Did you know that Sur is home to the last traditional dhow shipyard in the Arabian Peninsula? This historic maritime city, once a bustling trade hub connecting Oman with East Africa, India, and China, continues to craft these iconic wooden vessels using techniques passed down through generations. While often overlooked in favor of Muscat or Salalah, Sur offers a fascinating glimpse into Oman’s seafaring heritage alongside stunning natural attractions that make it an essential stop on any Omani adventure.
Getting to Sur & Planning Your Journey
Located approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Muscat, Sur is easily accessible by road. The coastal highway offers spectacular views and is well-maintained, making it a pleasant drive even for those new to Omani roads.
By Air
The nearest airport is Muscat International Airport. From there, you’ll need to rent a car or arrange ground transportation to reach Sur. Check flight options to Muscat from your location.
By Road
Renting a car is the most convenient option for visiting Sur and exploring its surroundings. The drive from Muscat takes approximately 2.5 hours along a scenic coastal route.
- Muscat to Sur: 200 km (124 mi) – approximately 2.5 hours
- Nizwa to Sur: 285 km (177 mi) – approximately 3.5 hours
- Wahiba Sands to Sur: 110 km (68 mi) – approximately 1.5 hours
Ready to explore Sur?
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Best Time to Visit Sur
The ideal time to visit Sur is during the winter months from November through April when temperatures are pleasant and range between 20-30°C (68-86°F). Summer months (May to October) can be extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), making outdoor exploration challenging.
| Season | Months | Temperature | Recommendation |
| Winter (Best) | November-April | 20-30°C (68-86°F) | Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities |
| Summer (Avoid) | May-October | 35-45°C (95-113°F) | Too hot for comfortable exploration |
| Turtle Season | June-September | 35-40°C (95-104°F) | Best for turtle watching despite heat |
Traveler’s Tip: If your primary reason for visiting Sur is to see nesting turtles at Ras Al Jinz, the summer months (June-September) offer the best chances despite the heat. However, turtles can be spotted year-round, so winter visits still provide opportunities with more comfortable temperatures.
Getting Around Sur
Sur is a relatively small city that’s easy to navigate. The old town and corniche areas are perfect for exploring on foot, while having your own vehicle is essential for visiting attractions in the surrounding region.
Transportation Options
- Rental Car: The most convenient option for exploring Sur and its surroundings. A standard 2WD vehicle is sufficient for most attractions, though a 4WD is necessary for some off-road adventures like visiting the beehive tombs or exploring wadis.
- Taxis: Available within Sur for short distances, but not ideal for day trips.
- Walking: The old town, corniche, and Al Ayjah district are best explored on foot.
For the full Sur experience, consider renting a car for the duration of your stay. This will give you the freedom to explore the many attractions around Sur at your own pace, including the turtle reserve, wadis, and beaches.
Where to Stay in Sur
Sur offers a range of accommodation options from comfortable hotels to camping opportunities. While not known for luxury resorts, the city provides clean, comfortable places to stay that serve as excellent bases for exploration.
Hotels & Apartments
- Sur Grand Hotel: Offering panoramic views of the beach and comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Popular with tour groups.
- Sur Plaza Hotel: Centrally located with good facilities and a decent breakfast.
- Arkan Al Barzah Hotel Apartment: Practical apartment-style accommodations ideal for families or longer stays.
Turtle Reserve Accommodations
- Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve Hotel: Basic accommodations located at the turtle reserve (includes guided turtle tours).
- SAMA Ras Al Jinz Resort: A more upscale option near the turtle reserve with better amenities.
Camping
Wild camping is legal in Oman and the beaches north of Sur are popular spots. Bring your own equipment and leave no trace.
Top Attractions & Things to Do in Sur, Oman
1. Explore the Dhow Shipyard
Sur’s most iconic attraction is its traditional dhow shipyard, where skilled craftsmen continue to build these wooden vessels using techniques passed down through generations. Located along the lagoon front at the west end of the suspension bridge, the open-air workshop offers a fascinating glimpse into this ancient maritime tradition. You can watch the artisans at work and even purchase miniature dhow models as souvenirs.
Entry fee: 1 OMR
2. Visit Al Ayjah Lighthouse & Old Town
Cross the suspension bridge to the historical district of Al Ayjah, dominated by the striking white lighthouse. While you can’t climb the lighthouse, the area offers spectacular views of Sur’s harbor, corniche, and the surrounding landscape. Wander through the narrow streets of the old town to admire traditional Omani architecture, including beautifully carved wooden doors on merchant houses.
Entry fee: Free
3. Discover the Ayjah Watchtowers
The three historic watchtowers guarding the entrance to Sur’s harbor once protected the city from maritime threats. These distinctive structures, which locals say appear to have faces, offer excellent photo opportunities and historical significance. You can drive up to each tower or view them collectively from various vantage points around the harbor.
Entry fee: Free
4. Tour Sur’s Forts & Castles
Sur boasts several historical fortifications worth exploring:
- Sunaysilah Fort: A 16th-century square fortress with round watchtowers in the center of Sur.
- Bilad Sur Castle: Built in the 19th century to defend against tribal raids.
- Al Ayjah Castle: A 19th-century fortification near the lighthouse.
Entry fees: Vary by location (typically 1-3 OMR)
5. Visit the Maritime Museum
Learn about Sur’s rich maritime history at this small but well-maintained museum. Exhibits showcase the different types of traditional dhow boats and their construction. Don’t miss the impressive 25-meter long “Ghanja” style dhow called Fatah Al Khair on display outside.
Entry fee: 3 OMR
6. Stroll Along Sur’s Corniche
The scenic waterfront promenade offers peaceful views of the harbor, fishing boats, and the Al Ayjah Lighthouse across the bay. This is a perfect spot for a relaxing walk, especially during sunset when the colors reflect off the water. You’ll often see locals gathering here to socialize and enjoy the sea breeze.
Entry fee: Free
Best Day Trips from Sur
1. Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve
Located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southeast of Sur, this protected beach is one of the most important nesting sites for endangered green turtles in the Indian Ocean. Guided tours allow visitors to witness female turtles laying eggs at night or hatchlings making their way to the sea in the early morning.
Entry fee: 8 OMR for adults, 3 OMR for children (includes guided tour)
Distance from Sur: 50 km (31 mi)
2. Wadi Shab
One of Oman’s most spectacular natural attractions, Wadi Shab offers emerald pools, waterfalls, and dramatic canyon scenery. The adventure begins with a short boat ride followed by a 45-minute hike and swim through pools to reach a hidden waterfall inside a cave. This is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Entry fee: 1 OMR (plus small fee for boat crossing)
Distance from Sur: 50 km (31 mi)
3. Wadi Tiwi
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Wadi Shab, Wadi Tiwi offers similar beauty with fewer crowds. This lush canyon features palm plantations, traditional villages, and swimming pools. A 4WD vehicle is recommended to reach the most scenic areas deeper in the wadi.
Entry fee: Free
Distance from Sur: 75 km (47 mi)
4. Wahiba Sands
Experience the magic of Oman’s desert at Wahiba Sands, where massive orange dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. Activities include dune bashing, camel rides, and overnight stays at desert camps. The contrast between Sur’s coastal scenery and this desert landscape makes for a memorable day trip.
Distance from Sur: 110 km (68 mi)
Dining & Local Cuisine
Sur’s coastal location means seafood features prominently on local menus. The city offers a mix of traditional Omani restaurants and international options, though dining is generally more casual than in Muscat.
What to Try
- Fresh Seafood: Locally caught fish, prawns, and lobster prepared with Omani spices.
- Shuwa: Meat marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked in an underground sand oven.
- Omani Halwa: A sweet gelatinous dessert flavored with saffron, cardamom, and nuts.
- Kahwa: Traditional Omani coffee served with dates.
Recommended Restaurants
- Al Boom Restaurant: Located in Sur Plaza Hotel, offering a mix of Omani and international cuisine.
- Zaki Restaurant: Popular for fresh seafood and local dishes.
- Sur Beach Restaurant: Casual dining with sea views and good seafood options.
Dining Tip: Many restaurants close during the afternoon (roughly 2-5 PM) and reopen for dinner. Plan your meals accordingly, especially if you’re out exploring during the day.
Practical Travel Tips
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress Modestly: Both men and women should cover shoulders and knees in public areas. Women should avoid tight-fitting clothes.
- Photography: Ask permission before photographing locals, especially women. Avoid photographing government buildings.
- Ramadan: If visiting during Ramadan, respect fasting hours by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight.
- Greetings: A handshake is common, though some Omanis may place their hand over their heart instead as a sign of respect.
Practical Information
- Currency: Omani Rial (OMR) – one of the world’s highest-valued currencies.
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Electricity: 240V, 50Hz with UK-style three-pin sockets.
- Internet: Most hotels offer Wi-Fi, and local SIM cards are available for purchase.
- Water: Drink bottled water and carry plenty when exploring remote areas.
Safety Tips
- Sur is generally very safe for tourists.
- Carry plenty of water when exploring wadis or desert areas.
- Check weather forecasts before visiting wadis, as flash floods can occur.
- For desert excursions, consider hiring a local guide if you’re inexperienced.
- Basic medical facilities are available in Sur, but serious conditions may require transport to Muscat.
Why Sur Should Be On Your Oman Itinerary
Sur offers a perfect blend of Oman’s maritime heritage, natural beauty, and authentic cultural experiences. While often overshadowed by more famous destinations like Muscat and Salalah, this coastal gem rewards visitors with a glimpse into traditional Omani life away from the tourist crowds. Whether you’re watching master craftsmen build dhows using centuries-old techniques, exploring the labyrinthine streets of Al Ayjah, witnessing the miracle of turtle nesting, or swimming in the turquoise pools of nearby wadis, Sur provides experiences that capture the essence of Oman. Its strategic location also makes it an ideal base for exploring some of the country’s most spectacular natural attractions. Add Sur to your Oman itinerary, and you’ll discover a side of the country that many travelers miss.
The above is subject to change.
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