Half Moon Bay Khobar: Beaches & Water Sports

Looking for a beach day near Al Khobar? Half Moon Bay is the Eastern Province's go-to crescent of calm Gulf water, soft sand and water sports, roughly 30 km south of Al Khobar. The public beach is free to enter and generally open from sunrise to sunset, while nearby resorts offer paid access with cleaner facilities and organised activities. Here's how to make the most of it — beaches, water-sport prices, timing and easy day trips.

Where is Half Moon Bay and why go?

Half Moon Bay sits on the Arabian Gulf coast south of Al Khobar, in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, about 30 km from the city centre. The drive is straightforward — an easy run for anyone living in Al Khobar, Dammam or Dhahran, and a popular weekend escape for families, groups of friends and expats who want to swim without a long trip.

The bay gets its name from its curved, half-moon shape, which shelters the water and keeps it calmer than the open coast. That makes it one of the better spots in the region for swimming, paddling and first-time water sports.

The free public beach: hours, entry and what to expect

The public stretch of Half Moon Bay is free to access and generally open daily from sunrise to sunset. Formal municipal opening hours aren't published, so plan around daylight rather than fixed gate times.

This side is best for a relaxed, low-cost day: bring your own shade, water, snacks and a bin bag. Facilities vary by section, so don't count on sunbeds, cafés or changing rooms being available everywhere along the shore.

Swimming and safety

The water here is shallow and calm, which is exactly why families love it — kids can wade safely close to shore. That said, lifeguard coverage and facilities vary by beach section, so supervise children at all times and don't assume a lifeguard is on duty. Stick to shallow areas if you're not a strong swimmer, and keep an eye on the tide.

Al Dana Beach Resort and paid beach access

If you want sunbeds, cleaner facilities and organised activities, the resort sections around Dana Bay are worth the entry fee. At Al Dana Beach Resort, day entry is typically around:

• SAR 65 per adult for a day pass
• SAR 35 per child aged 5–12
• Free for children under 5

Paid access usually gets you a more managed beach environment, which suits families and anyone who'd rather not haul their own gear. As always with resorts, confirm current rates and opening hours directly before you drive out, as pricing can change by season.

Water sports at Half Moon Bay: prices and what to book

Water sports are the main draw at Half Moon Bay, and you'll find operators along the beachfront and at the resorts. The prices below are typical guide rates — always confirm with the operator on the day, as rates aren't standardised and can shift.

Jet ski

• Typically around SAR 173 for 15 minutes
• Typically around SAR 288 for 30 minutes
• Operators often ask for a refundable deposit of about SAR 500

Bring a form of ID and expect a short briefing before you ride.

Parasailing

Parasailing runs typically around SAR 178 for roughly 10 minutes. The minimum age is commonly reported as 10, so it works for older kids and teens as well as adults.

Donut boat and private boat rides

• Donut boat: typically around SAR 405 for up to five people, for a ride of about 15 minutes — great for groups
• Private boat rides: typically around SAR 345 for up to three people, up to around SAR 575 for up to five people, depending on operator and duration

Kayaking and more

Kayaks are available from beachfront vendors and resorts, with rates typically around SAR 50–100 per hour, though current Half Moon Bay prices vary. Beyond the water, some beach and resort sections also offer horse riding, quad biking, fishing, sailing, diving and camping — availability, age limits and schedules differ by operator, so ask ahead.

Best time to visit

Eastern Province summers are hot and humid, so early morning or late afternoon is far more comfortable than the midday sun. The cooler months from roughly late autumn to early spring are ideal for a full day out. If you're going on a Friday or Saturday, arrive early to claim a good spot — weekends get busy, especially at the free public sections.

Day trips near Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay pairs well with a wider Eastern Province itinerary. Popular nearby stops include:

• Al Khobar — the Corniche, waterfront dining and shopping
• Dammam — parks, the corniche and family attractions
• Ithra (King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture) in Dhahran — museums, a cinema, library and exhibitions, ideal for a cultural half-day
• Dana Bay — the resort and beach cluster beside Half Moon Bay

There's no single official Half Moon Bay day-trip fee or timetable, so build your own route by car or ride-hail. For more ideas, see our guide to things to do in Al Khobar and our round-up of beaches in Saudi Arabia.

Practical tips before you go

• Confirm prices first: check water-sport rates and operating times directly with the operator or resort before you arrive — nothing is guaranteed or standardised
• Bring cash and card: some beachfront vendors may prefer cash for quick bookings and deposits
• Dress modestly on public beaches and respect local etiquette; resort beaches may have their own rules
• Pack sun protection, water and shade — facilities can be limited on the free sections
• Take your rubbish home to help keep the bay clean

FAQs

Is Half Moon Bay beach free?

Yes — the public beach at Half Moon Bay is free to enter and generally open from sunrise to sunset. Resort sections such as Al Dana Beach Resort charge a day-entry fee, typically around SAR 65

How far is Half Moon Bay from Al Khobar?

It's roughly 30 km south of Al Khobar, an easy drive for residents of Al Khobar, Dammam and Dhahran.

How much do water sports cost at Half Moon Bay?

As a guide: jet ski is typically around SAR 173 for 15 minutes, parasailing around SAR 178 for 10 minutes, a donut boat around SAR 405 for up to five people, and private boat rides from around SAR 345. Always confirm on the day.

Is Half Moon Bay safe for swimming with kids?

The water is shallow and calm, which suits families, but lifeguard coverage and facilities vary by section. Supervise children at all times and stay in the shallows.

When is the best time to visit Half Moon Bay?

Early morning or late afternoon is most comfortable, especially in summer. The cooler months make a full day out much more pleasant.

Can I combine Half Moon Bay with other attractions?

Yes — easy day-trip add-ons include Al Khobar, Dammam and Ithra in Dhahran, plus the Dana Bay resort cluster right beside the bay.

Do I need to book water sports in advance, and how do I pay?

Many operators take walk-ups, but it's wise to call ahead on busy weekends and in peak season. Payment is usually on site — bring both cash and card, as some beachfront vendors prefer cash for quick bookings and refundable deposits. Rates and availability can change seasonally, so always confirm before you go.

Planning a weekend by the Gulf? Browse accommodation and your next Eastern Province getaway in our Saudi Arabia listings on Saudi Living.

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