Bahrain, an island nation in the Arabian Gulf, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it an excellent destination for a family holiday. The country features a variety of cultural attractions, family-friendly activities, and beautiful beaches. Families can explore historical sites like the Pearling Path, enjoy outdoor activities, visit interesting museums, and relax on stunning beaches...the list is endless. Outlook Traveller has curated some of the most popular options to make your family getaway to Bahrain a memorable one.
Take your family on the Pearling Path trail and explore the history of pearl diving in Bahrain. The Pearling Path extends approximately three kms, beginning at the pearling sites, known locally as “hayrat,” near Bu Maher Fort, which was built in 1840. This path is a cultural landmark in Bahrain and has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The trail leads to Siyadi House, located in the heart of Muharraq and serving as the main pearling museum. The path will take you on a journey from the Bu Maher Fort visitor center to several historic homes, including Al-Ghous House, Al-Jalahma House, Badr Ghulum House (noted for folk medicine), Yousif Al-Alawi House, Fakhro House, Murad House, and a Majlis. Along the way, you will encounter shops and storage facilities, locally known as Amārat, such as Amārat Yousif Abdulrahman Fakhro and Rashid Fakhro, as well as Nukhidhah House, recognised as the "boat capital." The trail concludes at Siyadi House and a mosque. The Pearling Path is a living open-air museum that documents a significant period in Bahrain’s history, when the economy relied heavily on the pearling trade. It also showcases the journey of Bahraini pearls from the seabed to international marketplaces.
Located behind the iconic Bab Al Bahrain in Manama, this historic market provides a fascinating insight into the country's colonial and trade history. For centuries, merchants have traded pearls, spices, textiles, and handicrafts here.
Bab Al Bahrain, built in 1949, serves as the entrance to the Manama Souq. It originally overlooked the sea, and housed government offices. You and your family can spend half a day exploring the maze of narrow streets and alleys filled with colourful shops and eateries. The souq offers a wide variety of goods, including spices, textiles, incense, perfumes, and handicrafts. It has recently undergone redevelopment, featuring pedestrianised areas in the new section, as well as walkways in the older part of the market.
The Dilmun Burial Mounds, which date back to 3000 BCE, are among the world's largest and most significant burial sites. These immense mounds, spread across 21 archaeological sites, contain thousands of tombs from the ancient Dilmun civilisation. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the mounds provide evidence of the Early Dilmun civilisation during the 2nd millennium BCE. At that time, Bahrain emerged as a trade hub, and its prosperity allowed the inhabitants to develop an elaborate burial tradition that applied to the entire population.
The tombs are notable for their unique characteristics, not only in terms of their large numbers, density, and scale, but also for details such as burial chambers featuring alcoves.
Your family can discover the rich history of the island at the Bahrain National Museum, which narrates the story of Bahrain's 6,000-year history through exhibits on traditional culture and crafts. The museum includes six main halls, a beautiful waterfront area, and a café, making it an ideal place to relax after your visit. It’s a fantastic spot for children to develop an interest in history while enjoying the art and artifacts on display.
Address: Shaikh Hamad Causeway, Manama, Bahrain
Bahrain boasts an array of options for outdoor enthusiasts looking to soak up the sun and enjoy adventure activities. One standout destination is the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park, a sprawling aquatic wonderland that captivates visitors of all ages. The park features a collection of thrilling water slides that twist and turn alongside expansive wave pools that mimic the rhythm of the sea. The attractions are themed around the ancient Dilmun civilisation. Families can rest assured as there are specially designated areas for younger children, complete with gentle slides and shallow pools, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. This mix of history, excitement, and family-friendly fun makes the Lost Paradise of Dilmun a must-visit attraction in Bahrain.
Enjoy the sun and sea at one of Bahrain's many beautiful beaches, including Marassi Beach, Juffair Beach, and Water Garden City Beach. Marassi Beach is a modern beach located in Diyar Al Muharraq, making it an excellent choice for families. It offers upscale amenities such as umbrellas, sun loungers, and children's play areas. It is located conveniently close to shopping centers and other tourist attractions.
Juffair Beach, situated in Manama, is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Other notable beaches in Bahrain include Solymar Beach, Al Jazayer Beach, Reef Beach Club, and Jarada Island.
Take your children on an adventure to explore the ancient ruins at Qal'at al-Bahrain, also known as Bahrain Fort. This 16th-century Portuguese fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site, emphasising its historical significance. Afterwards, unwind at the fort's seaside café, where your family can relax with a refreshing drink by the water.
Address: 892 3618, Karbabad, Bahrain
If your family has a passion for sports, consider signing up in an unforgettable adventure at the Bahrain International Karting Circuit in Sakhir. This venue features a world-class racetrack that enables children and adults alike to experience the thrill of racing in a professional setting. With go-kart rentals available for all ages, everyone has the chance to join in on the high-speed excitement and create lasting memories together.
For a different kind of adrenaline rush, you might explore Gravity Indoor Skydiving, which boasts one of the largest indoor skydiving wind tunnels in the world. This cutting-edge facility allows aspiring skydivers to defy gravity in a safe and controlled environment. With expert instructors on hand and all the necessary gear provided, participants can feel the exhilaration of free-falling without having to leap from an airplane.
For families who cherish the wonders of nature, a trip to Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve is an unforgettable experience. This sprawling sanctuary is home to a variety of animals. Children will love the interactive guided tours, which provide an engaging opportunity to learn about the animals, their behaviours, and the ecosystems they inhabit, making the visit both delightful and educational. As you wander through the park, you'll be captivated by the lush botanical garden, where vibrant flowers and diverse plants create a picturesque setting perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Address: Gulf of Bahrain Rd, Zallaq, Bahrain
