The short answer
Snoopy Island and Al Aqah Beach: what visitors should know first
Yes for swimmers and snorkellers in the cooler months; less so for non-swimmers. Check sea conditions and use a licensed operator for any boat or diving trip. Pair with Al Bidyah or Dibba on a coast drive.
Useful facts
Snoopy Island and Al Aqah Beach facts at a glance
- Location
- Al Aqah, about 50 km north of Fujairah City
- Experience type
- Beach, snorkelling and shore diving
- Island size
- About 100 m long, 70 m wide, 19 m high
- Distance offshore
- About 200 m
- Depth
- Around 7 m maximum
- Wildlife
- Trumpetfish, parrotfish, triggerfish, turtles
Why it matters
Why Snoopy Island and Al Aqah Beach is worth your time
Snoopy Island is the best-known snorkelling spot on the east coast, and the Al Aqah Marine Reserve around it protects a stretch of reef that attracts divers from across the UAE. Being on the Gulf of Oman gives Fujairah calmer, clearer water than the Persian Gulf side.
For a family trip, it also shows another face of the emirate: mountains, forts and a reef within a short drive. Treat the reef gently, do not touch turtles or coral, and use reef-safe sun protection.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Snoopy rock
The island is named after rocks that look like Snoopy lying on his back.
- 02
Reef snorkelling
Calm days give clear water and fish near the rocks.
- 03
Beach
Al Aqah Beach is the main access point and a good place to sit.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Spend the morning at Al Aqah Beach, where the island sits about 200 metres from the shore. It is roughly 100 metres long and 70 metres wide, rising to around 19 metres, and its name comes from rocks that resemble Snoopy lying on his back.
The reef around it supports snorkelling and shore diving to about 7 metres. Wikipedia lists trumpetfish, parrotfish, triggerfish and turtles. Go with a confident swimmer, wear a life jacket if you are unsure, and watch the flags. The Gulf of Oman can have waves and currents, so do not swim beyond your comfort.
Families who prefer to stay dry can sit on the beach, paddle in the shallows and take photographs. Respect local dress norms: public beaches here are more conservative than resort beach clubs, so cover up when away from the water and leave alcohol to licensed venues.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Check sea conditions and flags
- Use a licensed operator for diving or boats
- Wear a life jacket if unsure
- Dress modestly off the beach
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Al Aqah, about 50 km north of Fujairah City
- Time needed
- 2 to 4 hours
- Best time
- Cooler months, morning
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The beach is flat sand, but sea entry, waves and currents can be difficult for older travellers. Sitting on the beach is easy; snorkelling is for confident swimmers.
- Tickets and access
- The beach and island are public coastline, but dive centres and resorts charge for gear, boats and loungers. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the operator and respect any lifeguard or flag warnings.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Snoopy Island and Al Aqah Beach
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The beach is flat sand, but sea entry, waves and currents can be difficult for older travellers. Sitting on the beach is easy; snorkelling is for confident swimmers.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Snoopy Island good for beginners?
It suits confident swimmers on calm days. Beginners should use a guide or life jacket and avoid waves.
How far is it from Fujairah City?
About 50 km to Al Aqah, around an hour by road in normal conditions.
Do I need to book?
The beach is public, but boats, diving and gear are arranged with local operators. Confirm in advance.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
