Things to do in Sur Oman – Turtle Reserve, Dhow building…

There are some great things to do in Sur, Oman. Be sure to stop by on your Oman Road Trip!  The seaside town, is quiet and offers historical, cultural and nature attractions. Discover in this article all the things to do in the town, including day trips for which the city is well located.

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Getting to Sur Oman

• Located along the coast South East of Muscat
• Easy drive from Muscat - 200km from Muscat via the coastal highway (2 hours)
• 300km from Nizwa (3h30)
• All the locations to see within and around Sur are included, with GPS coordinates, in my eBook: 

Visiting Sur Oman

• I recommend Sur if you need a break and relax near the sea. The city as a peaceful vibe
• The old center and the water front are really nice to enjoy on foot but to cover all the forts and all it might be easier to take the car
• Driving in Sur is quite easy in general. Just in the old center you have a few narrow streets
• It is really well located to explore wadis, desert and beaches. A good combination!

Where to stay in Sur Oman

• You first option is to stay in the town itself. There is a good choice of hotels and guesthouses - Check out the accommodations in Sur
• Otherwise you can stay closer to beaches South of the town of Sur - For example there is the Ras Al Jinz Turtle reserve right by where the turtle come (check out photos and availability) or the Ras Al Jinz Turtle beach resort only 20min away from the turtle reserve (check out photos and availability).

The lighthouse and its view of Sur Oman

When in Sur you cannot miss the lighthouse. Located in the historical area of Ayjah, it is a great place to start with its full view of the city of Sur.

The recent tower is a 18 m 3-story tower with a domed roof (59 ft). The tower is closed to visitor but you can circle around and just enjoy the view.

Visit the old town of Sur Oman

Around the lighthouse in the area of Al Ayjah you can discover old merchant houses.  recommend you discover it by foot to have time to admire the details in the carved wooden doors. 

Ayjah Watchtowers of Sur Oman

Another good place to stop is at the foot of the watchtowers. You can walk on the beach and fishing area or go around on the bridge side and get watch te boats through rocks.

The 3 watchtowers located at the entrance of the lagoon once protected the dhows to enter the harbor.

The forts of Sur Oman

The town of Sur has 3 main castles:

Sunaysilah Fort

• The castle is​ located in the center of Sur with the entrance off main street
• 300 years old, it is a square castle with round watchtowers
• Not much to see inside
• Normally opened from roughly 8am to 6pm (Closed Friday and Saturday)

Bilad Sur Castle

• The castle is located a few kilometers inland
• 200 years old, it is a square castle with watchtowers at different levels and with different shapes
• Not much to see inside but apparently climbing the remparts and all is nice.
• Open during the day (except Friday and Saturday). Bathrooms inside

Al Ayjah Fort

• The castle is located in the historical area or Al Ayjah
• Sometimes Open during the day (except Friday and Saturday). 
• Below is a picture of Al Ayjah Fort:

Fatah Al Khair - The traditional Omani Ship

If you continue the road of the dhow yards you will reach and open area with a large boat.

The Fatah Al Khair is a traditional boat that is now out of the water and open to the public to visit the inside.

The corniche

All along the seaside, there is a corniche allowing for a relaxing walk.

Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve

Most people stay in Sur because it is closed to the Ras Al Jinz Turtle reserve. You can go for an evening tour (no photography allowed) or a morning tour (photography allowed) to spot big holes and turtles inside. High season is between July and October but you can see them all year round.

For more information and many photos, check out my article about​ the Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve.

Day trips from Sur Oman

Day Trip to Wadi Shab

The famous Wadi Shab is only 45 minute from Sur. For those looking for some adventure cross with the boat and start the hike and swim that will take you to a hidden cave. For more information, many photos and a video, check out my article about Wadi Shab.

Day Trip to Wadi Bani Khalid

If you want a more accessible Wadi, then you should head to Wadi Bani Khalid which is only 30 minutes away. Here you can swim, enjoy the buffet restaurant or hike and admire the big white boulders. For more information, many photos and a video, check out my article about Wadi Bani Khalid.

Day Trip to Wahiba Sands

Sur Oman is also very well located to reach the desert of Wahiba Sands. Discover the longitudinal sand dunes and have fun on a 4WD or camel riding. For more information, many photos and a video, check out my article about Wahiba Sands.

Want to see more of Oman's beauty?

Discover more things to do and places to see in Oman in my online Oman Destination Guide.

Which ones interest you the most?

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