Looking for a crescent of soft sand, shallow Gulf water and jet skis within an easy drive of Al Khobar? Half Moon Bay is the Eastern Province's favourite seaside escape — a sweeping curve of beach just south of the city where families picnic, kids paddle in the shallows, and water-sport operators send jet skis and parasails skimming across the water. This guide to Half Moon Bay Khobar covers the beaches, water sports and day trips you can plan around it, from entry costs to activity prices. We've pulled together current operator and resort pricing so you know roughly what to budget before you go.
Half Moon Bay at a glance
Half Moon Bay — also called Half Moon Beach or Dawhat Nakheel — sits in Dhahran, south of Al Khobar in the Eastern Province. The bay gets its name from its distinctive crescent shape, which creates calm, shallow water that's ideal for families and first-time swimmers.
You'll find two sides to the destination: a long stretch of free public beach open to everyone, and several private beach resorts that charge a day-entry fee for added facilities. Between them you can do as little or as much as you like — from a quiet barbecue on the sand to a full day of jet skis, parasailing and boat rides.
Where is Half Moon Bay and how to get there
From central Al Khobar, head south toward Dhahran and follow signs for Half Moon Bay. The drive typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes depending on your starting point and traffic. From Dammam it's a touch longer.
- By car — the easiest option; parking at the public beach is generally free.
- By Careem or Uber — convenient for the trip out, but arrange your return in advance, as ride availability can be thin on the way back.
If you're based in Riyadh and planning a long weekend in the Eastern Province, Half Moon Bay pairs well with stops like the Dhahran corniche and the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra).
The public beach — free, sandy and family-friendly
The public beach is the heart of Half Moon Bay for most visitors. Entry is generally free, and it's typically open daily from sunrise to sunset. The gently sloping, sandy shoreline and shallow Gulf water make it a reassuring spot for children.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Swim only in supervised areas and follow any beach-management instructions or flags.
- Bring your own shade, water and snacks — facilities on the free stretch can be basic.
- Mornings and late afternoons are far more comfortable than the midday heat, especially in summer.
Beach resorts and day entry
If you'd rather have cleaner facilities, loungers, food outlets and a more managed environment, the private resorts along the bay sell day passes. These are a good shout for families who want shade, changing rooms and a cafe close by.
Al Dana Beach Resort day entry
Al Dana Beach Resort is one of the best-known options on the bay. Day entry is typically around:
- Adults — approximately SAR 65 per person
- Children aged 5–12 — approximately SAR 35
- Children under 5 — free
Rates are set by the resort and can change, so confirm the current price and what's included before you travel.
Water sports and prices
Water sports are the big draw at Half Moon Bay, and several operators set up along the shoreline. Fees are operator-set and can vary with season, duration and demand — there's no single unified tariff for the whole bay — so treat the figures below as a guide and confirm on the day.
Jet skis
- 15 minutes — typically around SAR 173
- 30 minutes — typically around SAR 288
- Hourly — some operators advertise from around SAR 160 per hour for up to two riders
A refundable deposit of roughly SAR 500 may be required, so carry a little extra or a card.
Parasailing
For a bird's-eye view of the crescent, parasailing runs at approximately SAR 178 for around 10 minutes.
Boat rides and donut boats
- Boat rides — typically around SAR 345 for up to three people, rising to about SAR 575 for up to five, depending on operator and duration.
- Donut boat — approximately SAR 405 for up to five people — a crowd-pleaser for groups and older kids.
Other seasonal activities
Depending on the season and which operators are set up, you may also find:
- Kayaking and banana boats
- Diving and fishing trips
- Speedboat rides
- Dune buggies and horse rides along the sand
Availability shifts through the year and with weather, so it's worth asking at the beach what's running that day.
Planning a day trip from Al Khobar
Half Moon Bay works beautifully as a half-day or full-day outing. A simple plan:
- Set off from Al Khobar early (allow 30–45 minutes of driving).
- Grab a spot on the free beach or buy a resort day pass if you want facilities.
- Do your water sports in the morning while it's cooler and the water is calm.
- Break for a picnic or a resort cafe lunch during the heat of the day.
- Wrap up with a sunset stroll along the crescent before heading home.
Safety and practical tips
- Check the weather and sea conditions — operators may close for wind or rough seas.
- Dress modestly in line with local norms, especially on the public beach.
- Carry cash — some water-sport operators prefer it, and deposits may apply.
- Sun protection — hats, high-SPF sunscreen and plenty of water are essential in the Gulf summer.
- Keep an eye on children near the water at all times, even in the shallows.
- Confirm before you go — resort access, activity availability, timings and prices should be checked directly with the venue or operator.
Whether you want a lazy beach day or an adrenaline hit on a jet ski, Half Moon Bay delivers one of the best coastal outings in the Eastern Province — and it's all within an easy drive of Al Khobar.
FAQs
Is Half Moon Bay free to enter?
Yes — the public beach is generally free, open daily from sunrise to sunset, with parking usually free too. Private resorts along the bay charge a separate day-entry fee.
When is the best time to visit Half Moon Bay?
The cooler months, roughly October to April, are most comfortable for a full beach day. Year-round, aim for early morning or late afternoon rather than the midday heat, especially in summer. Weekends are busier, so arrive early for a good spot.
How much does Al Dana Beach Resort cost?
Day entry is typically around SAR 65 per adult and SAR 35 for children aged 5–12, with under-5s free. Confirm the current rate with the resort before you travel.
How much are jet skis at Half Moon Bay?
Expect roughly SAR 173 for 15 minutes or SAR 288 for 30 minutes, with some operators listing from about SAR 160 A refundable deposit of around SAR 500 may apply.
How far is Half Moon Bay from Al Khobar?
It's a short drive south toward Dhahran — usually around 30 to 45 minutes depending on where you start and traffic.
Is Half Moon Bay good for families?
Very much so. The shallow, calm water and sandy shoreline suit children, and resorts offer shade and facilities. Always swim in supervised areas and watch children near the water.
What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, shade for the public beach, and some cash for water sports and deposits. Check the weather before heading out, as activities can close for wind or rough seas.
Planning more outings around the region? Browse day trips and activities in our Eastern Province guide, or find a place to stay near the coast in our Saudi Arabia properties listings.
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