Fringed by golden sand and a breezy oceanfront promenade, Sur is perched on Oman’s eastern tip and is known for its traditional wooden vessels, also known as “dhows”. You can explore ancient forts, visit a turtle sanctuary and devour traditional Omani cuisine.
Things to do in Sur
Flanked by four defence towers, Sunaysilah Fort has been watching over Sur for 300 years. It's perched on a rocky outcrop and played a key role in protecting Sur during its maritime heyday. Stroll around the stronghold, peer into the rooms and admire the fascinating artefacts.
Fatah al Khair, a beautifully restored dhow sailing ship, offers a glimpse at Sur's seafaring past. The transcontinental ship was built in Sur around 70 years ago and has sailed to Yemen, Iraq, Egypt, India and beyond. The grounds also feature a small open-air maritime museum showcasing other traditional vessels and wooden carvings.
Animal lovers can visit the Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve, a sanctuary for nesting green turtles. Guided night tours are the best way to view the turtles and ensure that you don't interrupt their nesting patterns. The visitor centre houses an excellent museum featuring audio displays, photographs and a 3D cinema.
For the best food in town, head to Zaki Restaurant, a roadside eatery serving up juicy rotisserie chicken accompanied by fluffy Arabic bread, chopped salad and creamy dahl. Zahrat Bilad al Sham Restaurant is another local favourite, known for its sizzling kebabs and freshly squeezed fruit juices.
Getting around Sur
Sur is easy to navigate on foot, with most major attractions within walking distance of the waterfront corniche. Taxis are a fast and convenient way to get around, while the town is also serviced by local buses and microbuses. Muscat International Airport is a two-hour drive from Sur.