Zaitunay Bay | Beirut

Zaitunay Bay is a high-end pedestrian quay and yacht marina located along the northern waterfront of Beirut, Lebanon. It is situated at the foot of the Saint George Bay, serving as an extension of the Beirut Marina within the Central District.

Visual Characteristics

the bay is characterized by a modern, sleek boardwalk finished with teak wood decking and white stone paving. The architecture consists of low-profile, wave-like buildings that house commercial outlets, designed to maintain views of the Mediterranean. The marina section is filled with luxury yachts and is framed by the surrounding glass-clad skyscrapers of the Shoreline Walk.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located at the northern end of the Beirut Central District, accessible via Minet El Hosn. It is roughly 2km from Martyrs' Square and is connected to the Corniche promenade. Vehicle access is managed through a central drop-off point, with a large multi-level underground parking facility available beneath the boardwalk. Public bus lines serving the nearby Phoenicia Hotel provide the closest transit links.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Developed as part of the post-war reconstruction by Solidere, the bay was designed by Steven Holl Architects in collaboration with local firms and inaugurated in 2011. Historically, the area was part of the city's old port and the site of the Saint George Yacht Club. The bay itself is a man-made harbor created through land reclamation and the installation of heavy concrete breakwaters.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is the "Quay Promenade," a 20,000-square-meter pedestrian area for walking and dining. Boat rentals and private yacht charters operate from the marina piers. The lower promenade hosts seasonal outdoor art exhibitions and pop-up retail markets. Photography of the Beirut skyline and the Saint George Hotel is a frequent activity for visitors.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The area features 24-hour private security and a centralized 5G network. Public restrooms are located at intervals along the lower level of the boardwalk. Benches and shaded seating areas are integrated into the landscaping. The site is densely packed with over 30 food and beverage vendors ranging from casual cafes to fine-dining establishments.

Best Time to Visit

The bay is most active during the evening hours and on weekends when the boardwalk is fully illuminated. For photography, the late afternoon offers the best lighting for the harbor and yachts. During the summer months (June to September), the coastal breeze provides a cooling effect, making it a popular nighttime destination.

Facts & Legends

Zaitunay Bay is built on the site of the former "Olive Garden" neighborhood, which gave the bay its name (Zaitunay translates to "Olive" in Arabic). A local point of interest is the neighboring Saint George Hotel, which remains a scarred shell from the civil war and stands in stark contrast to the ultra-modern luxury of the bay, serving as a silent witness to the city's turbulent history.

Nearby Landmarks

Saint George Yacht Club (0.1km West)

Phoenicia InterContinental Hotel (0.2km South)

Beirut Souks (0.7km Southeast)

Maghen Abraham Synagogue (0.8km South)

Roman Baths (1.1km Southeast)