Oman, boasting more than 3,000 km of coastline, is the perfect destination for a beach holiday.

With many dazzling spots located across the country, you’ll find some superb stretches where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, captivating seafronts and enchanting islands all while soaking up the glorious Middle Eastern sunshine. You can get involved in some invigorating water sports activities, make timeless memories and explore the hidden delights of this paradise. Whether you’re a family looking to have endless fun in the sun, a couple in search of some new romantic spots or a solo traveller hoping to find somewhere beautiful to relax, Oman promises to fulfil your every desire. You won’t be sorry you chose this exceptional destination when you take in the unbelievable landscapes surrounding the beaches, visit the heartwarming nature reserves to see exotic wildlife or plunge beneath the waters of the Sea of Oman. Here’s our list of the best beaches on offer for you.

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Best Beaches For Families

Oman boasts a number of spectacular family-friendly beaches, all conveniently situated close to the luxury resorts on offer. Salalah in particular is an area where you will want for nothing on your family holiday, with a myriad of amenities and other attractions to enjoy while you’re on the beach. In the capital, Muscat, Qurum Beach is perfect for a family day out as it is adjacent to a modern four kilometre long strip with a number of shops, restaurants and cafés. The shallow waters also provide a safe haven for children looking to splash in the waves. The whole family will be in awe at the sight of turtles laying eggs on Ras al Jinz. You are invited to use the beach as normal during the day, looking out for these marine creatures in the crystal-clear waters, before booking a tour in the night time to watch the miracle occur.

Best Beaches For Relaxation

Soak up the sun on one of Oman’s ultimate relaxation hotspots. Whether you’re a family or solo traveller seeking a quiet afternoon or a couple wanting to spend blissful moments together, Oman offers it all in bundles. Not far from Muscat is Al-Bustan Beach. This three kilometre long sun-trap is favoured by locals as it is away from the bustle of the city and offers a peaceful atmosphere. If you're travelling through Muscat and Sur, you must stop off at Tiwi Beach. Located halfway between these cities, the pristine sun-kissed sand offers respite and relaxation for those on the road. Due to its uninhabited location, this spot is quiet most of the time; just what you want when you’re searching for a moment for yourself. Another solitary area is Al Sifah Beach. The immaculate silky sand makes the best conditions for camping in paradise and is also not far from the wondrous Wadi Shab pools.

Best Beaches For Water Sports

For those seeking some energetic activities, Oman provides unparalleled spots for water sports. Qurum Beach is in the thriving tourist centre with a variety of opportunities to splash around in the Sea of Oman, jet skiing and scuba diving. Paddle boarding is also on offer in the nearby mangroves where you can look out for some local wildlife. Mirbat Beach in Salalah is an excellent place to venture out on a kayak or to swim in the open water beside dolphins. Off the west coast of Oman is the mesmerising Masirah Island. Reachable by ferry, you’ll find the best conditions in the country for kitesurfing. The cyan-coloured waters make it an exceptional place to snorkel as you’ll see a plethora of tropical fish. Fishing trips are also a favourite pastime. Many boats will take you out throughout the day for a relaxing afternoon on the sea.

Best Beaches For Scenery

Indescribable scenery can be found across the whole of Oman, with many beaches highlighting this picturesque backdrop. Bandar Jissah Beach can be found in northeastern Oman in a charming coastal town. While the Sea of Oman offers excellent conditions for swimming, you can also embark on a sea-taxi for a guided tour of the impressive rock formations this area is famous for, including a huge naturally occurring archway. The golden sand offers a romantic spot for couples looking to take in the beautiful surroundings while relaxing with each other. Al Mughsail Beach gives the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a natural blowhole which pushes water up to 30 metres high through cracks in the rocks. The rugged cliffs and azure waters also provide picture perfect scenery while you're enjoying a picnic or grabbing a bite to eat in one of the cafés.

Best Beaches for Wildlife

Oman's wildlife and ecosystems are thriving thanks to the dedication of many nature reserves. Most well known is the Ras al Jinz turtle reserve in Sur, where conservationists are working to keep the population flourishing. On this beach you can interact with the turtles in the water and book a guided walk at night to watch the creatures lay their eggs in the sand. Nesting season occurs between May and September, with numbers peaking in July. Immerse yourself in the lush terrain on the Daymaniyat Islands nature reserves, which attracts many migratory birds, including ospreys and sooty terns. The coral reefs here are also astonishing as they protect Arabian butterflyfish, pufferfish, clownfish and whale sharks (present between July and November). For a truly unique holiday experience, visit Masirah Island and discover the non-migrating humpback whales that have made this area their home. You’ll also find 300 species of birds and four species of turtles.

Best Time To Visit

A subtropical climate means that Oman is fortunate enough to experience stunning weather conditions all year round. May to August is the hottest time of year, with temperatures regularly reaching the high-30s, although temperatures in mountain areas are approximately 15°C less than the main cities. For those looking to soak up the sun and return home with an out-of-this-world tan, then this time is perfect for you. The heat peaks in June when you’ll have an average of 13 hours of sunshine per day. Enjoy the amenities and relax on the beach for the duration of your holiday. If a more active beach holiday is what you’re looking for, then visiting Oman between the months of September and April would be beneficial. At this time, you can expect temperatures around the mid-20s. This is perfect for getting involved in some water sports and making memories on a family holiday. February should be avoided as this is when the most rainfall occurs; not good for beach days! For the nature-enthusiasts, making note of nesting and migration seasons will be important so that you don’t miss anything exciting.

“Choose Oman as your next beach holiday destination and discover a whole new world of relaxation and rejuvenation.

“With exceptional weather all year round, there’s never a bad time to travel to this wondrous country. For those wanting to spend their days soaking up some vitamin D, the summer months are perfect for you. There’s also cooler months to choose from if you’re looking for a family holiday to the beach and don’t want to worry about high temperatures.

“Splash around in the sea, exploring the coral reefs and the vast array of marine creatures that make Oman their home. Rip across the surface on a jet ski or kitesurf off the coast in some epic winds.

“Combine nature and sun-soaked days on one of the many nature reserve beaches, where you can go in search of lots of exotic species. See them in their natural habitat with the help of dedicated locals.

“We promise you’ll experience a holiday like no other, just choose which beach is best for you.”

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa - Al Bandar Wing

The breathtaking Al Bandar Wing of the 5-star Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa is perfect for your Middle Eastern getaway. Whether you’re a family looking to make magical memories or a couple searching for luxury and romance, you’ll find it all here. Dazzling aquamarine pools are lined by swaying palm trees, while the lazy river will keep you refreshed under the divine sunshine. Enjoy a boat excursion, taking in the stunning sunset or searching for local dolphin pods.

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The Chedi Muscat

Overlooking the calm waters of the Sea of Oman, the 5-star Chedi Muscat is a hive of relaxation and rejuvenation. From pamper sessions at the spa, energising classes in the fitness centre and multiple swimming pools, you’ll feel like a new person. A variety of divine restaurants offers you the choice of international cuisines while the chic bedrooms provide an idyllic space to rest after fun-filled days in sunshine on the adjacent beach.

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Kempinski Hotel Muscat

Visitors to the 5-star Kempinski Hotel Muscat can expect refined elegance in convenient proximity to the beachfront, airport and city centre. Families are welcome, with palm-fringed swimming pools and a kid’s club to keep little ones entertained, while the spa is available for the adults to enjoy some much needed peace and serenity. Enjoy tantalising meals from the aromatic restaurants. Finely decorated suites act as a haven, with balconies providing sensational views of the cyan blue skies.

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