About Hawar Islands
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.
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Excellent | 13° - 20° | 17° | 14 mm | mostly sunny | 64% | 4.1 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 10.6h |
| February | Excellent | 14° - 22° | 18° | 17 mm | mostly sunny | 64% | 4.6 m/s | 1.2 high | 11.2h |
| March | Ideal | 16° - 25° | 21° | 25 mm | mostly sunny | 58% | 4.6 m/s | 1.6 very high | 11.9h |
| April | Ideal | 21° - 31° | 26° | 7 mm | mostly sunny | 53% | 4.8 m/s | 1.9 very high | 12.6h |
| May | Ideal | 25° - 36° | 32° | 1 mm | clear | 47% | 4.6 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 13.3h |
| June | Ideal | 28° - 39° | 36° | 0 mm | clear | 46% | 4.6 m/s | 2.3 extreme | 13.6h |
| July | Excellent | 29° - 40° | 39° | 0 mm | clear | 49% | 4.3 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 13.4h |
| August | Excellent | 29° - 39° | 40° | 0 mm | clear | 52% | 4.3 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 12.9h |
| September | Ideal | 27° - 37° | 36° | 0 mm | clear | 53% | 3.6 m/s | 1.9 very high | 12.2h |
| October | Ideal | 24° - 34° | 30° | 1 mm | clear | 56% | 3.7 m/s | 1.5 very high | 11.4h |
| November | Ideal | 19° - 28° | 24° | 8 mm | clear | 59% | 3.9 m/s | 1.0 high | 10.8h |
| December | Ideal | 15° - 23° | 19° | 11 mm | clear | 65% | 3.9 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 10.4h |
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.
