Beachside bliss at Dubai's La Mer

* Please note that La Mer is currently being redeveloped, and will become a new lifestyle destination named J1 Beach. Before you visit, make sure to check the latest information on La Mer and its restaurants, shops and attractions. Read on to learn more about J1 Beach and all the exciting details we know so far.

If you need a day of pure relaxation, head to the destination’s golden sands to soak up the sun and watch the world go by. Art lovers may also notice this charming community’s harmonious blend of minimalist and contemporary design. Inspired by the way the sea washes up timber, rusted metal and barrels to the shore, La Mer’s sustainable marine theme is visible at every turn.

For a mini-holiday without the hassle, La Mer offers the perfect mix of style and substance.

Visitors can shop for sand and sea essentials at Rebel Swell and souvenirs and more at I Love Dubai. If you're thinking about buying a new pair of sunglasses, Optifashion has a wide range of designer shades from all the top international brands. You can also stop by La Mer's branch of Virgin Megastore for gaming and tech items, toys, music, books and more. 

For an added dose of luxury, head to Train Beach Club and take a dip in the infinity or plunge pool. If you're feeling peckish, you can enjoy some delicious bites from the comfort of your poolside sunlounger - while inside you'll find a large, stylish and well-equipped fitness facility. 

Kids will enjoy the high-octane fun at Drifty, where they can safely race electric cars on an outdoor track, while Funrider offers more motorised joy aboard brightly-lit bikes for all ages. For a more low-key day out, simply chill at beachside cabanas, where you can chat, read or take photos by the colourful boats on the sand.

When La Mer’s beaches and restaurants aren’t filling up social feeds, the focus falls on the colourful decorative art and inspired graffiti that can be found along sidewalks, across buildings and even on pavements.

Brighten up every selfie with Arabic phrases such as ‘yalla habibi’ and ‘aloo keefak?’ and playful murals that feature everything from bananas to camels and cars. Head over and see if you can spot the artwork of a child wearing heart-shaped sunglasses with the message ‘stay cool’ – one of the most photographed locations at La Mer.

These include Gigi Rigolatto, Sirene Beach by Gaia and Bâoli – plus 10 other restaurants that will welcome visitors from sunrise to sunset.

Gigi Rigolatto will serve up sumptuous Italian food, which can be enjoyed alfresco on two terraces, as well as a garden, a swimming pool, a kids’ circus, a wellness area and direct access to the beach. Sirene Beach by Gaia will offer a menu that's packed with tempting Greek-Mediterranean flavours, while Bâoli will serve modern Japanese cuisine in chic surroundings. J1 Beach is scheduled to open to the public by the end of 2023.