3 Best Sights in Jumeirah Beach, Dubai

Translating to Jumeirah City in Arabic, Madinat Jumeirah connects four five-star hotels around a central souk, theater, gardens, and waterways. Although constructed in recent years, it resembles an adobe brick oasis town, and is exceptionally well replicated. The complex looks especially appealing after dark when soft lighting illuminates the pastel stucco, barjeels, and cobbled courtyards.

Souk Madinat, a beautifully designed bazaar of winding alleyways, takes the best aspects of a traditional market with lots of small stalls piled high with tempting souvenirs, partners them with high-end boutiques and traders of exotic housewares, then adds an extra element of comfort—air-conditioning. Art, carpets, and furniture are high quality here, but the prices reflect this and are rarely negotiable.

Madinat Jumeirah's waterfront makes a great stop for a lazy lunch or long dinner. Restaurants and bars line both sides of the canal promenade and many have liquor licenses, so you can enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail as you relax in the balmy air and watch the abras putt-putt along the waterways.

Dubai's premier water park, Wild Wadi covers 12 acres and abuts Jumeirah Beach in the shadow of the Burj Al-Arab hotel. There are 30 rides and other watery attractions here, including the Jumeirah Scierah (a 50-mph, high-adrenaline chute) and artificial wave rides (Riptide Flowrider and The Wipeout) that were designed by industry leader Thomas Lochtefel. Wild Wadi Water Park has its own artificial beach at Breakers Bay, and cabanas that can be booked to provide a home base for a large family. There is a good range of rides for all ages, including a large children's area suitable for very little ones.

Umm Suqeim Beach, which has incredible views of the Burj Al-Arab Hotel offshore, is a favorite of touring groups that briefly step onto the sand to snap pictures before climbing back on the bus for the next stop on the itinerary. Umm Suqeim Park isn't exactly a beach park, as it has no sunbathing facilities or direct beach access, but it's just across the road from Umm Suqeim Beach and has play areas for children and a café.

Amenities: lifeguards. Best for: surfing; sunset; swimming.