Yes — you can spend a full day at Banana Island Resort Doha without booking an overnight stay. A day pass gets you the ferry crossing, a private crescent-shaped beach, pools, and access to most of the island's leisure facilities, with prices starting from approximately QAR 250 Here's everything you need to plan a Banana Island Resort Doha day trip, from prices to how to book from the city.
Operated by Anantara, Banana Island sits just off the Doha coast. It's a car-free island with pools, a beach, palm-lined walkways and leisure facilities, reachable only by a short catamaran ferry — the closest thing to a proper island escape you'll find inside Qatar.
Why Banana Island is Doha's easiest island escape
Unlike a full weekend break, a Banana Island day trip needs almost no planning. There are no flights, no long drives, and no overnight bags. You board a modern catamaran ferry near Doha Port, and within minutes you're stepping onto a resort built entirely for leisure. The island is compact and walkable, and buggies ferry guests around if you'd rather not stroll in the heat.
It works equally well as a family day out, a couples' escape, or a treat-yourself solo trip. And because it's a same-day return, it's a popular pick for expats hosting visiting friends and family who want a memorable outing without a big commitment.
How to get to Banana Island from Doha
Banana Island is reachable only by boat — there is no bridge or road. The good news is that the ferry terminal is easy to reach from anywhere in Doha.
The ferry near Doha Port
Ferries depart from the dedicated Anantara terminal near Doha Port, close to the old town and Souq Waqif. If you're driving, there's parking near the terminal; if not, a Karwa taxi or ride-hailing car will drop you at the departure point. From the West Bay or The Pearl side, allow around 15–25 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Key ferry pointers:
- Crossing time — a short catamaran ride each way (check the current duration when you book)
- Frequency — regular sailings through the day; the first departures are usually mid-morning and the last return is in the evening
- Booking — day-pass guests should reserve their ferry slot in advance, as capacity is limited and popular weekend times sell out
- Arrive early — get to the terminal at least 20–30 minutes before your sailing to check in comfortably
Banana Island day pass prices
Day-pass pricing changes with the season, weekdays versus weekends, and whether you choose a beach/pool-only option or a package that bundles food and activities. As a guide, expect the following:
- Adult beach & pool day pass — as a guide, recent packages are around QAR 350–395 per adult (12+) including boat transfer, beach/pool access and dining/activity credit, with cheaper child rates. Always check the latest offers and inclusions on the official Anantara website.
- Weekend / peak day pass — typically higher than the weekday rate
- Children — usually discounted, with younger kids often paying a reduced rate and toddlers sometimes free
- Packages with dining credit — higher tiers bundle a set meal or a food-and-beverage credit, pushing the price up but often better value if you plan to eat on the island
Because promotions and family bundles come and go, always confirm the current rate and exactly what's included on the official Anantara website at the time of booking.
What's included in the day pass
A standard day pass generally covers:
- Return ferry transfer from the Doha terminal
- Access to the resort's beach and swimming pools
- Use of loungers, umbrellas and towels
- Access to leisure areas around the island
Some activities — such as watersports, spa treatments, the bowling alley or certain kids' attractions — are charged separately or included only in higher packages. Check before you go so there are no surprises.
Things to do on Banana Island
The island packs a surprising amount into a small footprint, and a full day passes quickly.
For families with kids
- Water park and splash areas — slides and shallow play zones keep younger guests happy for hours
- Beach time — the sheltered crescent beach has calm, shallow water ideal for kids
- Indoor entertainment — a bowling alley and games options are handy for the hottest part of the day
- Buggy rides — getting around the island is part of the fun for little ones
For couples and relaxation seekers
- The spa — one of the island's signature draws, with treatments in a serene setting (book ahead)
- Infinity and lagoon pools — plenty of quiet spots to unwind
- Watersports — kayaking, paddleboarding and more for the active
- Evening on the shore — the west-facing beach is a good spot to wind down as the sun drops over the Gulf
Dining on the island
Banana Island has a spread of restaurants and cafés covering international, Mediterranean, Asian and Middle Eastern flavours. If your day pass doesn't include a meal, you can pay as you go — expect resort pricing, so it's worth checking menus and current rates on arrival. A relaxed lunch by the water is part of the appeal, so it's worth building it into your day. Note that Banana Island is a family-oriented, alcohol-free resort.
Best time to visit
The most comfortable window is roughly October to April, when Doha's weather is mild and the beach and outdoor pools are at their best. Summer visits still work thanks to shaded and indoor facilities, but you'll want to plan around the midday heat. Weekdays are noticeably quieter than Fridays and Saturdays, so if you can go midweek, you'll get more space and easier ferry bookings.
Tips for a smooth day trip
- Book both the pass and the ferry slot in advance, especially for weekends and school holidays
- Bring sun protection — hat, high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses; the island is bright and open
- Pack light but smart — swimwear, a change of clothes, and a waterproof bag for wet items
- Card is king — most spending on the island is cashless
- Respect the timings — plan your return ferry so you're not rushing at the end of the day
- Family-friendly dress — as a modest, family resort, cover-ups away from the pool and beach are appreciated
For more ideas across the country, browse the latest things to do in Doha on Qatar Living and keep an eye on our seasonal roundups of day trips and leisure activities in Qatar.
FAQs
Can I visit Banana Island without staying overnight?
Yes. Banana Island offers day passes that include the return ferry, beach and pool access. You do not need to be a hotel guest, but you should book your day pass and ferry slot in advance.
How much is a Banana Island day pass?
Prices vary by season and day of the week. As a guide, adult day passes are typically in the QAR 350–395 range in 2026, varying by package and season. Children usually pay a reduced rate. Always confirm the current price on the official Anantara website when booking.
How do I get to Banana Island?
Access is by ferry only. Ferries depart from Anantara’s private Al Shyoukh Terminal on the Corniche, near the Museum of Islamic Art in central Doha, with valet or nearby parking available. There is no road or bridge to the island, so check the sailing schedule when you book your day pass.
Is Banana Island good for families?
Very much so. It's a family-oriented, alcohol-free resort with a water park, shallow beach, indoor entertainment and buggy transport, making it easy to keep children entertained for a full day.
Is there parking at the ferry terminal?
Yes, there is parking near the departure terminal by Doha Port. You can also arrive by Karwa taxi or a ride-hailing app if you prefer not to drive.
What is the best time of year to visit?
October to April offers the most comfortable weather for the beach and outdoor pools. Summer is still doable thanks to shaded and indoor facilities, but plan around the midday heat.
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