Red Sea Radiance: Discover the Adventure & Serenity of Thuwal Private Retreat
- the EDIT staff
- May 22
- 3 min read
From reef dives to starlit cinema, Saudi Arabia’s only private island redefines barefoot luxury
In a destination where privacy is paramount and luxury comes with a gentle breeze off the Red Sea, Thuwal Private Retreat has carved a space that feels entirely its own. Just a 40-minute private boat ride from Jeddah’s KAUST Marina, this ultra-exclusive island—available only as a full buyout—welcomes guests into a world where nature and indulgence go hand in hand.
While many come to relax by the overwater diwaniya or retreat to the beachside spa, The Riyadh Edit explores a side of Thuwal that is vibrant, active, and rich in natural wonder. Whether you're diving beneath turquoise waves, paddling atop crystal-clear shallows, or stargazing beside a beachside cinema, this is a retreat that stirs the senses.
Beneath the Surface: A World of Waterborn Wonders
The Red Sea is legendary for its untouched reefs—and Thuwal offers front-row access. Begin with a snorkel in the island’s Turquoise Hole, a natural swimming pool teeming with parrotfish, wrasse, and vibrant coral. Guests can step directly into this underwater world from the deck of the overwater diwaniya.
Those seeking a deeper plunge can join PADI-certified scuba courses right on the island, guided by calm waters and expert instructors. More seasoned divers can explore the deeper reefs or opt for a thrilling night dive equipped with UV lights to witness the reef’s bioluminescent magic.
Perhaps most uniquely, Thuwal partners with scientists from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) for guided dives into coral rehabilitation zones—a rare opportunity to blend adventure with environmental awareness.
Sea Above: Crystal Kayaks, Sunset Cruises & the Art of Floating
Prefer to stay dry? No problem. Glide over vibrant shallows in a transparent crystal kayak, paddle your way into calm coves with a SUP board, or grab a partner and explore in a tandem sea kayak. Beginners are welcome—Thuwal’s expert team provides one-on-one instruction to get even first-timers confidently out on the water.
For fishing enthusiasts, bespoke boat trips are available, with the culinary team ready to prepare your catch island-style. And for those who want to experience the Red Sea in cinematic form, sunset yacht cruises—complete with drinks, snacks, and dolphin sightings—are pure escapism.
Grounded in Wellness: Spa, Fitness, and Saudi Tranquility
Thuwal’s Spa Pavilion is as serene as it is luxurious. Choose from massages, facials, or traditional therapies, with the option to receive treatments on the terrace, in the pavilion, or directly on the sand. The outdoor whirlpool, garden sauna, and bucket shower make it a complete retreat-within-a-retreat.
Fitness lovers will appreciate the Technogym-equipped workout space, set near the sea with open-air energy. Whether you prefer a solo session or guided training, this is wellness designed for balance—paired, of course, with a post-workout swim in the surrounding sea.
When the Sun Sets: Cinema and Celestial Secrets
Evenings at Thuwal are where storytelling meets stargazing. The Starlight Cinema turns the beach into an open-air theater, complete with gourmet snacks and plush seating.
Alternatively, take your gaze upward with the island’s astronomy experience. A professional astronomer leads guests through constellations and Arabian sky myths using a high-powered telescope, reviving the ancient practice of celestial navigation.
The Riyadh Edit’s Take
At Thuwal Private Retreat, exclusivity doesn’t mean isolation—it means access. To knowledge. To beauty. To rare experiences that feel both culturally grounded and globally aspirational. Whether you seek stillness or stimulation, wellness or wonder, Thuwal delivers.
Here, Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty isn’t just preserved—it’s elevated.
📍 Thuwal Private Retreat – Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
🛥️ Access: 40-minute private boat ride from KAUST North Marina, Jeddah
👥 Capacity: Up to 12 adults + 3 children
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Follow: @thuwalprivateretreat
