barasti has been famous across the Emirates and well beyond for some time. This is a longstanding Dubai institution that many one-time visitors will know well – it’s often on a must-visit hit-list for tourists. This popular establishment captures the spirit of Dubai – the quintessential local beach bar that encapsulates the city’s buzzing social scene, especially its appetite for ‘sundowner’ drinks. Barasti is a prime location, based at the Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and set over multiple levels, with each one catering to contrasting moods. The Lower Deck is a bustling beachfront area with sun loungers aplenty and direct access to the beach. The Middle Deck and Restaurant is more genteel, with an outdoor terrace offering scenic views of Dubai Marina, while guests can enjoy a wide range of international cuisine from the restaurant. Unlike other beach clubs, Barasti proudly caters for sports fans, with big live matches shown on large TVs. After sunset, the nightlife is seriously energetic, with a dynamic entertainment line-up, including live DJ sets, concerts, and beach parties that extend into the early hours.
Casa Amor
Newly opened in October 2024, this Saint-Tropez-born brand has made an instant splash in Dubai. The highly-desirable bohemian-inspired beach club at the Mandarin Oriental on Jumeirah Beach is bristling with exclusivity and decadence. Its sustainable interiors are warm and inviting – bespoke furniture, crafted wood landscaping and rich textures combine to create a distinctive environment and mood. The tucked-away side entrance creates a real sense of occasion – when you enter the club, tropical plants and huge faded rugs mark the way through a bamboo archway and into Casa Amor’s excellent restaurant. The menu is based on hearty, modern Southern French dishes that are designed for sharing, put together by Chef Zouhair, who has experience in a host of Michelin-starred kitchens. It’s always novel to see premium beef cuts prepared on a live grill, and for entertainment per se, there is an eclectic selection of musicians to enhance the dining experience. The Mandarin is also based at one of the best beaches in Dubai, with dazzlingly clear water and uninterrupted views out to sea. This is a place of escape – a sophisticated atmosphere at a beautiful beachfront bolthole.
Glamorous clientele; prime locations; beachside fine dining; energetic ambience; endless sunshine; crystal waters. Dipping your toe into Dubai’s beach clubs is to become submerged in style.
