2026 Sur Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

After browsing Pinterest, this itinerary looks very interesting. There isn’t much about Muscat, mostly around Sur and Nizwa. The farthest south goes a bit beyond Sur. Since I couldn’t find much information about Sur, I only allocated one day there, and one day for Nizwa as well. Finally, from Nizwa, I returned to Abu Dhabi, while he returned to Muscat. Day 1: Muscat to Sur 👉Wadi Dayqah Dam (optional)👉Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park)👉Wadi Shab👉Sur Day 2: Sur 〈Turtle Watching Route: Sur → Ras Al Hadd → Ras Al Jinz 〉 Day 3: Sur to Wahiba Sands 〈 Route: Ras Al Jinz → Wadi Bani Khalid → Wahiba Sands 〉 Day 4: Nizwa 〈 Route: Wahiba Sands → Nizwa 〉 Day 5: Nizwa to Misfat Al Abriyeen 〈 Route: Nizwa → Tanuf → Jabreen Castle, Bahla Fort → Al Hamra → ⭐️Misfat Al Abriyeen 〉 Day 6: Misfat Al Abriyeen to Jebel Shams 〈 Mountain Route: Nizwa/Misfat Al Abriyeen → Jebel Shams 〉 Day 7: Nizwa to Muscat 〈 Route: Nizwa → Wadi Qurai → Samail Castle → Muscat 〉 Google Maps points can be shared: Muscat 2-WD Road Trip https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1o3sqFxE-td_IO_ayj1Eh54uzZvT16Q8&usp=sharing Sur is a laid-back coastal town famous for its handcrafted Arabian dhow boats (traditional wooden Arab boats). The shipyards are a major highlight of the Sur trip, still building dhows using almost the same techniques from hundreds of years ago. The Sur Maritime Museum also offers some historical background. Sur also has beautiful seaside promenades, and you can visit the small Sur Fort (free entry). For desert clothing, try to wear light colors. Whether long skirts, short skirts, or white, they all photograph well, especially paired with a vibrant headscarf 🧕❤️

🔥 Oman Day 5 is simply legendary! At 6 AM, chase the sea sunrise that dyes the sky and river red, with orange morning light gilding the sea surface; at 8 AM, rush to Wadi Shab to avoid the crowds, leap into the clear water caves—sunlight streams through cracks in the rock walls, casting scattered light spots on the water surface, floating with only the sounds of wind and water swirling around, enjoying 3 hours in a secret place with no one else; in the afternoon, drive to the ancient port of Sur, watch millennia-old craftsmen polish traditional dhows with mortise and tenon joinery, slowly sitting through the afternoon amid the scent of coconuts and sea breeze, even the choice to forgo the sea turtle reserve carries a gentle respect~ Visa-free travelers, just follow this “early start to avoid pitfalls + cultural healing” ultimate itinerary! 🌄 Early morning at Wadi Shab | Capture tranquility before the bustle In the morning, we chose to “revisit” Wadi Shab as our morning exercise. It opens at 7 AM, and we arrived at 8 AM with only a few visitors at the entrance. Walking briskly along the stream into the canyon, the morning light reflects softly and quietly on the ochre rock walls. The light and shadow we missed last time were carefully observed this time. Upon reaching the core canyon, we changed into bikinis and jumped into the spring water—the icy cold water instantly awakened the whole body. Floating on the water surface, with only the intertwined sounds of wind and water in our ears, the freedom wrapped in tranquility is something no lively scene can replace. We played, took photos, and daydreamed in the water, unknowingly spending 3 hours enjoying the secret Cave Pool. When we left, the entrance was already crowded with waves of tour groups—buses, tour guide flags, and noise. At this moment, we were even more grateful: starting early is a kind of wisdom to protect nature. ⚓ Ancient port of Sur | The encounter of millennia-old craftsmanship and slow life Leaving the canyon, we drove about 50 kilometers along the coast to Sur, linking Oman’s maritime civilization. 🛠 Traditional dhow shipyard Entering the shipyard, huge wooden ship frames lined the shore, and stepping inside was breathtaking. Craftsmen were hand-sanding wood and sewing sails. There was no machine noise, only the sound of sawing wood and sea breeze. They follow thousand-year-old shipbuilding techniques—mortise and tenon joints, bent planks—all relying on experience and tacit understanding. 2 rials per person for an elder’s explanation of the craft. He pointed to the ship hull and told stories of ancestors: these dhows once sailed the Indian Ocean, transporting frankincense and dates, exchanging for silk and spices; in the 16th century, they even repaired ships for the Portuguese fleet. In the lens, their expressions were focused and calm, more powerful than the wooden ships themselves. 📸 Photo etiquette: Please ask for permission first. The craftsmen are mostly shy but friendly, a smile and nod will do. 🌊 Afternoon at Sur port A few minutes’ walk from the shipyard is the ancient port. Although we missed the lively scene of fishing boats returning in the morning, the port in the afternoon felt more leisurely. Several dhows were quietly moored, seagulls circled the masts, and vendors sold dates and seafood. We sat under the shade, chatting and laughing, time seemed to slow down— This is Oman’s daily rhythm, peaceful yet full of vitality. We took a walk on the beach. The sand underfoot was fine and soft, occasionally finding pink shells. Some surfed, some sunbathed, sunlight and breeze weaving a lazy afternoon. Not far away, three small castles stood high, each snapshot could be a postcard-worthy view. 🐢 On choices: Giving up is also a form of respect We ultimately did not visit the planned Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve. Firstly, it requires advance booking due to many visitors; Secondly, we didn’t want to disturb the nesting turtles with noise and flashlight. Even though red light flashlights are officially required, violations are hard to avoid. Travel is not just about sightseeing, but also an attitude of respecting nature. Sometimes, “not going” is the gentlest protection. 💡 Travel tips ✅ Wadi Shab: Best to enter before 8 AM, 3-4 hours for a deep experience, avoid peak group times. ✅ Shipyard: A 1-2 rial tip for explanations is enough, very worthwhile; entrance fee 2 rials. ✅ Qalhat ruins: High temperatures in the afternoon, recommended to finish before 3 PM and bring enough water. ✅ Sur port: See the catch in the morning, enjoy culture in the afternoon; both light and shadow are beautiful. ✅ Beach activities: Surfing, shell collecting, photography; the three small castles are excellent photo spots. ❌ Pitfall reminders (avoid detours!) 1. Don’t arrive at Wadi Shab later than 10 AM: otherwise, the entrance is packed with buses, the water caves are full of tourists, no tranquility, and you have to queue for photos. 2. Be cautious about visiting Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve: requires booking 3+ days in advance, many visitors easily disturb turtles, giving up shows more respect. 3. Avoid visiting Qalhat ruins in the afternoon: temperatures soar above 35°C, finish before 3 PM and bring enough drinking water to avoid heatstroke. ✨ Haichi’s conclusion From the crispness of the canyon to the depth of the port, the fifth day in Oman is a dual gift of nature and culture. You can see the persistence of ancient crafts and feel the comfort of sea breeze and coffee; Learn to slow down, learn to make choices— Perhaps this is the most precious meaning of travel. 🌿 “Find your own rhythm between stillness and motion.”

Sur is a district of Oman. Traveling from Oman to Sur takes 2 hours and 16 minutes by car. The district has many beautiful tourist attractions, both mountains and the sea. There is also a large body of water that people like to visit called Wadi Shab. #Oman tourism

📅 Itinerary Day1：Muscat City tour Day2: Bimmah Sinkhole - Sur tour Day3: Wadi Bani Khalid - Wahiba Sands Day 4: Nizhwa Day 5: Wadi Hoaqim - Mall of Muscat 🏨 Accommodation Al Murooj Grand Hotel Best Western Sur Sama Al Wasil Desert Camp Bustan Inn Nizhwa 🍴 Food Recommendations Joker Burgers Al Hawash Restaurant Sama Al Wasil buffet Al Aqur Traditional Restaurant 📌 Tips

Beach breakfast, coffee, dates, and the aroma of Samosa: a heartwarming little happiness before heading to the desert✨ 📍From the morning light by the sea to the desert Milky Way, this day, Oman shows the truest romance through gentle details. 🌅 The first ray of sunshine on the beach Feet on soft white sand, listening to the waves gently lapping the shore, the sea breeze mixed with the scent of salt. We enjoyed a “private breakfast” on our own little beach—simple yet deeply healing. Watching the sky brighten while packing up, preparing to head to the Port of Sur. 💧 Water refill station at the port: a little happiness for travelers Oman’s thoughtfulness is always hidden in the unnoticed details. Almost every city has public drinking water refill points, and our exclusive refill station was right at the Port of Sur. Filling all the water bottles to the brim, this “sense of security” shining under the sun is the most practical happiness before departure. ☕️ The perfect combination of coffee, dates, and Samosa After refilling water, the aroma of coffee drifted over. A small café around the corner made us stop and order Arabic coffee and samosa. Arabic coffee: cardamom brewed with coffee, rich aroma, slightly bitter with a warm hint of spices. Samosa triangles: refreshing vegetable filling and rich cheese version, crispy and fragrant with every bite. Each bite is the best interpretation of local flavor. 💛 Heartwarming moments on the journey While we were sipping coffee, a local smiled and handed us a box of dates— “Arabic coffee must be paired with dates,” he said. The slight bitterness of the coffee was gently wrapped by the sweet fragrance of the dates; that moment of kindness was warmer than the sunshine. Even more unexpectedly, the chef noticed our happiness and quietly sent over two more desserts. A subtle gesture, yet it made us feel a gentle acceptance. This scene became the softest memory of the entire trip. 🐪 Heading to the Wahiba Desert The car entered the desert area, golden dunes blending into an orange-red gradient in the light and shadow, Wild camels we met along the way strolled leisurely, even approaching the camera, Laughter and shutter clicks intertwined into the most natural symphony. We chose to avoid the thrill of dune bashing, Seeking a quiet camp before sunset, Enjoying the vastness of the desert and the peace of mind. 🌌 The desert night and stars Night fell, the Milky Way poured down. The desert night sky, free from light pollution, stars shone as if about to fall. At the camp, Bedouins told ancient legends, firelight flickering. Nearby was the aroma of Arabic barbecue (unfortunately, Thomas is a vegetarian and could only “smell and stop” 😄). That night, we fell asleep under the vast starry sea. ✨ Summary: Oman’s gentleness is hidden in the unnoticed moments From the comfort of the beach to the lively port, From the sweet aroma of coffee and dates to the grandeur of the desert Milky Way, And that unexpected warmth— This is the most precious form of travel.

📍From the Azure Sinkhole to the Emerald Canyon, a Perfect Blend of Nature and Adventure Enjoy the tranquility of the sinkhole at dawn, then step into the dreamlike waters of Wadi Shab in the afternoon—this is a paradise for nature lovers and one of Oman’s most stunning hidden gems. 🌅 Day 4 Itinerary｜From Sinkhole to Canyon, a One-Day Journey Through Two Natural Wonders We camped near the sinkhole overnight just to avoid the crowds. It turned out to be totally worth it! The sinkhole was almost empty early in the morning, with sunlight slanting onto the blue water surface, and the rock walls’ layers outlined by light and shadow into enchanting patterns. At that moment, there was only the sound of the wind, birdsong, and the occasional ripple of water—so quiet that time seemed to slow down. The sinkhole is home to many small fish, making it a natural fish spa—Thomas’s feet seemed magical as the little fish swarmed and clung to him, favoring him exclusively! My feet were sadly rejected 😂[JoyTears][JoyTears], with only a few fish visiting me—definite proof of unequal treatment! 🕖 Travel Tips: Best visiting times: 7:00–9:00 AM / after 4:00 PM After 9 AM, large tour groups arrive, and the peacefulness instantly disappears. 📸 For those wanting clean, stunning shots, be sure to get there early! 🏞️ Next Stop: Wadi Shab｜A Dream Woven from Green Waters, Rock Walls, and Sunshine About a 40-minute drive from the sinkhole, we arrived at Oman’s most popular canyon—Wadi Shab. The scenery here looks like a green ribbon winding through brown valleys, with light and shadow flowing over the rock walls and crystal-clear streams. But be warned: it’s very crowded around 1 PM, with throngs of people. We switched to a new SUV here and then hiked into the canyon. 🚶‍♀️ Hiking Time Recommendations: Quick sightseeing: 1–1.5 hours (about 30 minutes one way to the canyon’s end) Water play and exploration: 3–4 hours for a fuller experience Along the way, streams, palm trees, and caves create a natural painting. If you go a bit further, you can swim into a hidden water cave (Cave Pool). Sunlight filters through the cave entrance, and the water sparkles with dreamy blue-green hues—like stepping into another world. 🎒 Essentials Checklist｜Practical Tips to Avoid Detours ✅ Must-bring items: Swimsuit / quick-dry clothing Stream shoes (non-slip and comfortable) Sufficient drinking water and snacks (no sales inside the canyon) Waterproof sports camera / waterproof phone pouch ⚠️ Reminders: Some parts of the canyon require wading, so wear lightweight, quick-dry clothes. If your stamina is average, you can rest at a gentle area about 40 minutes in. Pay attention to return time; the canyon gets darker at dusk, so plan your return accordingly. 🌍 Haqi’s Notes｜Off-Peak Visits and Preparation Are Key to Enjoying Oman’s Nature Oman’s natural beauty isn’t flashy or loud; it’s a shock hidden in time. The quiet sinkhole or canyon in the early morning, or fewer people after 3 PM, remind you that nature’s beauty never shouts—it rewards those who rise early and come prepared. Throughout the day, we moved from the silent sinkhole into flowing greenery, from morning light to sunset, from sunrise to moonrise, and then to a sky full of stars—Oman’s “hidden paradise route” was connected. 🏕️ Camping near the sea not far from Wadi Shab, the magic of wild camping lies between the sea and sky by day and night. At night, we waited quietly and were rewarded with a red moon like a duck egg yolk—first a warm red glow emerged from beneath the sea, then slowly broke free from the ocean’s embrace, rising round and full. The red light spread over the shimmering waves, dyeing the entire sea a warm color. The evening breeze carried a salty scent, wrapping this rare hazy warmth, making even breathing gentle; in the morning, we waited again as the sun followed the same path, leaping out of the blue waves, its golden rays piercing the morning mist, instantly turning the sea into a dazzling bright color. While grand sunrises in the east are common, this red moon rising slowly from the sea is even rarer—a cycle and echo between heaven and earth, full of healing wonder. In Oman, early risers get to enjoy the sinkhole’s tranquility and the canyon’s light. We decided to get up early tomorrow and visit Wadi Shab again.

Amazing trip

#travel #Sur Very nice place

Getting There - It's about a 2hr drive from Muscat. Attractions - Sur, known for its rich maritime heritage is a significant port and shipbuilding hub with traditional dhow building still active today. It is also known for its beaches, traditional architecture and the Bilad Sur Castle and the Al Ayjah Lighthouse. Hotels - We stayed at DoubleTree by Hilton Muscat Qurum. Their service is excellent with a very friendly team. Food & Restaurants - They have delicious seafood available in a lot of restaurants. We had lunch at a local restaurant by the road named Fan Al Ibdae Al Mumiz. The fish were fresh, refreshing outdoor seating and amazing team served us some of the best seafood that we have had. #cityplaybook #sur #oman #castle #lighthouse #fort #seafood #dhow #boatbuilding

Oman road trip 2025 / Sur Long distance, Endless memorise. แผนของเราวันนี้คือขับรถไปเมือง Sur (ซูร์) เมืองท่าชายฝั่งที่อยู่ห่างออกไปทางตะวันออกเฉียงใต้ราวๆ 230 km. ใช้เวลาขับรถประมาณ 2ชั่วโมงครึ่ง ที่โอมาน ถนนไฮเวย์จำกัดความเร็วที่ 120km/hr รถส่วนใหญ่ก็กดกันเต็มแม็กเหมือนกันนะเพราะถนนว่าง แต่ไม่ค่อยมีใครใช้ความเร็วเกิน เพราะมีป้ายเตือนตรวจจับความเร็วด้วยเรด้าเป็นระยะ เห็นรถตำรวจซุ่มตามพุ่มไม้บ้างเป็นบางครั้ง ระหว่างทางเรามีแวะจุดท่องเที่ยวก่อนเข้าเมืองซูร์ 2จุด จุดแรกคือ Bimmah Sinkhole เป็นหลุมยุบขนาดใหญ่ที่ไม่ไกลจากทะเลนัก ด้านในหลุมเป็นน้ำทะเลใสๆที่ซึมเข้ามา เป็นภาพที่สวยแปลกตาดี นักท่องเที่ยวนิยมแวะมาว่ายน้ำเล่น แต่เราไม่ได้เล่นเลยตรงไปจุดแวะพักที่ 2 ต่อเลย จุดที่ 2 เรียกว่า Wadi Shab ที่นี่เป็นตรอกเขาที่มีความชุ่มชื้นจากลำธารน้ำจืดที่ไหลลงมาจากบนเขา Wadi ต่างๆในโอมานมีหลายที่เรียกชื่อต่างกันไป เป็นพื้นที่ที่สำคัญสำกรับการดำรงชีพในภูมิประเทศแถบนี้ มีน้ำก็มีชีวิต ที่นี่ต้องนั่งเรือข้ามฝากไปจุดเริ่มเดินเทรคกิ้งเข้าไปในหุบเขา และต้องว่ายน้ำต่อเข้าไปถ้าอยากเข้าไปให้ลึกขึ้นอีกในตรอกเขาด้านใน เราตัดสินใจจะเดินไปถึงแค่จุดที่เดินถึงแต่คงจะไม่ว่ายน้ำข้ามไปด้านใน จุดสุดท้ายที่เราจะแวะกันในวันนี้ก็คือจุดหมายของเรา ซูร์ เมืองท่าที่สำคัญของโอมาน เมืองนี้เป็นอู่ต่อเรือที่สำคัญที่สุดในทะเลอาหรับ เมืองนี้เจริญรุ่งเรืองจนถึงขีดสุด มีการเข้ายึดครองของเจ้าอาณานิคมหลายครั้ง ก่อนการมาถึงของคลองสุเอช เส้นทางการเดินเรือจึงเปลี่ยนไปที่ทะเลแดงแทนจนลดความสำคัญของเมืองนี้กลายเป็นเมืองผ่านทางและทำการประมงจนถึงปัจจุบันนี้ ที่เมืองนี้ในปัจจุบันบรรยากาศเงียบสงบมาก แต่ก็ยังคงความงามแบบเมืองในยุคโบราณได้อย่างดี บ้านเรือนส่วนใหญ่ทาสีขาวหรือสีทราย เวลามองจากมุมสูงสีสันของบรรยากาศจึงสามารถเปลี่ยนสีเมืองนี้ได้ตามช่วงเวลาของวัน ตลาดในเมืองมีขนาดปานกลาง ไม่คึกคักนัก ร้านอาหารและคาเฟ่ในแบบตะวันตกมีให้เลือกพอสมควรtก็ตกแต่งได้สวยงามบรรยากาศดี รสชาติดีราคาก็พอๆกับคาเฟ่ในเมืองไทย เมืองนี้จึงเป็นอีกเมืองที่ตกหลุมรักได้ไม่ยากนัก #โอมาน #oman #roadtrip #sur

Old castle in Oman

everyday at morning fish market star work at 5 o'clooc, all people cone here for buy and sell fish

#skiadventure