Al Maroona Beach

Al Maroona Beach is a quiet public beach of golden sand and calm, shallow water on Qatar's north-east coast in Al Shamal Municipality, about 1 hour 10 minutes' drive north of Doha. It is free and suits families, picnics and stargazing for a relaxed half day.

Al Maroona sits on the same stretch of shoreline as Fuwairit and Al Ghariyah. The coast here is low and sandy, with little building behind the beach and water that stays shallow a long way out.

The beach takes its name from the small coastal settlement of Al Marrawnah. Like its neighbours on this coast, the area once lived from fishing and pearling before oil changed the economy of the peninsula.

Visit Qatar lists it among the country's most popular public beaches. The gentle slope and calm sea make it easy for paddling and swimming, and families come to spread out on the sand for a day. Because the beach faces east over the Gulf, early risers get the sunrise over the water, and the distance from Doha's lights makes clear winter nights good for looking at the stars.

There is no entry fee and no gate. Facilities are minimal, so bring food, water, shade and bags to carry rubbish home, and watch children closely in the water. November to March is the most comfortable season; in summer, arrive early in the morning before the heat builds.

There is no public transport, so the trip needs a car or taxi along Al Shamal Road. Fuwairit Beach is 4 km away, Al Ghariyah Beach and the Al Jassasiya rock carvings 8 km, and Al Huwaila 10 km. The sand has no boardwalks or accessible facilities. Littering, driving on protected dunes or nesting areas and glass on the beach are all prohibited.

Al Maroona is also known as French Beach. Visit Qatar describes soft, golden-white sand and clear turquoise water, quieter than most public beaches, and families often spot starfish and crabs in the shallows. Camping and long walks are popular in the cool season, there is parking with basic facilities, and depending on the route a four-wheel drive is recommended for the last stretch.