Fun Things to Do in JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence)
If you’re planning to spend some time at the beach during your Dubai getaway, chances are JBR is on your list of places to go, or even stay. JBR (aka Jumeirah Beach Residence) is perhaps best known for its wide 1.7-kilometer stretch of sand, but there’s a lot more to it than that. Once you’ve had enough fun in the sand and sun, there’s loads more to keep you entertained in JBR!
There’s a reason so many visitors choose JBR as their home base during their Dubai vacation. From the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf to the endless water sports, bustling international restaurants, and epic views of the Ain Dubai, there’s a lot to love about JBR.
If you’re planning to spend a day (or a week) in Jumeirah Beach Residence and wondering what to do, here is my list of all the best things to do in JBR for endless fun and entertainment.
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Fun Things to Do in JBR
Take a Stroll Over to Bluewaters Island
Yes, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the Ain Dubai from every vantage point in JBR, but nothing beats getting up close and personal with the world’s tallest Ferris wheel (or even riding it if it ever opens again!).
Even though Ain Dubai hasn’t been running for the past couple of years, it’s still a sight to be seen. One of the coolest things to do in JBR is to walk across the pedestrian bridge over to Bluewaters Island.
Here you’ll not only find the sky-high Ain Dubai, but there are all sorts of great restaurants (with amazing sea views!), shops, and cafes, as well as the luxurious Banyan Tree resort, a fun adult-only bowling alley called Brass Monkey, and a hip food hall called Hive. But the coolest part about walking over here is getting the chance to get neck-craning views of the 250-meter-tall Ferris wheel.
Plus, as the sun goes down each evening, the Ain Dubai lights up and puts on a spectacular show, which you can take in from Bluewaters or back on Jumeirah Beach.
Go to the 77th Floor of the Address
Speaking of tall structures, you simply can’t miss the architectural marvel that is the Address Beach Resort. This beautiful building towers at 293.9 meters, now standing proud as one of the most iconic JBR attractions.
For something extra special, head up to the 77th floor, where you’ll find one of the world’s highest infinity pools. In most cases, this spectacular pool is only available to hotel guests, so the only way you’re going to be able to take a dip is if you book a stay at the hotel. But you can also pay AED2,777 for a private air-conditioned cabana (for up to four people) if you’d rather not stay at the hotel.
If you don’t mind skipping the pool, anyone can reserve a table at the adjacent ZETA Seventy Seven, where you can dine on seafood-centric Asian fusion dishes at the same dizzying heights and with the same unreal views of the Arabian Gulf and Palm Jumeirah as you’d get from the pool.
The Walk at JBR
Stretching the entire length of JBR, The Walk at JBR is where you’ll find endless family-friendly fun. Take a stroll, and you’ll find tons of international restaurants to dine at (ranging from Georgian to Indian to fast-food chains), kid-friendly carnival games to play, unique shops to peruse, fun kiosks selling traditional UAE garb, and colorful street art murals to take photos with.
Drink and Dine at Pavilion at The Beach, JBR
If you’re visiting JBR during the scorching summer months, you should definitely make your way to the Pavilion at The Beach, JBR. This huge space is home to some of the best restaurants in JBR and offers fully enclosed air-conditioned spaces as well as outdoor terraces, which are always buzzing when the weather is nice.
For something casual and fun, head to La Mezcaleria or Claw BBQ. Or for dinner and drinks with a view, try Eataly at The Beach or Hurricane’s Grille & Bar!
Snap a Selfie with the Street Art Murals
When you think of street art, chances are Dubai isn’t the first place to come to mind. But one of the coolest things to do in JBR is to hunt down the colorful murals. You’ll find these dotting the way along The Walk at JBR.
Sip Coffee with an Ocean View at Starbucks
If you’re in need of a refresher, there’s really no better place to grab a cup of coffee or tea than this Starbucks in JBR. For the best view in the house, head up to the second story and snag one of the coveted seats on the balcony. From here you can sip your cold brewed latte with an awesome view of the Arabian Gulf and the Ain Dubai!
Spend the Day at Bla Bla Beach Club
With a prime location overlooking the Ain Dubai, Bla Bla Beach Club is always a fun place to spend the day. Open from 10 am to sunset, you can reserve poolside loungers or one of the more VIP options on the upper decks.
The best part about Bla Bla is that the cost of entry is entirely redeemable for anything on the food and drinks menu, making it very tempting to spend the whole day here soaking up the sun and splashing around in the infinity and spa pools.
Do All the Watersports
When it comes to fun JBR activities, you’ll find watersports galore here. From going parasailing, banana boating, and jet skiing to embarking on all manner of boating excursions, the world is really your oyster at JBR. To get an idea of the prices, check out the Water Adventure website.
Plus, for family-friendly fun, you’ll find the world’s largest inflatable water park right offshore. Fun for kids and adults alike, Aquafun Waterpark boasts 100+ obstacles, including bouncy castles, slides, climbing walls, and more. It’s actually hilarious to watch people wipe out from the beach!
Check Out the Dubai Marina
Located an easy 10-minute walk from JBR is the iconic Dubai Marina, which is a must if you’re visiting JBR. There’s so much to see and do here that you can easily spend an entire day here.
READ MORE: A Local’s Guide to Things to Do in Dubai Marina!
You’ll want to take in the views from the pedestrian-friendly Dubai Marina Walk, hear the call to prayer reverberate around the marina from the area’s three mosques, stop for a drink or meal at one of the many marina-side restaurants and cafes, go shopping at the Marina Mall, and so much more.
Plus, if you want to make a night of it, Pier 7 boasts seven restaurants and lounges including Asia Asia, which is one of the best nightlife venues in this part of town!
