Where to find beautiful lagoons in Sharjah?

Sharjah, often dubbed the cultural capital of the UAE, offers a remarkable array of stunning lagoon views that provide a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls, family outings, and captivating photography. We’ve found that the emirate’s commitment to urban planning around its natural waterways has created numerous spots where the shimmering waters of its lagoons can be truly enjoyed.

Al Majaz Waterfront: The Vibrant Heart of Lagoon Life

For an energetic yet relaxing experience with fantastic lagoon views, Al Majaz Waterfront is undeniably the prime location in Sharjah. This bustling promenade along Khalid Lagoon offers a perfect blend of leisure, dining, and scenic beauty.

• Spectacular Musical Fountain Shows: The centerpiece of Al Majaz Waterfront is the Sharjah Musical Fountain, which provides mesmerizing shows after sunset. As the water dances in rhythm with lights and music, the reflection on the vast Khalid Lagoon creates a truly enchanting spectacle. We recommend finding a good spot along the promenade or at one of the many waterside restaurants to fully appreciate this dynamic display. The changing colors and intricate water patterns against the backdrop of the city lights and the expansive lagoon are simply breathtaking.
• Dining with a View: Al Majaz Waterfront boasts a diverse array of restaurants and cafes, many of which offer outdoor seating directly overlooking the lagoon. Whether you’re craving traditional Emirati cuisine, international flavors, or just a coffee, you can enjoy your meal with an unobstructed view of the shimmering water and the lively activity on the promenade. Imagine sipping a warm cup of karak while watching traditional abras glide across the lagoon as the sun sets.
• Leisurely Strolls and Jogging Tracks: The well-maintained jogging and walking tracks that stretch along the waterfront invite leisurely strolls or invigorating runs. These paths offer continuous, picturesque views of Khalid Lagoon, providing a refreshing escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The wide promenades ensure ample space for everyone, whether you’re alone with your thoughts or enjoying a walk with family and friends.
• Boating and Water Activities: To truly immerse yourselves in the lagoon experience, you can hire a private boat or take a dhow cruise from the waterfront. Gliding across the calm waters of Khalid Lagoon offers a unique perspective of the surrounding cityscape and attractions, including Al Noor Island and Flag Island. This is an excellent way to capture panoramic photos of the lagoon and its landmarks from the water itself.

Al Majaz Waterfront is generally free to enter, though activities like boat rides and dining at restaurants come with their own costs. The musical fountain shows are free to watch and run frequently after sunset.

Al Noor Island: A Serene Escape Amidst the Waters

Connected by a pedestrian bridge from the Khalid Lagoon Corniche, Al Noor Island offers a more tranquil and artistic experience with exquisite lagoon views, perfect for peaceful contemplation and stunning photography.

• Architectural Harmony with Water: The island’s design thoughtfully integrates its structures and art installations with the surrounding lagoon. The walkways and pavilions are often designed to maximize views of the water, allowing visitors to feel truly connected to the lagoon’s serene environment. The subtle lighting and thoughtful landscaping enhance the natural beauty of the water at night.
• Butterfly House Reflections: The unique glass-domed structure of the Butterfly House offers fascinating reflections of the lagoon on its exterior, creating interesting visual effects. Inside, while enjoying the vibrant butterflies, you can still catch glimpses of the water through its transparent walls, blending nature with the outdoor scenery.
• Art Installations Overlooking the Lagoon: Many of the contemporary art installations on Al Noor Island are strategically placed to offer captivating views of Khalid Lagoon. For instance, the “Torus” sculpture often reflects the water, creating dynamic visual interplay. These artistic elements enhance the natural beauty of the lagoon, making it a feast for both the eyes and the mind.
• Pedestrian Bridge Access and Vistas: The pedestrian bridge leading to Al Noor Island from the mainland is a viewpoint in itself. As you cross, you are treated to expansive views of the entire Khalid Lagoon, including the majestic Al Noor Mosque, the skyline of Sharjah, and the distant Al Majaz Waterfront. This walk sets the stage for the peaceful experience awaiting on the island.

While Al Noor Island has an entry fee, it is a small price to pay for the serene ambiance and unique combination of art, nature, and captivating lagoon vistas. We recommend visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to experience the best light and cooler temperatures.

Flag Island: Iconic Views and National Pride

Positioned prominently within Khalid Lagoon, Flag Island is not just a symbol of national pride but also an excellent spot to enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding waters and cityscape.

• The Iconic Flagpole and Lagoon Panorama: The island’s most striking feature, the towering 123-meter flagpole, provides a magnificent focal point against the backdrop of the lagoon. From this vantage point, you get a broad, panoramic view of Khalid Lagoon, stretching from the Central Souq (Blue Souq) on one side to the Al Majaz Waterfront on the other. This extensive vista captures the essence of Sharjah’s urban planning around its central waterway.
• Amphitheatre and Waterside Events: The open-air amphitheater on Flag Island often hosts cultural events and concerts, many of which take advantage of the stunning lagoon views as a natural stage backdrop. Attending an event here provides a unique opportunity to enjoy performances while simultaneously appreciating the serene beauty of the illuminated lagoon at night.
• Walking Paths and Cafes: Flag Island offers well-maintained walking paths that encircle the island, allowing visitors to stroll leisurely while enjoying uninterrupted lagoon views. There are also cafes with outdoor seating where you can relax and soak in the scenery, making it a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon or an evening outing.

Flag Island is generally open to the public without an entry fee, making it an accessible spot for enjoying the lagoon views and capturing memorable photographs.

Central Souq (Blue Souq): Traditional Charm with Water Glimpses

While primarily a shopping destination, the iconic Central Souq, also known as the Blue Souq, offers unique glimpses of Khalid Lagoon, particularly from its upper levels and the walkways connecting its two sections.

• Architectural Grandeur and Lagoon Proximity: The Central Souq’s distinctive Islamic architecture, with its beautiful blue tiling and intricate arches, is impressive in itself. Strategically located adjacent to Khalid Lagoon, the souq’s design incorporates views of the water from certain points. This allows shoppers to experience a blend of traditional commerce and serene waterfront scenery.
• Upper Level Vistas: From the upper levels of the Central Souq, particularly from the walkways that connect the two main buildings, you can get elevated views of Khalid Lagoon. These vantage points offer a different perspective, showing the traditional dhows docked along the waterfront and the broader expanse of the lagoon, sometimes with the modern skyline in the distance.
• Cultural Context of Water: The souq’s historical connection to trade and the sea reinforces the significance of the lagoon. While Browse for carpets, jewelry, or traditional handicrafts, you are reminded of Sharjah’s maritime past and how the lagoon has always been central to its economic and cultural life. This contextual connection enhances the appreciation of the views.

The Central Souq is free to enter, and you can explore its various levels to discover the best spots for lagoon views. It offers a combination of cultural immersion and scenic beauty.

Sharjah’s lagoons are truly integral to its identity, providing not only stunning vistas but also vibrant spaces for recreation, culture, and quiet reflection, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor. This guide has been carefully compiled by the www.few.ae team.