Exploring Amwaj Island: A Bahrain Paradise

Amwaj Islands is a man-made island project in Bahrain, providing the luxuries of waterfront living near the region's top points of interest. The island offers a range of attractions, including shopping, dining, spas, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy water sports, boat tours, and scuba diving, as well as explore the Lagoon Park and Waha Splashclub. Amwaj Island is also known for its diverse cuisine, with restaurants serving Asian, Arabic, American, and European dishes. The island has a vibrant social scene, with hotels like The Dragon hosting party nights and jazz brunches.

Lagoon Park

Dining

Entertainment

The park offers unique leisure and entertainment options for all ages. There are arcades, a bike and Segway track, laser tag, and a kids' water play park. There are also cultural and art festivals hosted here.

Accessibility

Nearby Attractions

Nearby attractions include the Art Rotana Hotel, Bird Kingdom, and Marina. There is also a stunning walking path around the lake, where you can walk, run, or simply sit and enjoy the view.

Water sports

Amwaj Island, Bahrain, is a man-made island with luxurious waterfront living and plenty of attractions. It is an excellent destination for those interested in water sports, with its azure waters providing the perfect setting for a range of activities.

The island's isolated location away from the hustle and bustle of city life offers ample space for recreational pursuits. Many residences provide quick access to the water, making it convenient to indulge in various water activities.

For those interested in learning to dive, the Boating International Sea Services Marina is the only recognised RYA training centre in Bahrain. This makes it the perfect place to acquire the necessary skills before exploring the underwater world.

In addition to diving, Amwaj Island offers a diverse range of water sports to cater to different interests and thrill-seekers. Kite and windsurfing are popular choices for those seeking an adrenaline rush, with the consistent winds providing ideal conditions. For a more relaxed experience, kayaking and canoeing allow explorers to paddle at their own pace and take in the stunning surroundings.

The island also caters to fishing enthusiasts, with ample opportunities to cast a line and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while waiting for a bite. Those seeking a more fast-paced experience can try wakeboarding or jet skiing, offering a thrilling ride across the water.

With its convenient access to the water and range of activities, Amwaj Island is a water sports enthusiast's paradise. Visitors can easily find instructions and equipment to enjoy their favourite water sports or learn something new. Whether it's diving beneath the waves, skimming across the surface, or simply enjoying a leisurely paddle, Amwaj Island has something for everyone.

Dining

Amwaj Island in Bahrain has a wide range of dining options, from fast food to fine dining, and cuisines from around the world. Here is a guide to some of the best places to eat on the island:

The Lagoon

The Lagoon is a popular dining destination on Amwaj Island, with more than 25 outlets offering a variety of cuisines. Here are some of the top restaurants in this area:

• The Cave: With a name that matches its Rainforest Café-inspired décor, The Cave offers a mix of Asian fusion and Arabic cuisine. The chef is from one of Pakistan’s five-star hotels. It can seat up to 320 diners and is good value for money. Call +973 3960 6231.
• Leewan Al-Khoor: Traditional Bahraini cuisine right on the water next to Waitrose. It can seat up to 120 people and the average price is around BD4.5 per person. Opening hours are 12.30 pm to 11 pm. Call +973 1601 0666 or +973 3313 2437.
• Burger Lounge: This restaurant offers fine dining burgers made with Angus beef, as well as a wide selection of salads and appetisers. It seats 80 people and is open from noon to midnight. Call +973 7705 5772 or +973 3915 8592.
• La Veranda Café: The much-anticipated sister restaurant to the popular Veranda in Adliya, La Veranda Café serves an a la carte menu that blends traditional Eastern dishes with international trends. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Call +973 1601 0099.
• Houseboat: This Pan-Asian restaurant, with a focus on Thai cuisine, is one of the reviewer's favourite eateries on the island. It offers indoor seating and abundant outdoor space. The stir-fries are a favourite, and the restaurant has a loyal following thanks to its trendy contemporary décor and friendly, knowledgeable staff.
• Johnny Rockets: A family-friendly, traditional American-style diner with burgers, fries, and chicken served with a 1950s vibe. Be sure to try the lemonade. Call +973 1601 1199.
• Mei n Yu Lounge: The a la carte menu here takes influence from Asian, European, and American cuisines. You'll find everything from seafood tagliatelle to crayfish thermidor, grills, homemade burgers, and Thai fish cakes. The venue is also licensed, and the desserts are proper comfort food—the banana fritters are recommended. Call +973 1601 0160.
• The Persian Room: This restaurant serves regionally inspired cuisine, including mezze, kebabs, rice dishes, stews, and fantastic desserts. On the last Thursday of the month, they offer a special 'Taste of Persia' night, where you can sample a variety of dishes from the menu for just BD8++ per person. Opening hours are Saturday to Wednesday, noon to midnight, and Thursday to Friday, noon to 1:30 am. Call +973 1601 0166.
• Levante Café: Lebanese-influenced café with international dishes and a large outdoor sheesha terrace. Call +973 1603 0393.
• Curry Tree: Traditional Indian cuisine, sandwiches, and café drinks. It can seat 30 people, and with an average price of BD6, it offers good value in a great setting. You can find it upstairs at entrance 6. Call +973 1603 0660, +973 1603 0661, or +973 3926 8415.
• Beirut Café & Restaurant: Traditional Lebanese food with a large outdoor terrace and sheesha. It is located upstairs from Levante. Call +973 3832 9940 or +973 3606 0821.

The Dragon Hotel

The Dragon Hotel is one of the first entertainment venues to open on Amwaj Island, and it has become a stalwart of the islands' social scene. Here are some dining options within the hotel:

• Muju: A contemporary gastronomic restaurant and lounge with superb sea views and international culinary creations by Chef Vito. It's a popular spot for dinner and cocktails, either inside or on the outdoor terrace. Friday Brunch at Muju is a favourite, with an extensive range of hot and cold dishes, inclusive drinks, and a chilled-out vibe accompanied by jazz sounds.
• Yamin Jana: A Mediterranean-style seafront lounge named after a famous Arabic phrase of celebration and welcome. It seats 140 guests on a multi-level, al fresco deck, offering a Mediterranean-infused experience day and night. There's live entertainment from Wednesday to Saturday night, with Arabic singer Alphonse Bahri. Every Tuesday is ladies' night, and a daily lunch buffet runs from noon to 6 pm for BD15++.
• Corners Bar: Amwaj's first pub-style venue is a great place to socialise and unwind while watching sports. It offers a diverse selection of food, including traditional pub grub, and even has a take-out menu.

Other Dining Options on Amwaj Island

In addition to the restaurants mentioned above, there are several other dining options on Amwaj Island:

• Angham Beirut Café and Restaurant: Lebanese, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Lulivo Italian Restaurant & Cafe: Italian, American, and pizza.
• Papa John's: Pizza.
• Chillies: Burgers, steaks, etc.
• Whopper Bar: Posh Burger King.
• Pizza Express: Pizza.
• Noodle Factory: Asian cuisine.
• Al Forno: Italian cuisine.
• Sarai: Middle Eastern cuisine.

Shopping

Amwaj Island is a premier shopping destination in Bahrain, with a diverse range of outlets, from high-end commercial buildings to charming boutiques and everything in between.

The Lagoon

The Lagoon is a shopping and entertainment hub, with around 55,000 square meters of retail and commercial space. Here are some of the shops you can visit:

• ID Design: Swanky furnishings for those seeking to decorate their homes with style.
• Tuga Bakery: One of the first outlets to open in the Lagoon, offering freshly baked bread and pastries.
• Pink Diamond: Designer clothing, accessories, and jewellery that will make you sparkle.
• Monica's Chocolate Boutique: A chocoholic's paradise, with treats that are truly sinful.
• Nail Bar: A place to get your nails done and join in on the latest trends.
• The Tailor Shop: For all your clothing alteration needs.
• Top Cut Gents' Salon: A salon catering specifically to men's grooming needs.
• Dinoura Ladies' Spa: A spa exclusively for women, offering a range of beauty and wellness treatments.
• Pottery Store: A unique shopping experience where you can find handcrafted pottery items.

The Amwaj Marina

The Amwaj Marina is a luxurious gateway to the island's attractions. While it primarily caters to boating activities, it also offers a range of shopping options:

• High-end commercial buildings: The Amwaj Marina is home to upscale commercial spaces, such as the Meritas House (formerly known as Amwaj Business Park), offering office spaces with stunning sea views.
• Boutiques and specialty stores: In addition to the commercial spaces, the Amwaj Marina also houses smaller boutiques and specialty stores, offering a diverse range of products and services.

The Dragon Hotel

The Dragon Hotel is one of the first entertainment venues on the island and a stalwart of the social scene. While it is known for its dining and entertainment offerings, it also has some shopping options:

• Corners Bar: Amwaj's first pub, offering a diverse food menu, including traditional pub grub, and a take-out option.
• Muju: A contemporary gastronomic restaurant and lounge located within the Dragon Hotel, offering international culinary creations.

Other Shopping Destinations

In addition to the Lagoon, the Marina, and the Dragon Hotel, there are other shopping destinations on Amwaj Island:

• Waitrose Supermarket: A favourite among the British expat community, offering a range of groceries and household items.
• MAZ Business Centre: A hub for businesses and entrepreneurs, offering a range of services and amenities.
• Salons and Spas: Amwaj Island boasts a variety of salons and spas, such as the Cocoon Wellness Spa, offering beauty treatments and wellness experiences.
• Festival Markets: The island hosts regular festivals, such as the Diva Festivals and Blossom Events, which include market stalls featuring local artisans and unique products.
• Amwaj Market: This market runs once a month during the winter at the Marina, offering around 70 stalls with a variety of products, from plants and artwork to clothing, accessories, and gifts.

Amwaj Island truly offers a holistic shopping experience, with options ranging from high-end commercial spaces to charming boutiques, festivals, and markets. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion trends, unique gifts, or simply wanting to indulge in some self-care at a spa, Amwaj Island has something for every shopper.

Spa treatments

Amwaj Islands is a man-made island project in Bahrain, offering a range of luxurious waterfront properties and attractions.

When it comes to spa treatments, Amwaj has plenty to offer. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the spa scene in Amwaj:

Cocoon Wellness Spa Amwaj:

Cocoon Wellness Spa, located within the luxurious Art Hotel and Residences, brings the magic of Bali to Bahrain. They offer a holistic approach to wellness and aesthetics, with a wide range of treatments delivered by skilled therapists.

Treatments:

• Massages: Cocoon Wellness Spa offers a range of massages, including deep tissue, Swedish, and Balinese-style massages. Their therapists are skilled Asian professionals who can target specific pressure points to relax and rejuvenate you.
• Hammam: You can experience the traditional Moroccan and Turkish hammam, a steam bath that promotes detoxification and relaxation.
• Facials: They offer anti-aging facials to help you maintain a youthful glow.
• Slimming and Body Therapies: A range of treatments are available to help with slimming and body contouring, including high-tech options like LED body red light therapy.
• Detox and Wellness: Cocoon also provides advanced treatments like Oxygen Halo therapy for detoxification and overall wellness.

Reviews:

Cocoon Wellness Spa has excellent reviews, with many guests praising the skilled therapists, clean and soothing ambience, and effective treatments. The therapists Devi and Lucky have been mentioned multiple times for their exceptional skills and professionalism.

Hotel Spas:

Several hotels in Amwaj Islands offer spa facilities and treatments as part of their guest services:

The ART Hotel & Resort:

The ART Hotel & Resort, home to the Cocoon Wellness Spa, also offers its own spa experiences. It is one of the highest-rated spa resorts in Amwaj Islands and provides a range of wellness options for guests.

Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Amwaj Islands Manama:

The Ramada Hotel & Suites is another highly-rated spa resort, offering a variety of treatments and wellness options for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Grove Resort Bahrain:

The Grove Resort is known for its on-site Argon Spa, which offers a range of treatments with fabulous therapists.

Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj:

The Gulf Suites Hotel is also recognised for its spa facilities and friendly staff who cater to guests' needs.

Amwaj Lagoon:

The Amwaj Lagoon is a premier destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It offers a multitude of activities, including spa and beauty centres, cultural festivals, and various dining options.

In conclusion, Amwaj Islands presents a plethora of spa treatment options, from dedicated wellness centres like Cocoon Wellness Spa to hotel spas and beauty centres within entertainment hubs. Each offers its own unique experiences, skilled therapists, and a range of treatments to cater to your every need.

Frequently asked questions