The beaches on the southern shore of Hormuz are some of the most visually striking in Iran — the red and ochre mineral soils wash down to the water's edge and stain the shoreline in warm colours quite unlike any ordinary beach. The water is calm on the south side of the island, sheltered from the open Gulf, and in the right light the combination of red shore, turquoise water, and bare mineral cliffs behind is genuinely spectacular.
Swimming is possible, though the Gulf water is very warm in summer (sometimes above 30°C) and visibility is variable. The beaches are not developed — no facilities, no lifeguards — and are reached by dirt track. Most visitors combine a beach stop with a visit to Rainbow Valley in the southern part of the island. Bring all your own water and food; there are no vendors out here.