While you may be familiar with the sandy shores and turquoise waters of The Beach, the upbeat destination by Meraas, as the weather starts to cool off, it’s time to discover some of its best-kept secrets. The Beach is home to a variety of hidden gems. Ranging from dining and shopping to fitness and leisure, these exclusive treasures contribute to the overall vibrant atmosphere of the location, creating a truly unique experience.

Dining gems

F&B outlets at The Beach offer a range of exotic cuisines from around the world. Among them are Bombay Bungalow that serves classic Indian food with a contemporary twist, stylish Turkish eatery Tike, upscale Moroccan bistro Almaz by Momo, Italian restaurants Fratelli La Bufala and Bianca, American fast-casual outlet Chicks’N’Friends, and La Postreria that offers mouth-watering Mediterranean specialties. Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Bakery gives diners a taste of its signature Parisian baked creations including croissants, pain au chocolat and macaroons in flavours ranging from pistachio to coconut and even saffron. Coffee connoisseurs, meanwhile, can take their pick from a range of international cafés, such as Papparoti and Cupagahwa, while sports fans can tuck into continental cuisine with a Spanish flair at the world’s first Real Madrid Café. And if you’re keen to sample a diverse menu, you need look no further than Leopold’s of London and Joe’s Café.

The Beach has more in store for those who wish to indulge their sweet tooth – from Godiva Chocolate Café with its sumptuous selection of chocolate desserts to Menchie’s that offers you the chance to make your own frozen yogurt, choosing from a multitude of flavours, toppings and sauces. Ladurée is the perfect choice for those who love macaroons, while Morelli’s Gelato tantalises the taste buds with its flavoursome range of gelatos and milkshakes. Alternatively, Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory – a must-stop for families – serves chocolates, fudge and vintage sweets in a variety of magical colours, shapes and sizes.

Shopping gems

Retail offerings at The Beach include international fashion stores Elisabetta Franchi, a sophisticated Italian brand for women constantly on the go, Crea Concept, a Parisian life-inspired urban streetwear boutique for ladies, and Flavio Castellani with its elegant Italian clothes and accessories. The first-ever Belgian commercial fashion brand, Essentiel Antwerp, specialises in affordable luxury fashion.

Parents and children can both find the latest trends at Patrizia Pepe, a minimalist contemporary brand selling a range of urban clothing, beachwear and accessories, while Roberto Cavalli Junior will appeal to little fashionistas.

Offering an impressive array of frames and sunglasses from renowned international brands, Sun Eye Optical is the ultimate destination for sunglass shopping before you hit the beach this summer. If you need to stock up on beach essentials or jazz up your wardrobes this season, Dive N’ Surf is the place to go, while Roberto Cavalli Gym and GapFit are great options to shop for stylish active-wear before hitting the gym.

Fitness gem

For fitness fanatics, The Warehouse Gym with its outdoor workout area and an impressive two-floor indoor training facility is the ideal place to get into shape and let off some steam. Fitted out with state-of-the-art weightlifting platforms and bars, as well as strength machines and free weights, this is one of the most cutting-edge gyms in Dubai.

Leisure gem

Your children will love the giant tipper bucket, climbing frames and other attractions at Splash Pad, the water play area at The Beach. With fully trained staff always around to make sure the little visitors are having a good time and staying absolutely safe, you can finally sit back and enjoy some well-deserved ‘me time’.