Joanna James
Oman's coast is 3,165kms; thus the beaches are lapped by the Arabian Sea, Sea of Oman and Strait of Hormuz. Due to this, the coastline varies between sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, bays & lagoons.
With gorgeous environs to explore, Al Bustan Beach in Muscat offers one a sandy shore that's framed by beautiful mountains. The surreal ambience of the place is just right for relaxing and enjoying the sunny weather.
The capital of Dhofar is the historical city of Salalah well known for its beaches. The Dhofar coast is a fabulous stretch home to lagoons, caves and large populations of flamingos; the bio-diverse environs are picture postcard perfect. Some of the best beaches there are Al Mughsayl, Al Hafah, Sha, Mirbat, Wilayat Taqah and Raysut. The area is loved for the pristine sandy beaches and surrounding scenery inundated with rocky backdrops. The best lagoons for spotting flamingos are Sawli, Ad Dahareez, Atheeb, Salalah and Al Baleed located next to Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara and the Al Baleed Archaeological Park.
Khalouf Beach is for those of you hankering for some solitude away from the touristy crowds. Enjoy the huge sand dunes and sights of fishermen readying their nets. The area is a bird watchers paradise with a vast number of species including majestic eagles circling the place. The wide sandy beach offers ample opportunity to put up a tent enjoy a BBQ and relax by the ocean.
Another fabulous reason for exploring the gorgeous Dhofar Coast and historic city of Salalah, Mughsayl Beach is one of the best in Oman and easily reached from your Salalah beach resort. The environs are quite dramatic offering one the illusions of being around the cliffs of Australia's coast as well as being in the sunny Caribbean. There are lush banana and coconut groves that spread almost up to the water's edge while tourists visiting in winter are rewarded with sights of huge waves crashing against the rocky cliffs.
The sea around this area is an alluring blue. Enjoy the quiet surroundings and stunning rocky outcrops that add a magical aura to Bandar Jissah. Just around the bay, you can enjoy some fabulous snorkelling while the adjoining lagoon makes for a great scout. Take along the cameras for pictures of the still ocean punctuated with sights of traditional fishing boats.
This is probably the country's best snorkelling location. Natural rock pools, azure blue waters and pristine sandy shores make Tiwi a beach lover's haven. The shallow rocky pools are ideal for swimming and provide safe environs for kids; who by the way will love chasing the scurrying crabs. At low tide, it is possible to walk up to the reef where you are rewarded with sights of beautiful coral.
Ras Al Hadd has a vibrant history that extends to 3000 BC. The secluded bay was once a sanctuary for ships and planes during WWII while the Green Turtle sanctuary is now one of its most popular attractions. Get there by 4 am to see the turtles hatch and enjoy the amazing sunrise that blesses this east coast resort.
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