Hawar Islands

The Hawar Islands are a protected archipelago off Bahrain's south-west coast, reached from the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion, about 40 km by road from central Manama and roughly an hour's drive, followed by a boat crossing of about 30 minutes to Hawar Island. The islands are known for their wildlife and are a significant site for seabirds, including breeding Socotra cormorants, along with other coastal species and desert fauna. Because the islands are protected, access is restricted: the transfer must be booked in advance, typically through Hawar Resort by Mantis, whose boat transfers run from the Durrat Pavilion on a pre-booked schedule. Costs for day passes or stays should be confirmed with the resort, since no fixed price is published here. To reach the pavilion, visitors can take a Careem or metered taxi at roughly BHD 10-14 each way, or drive and park. The trip is rated moderate because of the multi-leg transfers and time outdoors. A suggested day starts with an early departure from Manama to make the morning boat. On arrival, the morning suits wildlife watching and walks along the shoreline and low desert terrain while temperatures are mild. Midday meals are normally arranged through the resort, so the booking should confirm whether lunch is included. The afternoon can be spent at the beach, on a guided nature outing if offered, or resting before the return boat and the drive back to Manama in the evening. The best season is November to March, when the weather is comfortable and bird activity is good; summer is extremely hot. Visitors should carry water, sun protection and any identification the resort requests, and must follow the rules protecting wildlife and nesting areas.