Banana Island Resort Doha
Review by Jalpesh Thakrar
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara is a crescent of golden beaches and over-water villas just off the coast of downtown Doha.
The journey starts via a private 20-30min catamaran journey to the island. A very well-presented area to wait and be on-boarded which makes the entire experience that little more special as it feels like you are taking another mini-break.
Even as you approach the island it does feel like you have been transported to a new destination such as the Maladies.
Banana Island, is the perfect escape for the family with many activities including a cinema, bowling alley, and kids pool as well as space and tranquillity for parents with the beach and spa facilities. There is also a surf pool and burger bar (Ted’s) and a number of other restaurants, including Arabian (Al Nahham & Spice Spoons), Middle Eastern (Azraq & Al Nahham), Mediterranean (Riva) and Award-winning Indian (Q Lounge & Restaurant) cuisines.
It is worth a note that in terms of accommodation, you have a number of options including rooms or villas to stay in but also on offer is a day pass which allows you to really enjoy a day out at this fantastic location and represents great value and worth a visit if you are visiting Doha.
During the visit, I was lucky enough to be treated to a meal at the Indian restaurant and yes I may have ordered too much but each dish could not be faulted. Portion sizes were definitely all sharing sizes. Although there are a number of international options offered I did stick to the Indian selection from the Chicken 69, Kebab Sampler, Lentil Soup, Malai Kofta down to the Dal Makhani were all 5-star and I would visit the Island just for a meal and grab a view of the Doha skyline in the distance. Do not leave till you try the signature dessert ‘I Love Coconut’ a fun dish but really the right way to end a great meal.
I wish I had more time to enjoy the Island along with all its facilities including the spa and beach, but this was a passing visit and I would highly recommend this resort for a family trip with or without children, a spot that may be missed by many who do not realise what Doha has to offer and I hope the photos and review does open your eyes to such a magical location to visit.
AT A GLIMPSE
141 sea view rooms, suites, beach and overwater pool villas
800 m of golden shoreline
Surf pool, dive centre, VIP cinema, bowling alley, putting green
Anantara Spa and Balance Wellness Centre