Beaches in Oman - a guide to a relaxing vacation

Although Oman is known as a beautiful desert paradise in the Middle East, it also has a fantastic coastline facing the Arabian Gulf, the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. The beaches in Oman are beautiful and pristine, with clear waters and calm waves that immerse you in peaceful wonder.

Oman's coastline covers more than 3,000 kilometers and includes beaches of varying atmospheres. Some have abundant sea life and water sports, while others are picnic areas with palm trees and white sand. They are all in good condition and are essentially public beaches.

Private beaches in the country are usually used for military purposes or at beach resorts. Because of Oman's special climate, beaches can be very hot and uncomfortable to visit in the summer. So, the best months to enjoy the beach are between November and April, when winter begins.

Here is a list of the best beaches in Oman:

1. Qurum Beach

This beach, located in the capital Muscat, is one of the longest in Oman. At low tide, the shoreline can reach up to 4 km. There are many palm trees to provide shade, making the beach a great place for picnics.

It is lively with a variety of sports, such as jet skis, which can be rented by the hour.

Since the beach is in the heart of the city, it is quite a commercial area with shopping malls not far from the hotel. Premium hotels such as the Intercontinental are within walking distance.

2. Al Mughsail Beach

Al Mugseil Beach (also called "Mugseil") can be found in southern Oman in the city of Salalah. Unlike Al Qurum Beach, it is relatively unspoiled with fewer people and less commercial activity.

In summer, it is a great place for sunbathing. During the monsoons, waves have been known to rush in through holes in the partially collapsed caves near the beach. The cliffs offer a beautiful view of the Yemeni border.

Across the 7-kilometer shoreline of the beach you can find flora such as banana trees and coconut grooves that give it a laid-back atmosphere. Not far from this beach there is a winding road that repeats itself and is called "Fury Road" for thrill seekers.

3. Bandar Jissah Beach

Bandar Jissa is a rather rocky beach, mostly a secluded bay. There are a few eateries nearby and a playground, but it is hidden from public view.

There are many spectacular rock formations along the rocky shore, and at low tide you can make an interesting walk along the beach. On this beach there are "fishing cabs" that can be rented to go out to sea. You can also rent kayaks to explore the azure waters.

4. Tiwi Beach

Compared to some of the bluest waters of any beach in Oman, Tiwi Beach is a beautiful place. It has soft white sand that caresses your feet as you step into it, tempted to jump into the cool blue water.

If the ocean water is too cold for you, there are always nearby rock pools that are quite warm. The beach is perfect for the nearby village of Tiwi with its natural plantations.

The waters are wonderfully clear, making it a popular snorkeling spot. It is not uncommon to see bats, sea snakes, or even stingrays while snorkeling at Tiwi Beach.

5. Ras Al Hadd

Unlike other beaches in Oman, Ras Al Hadd is a private beach. It is famous for the turtle sanctuary, which hosts almost 13,000 turtles annually. Their oviposition peak is from June to November. During this time you can see dozens of turtles crawling across the sand to dig holes and lay their eggs on weekdays so they are not seen by predators.

Visiting Ras Al-Hadd is controlled, but with prior permission. This is a great place to see the maritime activity of Oman. In some parts of the beach you can go snorkeling where you can swim with a turtle!

6. Masirah Island

This island is located on the southern coast of Oman. It is the largest island in the country with a length of more than 95 km. Masirah Island has beautiful golden sand and high waves, which make it a popular place for surfing.

Here you can engage in other water sports such as kitesurfing, which is popular because of the shallow waters. In terms of weather, Masirah Island is much colder than the mainland, as it receives cool winds from the Arabian Sea.

Like Ras Al-Hadd, this is a popular place for turtles. Going for a swim, you might just meet them casually swimming by.

7. Al Sawadi Beach

This beach is about an hour and a half drive from Muscat, which leads to fewer crowds on its shores. There are interesting shells and sea creatures roaming the sands.

Al Sawadi is known to have beautiful corals that can be seen swimming around the water. Nearby are islands that can be reached by boat rental. Also, keep an eye on the sky, as the beach is said to be home to many native Omani birds.

8. Al Bustan Beach

Named after the Al Bustan Palace Hotel, this private beach offers a luxurious experience. With the Palace's "day pass" concept, you will truly feel like a queen with their stellar treatment waiting for you. Whether it's a cocktail, towels or even an umbrella, everything will be ready at your request.

They also provide free snorkeling gear so you can explore the waters. Enjoy sun loungers overlooking the mountains and beach, creating a sense of privacy unlike the public beaches in Oman.

9. Shell Beach

This beach, as the name implies, is known for the many shells that can be found on its sandy shores. Better yet, there are many starfish on the sand. It is also called Aviation Beach because of its proximity to the Aviation Club in the Al Azaiba area. The beach is a popular family destination and is always full of life and energy.

10. Khalouf Beach

Not only is Khalouf Beach a popular fishing spot for locals, but it has recently become a tourist destination. A 5-hour drive from Muscat with very few resorts nearby, it has fewer crowds and is almost private.

Before you reach the crystal clear waters, you'll see looming sand dunes reminiscent of the vast territory of Oman. This is a great place to go snorkeling and hiking, so bring a tent! You might just see eagles and even flamingos on this beach.

11. Marjan Beach

If you like calm waters so clear you can look down on your feet, Marjan Beach is the place to be! It's a popular spot for beginner snorkelers, as the water is shallow with colorful corals along the entire shore.

You can even find sea creatures such as sea cucumbers and clown fish. Because of the shallow water, locals have been known to fish here. The high cliffs overlooking the beach are known to adventurers who dive into the deep waters of the ocean.

Tips for beachwear

Of course, Oman is a rather traditional country in terms of clothing, and it is best to dress modestly when visiting the beach.

• It's a good idea to have your knees and elbows covered.
• Women should choose loose-fitting clothing or a one-piece swimsuit, while men should ideally wear bermuda shorts.
• Two-piece swimsuit and Speedos are not considered appropriate clothing.
• Some private beaches are more lenient with swimwear, but it's still best to dress respectfully.
• Remember to keep yourself covered when entering and exiting the beach, because continuing to stay in your bathing suits is considered bad behavior.

Most beaches in Oman are suitable for families, and it is advisable to determine the atmosphere of the beach before settling in. Some family-friendly beaches do not welcome bachelors or single women.