Bimmah Sinkhole: a turquoise pool in the limestone

The Bimmah Sinkhole, in Hawiyat Najm Park beside the coastal highway between Muscat and Sur, is a hole about 20 metres deep in the limestone, filled with turquoise water that mixes fresh water from below and sea water seeping in from the nearby coast.

Visiting

Steps lead down to the water, where visitors swim and small fish nibble at their feet. The park around it has shaded picnic areas and toilets. Entry has generally been free.

Tips

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and harsh light.
• Swimwear is fine in the water; cover up in the park, which is used by families.
• The water is deep in the middle; swim carefully.
• Combine with Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi, 20 to 30 minutes south.

Getting there

The sinkhole is about an hour and a quarter from central Muscat along the coastal highway towards Sur.

Staying near and owning a home

Most visitors explore Oman from a base in Muscat. If you are thinking of buying, R2LUX sells homes in the communities where foreigners can own; three current listings are below.