Not every island in Kuwait is open to visitors, and that is the first thing to sort out before you plan a trip. Some are regular weekend destinations for diving and fishing. Others are restricted or security sensitive.
Knowing which is which decides where you go and how you plan the day.
Kubbar is the best known day-trip island. Clear water and reef close in, good for diving, snorkeling and fishing. Umm Al-Maradim sits further out and quieter, usually picked by people who want fishing and diving away from the crowd.
Qaruh is smaller and further again, with the clearest water of the group and worth a long run when the weather allows. Failaka is close and easy to reach, with archaeological sites and beach walking.
Miskan and Auhah are smaller and much less crowded, and suit a short, quiet trip away from everyone.
Bubiyan and Warba are military and security sensitive areas and closed to the public. Do not attempt to reach them or approach the perimeter.
Even on the open islands, rules change. Always confirm the latest official guidance with the authorities before you go, and do not rely on old posts or hearsay.
People go for the clear water, the reef and the fish. Diving and snorkeling are the main draw, followed by fishing and simply spending a full day offshore.
You get there either in your own boat or with a licensed operator running island trips. Check that the captain is licensed and the boat carries life jackets and a working radio.
Turtles and seabirds nest on some of these islands. Do not approach nests, do not touch eggs and do not trample vegetation. Where landing is not permitted, anchor off the island instead of going ashore.
Open fires are banned in many places, so check first. Leave the island cleaner than you found it.
Weather in the Gulf changes fast. Go in a sensible weather window, carry more fuel than you need, and stay on VHF with boats nearby. Mobile coverage drops away offshore, so do not rely on it in an emergency.
If you want to see the sea state before you move, B7R puts sea state and tides in one place and leaves the call to you.
Remember that the rules belong to each island, so check with the official authorities before every trip. Download B7R free on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.q8dm.b7r — sea state, Shuwaikh and Shuaiba tides, fish guide, catch log, seasons, navigation tools and an SOS button. Plan the trip, then enjoy it.