Ain el Mreisseh is an area closest to the lighthouse, set on Beirut’s 5km-long Corniche. The Corniche starts in the historic Saint George Bay in the city’s downtown and ends after the public beach, Ramlet el Bayda. Ain el Mreisseh is my favourite stretch: it’s the prettiest, in my opinion, as you’re closest to the sea, and there are some interesting landmarks nearby such as La Maison Rose, a beautiful pink house built in 1882, and the old-fashioned black and white lighthouse.
Ain el Mreisseh is nicest on a windy day when you’ll see the waves hitting the rocks and almost ploughing into the shack of the café right by the modern lighthouse. I like to cross the street to stop at one of the many small cafes, like Uncle Deek. They don’t look like much, but here you can buy a traditional sahlab drink – a sweet concoction made from a flower extract.
I like this spot because it feels like something of a leveller in a classist and divided society. You see and meet people from all walks of life here, be it Syrian refugees enjoying one of Beirut’s few free public spaces; Beiruti fishermen; glamourous Lebanese women speed walking in designer jogging gear and chatting loudly on their phones; to people sunbathing, smoking shisha and playing music on the shores.
Paris
LBP
free
Find your way with 179 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The "Garden of Forgiveness" in Beirut is a vast space that was properly unveiled during excavations after the Civil War. Come observe its beauty & history.
by
"Barzakh Bookshop" in Beirut is the ultimate definition of a hidden gem. It's a cultural melting pot of literary rebels from around the world...
by
"Beit Beirut", or the Yellow Building, has been standing since 1924. It survived the Civil War and is now used as a center for exhibitions & events...
by
"L'Artisan du Liban" is a social movement in Beirut that's keeping local art and artisans alive. I usually buy gifts for my locals friends here...
by
"Mar Maroun Church" in Beirut is Lebannon's biggest Maronite church. You can see the Arab influence on the architecture. Bonus points: I was married here!
by
"Institute Yakout" is not just another beauty salon: here it's like you're among friends. Yakout will make you coffee with a huge smile & chat with you...
by
"George Nakhle Coiffure" in Beirut is my hairdresser of preference. I don't know what it is, but I can always trust him to prepare me for my night out!
by
"Sarah's Bag" in Beirut is a Lebanese fashion brand that aims to empower the women who wear their beautiful bags as well as those who make them...
by
Walking in Achrafieh and meeting the locals in Beirut, especially the groups of old people, has made me feel like I'm really part of a big village...
by
"The Malt Gallery" is a must-visit if you're a fan of nice alcohol. It's a kind of drink library, proudly displaying bottles from all over the world...
by
179 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 179 Insider Tips