Things to see and do Al Khor

Al Thakhira beach, located 60 km north of Doha, is a pretty wild sandy spit with more stones than fine sand, but we like its landscapes, its mangrove vegetation - a rarity in Qatar - and its crystal clear water. Right next to it is a small marina where there are a few fishing boats. People come here to picnic at sunset or to kayak during the day. To find it, turn left at the end of the Al Khor ledge road, then, after the village: the beach.

Also called Jazirat Bin Ghannam Island, this island near Al Khor can be visited by kayak with a biologist. The island is known for its mangrove, which gathers more than 50 plant species. It is home to many species of migratory birds during the winter. A rock offers a 360° view on Al Khor. On its shores lives a sea snail which, when in contact with an enzyme and light, produces a brilliant dye used in the Bronze Age in handicraft. It is the only site where it is present in the Arabian Gulf while it was common in the Mediterranean.

This nice public family beach - which means no bikinis and other short clothes, you have to swim "dressed" or in burkini - is located 1.5 km from Al Khor. It is equipped with shaded shelters, deckchairs with fixed umbrellas, changing booths and toilets. There are also barbecue areas, children's playgrounds, soccer and volleyball fields, facilities that attract families and groups of sporty friends who want to get out of the big city. We like the view of the mangrove here.