Amongst the hustle and bustle of being a megalopolis, Karachi is also
known for the sandy shores that it offers to its residents and
visitors. The development of infrastructure along the various beaches of
Karachi has made this gift of nature more valuable than ever before.
Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned
Karachiite or a guest to the
city, the diversity of sand, water and even wildlife on the different
beaches must not be missed out on.
Here’s a list of the more popular beaches in
Karachi and what they
have to offer. Wherever you go, make sure you arm yourself with
sunscreen, a towel, change of clothes and prepare to get wet!
Clifton
The most accessible beach of
karachi, Clifton Beach was once an oasis of
silver sand in a hot and humid city. Even after the oil spill in 2003
the beach remains a hub for those who enjoy the cool water and happening
beach life. A number of restaurants have opened up on the beachfront
and to this day it remains a popular destination for the evenings and
weekends.
Devils Point
Located to the East of Clifton Beach, Devils Point has now become a
popular place for eating out while enjoying the view of the ocean. Its
rocky beach has been used by entrepreneurs to open up the ‘Defence
Corniche’, which hosts numerous restaurants with an awesome environment.
Though not suitable for swimming, this beach is still an ideal place to
get away from the city and enjoy nature. If you’re really fortunate,
you might just spot a few dolphins or turtles swimming in the area.
SandsPit
Southwest of
Karachi is Sands Pit beach which boasts unique sand and
rock formations. The waters are generally calm, except for during
monsoon season. The beach is usually full on Sundays and quite busy on
weekends. Numerous company and personal huts line the beach, a few which
are open for rent on a day to day basis. The shallow water makes it a
great place for swimming. You’ll probably see various crabs and fish
being sold fresh by the fishermen in the area.
Hawks Bay
To the west of Sands Pit lies Hawkes Bay. Because it is slightly further
away it tends to be less crowded than Sands Pit Beach. Again, this
beach usually has shallow, calm water which is great for swimming.
During spring time, the water is clearer than Sands Pit and you can
sometimes see schools of fish swimming at your feet. Definitely a rare
treat but one worth waiting for!
Gadani
Further West of Hub lies Gadani Beach. Not the usual sand and water
combination, Gadani is actually the centre of a Shipbreaking industry.
The shipbreaking yard of Gadani is one of the largest in the world.
Ships are deliberately run aground and completely scrapped in this area.
Cape Mount
Also known as Cape Monze, this beach is located near the Hub River and
Gadani Beach. There is a long staircase which is used to access the
smooth sandy beach and calm waters. Photos of this beach make it seem
like a getaway in another country. It’s definitely worth the effort to
go there!
Paradise Point
The focal point of Paradise Point is a naturally carved archway of rock.
Over the centuries, the water has pounded the cliff forming an arch
which can be approached when the tide is low. The exhilarating
experience is topped off with seaside restaurants along with horse and
camel rides.
French Beach
Roughly halfway between
Hawkes Bay and Paradise Point lies the affluent
French Beach. Due to the privacy it offers by its boundary walls and
select group of hut owners it’s a popular spot for foreigners and locals
alike. It’s a relatively rocky beach with sensational waves to be
enjoyed.
Have we missed out on your favourite beach spot? Share your Karachi beach adventures below In Comment!