Hidden Beaches In Saudi Arabia Locals Want To Keep Secret

by Iffat Nawaz

Hidden Beaches In Saudi Arabia Locals Want To Keep Secret

8 Nov 2025

When most people picture Saudi Arabia, they envision vast, golden deserts like the Rub al-Khali. Yet, the Kingdom boasts one of the world's most spectacular and least-explored coastlines, a shimmering frontier along the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. With over 2,400 kilometres of shore, much of this coastal paradise remains a true mystery, tucked away from the major tourism projects.

This untouched beauty is precisely why The Sandy Times is lifting the lid on the true locals' secrets. Forget the crowded city waterfronts; the absolute escapes are the pristine, non-touristy beaches that showcase unmatched tranquillity and unspoiled nature. These are the spots where locals go to the beach in Saudi Arabia to truly unwind, enjoy sparkling waters, and escape commercial crowds. This write-up will reveal these best-kept secrets, guiding you to the most precious hidden beaches in Saudi Arabia, particularly along the Red Sea, where peace and secluded beaches await.

Why go off-grid? The lure of secluded beaches, Saudi Arabia

The magnetic pull of the non-touristy beaches in Saudi Arabia lies in their untouched nature. While crowded resort beaches offer convenience and amenities, they often lack the authentic sense of discovery.

Secret beach spots in Saudi Arabia provide a genuine escape: unpolluted silence, unmatched privacy, and transparent water for swimming and snorkelling. These secluded coves give a glimpse into the local way of enjoying the sea — simple, unhurried, and deeply respectful of the environment. Choosing these hidden gems is choosing an immersive cultural experience over a packaged vacation, allowing you to relax in a way the masses never will.

The crown jewels: Underrated Red Sea Beaches

The Red Sea coast is a treasure trove of genuinely spectacular, lesser-known destinations that offer the seclusion that commercial resorts cannot. These are the underrated beaches Red Sea locals cherish.

Photo: Faraaz Zuberi

Umluj: The 'Maldives of Saudi Arabia'

Often hailed as the "Maldives of Saudi Arabia," Umluj is the quintessential choice for those seeking absolute tranquillity. While the town itself is gaining popularity, its true magic lies offshore. Umluj retains its quiet, small-town charm compared to the bustle of Jeddah. The main draw is the chain of over 100 small, untouched islands dotting the azure water.

These islands boast clean white sands and exceptionally clear, turquoise water, making them one of the best swimming beaches in Saudi Arabia. Snorkelling and diving enthusiasts flock here to explore the rich, vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, all preserved due to strict regulations against large ship traffic.

A day spent island-hopping by traditional boat is the key to unlocking the maximum seclusion Umluj presents, cementing its status as one of the most desirable quiet beach towns Saudi Arabia has to offer.

Photo: Rabin Mukherjee

Haql Shipwreck Beach

Venture far north along the coast into the Tabuk Province, and you will discover the haunting beauty of Haql Shipwreck Beach. The secluded beach showcases the dramatic, half-sunken wreck of the Georgios G., a Greek cargo ship that ran aground decades ago.

The wreck creates a surreal and stunning focal point for photography — a rusting relic against the backdrop of the blue Gulf of Aqaba, with the mountains of Sinai visible across the water. The surrounding waters are incredibly clear and calm, offering excellent shore diving and snorkelling opportunities around the shipwreck, which has become a natural reef. This unique mix of maritime history, astonishing views, and a quiet, northern escape makes it a must-visit among the Red Sea beaches in Saudi Arabia.

Photo: Francesco Ungaro

Farasan Islands

For the ultimate escape, the Farasan Islands archipelago — a protected marine sanctuary off the Jazan coast — is a journey into the truly non-touristy heart of the Red Sea. Because accessing this destination requires a ferry trip from Jazan Port, it naturally filters out casual visitors, ensuring its remote charm.

The archipelago is a network of islands featuring multiple small, undeveloped beaches and secret coves, perfect for exploration via organised boat trips. Beyond the astounding coral reefs and diverse marine life (including dolphins and sea turtles), Farasan offers a deep dive into local coastal culture, with ancient coral stone houses and historic Ottoman ruins.

The ability to island-hop and discover your own private slice of coast solidifies Farasan as one of the most rewarding and genuinely secluded beaches in Saudi Arabia and a premier Saudi Arabia beach destination for the adventurous traveller.

Instagram: @silversandsbeach

Local’s secrets: Quiet beaches near Jeddah

While Jeddah is the vibrant gateway to the Red Sea, its popular central Corniche can be bustling. For a genuine local escape, you have to look further afield. Locals know that the real quiet beaches near Jeddah are found by heading either north or south of the main city sprawl.

One of the most authentic hidden Red Sea beaches near Jeddah is the wider area around Khaleej Salman. This public stretch offers a significantly more laid-back atmosphere than the downtown coast, making it a favourite for family picnics, leisurely strolls, and escaping the city noise. Similarly, Dhaban Marine Park, located north of the city, provides beautiful green areas right next to the sea, favoured by families for weekend gatherings.

Alternatively, many locals opt for exclusivity. Upscale, members-only spots like Silver Sands Club propose pristine, private beach experiences with controlled crowds and excellent amenities. These clubs answer the question of where locals go to the beach in Saudi Arabia when they desire guaranteed tranquillity and seclusion without leaving the city's reach.

Saudi Arabia’s extensive shoreline, particularly the magnificent Red Sea coast, remains one of the world's great coastal secrets. As discussed above, the true gems are the secluded beaches in Saudi Arabia — places like the island paradise of Umluj, the haunting shores of Haql, the remote Farasan archipelago, and the quiet corners near Jeddah.

These aren't just beaches, they are untouched sanctuaries that give peace and an authentic coastal experience.

Seek out these hidden beaches in Saudi Arabia, respecting their natural beauty and local customs as you explore. Go now, before the crowds arrive. The greatest treasures, after all, are the ones that are still secret. Plan your journey today for a tranquil and unforgettable coastal escape that the locals want to keep all to themselves.

by Iffat Nawaz