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The best things to do on Palm Jumeirah
Fri, February 16, 2024
One of Dubai's most iconic achievements, Palm Jumeirah is packed full of great attractions, from family fun destinations to romantic spots.
One of Dubai's most iconic achievements, Palm Jumeirah is packed full of great attractions, from family fun destinations to romantic spots.
Aquaventure Waterpark
Possibly the most fun-filled place on Palm Jumeirah, Aquaventure Waterpark is home to rides and attractions including Medusa's Lair, Shockwave and Blackout – not to mention the epic Leap of Faith. Based next to Atlantis, The Palm, Aquaventure is absolutely unmissable if you're into theme parks, amazing slides and fantastic watery fun – although there's also a private beach where you can relax and recharge, plus play areas for younger children.
Atlantis, The Palm
An icon of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai, Atlantis, The Palm has it all. One of the city's most popular locations, this is far more than a hotel: it's home to The Lost Chambers Aquarium, stunning interiors and architecture, and plenty more besides. Atlantis, The Palm and its sister property Atlantis, The Royal are also two of Dubai's top dining destinations, boasting Michelin-starred and celebrity restaurants that more than live up to their reputation.
Palm West Beach
Palm Jumeirah is famous for its beaches, and one of the very best can be found at Palm West Beach – a development which has become a hub for some of the Palm's top restaurants and lounges. Stroll along the pet-friendly shoreline, enjoy the views and fresh sea air – then dip into one of the many eateries that line the sand. Palm West Beach is well-known for being a great sunset spot, so try to grab your place to experience the glorious colours of the sky while enjoying a delicious meal.
The View at The Palm
Offering one of the two best views over Palm Jumeirah (see below for the other), The View at The Palm is an observation deck sitting 240m above the island's trunk, with an unbroken 360-degree panorama. This gives you a view not just of Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Gulf, but also Dubai Marina's striking skyline, and even beyond to Burj Khalifa. Here you can also get snacks and food, or even join events such as yoga. If you fancy more relaxation with your view, check out AURA Skypool, located just a couple of floors below The View at The Palm, and boasting the world's highest 360-degree infinity pool.
Nakheel Mall
Down at ground level below The View At The Palm, Nakheel Mall is Palm Jumeirah's best shopping destination, and is packed not only with great retail outlets, but also plenty of fun attractions such as a trampoline park, indoor playground and cinema multiplex. There are plenty of fab dining options in the mall, as well as premium relaxation spots in the attached St. Regis Dubai The Palm hotel, making it an ideal space to spend an afternoon indulging in retail therapy and beyond.
IGNITE Water Sports
With its miles of beach and peaceful stretches of sheltered water, Palm Jumeirah is a popular spot for watersports – and one of the best places to enjoy these is IGNITE. Based at Riva Beach Club, another great beachside spot, IGNITE offers equipment and classes for activities including stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking and fliteboarding. There's also more involved activities, from paddleboard-based yoga to health and wellness sessions – plus options for special occasions such as birthdays.
The Dubai Balloon
The other contender for "best view over Palm Jumeirah", along with The View At The Palm, The Dubai Balloon soars up to 300m into the sky. The tethered helium balloon – it's always connected to the ground via a cable – is the best way to see almost the whole Palm at once, from its position right on the Palm's crescent, near Atlantis, The Palm. Combine a visit to Aquaventure Waterpark with a trip on The Dubai Balloon for a thrilling day of adventure.
Palm Monorail
It might not go as high as The Dubai Balloon, but the Palm Monorail is another great way to see the sights of Palm Jumeirah – and also to travel from place to place. Running from a terminal at the base of the island's trunk, you can reach the Palm Monorail via the Dubai Tram as well as buses, or park your car at the terminal. The monorail runs the full length of the trunk, with stops at Golden Mile Galleria, Al Ittihad Park and Nakheel Mall – before finishing its route at Aquaventure Waterpark.
Falcon Helitours
If you just can't get enough of high-flying adventure, then don't miss Falcon Helitours, Palm Jumeirah's helicopter sightseeing operator, based at Atlantis, The Palm. Take to the skies in one of Falcon's helicopters and you'll get to see not only the sights of Palm Jumeirah, but also of the entire city. Options include quick excursions all the way to an hour-long tour of Dubai by air, which also features a trip over the rolling desert dunes just outside the city.
Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk
For a more down-to-earth way to explore the Palm, head to Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, which runs the outer length of the crescent surrounding the fronds and trunk of the island. At 11km long and lined with food trucks and other vendors at regular intervals, the Boardwalk is a popular way to take a stroll on Palm Jumeirah, as well as being one of Dubai's best running tracks. Go at your own pace, enjoy the sea views and some delicious snacks, or see how long it takes you to complete the full 11km track.
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