Sur

Coastal city built on dhow shipbuilding. Today it's a working harbour town with traditional yards still constructing wooden boats, and the principal jumping-off point for Ras al-Jinz turtle reserve.

The dhow yards

On the west side of the harbour. Wooden dhows are built here using essentially traditional methods, no plans, by eye. Visiting is informal — you can walk in and watch during working hours; ask before photographing close-up.

Forts

Sunaysilah Fort overlooks the town from the south, four corner towers and a clear view across the harbour. Bilad Sur is the older fort 5 km inland — less restored, more atmospheric. Both Saturday–Thursday 9:00–16:00.

Ras al-Jinz

45 km southeast. Twice-nightly turtle tours from the visitor centre, 7 OMR per person, booking essential July–September. The on-site eco-resort is the convenient overnight; otherwise drive back to Sur (1 hour) after the 21:00 tour.

Ayjah lighthouse

Across the inlet from Sur old town. White-and-blue lighthouse on a small headland with the dhow yards on one side and the open Gulf on the other.

Practical tips

Best time to visit: October–March for the cool season; outside Dhofar, summer months are very hot.
Modest dress is appreciated everywhere outside hotel beaches and pools.
Most monuments are closed Friday morning and reopen at 16:00.

Points of interest

Al Hazm Castle — Built in 1711 by Imam Sultan bin Saif II. Notable for stone construction (rare in Oman), secret passages and the imam's tomb inside the castle.

Al Jalali Fort — Portuguese-built (1587) sea fort guarding Muscat harbour. Closed to general public; visible from the corniche.

Al Mirani Fort — Twin to Al Jalali across Muscat harbour, also Portuguese-built. Closed to public but a fixture of every Muscat harbour view.

Fins Beach — White-sand beach with turquoise water on the road between Muscat and Sur. Free wild camping permitted at the south end.

Ibra — Gateway to the Wahiba Sands and the wadis of the eastern interior. Known for its women's souq held every Wednesday.

Muscat — Capital of Oman, set between the Hajar mountains and the Gulf. Home to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Royal Opera House and the old harbour districts of Mutrah and Muttrah.

Nakhal Fort — Pre-Islamic foundation perched on an outcrop above the Batinah plain, with hot springs at Ain A'Thawwarah at the foot of the hill.

Qantab Beach — Small fishing-village cove south of Muscat, popular for kayaking and a launch for boat trips to the Bandar Al Khairan reserve.

Ras Al Hadd — Adjacent to Ras al-Jinz; nesting site for green turtles. Less crowded but less interpretation than the Jinz centre.

Ras Al Hadd Beach — Easternmost point of the Arabian peninsula. Long, undeveloped beach near the Ras al-Jinz turtle reserve.

Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve — Primary green-turtle nesting beach on the Arabian peninsula. Guided night and dawn tours from the on-site visitor centre. Booking required.

Sunaysilah Fort (Sur) — Square fort with four corner towers above Sur, rebuilt in the 18th century to guard the trade route to the interior.

Sur — Coastal city built on dhow shipbuilding. Still home to working dhow yards and a launch point for Ras al-Jinz turtle reserve.

Yiti Beach — Long curved bay east of Muscat with calm water, popular weekend camping spot for Muscat residents.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Sur from Muscat?

3 hours via the coastal highway through Quriyat. Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole are on the way and worth combining.

Is the Ras al-Jinz turtle tour worth it?

Yes — the reserve guarantees turtle sightings May–November and the 21:00 tour is one of the standout wildlife experiences in the country.

Can I stay at Ras al-Jinz?

Yes, the eco-resort on site has rooms and beach tents. Booking 2+ months ahead is necessary in July–September.

Are dhows still being built?

Yes — Sur builds 5–10 large wooden dhows a year, mostly for Gulf and Indian Ocean clients.