You choose The Cove at Atlantis if you are seeking some combination of luxury, proximity to the beaches and ocean, and grown-up pleasures. It's the most high-end of the resort's five hotels, and sits steps from Cove Beach and Paradise Beach (accessible only to guests of Atlantis).
Even so, it is public land and you can access it for free. The beach itself is blessed with soft, golden sand, although there are no facilities here. If you intend to stay for the day, you should pack some beverages and snacks. You get a great sunset from here, together with views of the Burj al Arab.
The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is a popular promenade where you can shop, dine and stroll by the sea. The buzzing beachside boulevard offers the opportunity to satisfy your retail cravings with an array of fashion, home and handicraft shops and boutiques.
While the rates are high for Dubai, with big-name luxury hotels less than half the price, the perks, amenities (including access to the largest water park in the world at Atlantis, The Palm) and an incredible breakfast make the price feel appropriate.
The best features of Dubai's most iconic resortThe iconic 5-star resort has a prime location at the top of Palm Island, an island known for its glamorous hotels and upmarket restaurants. The resort is overflowing with first-class facilities, from the world's largest waterpark to celebrity chef restaurants.
Tourists are permitted to drink in licensed restaurants, hotels and bars attached to licensed hotels. It is unacceptable and punishable to drink in public places—even beaches. Dubai is incredibly strict about public drunkenness and has zero tolerance for drinking and driving.
Secret beach is one of the 'clothing optional' beaches on the island. Though the Kauai county authorities sometimes stress on nudity ban on the island's beaches, this is where nude sunbathers often seek refuge.
Jumeirah Public Beach can be reached from Jumeirah Road and is open from 7 a.m. to 11 or 11:30 p.m., depending on the day. Access to the beach is free, but you'll have to fork over a few dirhams to access the park. Before you hit the sand, make sure you're armed with bottled water and sunscreen.
HERE FOR THE DAY? Day passes are required for non-Atlantis guests to access Aquaventure, Dolphin Cay, the marine habitat, and beaches. The passes can be purchased - on a limited basis.
The Cove is more upscale than the Reef. We stayed at the Comfort Suites and were very pleased. For off-site dining there are a few restaurants at the marina which you can walk to and not need to pay taxi fares.