Set on a protected island, this resort is an easy-to-reach getaway for those craving sea views and slow mornings.
Bahrain might be a small island nation, but it’s quietly building a reputation for big, memorable getaways. Beyond the usual, there’s a growing appetite for proper escape-from-it-all destinations, and that’s exactly what Hawar Resort by Mantis offers.
Hawar Resort by Mantis is located on Hawar Island, and getting there is part of the adventure. From Bahrain International Airport, expect about a one-hour drive down to the jetty. From there, it’s roughly a 30-minute boat ride to the island — assuming calm, clear waters. If the sea gets choppy, the crossing can take a little longer.
Hawar Resort by Mantis feels distinctly Maldivian in spirit, yet firmly rooted in the Gulf. Think overwater villas, endless sea views and barefoot luxury, all without hopping on a long flight. Arrival at the resort is calm with purple neon lights shining in the dark.
As the boat pulls in, the resort reveals itself in soft, earthy tones with beige, warm woods, and muted coastal colours that blend into the island. The architecture feels modern but also cosy.
The resort is spread out, so movement is either by buggies or via walking paths if you’re in the mood for a stroll. Here, it’s all about slow mornings, open skies, and that immediate “exhale” feeling when you realise this is not your average Gulf resort.
Rooms and villas
Hawar Resort by Mantis features 104 keys, ranging from hotel-style rooms to villas, many with private pools. The variety makes it suitable for travellers of all types. FACT checked into a corner One-Bedroom Over-Water Villa with Pool. From the moment you step inside, it’s clear this villa was designed to mirror its surroundings. You enter through a beige wooden door into a living area which features a white sofa, styled with cushions in navy blue and teal. With beige tiled floors, soft lighting, and wooden furnishings, the space is well set up for relaxation, featuring a TV, a minibar, and a coffee-and-tea corner.
Moving into the bedroom, the design remains cohesive. There’s a cosy corner couch, dressed in the same colour scheme. The king-sized bed comes with a woven-style headboard and built-in bedside lighting. Pendant lights hang from the ceiling on either side of the bed. Under the bed, macrame detailing continues the natural, handcrafted feel, complemented by another macrame feature on the wall above the headboard. The room also includes a study table and console, paired with a blue chair, while brown-toned curtains frame the space beautifully.
One of the more unique design elements is the curved walls that lead into the wardrobe area. To the right sits the ensuite bathroom, which features a private toilet, a separate shower area, and a deep soaking tub. His-and-hers vanities with marble countertops and black fittings elevate the space, giving it a spa-like feel.
The real showstopper, though, is outside. The bedroom opens onto a large private deck with a private pool, sun loungers, outdoor couches, a shower, and a dining table. A staircase leads directly into the sea. And then there’s the view, where you can also see horse fixtures, making it seem like they’re galloping on the water.
Destination Dining
Food is a big focus at Hawar Resort by Mantis in Bahrain, and the resort delivers with several dining venues, each offering a different mood and cuisine. Bahri is the all-day dining restaurant, serving Bahraini, regional, and international dishes. Then there is the Lobby Lounge, which is perfect for coffee, snacks, or a sunset mocktail. C-Salt, however, is one of the resort’s standout concepts, known for its wide variety of dishes. The emphasis across all venues is on fresh ingredients and sustainability.
Beyond dining, Hawar Resort by Mantis features a large pool and a private beach. There’s also the Hawar Spa, which offers a great selection of treatments to help you switch off properly.
Rest and Relaxation
Families are well catered for thanks to the kids’ and teens’ club, while adventure seekers will appreciate the Bear Grylls Adventure Zone, which adds a rugged edge to the resort’s serene vibe. There are also sports facilities, water activities, and plenty of quiet corners if doing nothing is more your style.
What Hawar Resort by Mantis in Bahrain does exceptionally well is balance luxury with nature. It feels exclusive without being flashy. For Bahrain residents, it’s a staycation escape, and for those visiting, it’s a side that feels unexpected.
Hawar Resort by Mantis proves that Bahrain doesn’t need to look far for world-class resort experiences. With its overwater villas, thoughtful design and laid-back island vibes, it delivers Maldivian-style luxury with a Bahraini soul. If you’re craving a reset that feels far from everyday life, but not far from home, this might just be the one you need.
GO: Visit www.mantiscollection.com for more information.