Zarat

Zarat is a coastal village in Siyazan Rayon, northeastern Azerbaijan, located on the Caspian Sea. The village is small and agricultural, with fishing and some tourism from summer beachgoers providing additional income. Zarat's main draw is its sandy Caspian beach, which is quieter than the more developed beaches closer to Baku. The best time to visit is June to September, when the sea is warm and the weather is sunny.

By Plane

Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku, about 95 km southeast, is the nearest major airport. Travel to Siyazan (1 hour), then a short taxi ride east to Zarat (10 minutes).

By Car / Road

From Siyazan town centre, head east on a local paved road for about 8 km toward the coast. The road is in fair condition. A taxi from Siyazan costs 5–10 AZN.

Zarat is small and walkable. The beach stretches for several kilometres along the coast.

• Caspian Sea beach — A sandy beach with shallow, warm water. Less crowded than Baku's beaches, though facilities are basic.

• Coastal dunes — Low dunes behind the beach are covered in coastal vegetation.

• Fishing boats — Local fishermen launch small boats from the shore.

• Swimming — The Caspian Sea is warm and shallow, ideal for bathing in summer.

• Sunbathing — Relax on the sandy beach.

• Photography — The Caspian coastline, fishing boats, and coastal dunes.

• Zarat beach kiosk — Seasonal kiosks selling drinks, snacks, and basic food in summer.
• Siyazan restaurants — For proper meals, return to Siyazan (10 min).

Bring bottled water. Tea is available at beach kiosks.

• Seasonal beach bungalows — Basic summer cabins may be available along the coast during peak season.
• Siyazan guesthouse — Alternatively, stay in Siyazan (10 minutes away), 25–40 AZN per night.

A small shop sells drinks and snacks. For a full market, go to Siyazan.

• Siyazan (8 km west, 10 min) — Beshbarmag mountain, the history museum, and transport connections.
• Beshdam (5 km southwest, 7 min) — A neighbouring village in the coastal lowlands.
• Beshbarmag (15 km west, 20 min) — The legendary "Five-Finger Mountain" pilgrimage site.
• Shabran (45 km north, 45 min) — Shabran Fortress and the Nabran beach resort area.