A Family Guide to La Mer Beach, Dubai: Sun, Sand, and Smiles

Dubai, a city synonymous with grandeur and futuristic skylines, also offers a treasure trove of family-friendly destinations that blend relaxation with vibrant entertainment. Among these, La Mer Beach stands out as a premier choice for families traveling with children, offering far more than just a stretch of sand. This modern beachfront development reimagines the traditional beach day, transforming it into an all-encompassing experience designed to delight every member of the family, from the tiniest toddlers to the coolest teenagers and their parents. It’s an ideal spot for those planning a Dubai vacation and looking to prioritize an attraction that guarantees a memorable day out without the stress of navigating multiple venues, ensuring a fantastic family-friendly activity in Dubai.

What makes La Mer particularly suitable for kids is its thoughtful design and diverse offerings. The beach itself boasts shallow, calm waters perfect for safe splashing and sandcastle building, watched over by attentive lifeguards. Beyond the gentle waves, La Mer integrates a fantastic waterpark, Laguna Waterpark, ensuring that older children and teens have ample opportunities for thrilling slides and aquatic adventures. The entire precinct is dotted with whimsical street art, engaging play areas, and a lively atmosphere that captures the imagination. Parents can expect a seamless blend of relaxation and activity. Whether it’s lounging on the pristine sands, indulging in a leisurely meal at one of the many family-friendly restaurants, or watching their children revel in the various attractions, La Mer caters to a hassle-free and enriching family day. It’s a place where laughter echoes from the playgrounds, where creative murals spark conversations, and where the Arabian Gulf provides a stunning backdrop to cherished family memories, making it one of the best beaches in Dubai for families.

What to Expect at La Mer Beach

La Mer Beach is ingeniously divided into North and South sections, separated by the central Laguna Waterpark, creating a dynamic and varied landscape. The layout seamlessly integrates a pristine sandy beachfront with a vibrant boardwalk, extensive retail outlets, and a diverse array of dining options, all set against a backdrop of captivating street art and quirky installations. Families can anticipate warm, inviting waters of the Arabian Gulf, perfect for swimming and wading, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone visiting La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai.

Highlights of La Mer include the exciting Laguna Waterpark, which features thrilling slides for older children and a dedicated splash area specifically designed for younger children. During certain seasons, you might even find fun inflatable playgrounds floating offshore, adding an extra layer of aquatic adventure. Beyond the water, La Mer is celebrated for its distinctive urban art murals and creative sculptures that are not only visually appealing but also provide excellent, unique photo opportunities for families. This vibrant atmosphere makes a visit to La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai truly special.

• Laguna Waterpark for all ages, with dedicated splash areas for toddlers.
• Seasonal inflatable playgrounds offshore for extra fun.
• Distinctive urban art murals and creative sculptures for unique photo ops.
• Shallow, supervised swimming areas and designated play zones for children.
• Clean, easily accessible restrooms and family changing facilities are readily available.
• Lifeguards are consistently on duty, ensuring safety on the beach.
• While direct beach shade is limited, umbrellas and cabanas are available for rent.
• An outstanding selection of food options, from quick snacks to full-service restaurants.

Best for These Ages

Toddlers (0-3 years)

The calm, shallow waters of La Mer Beach are absolutely ideal for safe splashing and supervised play, providing a gentle introduction to the sea for your little ones. The soft sands offer ample space for building magnificent sandcastles, while the stroller-friendly boardwalks make navigating the entire area incredibly easy for parents. Additionally, dedicated splash pads and small play areas integrated within the development are perfect for little ones to explore safely and joyfully.

Elementary-age Kids (4-12 years)

This age group will discover endless fun swimming in the inviting sea and participating in lively sandcastle competitions, making every moment at La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai memorable. They might also enjoy the inflatable water parks if available, adding an extra thrill to their beach day. The Laguna Waterpark offers a fantastic range of slides suitable for this age, from gentle rides perfect for beginners to more exciting options for the adventurous. Exploring the vibrant street art and quirky installations throughout La Mer also transforms into a stimulating scavenger hunt, sparking their creativity and engagement.

Teens (13-18 years)

Teens will find plenty to love at La Mer, whether it’s lounging on the beautiful beach, trying out exciting water sports (where available), or capturing Instagram-worthy photos against the backdrop of the unique art and trendy cafes. The Laguna Waterpark specifically features thrill rides that cater to a desire for adventure and excitement, promising an adrenaline rush. Beyond the beach and waterpark, the cool ambiance of the retail and dining areas offers a relaxed social setting, perfect for hanging out with friends or family.

Adults

Parents and adults can truly unwind on the beautiful beach, enjoying the wide selection of dining options available, from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants. It’s also a great opportunity to browse the unique boutique shops for souvenirs or a special treat. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the stunning ocean views and artistic touches found throughout, makes for a relaxing and enjoyable day. Adults can also partake in water sports or simply supervise their children while soaking up the sun and ambiance of La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai.

Access & Practical Info

La Mer Beach itself is generally accessible 24/7, allowing visitors to enjoy the beachfront and boardwalk at any time, whether for an early morning stroll or a late evening walk. However, it’s important to note that the retail outlets, restaurants, and the exciting Laguna Waterpark operate specific opening and closing hours, typically from mid-morning until late evening, with variations depending on the day of the week and the season. For safety and comfort, it’s always best to visit the beach during daylight hours, and especially to avoid the intense midday sun, particularly during Dubai’s hotter months.

Parking at La Mer is ample, with a large, paid underground parking facility available that offers convenience and direct access to the beach and attractions. While some limited free street parking might be found further afield, the underground option is certainly the most convenient for families, especially those with young children and lots of gear. There are no formal ticketing requirements or entry fees for accessing the main beach and public areas of La Mer, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for families looking for budget-friendly activities in Dubai with kids. However, the Laguna Waterpark operates on a separate ticketing system with its own entry fees, so plan accordingly if a waterpark adventure is on your agenda. Seasonal closures are generally not applicable to the beach, but individual outlets or attractions might have temporary closures for maintenance, so it’s always good to check in advance. Crowd patterns tend to be busiest during weekends (Friday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays) and especially during the cooler winter months when the weather is most pleasant. Weekday mornings are typically the quietest times to visit, offering a more serene experience. Restrictions often include no outside food or beverages in designated dining areas and specific rules within the Laguna Waterpark that must be adhered to for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

Getting There

Reaching La Mer Beach is straightforward, though it requires a bit of planning as it’s not directly connected to Dubai’s Metro system, meaning you’ll need a short additional step to arrive. Despite this, its accessibility ensures a smooth journey for families eager to experience La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai.

Public Transportation Options

While the Metro does not go directly to La Mer, you can easily take the Red Line to either the Financial Centre Metro Station or Business Bay Metro Station. From there, catching a short taxi ride or an RTA bus will get you to La Mer without hassle. Several RTA bus routes service the Jumeirah area, with stops relatively close to La Mer, so checking the RTA Journey Planner app for the most current routes and schedules is highly advisable for the smoothest travel experience.

Parking Availability

La Mer offers extensive, paid underground parking facilities, which are clearly signposted and easily accessible. This is generally the most convenient option for families driving to the destination, providing direct and easy access to the beachfront and attractions, making it a stress-free start to your day at La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai.

Best Drop-Off Points

There are dedicated drop-off zones located at the main entrances of La Mer, making it incredibly easy for taxis, ride-sharing services (like Uber or Careem), or private vehicles to unload passengers directly. These convenient points mean less walking for little legs and quicker access to all the fun.

Walkability

Once you’ve arrived at La Mer, the entire complex is exceptionally walkable, designed with pedestrian comfort in mind. Its well-maintained boardwalks and pedestrian paths are flat and wide, making it a pleasant experience to stroll leisurely between the beach, various shops, and numerous restaurants, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai.

Stroller Accessibility

La Mer is very stroller-friendly, which is a huge relief for parents with young children. Ramps provide easy access to different levels throughout the development, and the smooth, paved surfaces of the boardwalks ensure a comfortable and effortless push for strollers. Furthermore, you’ll find accessible restrooms and family changing facilities conveniently located throughout the area, making a day out with toddlers at La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai truly manageable.

Tips for Visiting with Kids

1. Arrive Early for the Best Spot: Especially on weekends or during peak season, arriving shortly after opening ensures you can secure a prime beach spot with a good view or enjoy a less crowded experience at the Laguna Waterpark. This gives your family a head start on all the fun and fewer queues, a huge plus when visiting La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai.

2. Prioritize Sun Protection: The Dubai sun can be incredibly intense, so sun protection is paramount for children and adults alike. Apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly throughout the day, wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and consider rash guards for prolonged water play. Actively seek shade under rented umbrellas or in the numerous shaded areas along the boardwalk to prevent sunburn.

3. Pack Smart: Come prepared with all your beach day essentials to make your visit to La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai as smooth as possible. Bring beach towels, extra changes of clothes, swim diapers for toddlers, and essential sand toys for endless fun. While shops are available to purchase items, having your own supplies ready can save you both time and money.

4. Stay Hydrated: The warm climate necessitates constant hydration, especially for active children enjoying the beach and waterpark. Keep water bottles handy and encourage frequent sips, or plan to purchase refreshing drinks frequently from the many outlets available throughout La Mer.

5. Consider Renting a Cabana or Umbrella: For added comfort and guaranteed shade, particularly when visiting with younger children who need frequent breaks from the sun, renting a beach cabana or umbrella can significantly enhance your day. It provides a dedicated cool spot to relax and refuel.

6. Plan Your Activities: La Mer offers a wealth of activities, so it’s wise to decide beforehand what your family wants to prioritize. Whether your family wants to focus primarily on beach relaxation, spend most of the day at the thrilling Laguna Waterpark, or balance both, having a plan will help maximize your enjoyment. Remember, Laguna Waterpark can easily fill a half-day or more on its own.

7. Engage with the Art: Turn exploring the whimsical street art and quirky installations into an engaging game or scavenger hunt for older kids. Encourage them to spot their favorite murals and sculptures, which adds an interactive and artistic dimension to your visit beyond just the sand and sea at La Mer Beach with kids in Dubai.

Nearby Kid-Friendly Add-Ons

If your family is looking to extend their outing beyond La Mer, several kid-friendly attractions are just a short drive away, offering diverse experiences to complement your beach day and further enhance your family attractions in Dubai itinerary.

Jumeirah Mosque

A beautiful landmark nearby, the Jumeirah Mosque offers guided tours (usually in the mornings) that are open to non-Muslims, providing a unique cultural and educational experience for the entire family. While not a playground, older children might find the intricate architecture and insightful explanations fascinating, offering a glimpse into local culture.

Etihad Museum

Located in the same general vicinity, the Etihad Museum is an impressive institution detailing the compelling history of the UAE’s formation. It’s highly interactive and visually engaging, making history accessible and genuinely interesting for elementary-aged children and teens, and offering a wonderful educational break from the beach.

Boxpark

For a dose of urban cool, Boxpark offers a unique outdoor retail and dining experience housed in repurposed shipping containers. It has a hip vibe with a selection of trendy cafes and shops, and often hosts street performances or small events that can easily capture a child’s attention, providing a vibrant and casual atmosphere for families.

City Walk

A more upscale outdoor precinct, City Walk features a wide array of shops, diverse restaurants, and various entertainment options, all set in a beautifully designed urban space. It’s known for its contemporary design and often has interactive art installations or playful water features that kids especially enjoy. It’s a great spot for an evening stroll, dinner, or just enjoying the lively ambiance when exploring Dubai with kids.

Kite Beach

For families with more active kids or those interested in watersports, Kite Beach is another popular public beach option located a little further down the Jumeirah coastline. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, numerous food trucks offering tasty treats, and abundant opportunities for kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, alongside a large outdoor gym and skatepark, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.