Palm Islands Nature Reserve: A Mediterranean Haven

Discover Lebanon's only true islands: a Mediterranean paradise for nature lovers and history buffs, just a short boat trip from Tripoli.

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Palm Islands Nature Reserve

The Palm Islands Nature Reserve, located off the coast of Tripoli, Lebanon, is a protected archipelago of three islands offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It's a haven for migratory birds, endangered turtles, and marine life, with remnants of Crusader-era settlements adding to its allure.

A brief summary to Palm Islands Nature Reserve

FQVF+V7W, Tripoli, LB
+96178985697

Monday 7 am-6 pm
Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
Thursday 7 am-6 pm
Friday 7 am-6 pm
Saturday 7 am-6 pm
Sunday 7 am-6 pm

Local tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (April-June or September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Bring your own food, water, sunscreen, and shade, as there are limited facilities on the islands.
Respect the environment by staying on marked trails and taking all trash with you.
Check boat schedules in advance and arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid long waits.
Snorkeling gear is a must to explore the diverse marine life in the crystal-clear waters.

Getting There

Boat

The only way to reach the Palm Islands Nature Reserve is by boat from the port of El Mina in Tripoli. From Tripoli city center, taxis and buses are readily available to El Mina. A taxi ride should cost approximately 15,000-25,000 LBP, while a seat on a public bus will be significantly cheaper, around 2,000-5,000 LBP. Once in El Mina, head to the port area where local fishermen operate ferries to the islands. The boat trip to Palm Island takes around 30-40 minutes. A round-trip ticket typically costs between 50,000-100,000 LBP per person, but prices can vary depending on fuel costs and the operator. Be sure to confirm the return schedule with the boat operator before disembarking on the island.

Discover more about Palm Islands Nature Reserve

The Palm Islands Nature Reserve, comprising Palm (also known as Rabbit Island), Sanani, and Ramkine Islands, lies approximately 5.5 km northwest of Tripoli, Lebanon. These are Lebanon's only true islands, encompassing a protected marine ecosystem of global significance. Palm Island, the largest, was once teeming with rabbits introduced during the French mandate, hence its nickname. While the rabbits are gone, the island remains a vital resting stop for migratory birds and a breeding ground for endangered Loggerhead and Green sea turtles. The surrounding waters teem with diverse marine life, including various fish, sea sponges and other sea creatures. Historically, the islands have served as an important settlement, with archaeological evidence of Roman and Crusader presence. The remains of a Crusader-era church and a freshwater well can still be seen on Palm Island. In 1224, Alice of Champagne, widow of Hugh I of Cyprus, married Bohemond V of Antioch in the church. Later, in 1289, the island became the site of a bloody massacre when Mamelukes caught up with inhabitants who had sought refuge in the church. Today, the Palm Islands are managed by the Mina City Environment Protection Committee. Open to the public during the summer months (July to September), the reserve offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, bird watching, and hiking. Visitors should bring their own supplies, as there are no shops or restaurants on the islands. The reserve is a designated Mediterranean Specially Protected Area and a Ramsar Wetland of Special International Importance.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Beit El Nessim

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Levantine Institute (Tripoli - Mina)

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Historic Tripoli Railway Station

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Molly Churros

7.5 km

Indulge in the finest churros in Tripoli at Molly Churros, where dessert dreams come true amidst cozy café vibes.

Maison Tartine

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Chocolat Mou Kingdom

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Red Power

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Sara Et Karim

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Taboo Tattoo Shop

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City Complex

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Al Hajj Ali

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Nawfal Palace Cultural Center

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Municipality Garden

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Unmissable attractions to see

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Burj Al-Sheikh Affan

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Explore the historical charm of Burj Al-Sheikh Affan in Mina, Lebanon, a landmark with echoes of the past.

قلب جولة طرابلس

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Old Train Station

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حديقة الملك يوسف مرعي

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Escape to Tripoli's serene King Youssef Al-Mar'ei Garden: a peaceful retreat with colorful flowers, towering trees, and tranquil pathways.

Port of Tripoli

7.2 km

Explore the historic Port of Tripoli, a vibrant hub of culture and trade, rich in maritime heritage and local flavors along the stunning Lebanese coastline.

Barsbay Tower

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Sea.Mina.view

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Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and a serene atmosphere at this must-visit tourist attraction in Mina, Lebanon.

Rachid Karami International Fair by Oscar Niemeyer

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Rachid Karami International Fair by Oscar Niemeyer

المشتل البلدي الحديث

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The Mural of Tripoli

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King Fahed Public Park

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Sheker view shore

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H BERGER

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Pasta Chef Kiosk

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Nar

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Surprise Gifts Shop

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Miracle accessories

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Şik Fashion

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Joud Express

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

VIA MINA

Palm Islands Nature Reserve: A Mediterranean Haven

A brief summary to Palm Islands Nature Reserve

Local tips

Getting There

Boat

Unlock the Best of Palm Islands Nature Reserve

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Palm Islands Nature Reserve

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Beit El Nessim

Levantine Institute (Tripoli - Mina)

Historic Tripoli Railway Station

Molly Churros

Maison Tartine

Chocolat Mou Kingdom

Red Power

Sara Et Karim

Balloon W Kheit بالون وخيط

Taboo Tattoo Shop

City Complex

Una Pizza Tripoli

Al Hajj Ali

Nawfal Palace Cultural Center

Municipality Garden

Unmissable attractions to see

badran island - جزيره بدران

شاطي الميناء الذهبي

Burj Al-Sheikh Affan

قلب جولة طرابلس

Old Train Station

حديقة الملك يوسف مرعي

Port of Tripoli

Barsbay Tower

Sea.Mina.view

Rachid Karami International Fair by Oscar Niemeyer

المشتل البلدي الحديث

The Mural of Tripoli

King Fahed Public Park

Sheker view shore

قصر الحلو Hallab 1881

Essential places to dine

Silver Shore Restaurant

Minos restaurant

Otantik

Fiesta del fuego

TWINS BURGERS

Ginger's

THE GRILL

Baytna Express

EATaliano pizzeria

SMOKY, Rice n Tops

The Shrimpery

Fahita's

H BERGER

Pasta Chef Kiosk

Nar

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

aya antik

Be unique

Home Touch

The Hip Shop

Zacks

Antika

Voi Donna

Al Masri toys

BُحَAْ Boutique

Watermellon Concept Store clothing

Surprise Gifts Shop

Miracle accessories

Glossy bird Lebanon

Şik Fashion

Joud Express

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

VIA MINA

CAVA

Timmy's

Rust bar

Capo