Atlantis, The Palm is one of the most iconic resorts in Dubai, with its enormous arches and towers dominating the Palm Jumeirah skyline. And while Atlantis is an excellent base from which to explore the rest of the city, the resort also offers plenty more to keep you entertained all day.
7am: Breakfast at Kaleidoscope
Enjoy a healthy breakfast at one of Atlantis’ most popular buffet restaurants to charge up in time for an unforgettable exercise session.
8am: Yoga at Lost Chambers Aquarium
A completely unique yoga experience, take a hatha class in the shimmering light of the sun shining through the Atlantis-themed aquarium waters. Everything from the yoga mat to complimentary water is included, so you can exclusively focus on your form. Be soothed by the gentle motion of the fish, and get warmed up for epic thrills.
10am: Thrills at Aquaventure Waterpark
One of the highlights of any stay at Atlantis is a trip to Aquaventure, with free access for all hotel guests. Aquaventure boasts some of the most thrilling waterslides in the world, including the Leap of Faith, a near-vertical drop down through a clear tube surrounded by sharks and rays. Or try the less shark-filled – but even scarier – Poseidon’s Revenge, tricked out with trapdoors, twists and turns. With a zipline, more shark-inclusive adventures and a tidal wave river among many of its attractions, one session at Aquaventure will almost certainly not be enough.
1pm: Lunch at Ronda Locatelli
Recharge after your waterpark adventure at one of the best Italian restaurants in the world, run by Michelin-starred Giorgio Locatelli. Enjoy authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas, or choose from more than 40 vegan dishes – the largest selection in Dubai.
2:30pm: Take time to shop or spa
After lunch, why not browse Atlantis’ collection of world-class boutiques, including fresh and funky designs at Via Rodeo, fine European fashion at Rodeo Drive or American chic at Rag Cie. If you have a sweet tooth, sample the finest dates in the world at Bateel, or delicious Lebanese chocolates from Patchi.
If you’re not in the mood to shop, head to ShuiQi Spa for a pampering session. With couples' rooms and a curated selection of massages, facials and body treatments, the spa’s talented technicians will help you to look and feel your best.
4pm: Relax on the beach
What is a visit to a world-famous beach resort without some time at the beach? Aquaventure has its own beach but, for a more exclusive experience, make your way to the Royal Beach’s calmer sands. Or for a different vibe, head to Atlantis’ beach club WHITE Beach, and soak up the sun to the sound of relaxed beats, with refreshments on hand if desired.
6pm: Smoothies at sunset
Stick around at WHITE Beach, or head to The Shore lounge to enjoy a refreshing beverage as the sun sets over the horizon. Then it’s time to freshen up, before an unforgettable deep dive.
7pm: Aquatrek diving by night
You’ve seen them during yoga, and now it’s time to get up close and personal with the marine life of The Lost Chambers Aquarium by taking a dusk dive into their world. The unique Aquatrek system means you don’t need any previous diving experience, and the Aquatrek helmet offers much better visibility than a standard diving mask. Dusk is the time when many sea creatures become more active, and lit only by the last of the sun and your handheld torches, the experience is phenomenal.
9pm till late: Dinner and drinks
After your underwater adventure, it’s time for dinner at Nobu, one of Atlantis’ award-winning eateries. Bringing the creations of chef Nobu Matsuhisa to Dubai, the restaurant presents his signature blend of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines in a stylish setting. Sample the best sushi in the city, Wagyu beef or Nobu’s acclaimed black cod miso – and then sit back and relax at the Kanpai lounge.
If the night is still young, make your way over to Wavehouse, where the good times can keep going. A mighty blend of food and entertainment, this industrial destination stays lively well into the early hours and is fun whether you're with friends or family. Get competitive at arcade games and multi-level obstacle courses after a round of cosmic bowling, or simply relax on Wavehouse's moonlit terrace overlooking the sea.
Looking for more travel inspiration in Dubai? Check out the ultimate family holiday hot list or see how you can see the best of Dubai, for free.