Plizio Visual Lab

Suwad al-Janubiyah

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Suwad al-Janubiyah is a low-lying, sandy island within Bahrain's Hawar archipelago, holding immense ecological significance in the Persian Gulf. This uninhabited island serves as one of the world's largest breeding sites for the Socotra cormorant, a vulnerable bird species that nests here in vast colonies. The flat topography and isolation provide the necessary sanctuary from disturbances. The surrounding shallow waters are rich in seagrass beds, which provide a vital food source for dugongs and sea turtles. As the entire Hawar group is on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list, Suwad al-Janubiyah is strictly protected to preserve its delicate biodiversity. For researchers and nature conservationists, the island is a key reference point for studying marine habitats in arid regions and the migratory patterns of seabirds across the Gulf.

Location: Bahrain
Nearby: Jaww (34 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	18	19	22	27	32	35	36	36	34	30	25	20
Rain mm	6	5	4	5	0	0	0	0	0	2	10	9

📋 Practical info

🚪

Visiting

The flat sandy island of Suwad al-Janubiyah can only be visited from the outside as there are no buildings or interiors. Access is by private boat, but its remote location requires careful planning.

🕒

Typical hours

As an uninhabited island, there are no set opening hours; it is theoretically accessible anytime. In practice, landing is only possible during daylight and calm seas, usually limiting visits to the morning hours.

📷

Photography

Photography is allowed across the island, with the bird colonies being a popular subject. For good shots of the Socotra cormorants, a telephoto lens is recommended to avoid disturbing the birds.

⏱️

Time needed

A visit to the island typically takes two to three hours, depending on time spent birdwatching and exploring the flat sandy beach. Boat travel to and from the island must be factored in.

➕

Combine with

Suwad al-Janubiyah is part of the Hawar archipelago, so it can be combined with other islands like Suwad al-Shamaliyah. A boat tour of the entire island group is also a recommended addition.

🧭

Getting there

The island is only accessible by boat, with trips typically organized from the Bahrain coast. Private boats require a permit as the area is a nature reserve; check in advance.

💡

Insider tip

A useful tip: bring binoculars to observe the Socotra cormorants and other seabirds up close. Avoid loud noises and sudden movements to avoid disturbing the breeding colonies.