Kish Island is one of the most beautiful islands in the Persian Gulf. Kish Island is the right choice for those trying to escape to a tropical destination. The Island is warm throughout the year, where winter feels like spring. If you love the ocean and marine animals, you can spend your weekend looking for turtles, sharks, and rays. You can also skydive above lagoons, kitesurf, paddle, and admire beautiful beaches. Kish Island, also referred to as the Pearl of the Persian Gulf, is a must-visit for any traveler.
This vibrant and dynamic coastal Island is truly a cosmopolitan city owing to its separate visa policy from the Iranian mainland. It is also a free-trade zone touted as a consumer's paradise, with numerous malls, shopping centers, tourist attractions, and resort hotels, so expect to see modern skyscrapers surrounded by breathtaking nature.
As one of the most-visited vacation destinations in the Middle East, this island was called "Qis" in the past. Most primary sailing ships of ancient times coming to the Persian Gulf from the Susa and Karun Rivers used this Island as the main stopover for the preparation and exchange of goods and commercial needs of the naval bases. From the Persian Gulf, they moved to the northern coast. The natives of the Island are of the races Dravidian, Nordic, Sami, and Black, and they speak Arabic and Persian languages.
Top Attraction of Kish Island
There’s so much to do on this tropical Island, from exotic landscapes, and lively nightlife to idyllic beaches, to activities such as snorkeling and diving. Let’s dive in and discover some of the best spots to check out on this hidden gem of an island.
Harireh Ancient City
Located in the north of the Island, Harireh's ancient city dates back to 10-5th century AH. This ancient city consists of ruins of wealthy houses, congregational mosques, and public bathhouses. This city was thriving from the 4th to 10th century AH, which is known as the city’s golden age. As one of the rare attractions of the Island, this ancient city covers an area of 120 hectares. Built between the late Sassanid period and the early Islamic era, this ancient city is 800 years old.
Kariz Underground City
Built 2500 years ago, the Kariz aqueduct had the purpose of collecting, purifying, and storing water of the inhabitants of Harireh. This aqueduct is about 16 meters deep underground, and its roof is covered with clams and corals to protect it against heat. This is a great tourist attraction for visitors to get to know the ancient technology and infrastructure of this fantastic hydraulic system. Kariz Underground City consists of three aqueducts and 274 water wells. A part of this underground city is allocated to craft booths, art galleries, restaurants, and museums.
The Greek Ship
A colossal ship sits in the shallow water of the coast in the southwest of this Island, known as a “Greek Ship”. The Greek Ship is the nickname of a cargo steamship, with an area of 673 square meters and more than 7000 tons of weight that ran aground in 1966. The ship was built in 1943 by the British shipyard of William Hamilton and Company in Port Glasgow, Scotland. No one knows the exact cause of its wreck, but some say it was beached intentionally by its captain because of its large amount of insurance from the British Company.
Dolphin Park
Located in the southeast of Kish Island with an area of 100 hectares, this recreational complex is the first dolphin park in Iran. Other animals live in the complex, including sea lions, walruses, and penguins. In addition, 21 marine mammals are kept in the pools. The park also contains a circus, a laser show, a saltwater aquarium, and a landscape area.
Kish Aquarium
Located close to Dolphin Park, the Kish aquarium consists of 2 main parts. The Aquarium contains sharks, crocodiles, and snakes; the other has 70 rare and interesting fish. You can see colorful corals, fish, turtles, and many other creatures in this Aquarium.
Anthropology House of Kish Island
In a building dating back to 200 years ago, the anthropology house is located in the old district of Safin. With 15 rooms, 2 courtyards, a chamber, and one family courtyard, this house has entirely native architecture. This house is built to introduce the unique history, culture, customs, lifestyle, and crafts of the natives. The house symbolizes the authenticity and hospitality of the people of Kish Island.
The Coast of Kish Island
The coast of Kish Island is filled with beaches you’d want to explore, with coral grounds that shine like silver under the sun and a blue, transparent sea that makes the bottom of the sea visible. One of the activities you can do is scuba diving, where you will have a quick lesson and receive the necessary equipment. If you haven't experienced a fly board, you can also try it and enjoy your view of the sea beneath your feet. Some of the most famous beaches on Kish Island include:
Mir Mahna Beach Park
As the largest coastal park on the Island, this beach park is located on Darya Blvd. With many restaurants, shopping malls, and hotels around it. You can also relax and meditate while listening to the soothing sound of the waves. If you want to do some coastal activities, you can rent a boat and enjoy being on the water.
Simorgh Beach Park
Simorgh Beach Park is a top-rated tourist site on the Island's southeastern side. This park has a large playground, a badminton court, a ping pong court, a skating rink, and a walking trail. The most amusing part of this beach park is that the Kish Dolphin Complex and Kish Aquarium are located on it.
Marjan Coastal Park
The Marjan Coastal Park is located near Marjan Mall. Most tourists are attracted to this place due to its blue and clean waters. There’s also a long bicycle route passing through this park. Some of the water sports activities available on this beach include scuba diving, jet skiing, banana riding, parasailing, flyboarding, and shuttle.
Conclusion
Kish Island, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Persian Gulf,” is a 91.5-square-kilometre resort island located off the southern coast of Iran. Known for its free trade zone status, Kish Island is a consumer’s paradise, boasting numerous malls, shopping centers, and tourist attractions. The island is home to a variety of attractions, including the Greek Ship, Maryam Beach, Ocean Water Park, and the historic city of Harireh. It also offers a range of outdoor activities such as boat tours, water sports, and scuba diving. Kish Island’s relaxed laws compared to the rest of Iran, along with its beautiful resorts and unique coral island environment, make it a popular destination for tourists.
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