Snoopy Island Fujairah: Complete Snorkelling Guide 2026
Snoopy Island off Al Aqah Beach on Fujairah's East Coast is consistently rated the finest snorkelling destination in the UAE — a small offshore rocky island surrounded by living coral reefs, clear Indian Ocean water with visibility frequently exceeding 10 metres, and a reliable population of Green Sea Turtles, colourful reef fish, rays and occasional whale sharks. Access is via the Sandy Beach Hotel's day pass (AED 100) which includes beach access, snorkel equipment hire and boat transport to the island.
The Marine Environment
The waters around Snoopy Island are fed by the Indian Ocean rather than the more enclosed Arabian Gulf, producing noticeably clearer water with better visibility and a richer marine ecosystem. The reef around the island is genuinely healthy — living coral in multiple species, dense populations of reef fish including parrotfish, angelfish, grouper and lionfish, and the UAE's most reliable wild turtle encounters. Green Sea Turtles are resident around the island and are regularly encountered at close range by snorkellers — these are genuinely wild animals feeding on the reef, not managed wildlife encounters.
Accessing the Island
The Sandy Beach Hotel manages beach and snorkelling access to Snoopy Island. The AED 100 day pass includes beach lounger, entry to the small bay beach area, and equipment hire including mask, fins and snorkel. Short boat trips to the island depart regularly from the hotel beach. The swim from the beach to the island is approximately 250 metres in calm conditions — manageable for confident swimmers. During choppy conditions, the boat is essential.
Diving
Several dive operators run PADI-certified diving trips around Snoopy Island and the surrounding East Coast dive sites. The island's deeper sections and the various wrecks accessible from the East Coast make the Fujairah area the UAE's premier diving destination. The Sandy Beach Hotel's dive centre is the most convenient operator for island access.
Ticket Prices & Entry
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sandy Beach Hotel Day Pass | AED 100 | AED 60 | Beach + snorkel equipment + island access |
| PADI Diving (2 dives) | AED 280 | – | From Sandy Beach Hotel dive centre |
| Snorkel Equipment Only | AED 30 | AED 20 | Without day pass |
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Sandy Beach Hotel Beach | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily |
| Best snorkelling | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (clearest water) |
| Best season | October – May |
Best Time to Visit
🟢 Best 🔵 Good ⬜ OK 🔴 Avoid
Insider Tips
Turtles at the Island's West Side
The western side of Snoopy Island has the most reliable turtle grazing areas — position yourself there and remain still for the best encounters.
Bring Your Own Equipment
The rental equipment is functional but bringing your own well-fitting mask produces a significantly better snorkelling experience.
Book Weekdays
Weekends bring day-trippers from Dubai — weekday visits at opening are significantly quieter and produce better wildlife encounters.
Conditions Dependent
Check conditions before visiting — choppy seas (common October–December) reduce visibility and make the swim to the island uncomfortable.
Underwater Camera Essential
Snoopy Island's marine life is extraordinarily photogenic — a waterproof camera or housing for your phone is one of the most valuable things you can bring.
Early Morning is Best
Arrive at Sandy Beach Hotel at opening (8 AM) for the calmest water, the best light and the least crowded reef.
Nearby Places to Visit
Prices and opening hours are estimates compiled in August 2026 and change frequently. Confirm directly with the venue before travelling. How we research