Hawar Islands
Islands Archipelago southwest of Bahrain, important bird and seal sanctuary
The Hawar Islands, south of Bahrain, are visited for birdwatching, quiet beaches and clear water diving; the small archipelago supports nesting seabirds and day-trip wildlife excursions.
The Hawar Islands are a small archipelago belonging to Bahrain, located off the western coast of the Qatar peninsula and noted for their coastal and marine habitats. The islands are largely uninhabited and valued for wildlife, especially seabird colonies and marine biodiversity.
The group is managed primarily for conservation and limited tourism, with access controlled to protect nesting birds and fragile coastal environments. Scientific and regulated wildlife visits occur alongside restricted public access.
The islands have been the subject of modern territorial agreements and legal determinations, and their status as Bahraini territory is part of 21st century regional arrangements. Management emphasises protection of the natural environment.
Geographically the Hawar group lies in the Gulf close to the Qatar coast, separate from Bahrain’s main island, and is reached only by authorised boats from Bahrain.
- Wildlife and access restrictions: The islands are recognised for their seabird colonies and coastal ecosystems and are managed with conservation measures that restrict general tourist access.
How to Get to Hawar Islands #
Access is by boat from southern Bahrain ports (arrangements usually made through licensed tour operators in Manama); private boats and scheduled eco-tours offer the most common means of reaching the islands. Check permits and protected-area rules before travel.
Tips for Visiting Hawar Islands #
- If visiting for wildlife (birding, turtle nesting), go with licensed eco-tours that respect protected areas and seasonal closures.
- Bring marine binoculars and sun protection; the islands are exposed and can be windy.
- Confirm permissions and transport-some islands are protected and require advance clearance.
Best Time to Visit Hawar Islands #
Winters are best for visiting the Hawar Islands-calmer seas, nicer temperatures and better wildlife viewing.
Weather & Climate near Hawar Islands #
Tropical climate with very hot summers (peaking in July) and mild winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 13°C to 40°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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May
May is hot, feeling like 32°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 36°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the hottest month, feeling like 39°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 40°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 36°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is hot, feeling like 30°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 19°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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December
December is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. Light rainfall and clear sunny skies.
