The Daymaniyat Islands are uninhabited islands off the coast of Oman, north of Muscat. They can only be discovered in a day, during a boat trip, and it is not possible to stay overnight. The islands form an unspoilt nature reserve, ideal for snorkellers. You'll find plenty of coral and fish, as well as rays and turtles! Some travellers even compare the beaches of the Daymaniyat Islands to those of the Maldives, with stretches of immaculate white sand and crystal-clear water!
The Sultanate of Oman is best known for its superb wadis, desert mountains and rich cultural heritage. But Oman also has 1,700 kilometres of coastline along the Arabian Sea! As you'll have gathered, your trip will also be filled with beautiful stretches of sand.
Oman's beaches, whether rocky or sandy, are one of the wonders of the Sultanate of Oman. Preserved and rarely visited, you'll appreciate even more the feeling of being alone in the world in such an enchanting setting!
What's more, Oman is home to an exceptional seabed with a wide variety of fauna. Whether you're snorkelling or diving, you'll be able to observe coral reefs, various species of fish, as well as numerous turtles and dolphins. So, which beaches should you choose? Here are our favourites!
The Daymaniyat Islands
Fazayah Beach, Salalah
Fazayah beach has to be earned! You have to follow a 6 km dirt road to discover this unique place... You can admire a multitude of small coves covered in white sand. These coves are ideal for swimming: the water is calm and transparent, and the temperature perfect. If you're equipped with a mask and snorkel, Al Fizayah beach is teeming with a variety of fish. Finally, we love the tranquillity of these coves, which are often deserted!
Mughsail Beach, Salalah
Still in the Salalah region, here's another sublime stretch at Al Mughsail. Enjoy the miles of white sand and its sublime panorama, far from civilisation! The beach at Al Mughsail offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains, not to mention palm trees that blend into the scenery. Add to that the turquoise reflections in the water and you'll think you're in the Caribbean! Unlike other beaches, access is very easy, perfect for families with children.
Al Sifah Beach, Sifah
An hour's drive from Muscat, this superb beach is a relatively wild place where you're likely to find only a handful of travellers. The golden sand stretches for dozens of metres, just waiting for you and your towel. What's more, you'll enjoy a unique environment, with a calm, clean sea full of fish!
Qurum Beach, Muscat
Just a 15-minute drive from Muscat, this beach lies at the heart of an isthmus that stretches out into the Arabian Sea. Due to its location, Qurum Beach is slightly busier than the others, but it remains relatively wild and very pleasant. Bordered by a long stretch of green space and a few palm trees, it's a lovely place to take a dip in its crystal-clear waters. Omanis gather here to picnic or relax, especially at the end of the day. It's a peaceful place to watch the sunset. There are also a number of small restaurants just a stone's throw away, as well as a car park.
Bassa Public Beach, Khasab
Khasab is located in a landlocked part of Oman, on the Musandam Peninsula, between the United Arab Emirates and the rest of the country. Situated in the far north of the country, this region offers an exceptional setting for enjoying the Arabian Sea, and Bassa beach is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in Oman. This vast expanse consists mainly of gravel and sand. It offers a relatively wild setting, with mountains blending into the coastal landscape in the distance, adding to the charm of the place!
Hotels with the best beaches
Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
Beautiful accommodation with an infinity pool!Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
you'll have an unbeatable view of the beach!A few tips for swimming
For women, bear in mind that bikinis should be avoided in Oman on busy public beaches. Although the Omani population is very welcoming and tolerant, it is preferable to follow the country's customs, out of respect for them.
We therefore recommend that you wear a one-piece swimming costume, shorts and a T-shirt when swimming in the wadis or on crowded beaches. For men, swimming shorts are accepted and bare chests are tolerated. Of course, these instructions do not apply to private hotel beaches.
Practical info
Stonefish, jellyfish and sea snakes can sometimes be found when diving in the Arabian Sea. To avoid any problems, we recommend that you wear suitable footwear when swimming.