As temperatures cool, the island surges with renewed energy, bursting with adventures waiting to be discovered. From peaceful escapes to birdwatching spots, camping sites and historic landmarks to more upbeat ventures like horseracing, concerts and beach parties, there’s something for everyone.

Get ready to explore the island’s top open-air experiences and make the most of the cooler days with our ultimate guide to outdoor fun.

CULTURE TRIPS

Discover Ancient Forts

Combining culture, architecture and stunning views, a visit to one of Bahrain’s iconic forts offers a unique glimpse into the island’s rich history, as well as plenty of Insta-worthy photo ops! Bahrain Fort (Qal’at al-Bahrain), the Kingdom’s oldest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see along the Karbabad coastline. Don’t miss the Arad Fort in Muharraq – beautifully lit after sunset, it’s ideal for a leisurely stroll under the stars, and Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed Fort, a 19th-century royal residence in Riffa overlooking the Hunainiyah Valley. A coastal treasure, Qal’at Bu Mahir in Muharraq, situated at the start of the ancient pearling path, offers a glimpse into Bahrain’s maritime history through its ruins. These historical sites are perfect for exploring at leisure during the cooler weather and often host outdoor cultural events, so be sure to keep an eye out.

Muharraq Pearling Path

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, the Muharraq Pearling Path invites you to follow in the footsteps of Bahrain’s rich pearling history. As you walk the ancient route, marked by pearl-shaped streetlamps, you’ll encounter traditional Bahraini houses, the historic Siyadi Mosque and the Al Alawi House with its iconic wind tower. The trail winds through the heart of Muharraq and ends at the coast, where pearling boats once set sail. This cultural journey offers a fascinating mix of history and exploration, so be sure to take advantage of the cooler weather and enjoy an outdoor adventure through Bahrain’s old town.

Souq Al Baraha

Souq Al Baraha, located in Diyar Al Muharraq, stands out as one of the newest additions to Bahrain’s many shopping destinations. Reimagining the traditional market with modern architecture, you can stroll through the shaded courtyards and themed arcades and browse a range of goods, from gold to locally made sweets and fruit and vegetable markets, all while enjoying an atmosphere that bridges the old with the new. With dedicated family entertainment areas, the souq also serves as a cultural hub, hosting events that celebrate Bahraini heritage, making it a must-visit for an authentic yet modern outdoor market experience.

FAMILY OUTINGS

Amusement Parks

For a day of fun-filled excitement, you can’t go wrong with a trip to one of the island’s funfairs. Adhari Park, based around a historic freshwater spring in Zinj, is Bahrain’s go-to outdoor amusement park with 38 attractions, ranging from roller coasters and Ferris wheels to go-kart racing. You can also take a break between rides to stroll the pathways or grab a bite to eat from one of the many food stalls. With a lively atmosphere, the park has become a hub for outdoor festivities, so keep an eye out as it hosts fairs and events throughout the year. Busaiteen beach in Muharraq, one of the longest in the Kingdom, is also home to various fairground rides and food trucks that come alive at night; as well as Karbabad beach in Seef, which is also popular with families and features bouncy castles and food stalls.

Picnicking

Pack a basket and gather your loved ones for a day outdoors in one of Bahrain’s many parks. For scenic waterfront views, head to Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park in Hidd. If it’s tranquillity you’re after, Budaiya Botanical Garden is a peaceful green oasis with shaded spaces, long walkways and birds chirping, while Water Garden Park in Salmaniya offers ample space for a cosy family picnic around its two lakes. And don’t forget Arad Bay, its serene coastal paths and natural scenery make for a relaxing escape with grassy areas, waterfalls, fountains and the largest walkway in the Kingdom. So, take advantage of the cooler weather and embrace the island’s natural beauty.

Outdoor Cinema

Grab some popcorn and enjoy the ultimate outdoor cinema experience. La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art hosts regular movie nights in its picturesque outdoor courtyard, where you can sit back and watch timeless classics in a romantic setting. Paired with a set dinner, it’s a magical way to enjoy cinema under the stars. Be sure to check @lafontainebh on Instagram for the announcement of the October movie night! For those who prefer a more private showing, Home Cinema Bahrain (@home.cinema.bh_) brings the experience to your backyard with mobile home cinema setups for hire, complete with sound systems and a movie of your choice. So, enjoy a special evening in the fresh air, grab a snack and get comfy with a good flick.

SOCIAL GATHERINGS

Beach Parties

Bahrain’s beach clubs are the ultimate destination for nonstop fun. Solymar Beach on Amwaj Islands is known for its electric atmosphere with an Ibiza-style vibe featuring international DJs, cocktail bars and plenty of dancing as the sun sets. The Art Hotel & Resort, also in Amwaj, hosts various beach parties throughout the year at its stunning resort. For a more laid-back experience, head to Azul Beach in Manama, where you can sip cocktails, dine al fresco and enjoy live entertainment by the sea. There are plenty of parties to enjoy this month, starting with Summer Like This! beach party at The ART Hotel & Resort and the glamourous Playlist Pool Party at Palavra Resort, Reef Island, both on October 4. Also, mark your calendars for a back-to-back live performance by renowned international Afro-house DJs Caiiro and Enoo Napa at Azul Beach on October 31.

Music Concerts

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Bahrain’s Sakhir desert, Al Dana Amphitheatre is the island’s premier venue for outdoor live music. Hosting international superstars and local talent alike, the amphitheatre brings music lovers together for amazing performances in a stunning open-air setting. The Desert Garden at Al Dana, with its lush greenery, is another new venue for a variety of events. Meanwhile, the amphitheatre’s spacious Plaza is perfect for larger gatherings under the open sky with convenient onsite amenities. From rock concerts to acoustic performances, Al Dana offers an unforgettable outdoor music experience that’s truly one of a kind. The venue has a strong October line-up, including a performance by Calvin Harris on October 25 with tickets selling fast! Also, this month sees the return of popular outdoor music festival, Trib Fest, for its autumn edition on October 18 at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club.

Al Fresco Bars

Bahrain’s outdoor bars offer the perfect setting to unwind with breathtaking views and lively surroundings. Head to Alto Lounge on the rooftop of Downtown Rotana, where you can enjoy panoramic city views alongside signature cocktails. For tri-cultural flavours and styles, SUSHISAMBA at Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour is the place to be, combining Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian vibes in an elegant rooftop setting. And for a touch of the tropics, the ever-popular Trader Vic’s brings a laid-back, Polynesian-inspired ambience, with refreshing drinks and exotic décor. Alto and SUSHISAMBA both host live DJ nights on Thursday and Friday and Trader Vic’s holds regular themed nights throughout the week. So, whether you’re in the mood for a casual night out with friends or something more upbeat, make the most of Bahrain’s breezy evenings.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Go Exploring

With a rich history and stunning natural landscapes, Bahrain is an open invitation for explorers. Start with the iconic Tree of Life, standing tall for over 400 years in the middle of the desert, its mystery continuing to draw curious adventurers. Next, wander through Karzakan Forest, a lush hideaway where dense foliage provides a cool respite for nature lovers. History buffs can explore the ancient Burial Mounds of A’Ali and Janabiyah, where thousands of tombs offer a glimpse into the Dilmun civilisation. October’s pleasant weather makes it the perfect time for exploration, with guided tours taking visitors to historic sites like the Kingdom’s first oil well, which began production in 1931. Whether uncovering the island’s past or soaking in its natural beauty, the island promises endless discoveries.

Desert Camping

Few things capture the spirit of adventure quite like a night spent under the stars, and with an outdoor camping trip, you’ll experience Bahrain’s desert like never before. Local tour operators offer various excursion packages, with a complete Bedouin experience. Enjoy family games and entertainment and, as the sun sets, gather around the campfire for a traditional barbecue meal beneath the starfilled sky. With the start of camping season in November soon approaching, now is the time to start preparing your next outdoor adventure. Sakhir is one of Bahrain’s most wellliked camping destinations, providing the perfect setting for a desert outing but make sure to book in advance.

Birdwatching

Bahrain’s coastal areas and islands are a paradise for birdwatchers. Dohat Arad Park, with its calm waters and mangroves, attracts flamingos, herons and many other species, making it a peaceful, accessible spot for bird lovers. Tubli Bay is also home to a variety of shorebirds and serves as an important wetland area. For a more exciting outing, take a trip to the UNESCO-listed Hawar Islands, where the untouched wilderness is ideal for spotting some of the region’s rarest birds in their natural habitat, including the Socotra Cormorant and migratory species. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned birder, birdwatching in Bahrain is a rewarding experience and the perfect way to connect with nature. With World Migratory Bird Day taking place on October 12, pack your binoculars and plan a fun day out with fellow enthusiasts.

WEEKEND ADVENTURES

Horseracing

Hold onto your hats and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience as Bahrain’s finest thoroughbreds take to the track at the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC) in Sakhir. With hooves thundering past and the roar of the crowd, all set against a stunning desert backdrop, a day at the races is electric. The club also has an outdoor entertainment hub, Turf Village, where kids can enjoy face painting, games and learn about the sport in a fun, interactive environment. The racing season kicks off in November and REHC comes alive every weekend with plenty of exciting entertainment and family-friendly activities. Mark your calendar for the prestigious Bahrain International Trophy, the club’s showpiece event, taking place on November 15.

Golfing

Golfing on the island is another way to enjoy the outdoors in style. The Bahrain Golf Club, a nine-hole par 32 course located off Zallaq highway, is the most affordable, while Awali Golf Club, one of the oldest clubs in the Middle East, offers a challenging 18-hole sand course of rock fairways and oiled ‘greens’. Meanwhile, the Royal Golf Club (RGC) in Riffa, known for its championship course, provides a world-class golfing experience with stunning views. For younger enthusiasts, RGC’s Wee Monty pitch and putt course is a delightful introduction to the sport, designed to nurture budding talent with fun and engaging challenges. So, grab your clubs, hit the green and tee off for the perfect day out in the fresh air. This month, the sixth Bahrain Amateur Open golf championship is set to be held from October 17 to 19 at the RGC, with the top 10 earning a qualification spot for the Bahrain Championship on the 2025 DP World Tour.

Farm Tours

For those seeking a breath of fresh air, Bahrain’s farm tours provide a delightful escape into rural life. FAAS Farm Fresh is renowned for its dairy offerings, providing tours where you can meet the farm animals and pick your own eggs, fruit and vegetables. Jasra Organic Farm offers a similar experience, where you can learn all about sustainable farming practices and shop for fresh, organic produce. A visit to one of these farms promises a charming, handson experience with nature. Bahrain Farmers’ Markets also makes a comeback annually (usually in December) and is popular for fresh local produce.