Top Things To Do in Qeshm Island
Top Things To Do in Qeshm Island is an Iran Travel Blog that introduces Qeshm Island in the south of Iran. Here, you can find all the things to know about Qeshm Island before traveling. Information like location, photos, tourist attractions, top restaurants, top hotels and residences, and local foods.
Qeshm Island Travel Guide
- Location: Qeshm Island, Iran
- Iran Travel Blog
Qeshm Island Photos
- Photo Gallery
- Table of Contents. Click on any title you are interested in to read more
Tourist information of Qeshm Island
Qeshm Island is a top Iran must-see. Unique Attractions like Mangrove Forests, Naz Island, Chahkooh Canyon, The Valley of Stars, Hengam Island, Laft Village, andKhorbas Cave.
Qeshm Island is in the southern part of Iran, and It has become a famous place for tourists to visit over the past few decades. This lovely island has a lot of natural features that will make nature and beauty lovers’ trips unforgettable.
It has beaches that are rocky, sandy, and muddy. The island is the only geopark in Iran and the Middle East.
It has a lot of important historical, cultural, and archaeological sites, as well as a rich geological history. With its pristine beaches, captivating landscapes, and unique cultural heritage, Qeshm offers many unforgettable experiences for travelers.
Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or a nature lover, this guide will show you the top things to do in Qeshm. Qeshm Island has a lot of exciting things to see and do, as well as great local food and attractive modern and local markets.
The best time to visit Qeshm Island
From early December to early March is the best time to go to Qeshm Island. From early January to late February is the best time to stay outside in Qeshm. During this time, it doesn’t rain much, and the average temperature is around 20 degrees Celsius. It rarely gets above 25 degrees Celsius, making it a nice spring-like weather perfect for exploring the island.
If you want to go shopping, Qeshm is pretty empty in the summer, and all of the markets and shopping areas have sound cooling systems. So, you can also go to Qeshm at this time of the year to enjoy how quiet the city and shopping areas are.
There are several critical times to visit Qeshm to see and take part in its beautiful festivals and ceremonies: The New Year’s welcoming festivals in late December and early January, the “Date Palm” festival in late September, and the shrimp festival on November 14th and 15th.
You can pick the best time to visit based on your hobbies and the reason for your trip. The hottest time on the island is from July 1st to September 1st.
Where is Qeshm Island Located?
In the Persian Gulf, in the southern part of Iran, is Qeshm Island, which is part of Hormozgan Province. Bandar Abbas is to the north, Larak Island is to the east, Hengam Island is to the south, and the Tunb Islands are to the southwest.
How to Get to Qeshm Island?
Going to Qeshm Island is a great experience for people who love nature and people who like to visit tourist spots. A lot of people come to this island every year.
Getting to Qeshm by air:
The Qeshm International Airport is about 50 kilometers west of the city of Qeshm. It serves both local and international flights from Dubai and the cities of Tehran, Mashhad, Rasht, Shiraz, and Isfahan in Iran.
Qeshm Bus Terminal:
It might seem unusual to have a bus terminal on an island. Buses reach Qeshm Island using ferries via the Bandar Khamir to Bandar Laft route. This terminal is located in Qeshm City, on the Persian Gulf Boulevard, opposite the Shahid Zakeri Port. It provides services to various destinations, including Shiraz, Bushehr, Tehran, Isfahan, and other cities.
Qeshm Docks:
One way to get to Qeshm Island is by boat. You can take this path by going to the Bandar Abbas train station and then taking a fast boat to Qeshm from Shahid Haqani Port. You can also use landing boats (also called “car carriers”) from the Port of Pol to bring your car onto Qeshm Island.
Top Tourist Sights in Qeshm Island
Here are 10 Top Things to Do in Qeshm Island.
1- Mangrove Forests
Qeshm’s mesmerizing mangrove forests are a natural wonder that must not be missed. These thriving ecosystems are home to diverse flora and fauna and offer a picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts.
Start your adventure by exploring the Hara Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated site over 85,000 hectares. Hop on a boat tour or kayak through the labyrinth of narrow channels surrounded by dense mangrove forests.
Marvel at the unique root system of the trees that thrive in saltwater environments, creating a captivating maze-like landscape. Don’t forget to watch for resident and migratory bird species, including flamingos and herons, which add to the enchanting ambiance of this ecological treasure.
2- Naz Island
Naz Island is located on the southern coast of Qeshm Island. It offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and unexpected phenomena. Visitors can witness the ebb and flow of the tides, creating a truly memorable experience. When the tide is low, the sandy beach becomes a picturesque landscape adorned with vibrant seashells and coral. It is a perfect opportunity for strolls and exploration.
3- Chahkooh Canyon
On the eastern side of the Qeshm island stands the awe-inspiring Canyon, a magnificent attraction that will leave you speechless. With its towering walls, reaching a depth of 100 meters, adorned with intricate shapes and captivating notches carved by the forces of erosion, this natural wonder is a sight to behold.
Imagine walking amidst two towering cliffs; as you venture further into the Canyon, the path becomes narrower, creating a sense of intimacy with the surrounding landscape.
Camping in Chahkooh Canyon is an experience like no other. As night falls, you’ll be mesmerized by the sight of countless stars illuminating the dark sky above. It’s a truly magical spectacle that will leave you in awe of the universe’s vastness.
No words can truly capture the marvelous beauty of Chahkooh Canyon. It’s a must-see place in Qeshm, and its splendor should be appreciated fully only by experiencing it firsthand.
4- Portuguese Castle
The Portuguese fortress on the eastern point of Qeshm island is a historic attraction that dates back to 1507 when the Portuguese colonized the Persian Gulf. The red stone defense covered an area of square meters and was constructed using limestone, gypsum, and local mortar. It was built under the orders of Commander Afonso de Albuquerque.
5- The Valley of Stars
Qeshm Island is home to a unique geological phenomenon called the Valley of Stars. This valley has been formed for two million years through erosion. The immense forces of erosion have sculpted the landscape, resulting in the formation of 15-meter-tall earth columns that bear a resemblance to the Kaluts found in the Lut Desert.
These columns exhibit peculiar shapes that can evoke a sense of excitement or anticipation. The Valley of Stars is a testament to nature’s power and is a captivating attraction for visitors.
6- Qeshm Eagle Snout Turtles
The eagle Snout Turtle is an endangered species that calls these shores home. Unfortunately, its population worldwide is currently relatively low. However, Qeshm Island serves as this species’ primary habitat, attracting tourists who visit annually to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.
7- Hengam Island
Hengam Island is just two kilometers away from the southeastern shore of Qeshm Island. As you make your way to the island, be prepared to be thrilled by the sight of a lively group of dolphins swimming alongside your boat.
Hengam Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with many natural beauties waiting to be explored. One of the top attractions is the Silver Coast, where the sand glistens with a silverish hue under the sun. But that’s not all – the shining waters surrounding the island are marvelous.
On certain nights, the water takes on a mesmerizing blue glow. This phenomenon is caused by phytoplankton in the water, whose metabolism creates this breathtaking spectacle under particular conditions.
In addition to its natural wonders, Hengam Island also boasts a local bazaar where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of the island. Explore the unique crafts, taste the local delicacies, and engage with the friendly locals to experience the best feelings.
8- Namakdan Cave
This captivating natural wonder is a true gem and a must-visit attraction in Qeshm. The Namakdan Cave offers more than just visual splendor. It provides an unforgettable experience for visitors, combining natural beauty with the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of salt formations.
9- Laft Village
Laft Village is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experience. Stroll through the narrow alleys lined with traditional houses made of coral and enjoy the intriguing architecture.
Savor traditional Qeshmi cuisine at one of the village’s charming restaurants, where you can indulge in flavorsome seafood dishes and aromatic Persian delights.
10- Khorbas Cave
Khorbas Cave is a hidden treasure with a rich history and natural beauty. Khorbas Cave, nestled within the folds of the Zagros mountain range, is a remarkable geological wonder. The intricate ancient carvings within the cave further add to its allure, showcasing the extraordinary craftsmanship of the past.
One intriguing aspect of Khorbas Cave is the shells embedded within the walls. Khorbas Cave is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure, history, and natural wonders.
11- Dargahan
If you want to see the unique island of Qeshm, you have to plan to stop by the busy market of Dargahan. You can look around and buy things at the big market all day. There are many well-known shops in Dargahan. One of them is the Pearl Bazaar.
You can walk there for two hours and find everything you need at a price you can afford. There are clothes, shoes, bags, and more for men and women, as well as things for the home and other things.
You can add any Qeshm Island attractions to your itinerary. Please Get in touch with our tour operators.
- info@letsseepersia.com
Best Qeshm Hotels
In Qeshm Island, located in the south of Iran, you can experience modern hotels and traditional accommodations. Here are some of the best Qeshm hotels based on service and travelers’ opinions:
Irman Boutique Hotel Qeshm, Fulton Hotel Qeshm, Arakta Hotel Qeshm, Ataman Hotel Qeshm, Eram Hotel Qeshm, Haft Rangoo Ecolodge, Sun Ecolodge, White House Ecolodge, Mahi House Ecolodge, and Jeziro Camp Qeshm.
Best Local Foods of Qeshm Island
Qeshm Island is renowned for its unique and flavorful cuisine, heavily influenced by the island’s rich maritime heritage and cultural diversity. Here are some well-known foods from Qeshm Island:
- Ankas: This dish is made with Ankas meat, which is also called cuttlefish. The meat is cut into small pieces and cooked with dates and a little water. In restaurants, tomato paste, fried onions, and pepper are used to season this food, which makes it taste great.
- Poodini: The name of this dish changes based on the type of fish that is used to make it. Most of the time, Poodini made from shark is served in Qeshm’s restaurants. It has dried lime, spices, onions, tomato paste, and onions mixed with cooked shark meat.
- Dishou Rice: It is made by steaming rice that has been cooked with date syrup. It comes with talal fish that has been roasted or fried.
- Tomoshi Bread: This is a thin bread that has eggs, cheese, Mahyawe, or suragh mixed in with it. Mahyawe and suragh are both sauces made from sardine fish.
Top Restaurants in Qeshm Island
Tourists love the southern part of the country called Qeshm because it has beautiful silver coastlines, natural views, old sites, and modern markets. Qeshm Island has a lot of cool places to visit, and you can also taste some of the top restaurants in Qeshm, each with a different style.
While listening to live music and taking in the beautiful view of the sea, the trip is truly memorable. You can eat delicious seafood, southern specialties, and Iranian food in Qeshm’s best spots. Now read on to find out where to eat in Qeshm and some of the best places to visit.
1- CRoll Restaurant Qeshm
CRoll is, without a doubt, one of the top restaurants in Qeshm. You can find great local and seafood meals at CRoll Restaurant, one of the most popular and appealing places to eat in Qeshm. CRoll guarantees an excellent eating experience by providing many choices, such as different kinds of fish, beef kebabs, Persian Gulf fish casserole, shrimp stew, mussel stew, and more. The diner also serves a variety of salads, appetizers, and natural drinks.
The interior of CRoll is calm and beautiful, with a blue and white color scheme meant to relax. This carefully designed atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for fish lovers. Shellfish, lobster soup, cuttlefish shawarma, seafood burger, mirror fish (also called moonfish), and stuffed squid are unique foods people can enjoy at CRoll. If you like delicious fish, CRoll on Qeshm Island is a great place to eat.
- Ratings and Reviews
“Strong advice from me. Every food is good. I loved my fish and chips tonight. A family runs the spot. A mother and her kid. It’s clean and better than I’ve seen in Qeshm before. My wife and I liked it a lot.”
2- Defari Nights Restaurant Qeshm
The “Defari Nights Traditional Restaurant” is in Defari, which is close to Qeshm. It is a rough-hewn house with “Café Restaurant Defari Nights” written on it. It is different from other traditional restaurants in the area because it uniquely combines local and traditional styles.
The architecture, atmosphere, menu, and even the plates and cups at this place all reflect the local style. In contrast to most restaurants, Defari Nights does not have tables and chairs. Instead, guests are encouraged to sit on the floor and enjoy their meals, making the atmosphere feel like it is from the past.
Defari Nights has a traditional setting and a cafe area separated from the kitchen by a hallway. The cafe is a large room decorated with the same care as the restaurant. When people walk into the restaurant, they are greeted with halva and Arabic coffee. Traditional Arabic and local Qeshm foods make up most of the menu.
- Ratings and Reviews
Some tourists who ate at this place had negative and positive things to say about it. One person said the quality wasn’t excellent, even though the place was well-known online. The prices were high, and the rice could have been more delicious.
The menu mostly featured rice-based meals like stews, kebabs, and fish. We ordered seafood and lamb (lamb and rice). The meat, fish, and shrimp tasted great and were all fresh, and the meal came with a big serving. In short, the meal was average compared to what the restaurant’s online reviews say about it.
3- Nakhoda Ali Saleh Restaurant Qeshm
The Nakhoda Ali Saleh Restaurant, also known as Nakhoda Ali Khanegah, is one of the best places for families to eat fish on the beautiful island of Qeshm. It is located in the village of Soheili and is conveniently located near two popular Qeshm sights: Hara Forest and Chahkooh Canyon.
After exploring these interesting places, we strongly suggest you stop by for lunch. It’s essential to remember that several places have the same name, so it’s best to use the address and map to get exact directions. At the Nakhoda Ali Saleh Sohili restaurant, customers can enjoy a wide range of seafood meals, such as fish, shark, shrimp, crab, and many other tasty seafood options.
- Ratings and Reviews
It can be a great choice, especially if you like fish! The menu only has a few items from Qeshm Island. “I think you should consider this place when planning your trip to Qeshm to eat delicious seafood at a good price. It serves tasty Southern food.”
4- Golden Nights Restaurant Qeshm
It is known as one of the best places to eat on Qeshm Island, and its popularity is due to the high quality of its food, its attractive atmosphere, and great position. The restaurant serves a wide range of delicious Iranian and seafood dishes that are expertly made and presented for the guests’ pleasure.
It is on the beautiful Seaside Boulevard in the Zaitoun Coastal Park. When people go to the park, they can enjoy the pleasant atmosphere, look out at the beautiful waves of the Persian Gulf, and eat something tasty.
- Ratings and Reviews
“Along with a Caesar salad and a few non-alcoholic drinks. The shrimp and fish were not very good, but the salad, vegetables, and squid were fine. The fish and shrimp were not fresh and tasted funny.”
5- Naeem Restaurant Qeshm
It is known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere, making it a top choice for both visitors and locals. There are covered indoor seating areas and open-air seating areas to suit different weather conditions.
It has many different Iranian dishes, kebabs, and seafood specialties. The restaurant is famous for its seafood; the crispy shrimp is a customer favorite. It’s also important to note that the menu prices are high for the high-quality food served at Naeem.
- Ratings and Reviews
One of the tourists said,” We’ve been to Naeem Restaurant many times; the prices are very high. If you want to eat seafood, you can find better restaurants. They also add a 15% service charge to the bill.”
6- Khan Boom Restaurant Qeshm
Khan Boom Restaurant is one of the most unique and top restaurants in Qeshm. It combines traditional and seafaring elements in a way that looks great. The restaurant is near Azadegan Boulevard and is built to look like a cave in the rocks.
The restaurant’s walls look like rocky forms and have small and large holes, giving the atmosphere of a cave that tourists and travelers enjoy.
The restaurant has traditional rooms and beds, which fit with its genuinely traditional style. Khan Boom Restaurant has a special meal that is split into four separate parts:
- Ariana: This menu has a lot of different Iranian and seafood meals that look delicious, like seafood mix, grilled fish and shrimp, different kinds of kebabs, and more.
- Amitis: This is the café menu, and it has a lovely selection of sweets and drinks, both hot and cold.
- Iranwich: This is a fast food area, and it has pizza, sandwiches, steak, burgers, and more.
- Jahangir: The Jahangir menu is for the tea place, which has a range of herbal and traditional teas.
- Ratings and Reviews
One of the guests says,” If you are looking for seafood, do not hesitate. This restaurant is where you must go. Also, it has a unique design like a cave.” Also, some had negative points about this restaurant, saying, “We had to wait more than an hour for our food to be served.
7- Behesht Restaurant Qeshm
The “Behesht Qeshm Restaurant” is one of the most famous and well-liked places to eat on Qeshm Island. The restaurant’s menu is a culinary trip with a wide range of dishes, from seafood and Northern Iranian specialties to juicy kebabs and other tempting treats.
- Ratings and Reviews
One of the tourists there says,” It has a great vibe and lots of energy. The food is unique and tastes great, so try it. You should try the fish and fish roe and the sour and pounded kebab.”
8- Haj Ghafour Restaurant Qeshm
The Haj Ghafoor Restaurant in Qeshm is one of the island’s most beautiful and classic home-style restaurants. Around the restaurant are wooden tables with local mats and backrests, which native people design. In the middle of the restaurant, there is a big model of a ship that makes you feel like you are sitting by the Persian Gulf, where the water is always turquoise.
The best local food is served at Haj Ghafoor Restaurant, which specializes in making spicy and flavorful Southern meals. Regular customers often return to this restaurant because of how great the specialty meals taste, especially the local fish stew and the unbeatable prawns.
Please take note that these comments were derived from the travelers’ feedback.
If you would like to reserve any of these top Qeshm restaurants or add them to your Qeshm Island Tour itinerary, please get in touch with our tour operators using the form below.
- info@letsseepersia.com
Qeshm Island Review and Comments
One of the guests said, “A very nice and beautiful place. You will need to rent a car to visit all of the attractions. You have to go here; this place is so beautiful it feels like you’re on another planet. Put on shoes and clothes that are easy to move around in and walk through the attractions. This is such a beautiful and unique place.”
Also, one of the tourists said some things about Chahkooh. He said,” Chahkooh Canyon is one of the most well-known nature spots on Qeshm Island, along with the Valley of Stars. Sand and water have worn this Canyon into strange forms over time. It is an easy 10–15-minute walk to get there. You can climb a bit more to explore the Canyon once you’re inside, but you’ll need the right shoes. During the busy season, the spot can get crowded quickly. An hour is enough time to spend there.”
Please take note that these comments were derived from the travelers’ feedback.
