Nation Riviera Beach Club nails the full beach day, with easy food, family friendly touches and a setting that makes switching off simple
The Spot
Nation Riviera Beach Club sits across the road from the Corniche, part of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi. You get there through a private, air conditioned tunnel from the main hotel, which already feels a little exclusive. On the other side, there is a 200 metre stretch of beach and uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. It feels removed from the traffic and towers, like you have stepped into a small seaside escape in the middle of the city.
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The Vibe
This is a full day kind of place. Cabanas line the temperature controlled pool, and people move between sun lounger, Jacuzzi and the swim up bar without much urgency. Some are doing laps. Others are working on their tan. Families settle in too. Treasure Island Kids Club, shaped like a pirate ship, keeps little ones entertained with a supervised pool area so parents can actually switch off. It feels relaxed and easy. No rush. No pressure to dress up. Just sun, water and the steady hum of a proper beach club day.
The Food & Drinks
The menu matches the setting. Fresh, simple and made for eating in swimwear. The poke bowl comes with your choice of salmon sashimi or grilled prawns, piled onto Japanese rice with avocado, edamame, jalapeño and a deep roasted sesame dressing. It is light but filling and tastes exactly like what you want by the water. Then there is the buffalo chicken breast burger. Cornichon, jalapeño, tomato, ranch sriracha mayo and aged cheddar. Messy in the best way. If you are calling this a cheat day, this is your order. For something lighter, the seasonal fruit platter is bright and refreshing. The green goddess juice with coconut water, cucumber, spinach and kale feels virtuous without tasting like punishment. The detox tonic with ginger and beet has a proper kick.
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The Service
Service is a little slow, but that suits the mood. You are not here for a quick bite. You are here to stay a while.
What to Order
Go for the buffalo chicken burger and own it. Balance it out with the green goddess if you must. The poke bowl is your safe, feel good option.
What’s on the Bill
Budget around Dhs250 per person for food and drinks, depending on how long you plan to stretch the day.
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What’s On Verdict
Everything feels better by the water. Nation Riviera Beach Club is perfect for families, friends or anyone who needs to press pause for a few hours. The food is good and the views are better.
The Details:
Location: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Tower, Corniche, Abu Dhabi
Time: 8am to sunset
Cost: Weekday day passes are Dhs345 per person with Dhs150 credit, or Dhs625 per couple with Dhs300 credit. On weekends, rates are Dhs415 per person and Dhs685 per couple. Additional children are Dhs95.
Contact: (02) 694 4780
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