Looking for a fun family day trip from Dubai? Your search ends at the incredible Snoopy Island, nestled just off the coast in the Emirate of Fujairah! This hidden gem guarantees an exceptional snorkeling and beach experience suitable for both kids and adults. With its location a mere 200m from Fujairah’s shoreline, Snoopy Island is enveloped by the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean and the breathtaking rocky mountains of Fujairah. Being a popular snorkeling and diving spot in the UAE, it has a diverse marine life and breathtaking coral reefs. Keep your eyes peeled, and you may be lucky enough to catch glimpses of tropical fish, sea turtles, black tip reef sharks, moray eels, rays, and more!
Why is it called Snoopy Island?
The island is named after the iconic Peanuts character, Snoopy, due to its unique shape resembling the lovable cartoon dog lying on its back. It’s popular Arabic name is Jazirat Snubi, which translates to Snoopy Island. However, it’s official Arabic name is Jazirat al-‘Aqqa, and it derives its name from the nearby coastal town of Al Aqah.
How to Get to Snoopy Island from Dubai
Snoopy Island lies approximately 116km from Dubai, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes. If you are traveling with young children you may want to plan a short stop along the way. The car ride is a fantastic opportunity to see and enjoy the beautiful landscape of the Emirate of Fujairah. As you approach the coastline, the blue waters of the Indian Ocean create a beautiful contrast against the rocky mountainous terrain, making the drive even more scenic and enjoyable. Thanks to the UAE’s exceptionally well-maintained roads, the drive is stress-free and perfect for families with children of all ages.
Sandy Beach Resort
Sandy Beach Resort is the closest beach to Snoopy Island, and has direct access from its shoreline. If you’re not a resort guest, you can purchase a day pass at a reasonable fee. The resort offers great amenities for families, including an infinity swimming pool, a splash pad for younger kids, sun lounges, and a kiosk for water sports equipment rental. There are plenty of food and beverage options, including a beach bar and grill, making it a perfect base for your snorkeling adventure.
The resort also offers other family-friendly activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, banana boat rides and para-sailing.
Snorkeling Paradise
Strap on your snorkeling gear and prepare to be amazed by the vibrant marine life that resides beneath the Indian Ocean’s surface. Snoopy Island is only 200m off the shore from the Sandy Beach Hotel, so you can swim out from the shoreline. The water reaches depths of up to 7 meters, so this is an activity that is better suited to older children, or younger children who are competent swimmers. Some of the marine life species that can be seen around the colorful coral reef are sea turtles, trumpetfish, sergeant major, redtoothed triggerfish, parrotfish, angelfish, black tip reef sharks, moray eels, rays and jellyfish.
If you don’t want to go it alone with your children, you can always book a tour with an instructor, which also includes paddle boarding and kayaking.
Quick Tips for Snorkeling with Kids
- Be certain that the mask and fins fit snugly.
- Check that your kids are proficient swimmers, able to comfortably swim a distance of 200m and for a sustained period.
- Demonstrate how the snorkel functions and have them practice in shallow waters before venturing to the Island.
- Consider using a floatation vest for children who tire quickly in water or require additional security. This will give them the comfort to enjoy the experience.
What to Take With You on Your Day Trip
- First and foremost – swimwear!
- Snorkel, Mask & Fins. This is something we have invested in as my kids are involved in water sports. But if you don’t have your own, don’t worry, there is a kiosk at the Sandy Beach Resort where all of this equipment can be hired for a reasonable fee.
- Essentials for sun protection – sunscreen, rash vest, sunglasses and hats. The sun in the UAE can be intense, especially in the summer months.
- Towels are provided for at the Sandy Beach Resort, however, you may wish to bring along your own.
- A water pouch for your phone so you can take amazing photos of the marine life around Snoopy Island. The kiosk at Sandy Beach also sells these pouches.
- You may wish to bring a spare change of clothes, so that you can be comfortable on your return car journey.
- In the winter months remember to bring a sweater, as the temperatures can be quite cool in the early morning or late afternoon.
- It’s always a good to keep small squeezy bottle of vinegar in your beach bag in the event you or one of your kids are stung by a jellyfish. There are certain times of the year where they are more prominent in the water. Vinegar is a weak acid that is shown to prevent further venom release.
Best Time of Year to Visit
The best time to visit Snoopy Island in Fujairah depends on your preferences and activities. Winter (November to April) is popular with milder temperatures (20°C to 30°C), making it comfortable for snorkeling and diving. Shoulder seasons (October and May) are warmer (mid-30s°C). Summer (June to September) is off-peak due to scorching temperatures (above 40°C).
During a recent visit in July, which falls during peak summer, my family had a memorable and enjoyable day despite the heat. If you plan to visit during the hotter months, it’s essential to schedule your activities wisely, opting for late afternoon outings when temperatures are slightly more bearable. For families with babies and toddlers, taking precautions is crucial—stay hydrated, seek shade, and avoid peak heat to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable trip.
Thank you for reading! You may also enjoy Yacht Cruising in Dubai: The Ultimate Family Adventure.
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