Doha boasts stretches of white sand beaches, with beautiful resorts dotted along the water. Here, you’ll find everything from spa resorts dedicated to relaxation, to fun, lively retreats with waterparks, kids’ clubs, beach clubs and even a man-made surfing wave. Grab a lounger and a book, and enjoy the stretches of white sand on a private beach or make use of the numerous, luxurious facilities available. These are our favourite resorts in Doha.
InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa
This beach resort is big on variety – you’ll find everything from a relaxing spa to tennis courts, a huge pool (with a bridge over it, no less), beach loungers, a fitness centre and 14 different restaurants. This place is perfect for those travelling with families, as there’s also a soft play, kids club, babysitting service, nanny for hire, and child-friendly food menus. Rooms are modern and comfortable, with larger family suites available. You’ll also find Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, as well as the City Center Mall, close by in Lusail.
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
This impressive island resort is one to write home about. On arrival, you’ll catch a catamaran to the island, where you’ll find pristine over-water and sea-view villas dotted around the grounds. Onsite, there’s a luxurious spa (where you can book in for a hammam experience or dreamy massage), and an adventure park featuring ziplines, bouncing nets, rope course, a giant slingshot (yes, really) and climbing walls (perfect for little kids and big ones). It’s a great option for families as it’s alcohol-free. You’ll also find numerous dining options including a spectacular in-villa BBQ experience that you can enjoy from the comfort of your accommodation. Who doesn’t love a private chef?
Where to begin relaxing at this sprawling retreat, modelled after a traditional sheik’s palace? Should you rush to the beach for some kayaking and swimming? Or will it be a lounge by the crystal clear pool, dotted with palm tree islands? Or a pause by the indoor pool with a faux waterfall? You’re a little spoilt for choice here, so it’s not hard to see why it’s so popular. Sharq Village gives the feeling of being tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, despite its proximity to the airport, and local museums. If you can’t peel yourself away to explore the local area, we’d recommend booking into the spa for a full-day experience – your body (and mind) will thank you. Treat yourself to a suite overlooking the water, it’s worth it.
Waldorf Astoria, Doha Lusail
This modern building set on the only private beach in Lusail is big on activities. There are several pools, the Wadi Lusail water park for kids, Aloha surf pool where you can learn to ride the waves, and the SUSHISAMBA beach club, where you can book a cabana, order up some fresh sushi and enjoy the vibes and live music. For some downtime, check out the yoga area or get a massage at the ESPA, book in for padel or tennis at the courts, or indulge yourself in one of the onsite restaurants, including Scarpetta and the Bywater brasserie.
Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl, Doha
Set yourself up at the Marsa Malaz, the perfect base from which to explore the (very walkable) Pearl island. There are air-conditioned hallways to use during the hotter months and the canal-lined Qanat Quartier (said to be based on Venice) to stroll through. Rooms at the hotel overlook the water, while the private beach offers cute sunloungers and a roped-off swimming area. There are a number of dining options, including the rooftop bar, The Secret Garden, a live music lounge, American-style diner, Japanese restaurant, and Levantine restaurant Al Sufra, which does great local dishes and seafood. During your stay here, treat yourself to a four-handed massage at the spa or book in for a refreshing facial.
Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas
This sprawling resort boasts lush green grounds, five (yes, five) swimming pools including an indoor pool for when the mercury gets too high, and a private beach (natch). Book a room overlooking the plants and palm trees on the ground floor or plump for a sea-view higher up. While you’re here, get pampered at the Jaula Club & Spa and (if you have little ones) drop the kids off at Camp Hyatt, which offers arts and crafts activities and games to keep your small people entertained. There are a number of dining options here, from terrace eatery Isaan to afternoon tea at Biscotti lounge (one of our favourites).
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort (Katara Cultural Village)
This stunning white building set against the backdrop of the clear blue Arabian Gulf looks like something out of a movie. Inside, you’ll find manicured grounds, well-appointed villas with private pools, as well as garden and beach-view rooms. While you’re here, lounge by the enormous pool, book in for some watersports on the private beach, or while away the hours in the spa, which is all soft marbling and carved Arabic designs (the hammam treatment is well worth it). Make the most of the location and book in for a meal at The Beach restaurant, overlooking (you guessed it) the water – you’ll be served fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes alongside an extensive mocktail menu.
St Regis, Doha
These splendid domed towers complete with large pool, manicured lawns and direct access to a private beach are the perfect place to book a beach getaway. Whether you plump for a private villa with your own little plunge pool, or slump yourself by the giant central pool dotted with palm trees, relaxation is pretty much guaranteed. The Guerlain spa, much like the rest of the hotel’s interior, is all simple, elegant designs and marble accents. Book in for a four-hand massage for ultimate luxury, or try one of the sculpting facials. You’ll also find a lengthy list of food offerings, from internationally renowned Hakkasan and Bodega Negra to live music eatery Sax. Dine outside on the terrace under an elegant bouquet of hanging flowers, overlooking the ocean, for pure holiday vibes.
