The best beaches in Oman: a complete guide

Oman has one of the longest coastlines in the Arabian Peninsula, more than 3,000 km along the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Its beaches range from long city sands in Muscat to wild coves backed by mountains and empty shores where turtles nest.

Muscat's city beaches

• Qurum and Shatti Al Qurum: long, easy beaches with cafés and promenades.
• Al Seeb: a local favourite with fishermen and a quiet corniche.
• Al Mouj: a marina and beach promenade in west Muscat.

Coves east of Muscat

• Qantab, Yiti and Bandar Khayran: rocky bays, clear water and boat trips to snorkelling spots.
• As Sifah: a long beach at the end of the road south of Muscat.

The east coast to Sur

• Fins and Tiwi: white sand and cliffs near Wadi Shab and the Bimmah Sinkhole.
• Ras al Hadd and Ras al Jinz: the easternmost point of Arabia and turtle nesting beaches.

Further afield

• Sawadi: islands you can walk to at low tide, an hour west of Muscat.
• Masirah Island: wild beaches and kitesurfing.
• Salalah: palm-lined Al Haffa and the dramatic coast at Al Mughsail.

When to go

October to April is the best beach season, with warm water and comfortable temperatures. Summer is very hot in Muscat, while Salalah is cool, misty and rough during the khareef.

Beach safety and etiquette

Swim only where it is safe: there are few lifeguards, and currents can be strong, especially during the summer monsoon (June to September) when red flags close many beaches. Dress modestly away from hotel beaches, take your rubbish home and never drive on turtle nesting beaches.

Living by the sea

Many of Oman's freehold communities sit on the coast. R2LUX sells beachfront and sea-view homes where foreigners can own; three current listings are below.