Plizio Visual Lab

Suwad al Janubiyya

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife

Weather…

Suwad al Janubiyya is a low-lying, uninhabited island located in the southern portion of the Hawar archipelago in Bahrain. Composed mainly of sand and coral limestone, the island is a vital sanctuary for avian biodiversity in the Arabian Gulf. It serves as one of the primary breeding grounds for the globally vulnerable Socotra Cormorant, as well as several rare heron species that find safety in its isolated environment. The surrounding shallow lagoons are carpeted with extensive seagrass beds, providing critical feeding grounds for dugongs and marine turtles. Due to its ecological sensitivity, the island is under a strict conservation mandate, with human access highly restricted to ensure the nesting cycles remain undisturbed. Suwad al Janubiyya is an integral part of the Hawar islands' ecosystem, which is recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list for its outstanding natural value and its role as a refuge for regional wildlife.

Location: Bahrain
Nearby: Hawar Islands (5 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

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Best season

The best time to observe seabirds is during spring and summer months, when most species are nesting. Typically, the colonies are most active between March and August, displaying impressive breeding behavior.

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Best time of day

The early morning hours offer the best chances when birds fly out to forage. Many species also return to their nests at dusk, making them easily observable during that time.

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Etiquette

Always keep a respectful distance from nesting colonies to avoid disturbing the birds. It is strictly forbidden to step on nesting sites or feed the animals, as this disrupts their natural behavior.

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What to bring

A good pair of binoculars is essential for observing the birds from a safe distance. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as the terrain can be partly swampy and uneven.

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Getting there

The island is only accessible by boat, preferably on a guided trip from the main island of Hawar. A permit is typically required to visit the protected areas.

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What to expect

The birds can be shy and may retreat if disturbed - patience and quiet behavior are crucial. Allow plenty of time, as the best sightings often come after a longer wait.