A complete guide to Palm West Beach
This stunning stretch of sand is home to a whole host of chic beach clubs and alfresco restaurants…
Palm West Beach is undoubtedly one of the hottest spots in Dubai. You’ll find it on the trunk of Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah – a long stretch of sand that starts with the ultra-luxury Dorchester residences, and stretches all the way up to Trident Residences.
Dotted along the 1.5km beachfront promenade are a whole host of restaurants, beach clubs and hotels, all boasting Insta-worthy views of the iconic Dubai Marina skyline in the distance.
Here’s our ultimate guide to Palm West Beach.
Hotels
Adaigo Premium The Palm
An upscale aparthotel, Adaigo Premium The Palm boasts 163 contemporary studios and one-bedroom apartments complete with fully-equipped kitchens, laundry facilities and free WIFI. Guests can bask in the sun on the hotel’s private beach, or make the most of one of the many restaurants, beach bars and clubs that neighbour it. There’s a community cafe, Fixie, for grabbing quick bites and coffees, plus a 24-hour gym for those looking to work out while they’re away. The property is unlicensed.
Fairmont The Palm
When it first opened, Fairmont The Palm was one of the only plots occupied on this stretch of sand – although that’s no longer the case. The property’s design is reflective of grand Arabian architecture. It’s got a family-friendly feel, with swimming pools set amongst palm trees, and its own stretch of private beach with loungers that quickly fill up, especially on weekends. The impressive collection of restaurants range from newly opened Ergo By The Sea to BA – Boldly Asian, and the ever-brilliant and totally beautiful Little Miss India.
FIVE Palm Jumeirah
FIVE Palm Jumeirah has become the poster hotel for epic partying in Dubai, from its live DJ sets at Beach by FIVE, to rooftop soirees at The Penthouse’s glass-lined pool. But there’s much more to this hotel than parties and music: the culinary array is excellent: Maiden Shanghai should be visited both for its roster of ladies’ nights and brunches as well as its elevated Chinese cuisine; while we love the pretty interiors and tasty bowls of pasta at Italian restaurant, Cinque. A collection of swimming pools, state-of-the-art gym and luxe spa all add to the appeal of this all-encompassing resort.
palmjumeirah.fivehotelsresorts.com
Hilton Palm Jumeirah
Featuring 608 guest rooms and suites, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah sits pretty on the western side of the Palm trunk, facing onto Palm West Beach. When it comes to restaurants, the hotel has taken some of the city’s best-loved concepts and put their own twist on them, including McGettigan’s, CLAW BBQ, Jones The Grocer, Trader Vic’s and Barfly by Buddha Bar. Elsewhere in the hotel, guests will enjoy full use of the facilities, including one of the longest pools in Dubai complete with swim-up bar, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and the award-winning eforea Spa. For the little one’s there’s also Pirates Kids Club, which has an indoor and outdoor area, plus a dedicated kid’s pool.
Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah
Next door to Hilton, this is the region’s first Marriott Resort. The beachside escape brings the outside in with its aesthetic, featuring seaside shades of blue, cream and silver across a collection of 608 guest rooms. Guests can enjoy light bites and refreshing beverages at Myami Pool bar & lounge; pastries and beverages at the Lobby Lounge; and old school Italian charm at Cucina and sister ice-cream parlour, Gelateria by Cucina; plus the fine flavours of Japan at Okku. These concepts join the colourful beachfront restaurant from San Francisco, Señor Pico. Elsewhere, leisure guests can look forward to days on the golden sandy beach or tanning at the 75-metre pool complete with four jacuzzi’s. There’s also a state of the art fitness centre open around-the-clock, complimented by an extensive schedule of group fitness classes.
NH Collection Dubai The Palm
Nested on the top end of Palm West Beach is the first NH Collection hotel to open its doors in the UAE. The property is home to 227 hotel rooms and suites and 306 serviced apartments, spread across a two-tower complex. Inside, a collection of five restaurants offer everything from fine dining to light bites. Crowning the property, NH Collection The Palm’s two towers are joined at the top with a 45-meter rooftop infinity pool. Elsewhere, leisure facilities include a fitness centre, a spa, a kids club and more. One of the hotel’s major selling points is its unmatched views, which stretch across the iconic skyline of JBR, Bluewaters, Palm fronds and the entirety of West Beach.
Radisson Resort Palm Jumeirah
A 389-room Radisson Resort is a four-star addition to this stretch of Palm Jumeirah shoreline, adding to the existing array of attractions on Palm West Beach. The beach resort offers some picture-perfect views of the Arabian Gulf, a swimming pool with panoramic skyline views and benefit from close proximity to the beach. There’s plenty of restaurants to explore in the hotel alongside the myriad options on the beachfront, including Miami-inspired Black Flamingo and Lebanon’s Esco-Bar.
voco Dubai The Palm
A newer addition to the hotel offering at Palm West Beach is voco Dubai The Palm, a beachfront lifestyle hotel found just behind Koko Bay. Guests can check-in to one of 138 hotel rooms, and benefit from facilities including private beach access with a beach club, ladies-only spa, family-friendly Maison Mathis restaurant, and a poolside rooftop lounge, Frenia.
Beach clubs
The 305 Dubai
The 305 brings a touch of Miami magic to Dubai. The 305 promises feel-good day-cay vibes whether it’s for a weekend pool day or a long weekday lunch. Alongside a small indoor restaurant, there’s ample tables on the terrace for dining with your toes in the sand, plus a lounger-lined swimming pool, and a private stretch of sand with a collection of day beds. Nestled between palm trees, the oh-so-Instagrammable beach club is an ode to the Magic City, adorned in bubblegum shades of pink and green that gives it that blockbuster Barbie feel.
The 305 Dubai, The Club, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, daily 9am to midnight. @305dubai
Ayla
From the party people behind nightclub Blu comes Ayla, a Mediterranean-inspired beach club and restaurant that completes the line-up at The Club. Sitting pretty alongside spots including Maison De La Plage and The 305, Ayla features a bougainvillea-filled restaurant, with cosy alcoves and bright shades of cream. If you prefer to head outside, there’s alfresco dining and a bar, as well as a slice of swimming pool, where loungers start from Dhs200. The beach will also open later in the year when it cools down, so you can work on your tan by the sea.
Ayla Beach, The Club, Palm West Beach, daily 12pm to 12am. Tel: (0)58 888 8925. @aylabeach.ae
Beach by FIVE
Beach by FIVE is on the stretch of sand that belongs to FIVE Palm Jumeirah. Here, you’ll find some super comfortable white sun loungers and distinctive orange towels. There’s an infinity pool right there on the beach for you to dip in and out of when you need to cool down, and even some hot tubs built into the sand, if you’re really going for it. There’s usually music playing all day, making for the ultimate beach day vibes.
FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, beach open 9am to 9pm daily. Tel: (0)4 455 9988. palmjumeirah.fivehotelsandresorts.com
Eva Beach Restaurant
Eva Beach Restaurant brings a blissful slice of Tulum’s sandy shores to a sun-drenched seaside spot within Palm West Beach’s The Club. If you want to embark on a full culinary experience, book a table at the boho-chic restaurant, where you’ll find tables and chairs in creams and neutrals, a fresh fish and meat display and cactai climbing the walls. Those looking to spend the day topping up their tans can perch up on one of Eva’s plush sun loungers, shaded by parasols, or enjoy a VIP day in one of their luxe cabanas.
Eva Beach, Palm West Beach 10am to 1am weekdays, 10am to 2am weekends. Tel: (0)4 510 4800. @evabeachhousedxb
February 30
February 30 is a firm favourite on this stretch of sand. Its standout feature consists of a circular wicker-roofed bar complete with stools from which to sip cocktails and watch the sunset. Bali-inspired parasols and wooden double sun beds with candy striped cushions take pride of place on the sand, while palm trees have been added to the beachfront to infuse tropical vibes all the way to the sea. The man behind the menu – acclaimed chef and restauranteur Reif Othman – has married the best of Mediterranean and Japanese influences. So, expect a variety of sushi including nigiri, sashimi and maki rolls, seafood and raw dishes, tacos, plus burgers, as well Italian favourites like pasta and risotto.
February 30 Dubai, West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, daily 12pm to 2am, beach 12pm to 7pm. Tel: (0)4 244 7200. @february30dubai
Gallery 7/40
This vibrant spot is housed in The Club. Showcasing eclectic decor and Mediterranean cuisine, this venue oozes artistic expression and comes complete with an indoor and outdoor restaurant as well as a swimming pool and its own stretch of beach. The playful yet sophisticated interior utilises multiple textures and colours, with the bar being accompanied by unique marble iridescent-esque bar stools, with an illuminated stain-glass mosaic logo sitting proudly above. Gallery 7/40’s menu boasts a symphony of European and Mediterranean cuisine, fusing ingredients from both land and sea with playful twists that compliment its surroundings.
Gallery 7/40, The Club, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, daily 10am to sunset, restaurant until 3am. Tel: (0). gallery740.com
Koko Bay
Since boho-chic, Bali-inspired bar, Koko Bay opened in 2020, it has proved extremely popular, with many Dubai residents flocking to catch the stunning sunset. Choose from seating inside the whitewashed beach shack-style restaurant or bag a seat on the decking or the sand – cocktail in hand – and watch the sun go down over the iconic backdrop of the Dubai Marina. Part restaurant, part beach club, you can book either restaurant tables for dining or sun loungers for a beach day.
Koko Bay, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, open 10am to 1am Mon to Thurs, 10am to 2am Fri, 8am to 2am Sat, 8am to 1am Sun. Tel: (0)4 572 3444. @kokobayuae
Kyma
Kyma stands out from its fellow residents by surrounding itself almost entirely with lush plants. Verdant bushes, towering Palm trees and tall grasses encase the earthy stone structure of the beach club. It’s like stepping into an exclusive hideaway when you make your way inside. Kyma’s Grecian inspiration is everywhere, and thanks to the abundance of plants it has a gorgeous island-getaway aesthetic. At the centre, an inviting infinity pool is surrounded by plush sun loungers, each shaded by macrame parasols that dapple, but don’t block the sun. A concise menu of modern Greek eats is available to order to your lounger, or head to the restaurant for the more extensive menu, home to an array of crudo and ceviches, hot starters, salads, pastas and grills.
Kyma, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, daily, 10am to 8pm pool, 12pm to 1am restaurant. Tel: (0)4 666 5999. @kymabeachdubai
Lucky Fish
One of the prettiest of Palm West Beach’s restaurants and beach clubs is Lucky Fish, with its rustic charm and Mediterranean vibes, it’s a stunning spot for lunch or dinner. When dining outdoors, visitors are seated under a sun-dappled white canopy, which features elegant 19th Century French chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, and linen curtains and lush green plants sway gently in the breeze. There’s also cushy sun beds and huge white cabanas on the beach for daytime tan-topping, and a perfectly pretty restaurant for long, lazy lunches of tasty seafood and stunning views.
Lucky Fish, West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, open 11am to 4am. Tel: (0)4 569 3447. @luckyfishdubai
Maison De La Plage
Bringing coastal charm and chic French Riviera vibes to a stunning new seaside spot is Maison De La Plage.The warmly hued beach house is a love letter to France, so get ready for fruits de mer, fresh produce and all your quintessentially French dishes. On the menu, expect to dive into plates of beef carpaccio topped with parmesan and truffle, the signature Izu burger, a creamy lobster linguine and grilled octopus with bell pepper sauce and roasted potatoes. Whether you come for breakfast, a day of topping up the tan, sunset drinks with friends or a delightful dinner, this beachfront venue promises to provide its guests with the ultimate taste of the French Riviera.
Maison de la Plage, The Club, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, daily 10am to 2am. Tel: (0)4 452 3344. @maisondelaplage_
Playa
Playa is a vibrant beach club with a boho edge. Self-described as a ‘celebration of the renewal of life’, it features an indoor restaurant as well as several alfresco areas that spill down to the white sandy beach. Open daily from 10am until 2am, guests can recline on a lounger and soak up the sun by day, snag a seat on the terrace and enjoy a sundowner against the backdrop of the gorgeous skyline in the evening, or stay into the night for lively DJ sets. Those that like to spend sun-soaked days with their toes in the sand can perch up on the plush fabric sun loungers that stretch across the sand to the sea, while those that prefer to laze poolside can bag a cream lounger that line the pool edge.
Playa Beach Club, Palm West Beach, 10am to 2am daily. Tel: (800) 75292. @playadubai
SĀN
SĀN Beach is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and beach club designed with super-chic, minimalist touches that make for a seriously premium-looking venue. The retreat-style space is inspired by and named after Africa’s first indigenous tribe, the San. Outside, external tables offer a sun-kissed space to enjoy the Mediterranean menu, tucked just behind the marble DJ booth. A gorgeous white-stone bar sit 10 guests, who will be submerged in water as they sip their cocktails. Further down, a large glistening infinity pool is lined with comfortable sun loungers, as well as three luxurious cabanas. Beyond the pool, JBR and Bluewaters skylines stand pretty along the horizon, offering a stunning sunset backdrop.
SAN Beach, The Club, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, Mon to Thur 9am to midnight, Fri to Sun 9am to 1am. Tel: (0)4 458 0499. sanbeachdubai.com @sanbeach.dubai
Surf Club
Surf Club is an elevated beach experience with roomy cabanas, experience, sun-dappled wooden trellises, and a chic, Hamptons-meets-California-cool feel. Out on the sand, there’s ample sun beds and cushy bean bags, and those signature blue and white striped towels. Through the week, enjoy fun-filled beach days and chilled sundowners, while the weekends are dedicated to epic live DJ sets.
Surf Club, West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, daily 12pm to late. Tel: (0)50 455 5235. @surfclubdubai
Restaurants and bars
Above Eleven
A Bangkok institution since 2012, Above Eleven serves a menu of fine Japanese Peruvian fusion flavours, colourful cocktails and a top array of live tunes that range from salsa nights to a rotation of live DJs. The industrial-chic interior comes with exposed brickwork and large windows that make the most of the stunning skyline views. Huge trees, dim lighting, and pops of teal and ruby ensure Above Eleven is packed with Instagrammable moments.
Above Eleven, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, The Palm, daily 4pm to late. Tel: (0)4 666 1420. @abovelevendubai
Barfly by Buddha-Bar
Taking up residence on the rooftop of Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah is Barfly by Buddha-Bar, a Paris-born, internationally-renowned concept. Perched atop the 13th floor of the hotel, the expansive terrace gazes out over Palm West Beach below, and across to Dubai Marina and Bluewaters. For alfresco drinks with a view, few can rival Barfly by Buddha-Bar in this part of town. It’s a lovely sundowner spot with tasty dishes to match.
Barfly by Buddha-Bar, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, The Palm, 5pm to 1am weekdays, 5pm to 2am weekends. Tel: (0)4 423 0000, barflydubai.ae
Black Flamingo
Take a trip to Miami without leaving Dubai at the vibrant Black Flamingo. Bringing jaw-dropping Miami maximalism to the newly opened Radisson Beach Resort, its standout interiors feature details that draw you to every corner of the space. On the beach-facing terrace expect bright booths, verdant greenery and lively beats that welcome you for an evening of dinner that turns into drinks and dancing into the night. At the culinary helm, Reif Othman presents a fusion of Latin and Caribbean creole dishes. Matching the tropical interiors and flavourful menu, expect a rotation of DJs and live music that fuses Afro beats, Reggaeton, Latin and R&B from all eras.
Esco-Bar
The casual yet elevated Tex-Mex spot Esco-Bar hails from Lebanon, and is located in front of Palm Beach West in the Radisson Beach Resort. The Dubai branch is larger than the cosy outposts in Lebanon, with seating for 220 party people across the vibrant indoor restaurant and leafy alfresco dining space. The menu brags a number of popular Latin American dishes including indulgent favourites such as fajitas, ceviche, salads, and more. For a bigger meal, there’s Camarones a la Criolla (grilled shrimp with onions, tomatoes, capers and white wine), Pescado de Esco-bar (white fish fillet served with baked potato and rice) and much more.
Esco-bar Coctel y Cocina, Radisson Beach Resort, Palm Jumeriah West Beach, Dubai, daily 12pm to 3am. Tel: (0)56 444 7575. @escobardubai
Jones The Grocer
Jones The Grocer hails all the way from Australia, and has made a name for itself in Dubai with an array of branches across the city from Dubai Mall to Emirates Hills. This one on Palm West Beach is licensed, and is one of the most popular places for breakfast on The Palm. Head here for freshly baked treats, family-friendly lunches, and a huge cheese selection.
Jones The Grocer, West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, open 8am to 10pm daily. Tel: (0)4 568 2512. jonesthegrocer.com
Loren
Dreaming of a slice of La Dolce Vita? Then check out Loren. Offering a more refined dining experience to the beach clubs elsewhere on the strip, the stylish restaurant is perched on the rooftop of The Club, fusing stunning sea views with delightful Italian dishes. a celebration of Italy where the beauty of Italian food and the stunning views of the sea go together like tomato and mozzarella. The flavour-packed menu takes guests on a journey, transporting them to a colourful and deliciously chic world: the epitome of la bella vita. Think authentic pizza, octopus, homemade pasta, fresh seafood, indulgent desserts, and more. Let’s just say, you’ll definitely want to go back for seconds.
Loren, The Club at Palm West Beach, 12pm to 12am weekdays, 12pm to 1am weekends. Tel: (0)4 557 8293. ristorante.loren
Maison Mathis
Maison Mathis is found on the Palm West Beach promenade at voco Dubai The Palm. Just like its sister restaurant in Arabian Ranches, it’s a relaxing and inviting family restaurant. Located on the ground floor, the venue has both indoor and outdoor seating, the latter of which benefits from lovely beach and skyline views. On the menu, expect Maison Mathis crowd pleasers like classic mussels, pain perdu and Belgian waffles.
Maison Mathis, voco Dubai The Palm, Palm West Beach, 6.30am to 11pm weekdays, 7am to 12am weekends. Tel: (0)4 249 5502. maisonmathisvocothepalm.com
Señor Pico
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Get your Mexican fix at Señor Pico, a lively and vibrant eatery serving up ‘Mexican-Early Californian’ cuisine, fun cocktails and a cool atmosphere. On the menu, you’ll find ‘reimagined classics and new favourites’, from cheesy quesadillas, fully-loaded nachos, tacos and burritos.
Señor Pico, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 12pm to 12am daily. Tel: (0)4 666 1434. @senorpico.thepalmdxb
Ula
Mediterranean-inspired Ula occupies the spot formerly known as West 14th on the Palm Jumeirah, and we’re so glad it does. Ula is the ultimate spot for a leisurely long lunch, with two outdoor areas, an indoor restaurant and, most recently, a beach bar too. To eat, we love the chicken gyros, tapas or wood-fired pizza. Ula is found next to the beautiful infinity pool at Dukes, The Palm, and it offers pool passes too for a day by the sea.
Ula, Dukes, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, open Mon to Tours 10am to 1am, Fri to Sun 9am to 1am. Tel: (0)4 565 2231. @uladxb
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