The Top 4 Spots For Leisure And Recreation On Yas Island

With four world-renowned theme parks and various hubs for thrilling sports and activities to its name, Yas Island has earned the reputation of being Abu Dhabi’s most fun, adventure-filled destination.
But when you’re on vacation here, you don’t have to spend all your time hopping from one adventure to another. As one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi, Yas Island is where you can also enjoy various leisure and recreational activities that can help you unwind and have low-key fun.
You can enjoy the best leisure and recreational activities on Yas Island in these places:
1. Yas Bay Waterfront
Yas Bay Waterfront is located on the south shore of Yas Island. It’s regarded as Abu Dhabi’s ultimate waterfront destination with its wide array of dining spots, hotels, and a massive state-of-the-art entertainment venue.
The waterfront features a palm tree-lined three-kilometer boardwalk that serves as an easy pathway to follow as you go for a walk or hop from one restaurant to another. You’ll get stunning waterfront and skyline views when you’re dining here al fresco or strolling along the bay.
Whether you’re dining here for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner or simply craving coffee or a snack, you won’t be disappointed with the wide array of options. The top restaurants and cafes you should visit here are:
- Akiba Dori
- Asia Asia Abu Dhabi
- Bushra by Buddha Bar
- Café Del Mar
- Central
- Daikan Izakaya
- Drop Coffee
- Emmy Squared
- Hunter & Barrel
- La Carnita
- Lock, Stock and Barrel
- Paradiso
- Pop City
- The Lighthouse
- Zeera
If you want to experience Yas Island’s vibrant nightlife, head to WHITE Abu Dhabi, the island’s mega club, or Siddharta Lounge.
For some fun, try wakeboarding and wake surfing at the Funfit Watersports Club or go on a boat ride across Orca Park. If you want to squeeze in some yoga, Pilates, and aero-stretching during your visit here, head to Topstretching.
If you want to stay here, book a room at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, one of the top hotels in Abu Dhabi.
2. Yas Marina
Yas Marina is another waterfront area where you can enjoy an array of recreational and leisure activities. Here, you can see some of the biggest super yachts docked and the best views of the Yas Marina Circuit.
The marina is home to several top-rated restaurants, which include the following:
- Boroughs
- Cipriani
- Diablito Food and Music
- Iris
- Ishtar
- Mika
- Stars ‘N Bars
These restaurants boast a variety of cuisines and dining experiences that allow you to enjoy a great meal or snack day or night.
After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to enjoy the incredible views of the marina.
You can also take part in different water sports and activities here. Try your hand at wake surfing and sailing at the Abu Dhabi Sailing Academy. For something more relaxing, join a cruise to get more incredible views of the coastline.
If you don’t want to skip a workout, book a spot at Vogue Fitness.
Yas Marina Bay also hosts several events throughout the year; check their website to find out which ones you can join during your visit here.
3. Yas Mall
Abu Dhabi’s largest mall is home to more than 370 international brands, 68 dining options and different entertainment hubs. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a variety of recreational and leisure activities.
Try indoor wall climbing and experience indoor skydiving at CLYMB™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. If you want to reach higher heights, try your luck at Adventure HQ.
Make sure you get a photo or two at Yas Mall’s iconic fountain, which is located on the ground floor. You can also watch your choice of movies at Vox Cinema.
When you’re hungry or craving a refreshing drink or light snack, head to one of the following dining spots:
- Asha’s
- Adrift Burger Bar
- Al Fanar Restaurant and Café
- Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
- Entrecôte Café De Paris
- Kim
- Nap Pizzeria
- F. Chang’s
- Peppermill
- Soraya
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Yas Food Hall
Don’t forget to watch the fountain show at The Fountains, which is just beside Yas Mall. You can get a first-hand view of the show at one of the al fresco dining spots here.
4. Yas Beach
For a restful day at the beach, head to Yas Beach, where you can lay on a lounger, sip on a refreshing drink, and take in the stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. You can also rent a private chalet or cabana for a more exclusive experience.
Yas Beach’s soft, white sands invite long walks or just a peaceful moment for yourself and the calm waters are perfect for a refreshing, leisurely swim. Unwind by the infinity pool and enjoy a refreshing dip when you want to cool down.
If you want something more exciting, try paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing. Join a game of volleyball or padel tennis to keep the action on land.
Yas Beach delivers the ultimate balance of leisure and fun in a beautiful coastal setting.
If you want to spend more time unwinding and relaxing in Yas Island, put these places on your holiday itinerary here.