Imagine an island that ‘plays hide and seek’ with the sea — Naz Islands near Qeshm appear as two rocky islets at high tide and connect to the shore on a glittering natural causeway when the water goes out.
You’ve probably heard about the current rush to travel south and visit its beautiful islands. But most trips get planned to Hormuz, Qeshm and Kish, and few people think about exploring smaller, more hidden island paradises in the Persian Gulf. Naz Island is one of those tucked-away isles and one of Qeshm’s must-see spots.
The Naz islands are a pair of tidal islets in the Persian Gulf, located about 28.5 kilometres from Qeshm Island, and are counted among the attractions of Hormozgan Province. At low tide the sea recedes and connects these islets to the shore; when the tide rises the landforms separate and appear as two small islands.
This small but beautiful isle — with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and untouched nature — is a true paradise. What makes the Naz Islands unique is their tidal appearance and disappearance, which has made them a popular destination for tourists.
In this travel guide from Alibaba Travel Magazine we’ll prepare you for a trip to Naz — a place where you can witness the height of nature’s beauty. Join us and discover the secrets of this hidden Persian Gulf paradise.
The Naz Islands are a hidden gem near the southern shores of the beautiful Qeshm Island. They cover roughly three hectares and are surrounded by high rocky cliffs. The Naz Islands’ unique trait is their periodic connection to the mainland during tidal withdrawal, offering an exciting experience for visitors.
The complex consists of two small rocky islets situated 28 kilometres from Qeshm city in Hormozgan Province. Locals call them “Do Karde” (the two folds), and they are among Qeshm’s top tourist attractions.
As mentioned above, the main attraction of Qeshm’s Naz Islands is the temporary land bridge that forms during low tide, allowing people to walk or even drive up to around one kilometre into the Persian Gulf. The islands rise 5 to 10 metres above sea level and provide panoramic views of the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and Larak Island.
These hidden isles are a paradise for those seeking a different experience and for discovering the lesser-seen beauties of the Persian Gulf. Visiting the Naz Islands allows you to enjoy dramatic landscapes, unspoiled nature and a truly unforgettable experience.
The two small rocky islets called the Naz Islands lie off the southeastern coast of Qeshm Island, about 28.5 kilometres from Qeshm in Hormozgan Province.
Best access routes to the Naz Islands
Distance from Tehran to Naz is roughly 1,420 kilometres. To travel from Tehran you could drive about 1,278 kilometres (around 14.5 hours) to Bandar Abbas, then proceed to Qeshm and from there reach the Naz Islands. A faster, easier route from Tehran is a 1.5-hour flight to Bandar Abbas, then onward travel to Qeshm and the Naz Islands.
The distance from Qeshm to Naz is about 28.5 kilometres; by car the trip usually takes around 26 minutes.
The distance from Bandar Abbas to the Naz Islands is about 62.9 kilometres; by car this usually takes two hours. To reach the Naz Islands you must travel from Bandar Abbas to Qeshm and then onward to the Naz area.
The distance from Kish to Naz is about 53.6 kilometres; by car it usually takes about 49 minutes. To get there from Kish, join the new Korzin township road and head toward Naz, passing Suza, Masn, Shib-Deraz and Tonb Parsan along the way.
The distance from Dargahan to the Naz Islands is about 29.5 kilometres; by car this is roughly a half-hour drive. From Dargahan head toward the village of Remcha, pass Remcha and follow the road that leads to the sea. There’s another route from Dargahan that goes through the villages of Zirang, Giyahdan and Ramkan; before reaching Suza, turn toward the coastal road.
Qeshm — named one of the Seven Natural Wonders islands — is celebrated for its natural attractions and breathtaking views. On the island’s southern shores, the Naz Islands, two islands close to each other, are one of the most striking spots in the Qeshm Geopark.
Locals call these islets “Do Karde,” while tourists and maps typically refer to them as the Naz Islands. The islands get their name from their special behaviour: at low tide the sea retreats and forms a narrow strip of land connecting Naz to Qeshm; at high tide the Naz Islands become separated again by the waters of the Persian Gulf.
Because of this, some say the Gulf is playing coy with them — the name “Naz” (a Persian word implying coyness/shyness) captures how they briefly join the mainland and then withdraw. Others believe the name reflects the islands’ seemingly capricious relationship with the sea: as if the isles sulk away from and then reconcile with Qeshm and the Gulf.
Autumn through early summer is the ideal time to visit Naz. In that period temperatures are milder and weather conditions are more comfortable. Summer heat and humidity can be intense and make travel more demanding. Off-peak seasons like autumn and winter can also be cheaper and less crowded. During Norouz (the Iranian new year holidays), Naz Islands see higher visitor numbers.
Because tide cycles control access, the window to visit the Naz Islands each day is limited to roughly four to six hours. When the water retreats you can walk or even drive onto the islands. While walking beside the rocky margins you may see Larak Island and Hormuz Island, and enjoy an enchanting sunset over the Persian Gulf.
For the most fulfilling experience, arrive slightly before sunset so you can watch the sea cover or uncover parts of the islands — at high tide the walkway disappears beneath the water again, producing dramatic seaside scenes.
The Naz Islands’ tides follow monthly and seasonal lunar cycles. In general, tide behaviour has two main phases: ebb (when the sea level falls) and flood (when it rises). Each phase typically lasts about six hours. Exact timing and strength are influenced by geographic position, weather and the season.
During summer tidal changes are usually more regular, so each phase roughly lasts six hours and repeats twice per day. In winter tidal shifts can be larger or more variable. For precise planning, use local tide tables that specify exact ebb and flood times for given dates and locations.
Naz Beach offers limited tourist facilities. There is no hospital or airport on the island, and only small local cafés and eateries are available. A wider range of services and lodging can be found in nearby Qeshm. For medical care and overnight stays, visitors should plan to return to Qeshm or surrounding towns.
Thanks to its pristine environment and impressive scenery, Naz Island is ideal for recreational and water activities. However, each activity requires attention to safety and local weather to ensure a secure, enjoyable visit.
– Walking in the sea (tide walk)
When the tide retracts, you can experience walking across the shallow sea to the Naz Islands. Always check tide tables in advance and avoid straying too far from the shoreline.
– Photography
Naz’s dramatic landscapes, tidal spectacle, cliffs and sunsets make it a dream location for photographers.
– Fishing
The Naz Islands are often used as resting spots by local fishers; visitors who are interested can join them or observe their activity.
– Henna painting
Henna body paintings are offered in local cafes and make for a memorable keepsake from the islands.
– Camel and horseback riding
Camel and horse rides along Naz’s shores offer a taste of traditional island life and sweeping views.
– Paragliding
Sea-air activities such as paragliding provide thrilling vantage points over the islands.
– Kiteboarding
Kiteboarding is a popular water sport in the Naz area and gives an exhilarating way to skim across the waves.
– Parasailing
Parasailing brings unique aerial perspectives over the Naz Islands’ coastline.
– Jet skiing
Jet skiing around Naz provides high-speed fun in clear coastal waters.
– Boating
Boat rides on calm Naz waters let you fully appreciate the surrounding natural beauty.
– Diving and swimming
Diving and swimming in the Naz Islands’ waters can be a unique underwater experience.
Nearby attractions
Naz Island is a popular destination in the Persian Gulf, but nearby attractions should not be missed.
– Kharbas Cave
Kharbas Cave lies roughly 16 kilometres from Naz and 11 kilometres south of Qeshm, in the highlands above Kharbas village. Its rock walls and ancient remains present a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Inside the cave are striking stone carvings and architectural marks that hint at the area’s age.
– Valley of the Stars (Valley of the Stars / Derah Setaregan)
The Valley of the Stars, north of Barkeh Khalaf village, is one of Qeshm’s most astonishing geological features and dates back about two million years. Local lore suggests the valley formed when a star struck the earth. The Valley of the Stars is also listed with UNESCO. Its strange rock formations create a magical and otherworldly atmosphere. The valley is about 11 kilometres from the Naz Islands.
– Olive Park (Park Zeytun)
Olive Park is a 24-hour coastal park in Zeytun Street, Qeshm, featuring green spaces and amenities for relaxation and picnics. It is approximately 27 kilometres from Naz and reachable by a 25-minute drive.
– Shib Deraz village
Shib Deraz is a village in Suza-region, Shahab district of Qeshm County in Hormozgan. The village is about 22.6 kilometres from Naz. With its traditional architecture and cultural character, Shib Deraz offers an authentic glimpse into life on Qeshm.
Naz Beach itself lacks proper lodging; it’s best to stay on Qeshm or nearby areas. Home-stay and eco-lodging options such as “Khane-ye Doost” (House of Friend) are approximately two kilometres from Naz and serve as convenient short-stay options. Hotels on Qeshm, including Diana Hotel, Lord Suza eco-lodging and Golden Shore Hotel, offer more facilities and easy access to Naz.
Tips for a memorable Naz Islands visit
Naz sits amid the turquoise Persian Gulf and is a dream destination. Here are practical tips to make your trip memorable:
The best time to visit Naz Beach in Qeshm is from early autumn through late spring, when temperatures are milder.
Because of the tide, access to the Naz Islands is limited to about four to six hours per day. Arrive early and before sunset for the best views and to witness tide changes.
Bring suitable footwear, sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable clothes for walking on the shore.
Don’t miss activities like photography, tide-walking, fishing, camel riding and water sports like jet skiing and boating.
Always monitor tide times and weather conditions, use appropriate safety gear for water sports, and respect the local environment to preserve the islands’ natural beauty. With attention to these points, you can enjoy a safe and unforgettable trip to Naz Island.
