First-time visitors to Oman might be surprised to learn that the range of natural landscapes in the country isn’t limited to undulating desert dunes, lush palm oases, and rugged limestone mountains. The country’s 3165 km-long coastline is dotted with sun-bleached swaths of white sand, rocky beaches, and pristine islands where turtles outnumber people, and pods of dolphins swim alongside boats.
If creature comforts are important, then the beach resorts in Oman or the city beaches, with tourism infrastructure and public facilities (such as toilets and changing rooms), are your best bet. However, intrepid travelers who enjoy exploring off the beaten path will find glorious stretches of nearly empty beaches, some hidden in coves and beside caves, offering memorable wild camping experiences.
If you’re the adventurous sort, Oman is known for some of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling sites in the region, and watersports such as kiteboarding, surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all available here too.
Qurum Beach
Best public beach in Muscat
Located in the upscale suburb of Qurum, Qurum Beach, also known as Shati Al Qurum, is among the best beaches in Muscat and a great choice for those looking to enjoy a beach day in the heart of the city. This 4 km-long sandy beach, lined with swaying palms, is popular with joggers who run along the promenade in the mornings and groups who come to watch the sunset. The beach is safe for swimming, but visitors should be cautious of high tide warnings. Various operators offer kayak and jet ski rentals.
For refreshments, choose from many cafes and restaurants along the beach. Public toilets and changing rooms are available. Additionally, the nearby Qurum Natural Park, featuring walkways around a small lake, rose garden, amphitheater, and an amusement park for children, is also worth a visit.
Tiwi Beach
Best beach for secluded camping
Full of smooth pebbles and soft white sand, Tiwi Beach is a worthy stop for travelers returning from a day of scrambling over rocky terrain at Wadi Shab or Wadi Tiwi, or those seeking to swim in clear blue waters close to the coastal town of Sur. While Tiwi Beach is a popular camping spot for locals on weekends, visitors may find quiet stretches all to themselves during the week. Tiwi Beach is sometimes referred to as Pebble Beach.
To set up a tent or have a picnic, choose from secluded spots sheltered in the cove or venture farther south along the beach. Interesting rock formations and caves, including a heart-shaped cave at the northern end, add to the charm. Note that there are no tourist facilities at Tiwi Beach, so it’s best to stock up on snacks and supplies in the nearby fishing village of Tiwi or in Sur.
Masirah Island
Best beach for turtle spotting and kitesurfing
Masirah Island is Oman’s largest island, conveniently located just 16 km off the southeastern coast. However, a travel time of six hours from Muscat means that it remains a hidden gem to many visitors. The coast is home to fishing villages and miles of pristine sandy beaches hugging the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea. Don’t miss the beach at Abu Rasas in the south, where shallow waters of the west coast meet the raging sea from the east.
During summer, the island’s beaches serve as a nesting site for migrating sea turtles, making hatching season (September to December) a perfect time to visit. If you choose to camp, make sure to set your tent away from turtle nests. Additionally, during the monsoon season, kitesurfers flock to the island’s flatwater beaches to enjoy strong, steady winds.
Al Mughsail Beach
Best beach for families
Just a 30-minute drive from Salalah, which attracts tourists to the Dhofar region from June to September with its monsoon-enhanced beauty, Al Mughsail Beach is popular with families. A stroll along this pristine white sand beach rewards visitors with breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and the azure sea. Exploring towards Al Marneef Cave at the western end of the beach provides an even greater experience, where the unique Mughsail Blowholes dramatically erupt jets of seawater from vents in the rocks.
Mirbat
Best beach for diving
The fishing village of Mirbat is recognized as one of the top spots for snorkeling and diving in Oman (from October through April). The cool, clear, nutrient-rich waters off the southern coast brim with rays, lobsters, moray eels, and vibrant coral reefs, providing abundant opportunities for divers of all levels. From November, encountering humpback whales and dolphins while diving or snorkeling is not uncommon. Visitors can find organized guided snorkeling and diving trips through local operators.
Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve
Best beach for snorkeling
The Daymaniyat Islands is an archipelago of nine rocky limestone islands just 19 km off the northern coast of Oman, accessible by boat from Muscat. Visitors can enjoy white sandy beaches while also exploring vibrant coral reefs where marine life thrives. These protected waters are a sanctuary for various species, including Arabian butterflyfish and migratory birds. However, a permit is required to visit the islands, and it is advisable to arrange this through local operators specialized in marine adventures.
