Snoopy Island

Rising out of scintillating sea waves, just a kayak ride away from the beach, you’ll find the Middle East’s best kept secret … Snoopy Island.

Have you ever wondered what Snoopy would look like if he turned to stone? Well now’s your chance to find out! The famed Snoopy Island is named after a majestic rock on the Gulf of Oman which resembles Snoopy lying on his back. Based in Fujairah, an Emirati state, just a 2-hour drive from the centre of Dubai, the area is a haven for water sports and hiking lovers. Still relatively untouched by hoards of tourists, you’ll find this the ideal retreat from city life.

When it comes to water sports Scuba diving is one of the most sought out activities in beach resorts, but Snoopy Island’s varied marine life and safe waters make for fantastic underwater entertainment. Pop on your flippers and snorkelling mask and get to know the fish which dwell in Fujairah’s sparkling sea. Alternatively, kayak your way out to the island and discover if it still looks like Snoopy close up.

‘Sandy Beach’ is adorned with a backdrop of the Hajar mountains and is the perfect place to bask in the sun, squidging your toes in the powdery sand. The proximity to the mountains lends itself to exploring various hiking and nature trails. Hike high enough and you’ll be amazed by the view; the perfect marriage of sea and desert.

If you’re looking for excursions in the surrounding area, you'll be spoilt for choice. This is the ideal spot for history buffs and outdoor lovers.

The island’s proximity to the mountains makes it the ideal spot for hiking and nature walks. Nestled in the mountains, you will also find rock pools; a fantastic opportunity for adrenaline junkies to go rock pool jumping. If however, pottering around historical monuments is more your speed, the Fujairah Fort is ideal. Dating back to the 16th Century, the sand encrusted masonry is steeped in rich historical context. In 1925, the British Navy destroyed three of its towers after an anti-slavery protest.

If it’s architecture that draws you in, there are few places outside the Middle East that can boast such remarkable mosque structures. Sheikh Zayed Mosque, is an opulent example of Ottoman architecture. Its soaring minarets and enormous cupola will leave you in awe. Alternatively, and this is my personal favourite, take a day trip to the Musandam coast, rent a boat and you may be lucky to spot a dolphin or two out at sea.

Fujairah is also full of delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, from Tabouleh to Fattoush (Arabic bread salad), but the following are my particular favourites....

Shawarmas, the perfect sustenance for a day spent exploring the coastline or hiking in the Hajar mountains. An Eastern wrap, filled with grilled chicken marinated in an intense blend of spices, including cinnamon, cumin and turmeric and garnished with various local herbs and sauces.

When it comes to your evening meal, you haven’t completed your trip to the Middle East until you’ve feasted on freshly grilled Hamour (Orange Spotted Grouper). Hamour is the most common and popular fish for eating in the UAE, it is abundant in the waters around Oman and Fujairah. You may even be lucky enough to spot the fishermen bringing in their daily catch, ready to be eaten that same evening. Look out onto the moonlight dappled water and enjoy your meal in utter tranquillity.

When it comes to the sweet-toothed visitor, Umm Ali is a fantastic example of the rich, sweet, spiced flavours of the East. Served for pudding or brunch in most Middle Eastern hotels. It is in essence an Arabic bread and butter pudding, often flavoured with fruit, nuts and rose water or orange blossom water. The delicate flavours and creamy textures will leave you wanting more and more.

Finally, don’t forget to try some dates with your mid-day Kahwa (Omani coffee). Dates are an Omani staple, and the region grows dates of un-paralleled quality. Traditionally, they are offered to visitors as a symbol of hospitality.

With the near constant desert heat, Snoopy Island is an all-day, every-day paradise for water-sports enthusiasts. Swim, snorkel and scuba dive amongst all manner of rainbow coloured sea-creatures; from your standard Hamour to little sharks that co-inhabit the area (they’re friendly I promise!). Sandy beach can provide hours of entertainment for youngsters, building sand boats or collecting seashells. Snoopy Island is fun for the whole family and will not leave you disappointed.

Photo source- Curly Tales Blog, https://curlytales.com/5-things-to-do-at-snoopy-island-uaes-best-kept-secret/

The photos used in this post are not the property of The Emerald Kimono