Stunning Coastlines of Iran; from south to north
- Zohreh Khosravi
- 6 hours ago
Iran, stretching from north to south, boasts one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse coastlines. From the lush and serene shores of the Caspian Sea in the north to the dreamy coasts of the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman in the south, every corner of this vast land tells a unique story and showcases unparalleled vistas. The northern Stunning Coastlines of Iran with the verdant regions of the Caspian Sea, are adorned with dense forests, rolling green hills, and a humid, temperate climate. Their proximity to the Alborz Mountains offers opportunities for hiking and discovering waterfalls.
The southern coasts along the Persian Gulf feature a mix of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and historic port cities. Meanwhile, in the southeast, the Gulf of Oman coastline captivates visitors with its dramatic cliffs, secluded bays, and rugged coastal landscapes. Every part of this land promises a unique and unforgettable experience for travellers. If you’re seeking tranquillity in secluded spots surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty, the Stunning Coastlines of Iran are the perfect destination. You will read more in Sepehran Blog.
One of the most stunning coastlines of Iran, is located in Sistan and Baluchestan province, near Chabahar. In the local language, “Darak” means “reaching,” symbolizing the union of desert and sea at this extraordinary location. Situated 160 kilometres west of Chabahar, the beach is accessible via a roughly two-hour drive. The journey to Darak Beach passes through tropical fruit orchards and charming villages like Kahir, offering a distinctive travel experience. Visitors can spend the night in the best local eco-lodges here.
What sets Darak Beach apart from other southern Iranian coasts is the unique convergence of desert and sea—a combination rarely seen elsewhere. The iconic lone palm tree at this beach immediately catches the eye. Although this tree was recently planted to replace the old one and may not possess the same charm, it remains a symbol of Darak Beach.
Since the beach remains pristine, it lacks water sports, diving, or camping facilities. However, its unique beauty offers breathtaking photography views and a serene experience. Notably, along its western route, you can visit the mud volcano lagoon and the habitat of the Gando crocodile. With its distinctive tranquillity and silence, this beach offers a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts, and in this regard, it resembles the desert beaches of Namibia in Africa.
Red Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in Iran, is located in the south of Hormuz Island. To reach the island, you must first travel to Bandar Abbas or Qeshm Island and then take a boat from Shahid Haqani Wharf or Shahid Zakeri Wharf to Hormuz. On the island, local vehicles will take you to the Red Beach.
The Red and Silver beaches, located side by side, showcase a breathtaking fusion of natural beauty. Due to the presence of iron oxide, the soil of this beach has a natural and striking red colour. As you move from the top to the bottom of this sloping beach, the red soil at the end of the path blends with the silver sand, creating a unique view. A similar phenomenon can also be seen on the red beaches of Santorini, Greece. Along the beach, local vendors sell beautiful handcrafted items made from seashells. For a snack, you can try the unique taste of Sambusa or the local Tamoshi bread, served with a unique and exclusive sauce. Interestingly, the locals use the red soil from the beach to make this sauce, which gives the food a distinct and memorable flavor.
If you travel to Hormuz on a tour, the itinerary usually includes visits to the Adventure Lodge, the Salt Cave, Rainbow Valley, the Valley of Statues, and the Red Beach. The best time to visit this beach is from autumn to late April. Additionally, there is the option to camp on the beach, providing a memorable experience of the pristine nature of the Persian Gulf.
Known for its white sands and crystal-clear waters, Maroo or Maru, is often called as the “Maldives in Iran.” This pristine, uninhabited island near Lavan Island is an attractive destination for photography enthusiasts and those seeking tranquillity in nature.
There are two main routes to reach Maroo Island. If you depart from Bandar Abbas, it takes about five hours to get the port of Moqam. Alternatively, from Asaluyeh, you can drive for about three hours to reach the same port. There is only one accommodation in Moqam, and by staying there, you can travel by speedboat from the lodge’s beach to Maroo and Lavan Island. If not, you can rent a boat from Moqam Port to the Island, which takes 30 to 45 minutes. Maroo lies on the eastern side of Lavan Island, which is very close to it. Due to its protected coral reef area and international Shidvar wetland, the island is known as “Shidvar Island” too. A visit to the island is typically a half-day (morning to noon) trip, with the option to camp during this time.
However, for water activities, you should bring your own equipment, as no diving or swimming facilities are available on the island. The best time to visit this beautiful beach is from early autumn to late April. The clear waters, white sands, and pristine scenery of the island offer travelers a pure experience of the Persian Gulf’s nature.
Mokasar Rock Beach is one of the most stunning natural attractions in Hormozgan province. It offers breathtaking views in the Shibkouh area of Bandar Lengeh, near Moqam Port. The best way to reach this beach is by traveling from Bandar Abbas to Moqam Port. The distance from this port to “Mokasar” is approximately 10 kilometers. After walking for 6 to 7 minutes, you will reach this fantastic rocky beach.
The name “Mokasar” means “broken” or “shattered” in the local dialect, which refers to the erosion of the rocks by powerful waves over time. The unique and natural shapes of the stones give the impression that an artist carefully designed them. Some of these rocks, with layers resembling creamy chocolate-colored foam, create a surreal landscape that feels like looking at a page of whipped cream. These incredible views have made the beach one of the most popular locations for photography.
Watching the sunrise and sunset from this beach while enjoying its tranquil silence offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. Overnight camping is also possible at the beach, providing an opportunity to connect more closely with nature.
This beach is home to many marine species, including sea turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and shellfish. The biodiversity and natural beauty of the area make Mokasar one of the most unique tourist destinations in southern Iran.
The coral beach is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches on Kish Island. Due to its diverse facilities and scenic beauty, it is considered an ideal destination for tourists. With its white sands and the clear waters of the Persian Gulf, this beach is a perfect place to relax and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Some of this beach’s most exciting activities include water sports such as jet skiing, diving, boating, and parasailing. Additionally, there are unique paths for cycling and motorcycling nearby, offering a unique sports and recreation experience.
Alongside these facilities, “Coral Beach Park”, with its beautiful gazebos and pleasant green spaces, is an excellent spot for relaxation and family picnics. Beach-side cafes and snack stalls provide an opportunity to recharge while enjoying local flavors. The Marjan Mall allows tourists to shop for souvenirs and various products.
One of the most captivating parts of a visit to Coral Beach is capturing photos and watching the sunset. The sight of the sun setting on the horizon of the Persian Gulf creates a dreamy and tranquil scene that mesmerizes all viewers. With its complete facilities and prime location, Marjan Coral Beach is a comprehensive destination where the whole family can enjoy nature, tranquillity, and excitement.
The beach of Astara is one of the cleanest and most stunning coastlines of Iran, attracting many tourists each year with its natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere. Located just 7 kilometers from the city center, this beach is ideal for water activities, marine sports, and relaxation with family and friends.
One of the unique features of this beach is its natural shell-covered floor, with shells of various sizes and shapes that have washed up from the sea over the years. This beautiful and distinctive sight is wildly entertaining and memorable for children.
Spanning 17 hectares, this beach offers a variety of recreational and comfort facilities, including gazebos, traditional resting areas, shops, buffets, restrooms, and freshwater showers for the convenience of visitors. Additionally, the beach has a cleaning program, and lifeguards are always on duty to ensure safety. Nearby, the large coastal market of Astara provides an excellent opportunity to shop for souvenirs and various goods at affordable prices. For those seeking further adventure, the famous Heyran Pass offers a scenic route to visit the tourist village and the Heyran cable car.
With its beautiful nature and full amenities, this beach offers a unique and enjoyable experience reminiscent of similar shell-covered beaches in Australia and Florida.
One of the most famous and beautiful beaches in Gilan province, Gisum, is located just a short distance from Talesh. With its unique blend of forest and sea, it offers a distinctive and memorable experience for visitors. One of the most captivating aspects of this beach is its scenic route, which takes you through a lush tree-lined road in the heart of Gisum Forest, leading to one of the most stunning coastlines of Iran in less than 20 kilometers.
This beach is an ideal spot for both thrill-seekers and those seeking relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, such as parasailing, shuttle rides, jet skiing, boating, and swimming, or take advantage of the special facilities available on private beaches for men and women. Additionally, if you’re a fan of horseback riding, you can enjoy a unique ride along the coastal strip.
The proximity of this beach to Gisum Forest Park makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in northern Iran. The stunning combination of lush forest trees and the calm waves of the Caspian Sea creates a breathtaking view, leaving unforgettable memories for visitors. With its natural beauty, excellent facilities, and diverse activities, Gisum Beach is the perfect spot for a short family getaway or a one-day trip along the Iranian coastline.
