The beaches along the north and northeast shore of Kish are the primary reason most visitors come. The Persian Gulf here is warm and clear, with a pale sandy bottom and shallow water extending well offshore. Women have designated beach sections where they can swim without the hijab requirement that applies elsewhere in Iran — an arrangement that makes Kish distinctively popular with Iranian women tourists.
The water is calm compared to the Atlantic or Indian Ocean beaches, but the swimming is pleasant and the snorkelling decent, especially near the reef structures. Facilities include sun loungers, parasols, and refreshment kiosks. The beaches are busiest in autumn and winter, when temperatures are most comfortable; in summer the heat and humidity can be punishing.