Salalah's beaches: Al Haffa, Mughsail and the Dhofar coast

Salalah, the capital of Dhofar, has a completely different coast from Muscat: palm-lined beaches, coconut groves and green mountains during the khareef.

Al Haffa

The city beach of Salalah runs past coconut and banana plantations. The Al Baleed archaeological park and Museum of the Frankincense Land, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are right next to it.

West of Salalah

• Al Mughsail: a long white beach with blowholes.
• Fazayah: secluded coves reached by a steep mountain road.

East of Salalah

• Taqah and Mirbat: fishing towns with forts and quiet beaches.
• Coves along the coast where you can snorkel in calm weather.

Seasons

From June to September the khareef brings mist, drizzle and rough seas; swimming is unsafe. October to April is beach season.

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.