New wave Boys in Latakia take a swim on a hot day (opening image). The coast used to be under Bashar al-Assad’s control, and since his removal last year visitors from all over the country have been enjoying the seaside (top to bottom)
Beach boys Wadi Qandil is famous for its black-sand beaches (top). From the corniche in Latakia you can see boats floating in the bay (middle). Rawaa al-Rajab, left, watches her daughter play with her baby in the sand (bottom)
Coasting Four generations of al-Rajab’s family have gathered for a day at the beach. Chairs are placed in the water and the corniche in Latakia is lined with cafés, but in the heat of the Syrian summer some prefer to sit in the cooling waves (top to bottom)
Last resort Friends enjoy grilled fish and mezze at a restaurant in Latakia (top). A captain ferries visitors from Tartus to Arwad Island, once a popular tourism destination (middle). The passenger in the middle appears to be carrying a gun (bottom)
On the rocks Young people in Latakia enjoy a swim. As evening approaches, visitors come to the corniche to watch the sunset, while boys dive into the sea. A spear fisherman gathers his catch (top to bottom)
