Oman often gets overlooked in favor of its flashier neighbors like Dubai and Abu Dhabi – and I’ll admit, even as someone who’s explored the Middle East extensively, I initially made the same mistake. Sure, those cities have their appeal with their modern skylines and luxury shopping, but they can feel a bit artificial, packed with tourists, and far removed from authentic local culture.
But Oman? It’s different. This country quietly preserves its traditional charm while offering everything from vast desert landscapes to hidden mountain villages and pristine coastlines. After spending months exploring its corners, I’ve discovered places where you can wander ancient souks without tourist crowds, camp under stars in empty deserts, and meet locals who still embrace their age-old way of life. If you’re ready to experience the genuine heart of the Arabian Peninsula, here’s my carefully curated list of the best places to visit in Oman.
- Best tourist destination: Muscat Corniche
- Underrated hidden gem: Misfat Al Abriyeen
- Best for families: Wadi Shab
- Best for couples: Jebel Shams
- Best for solo travelers: Sur
- Best for nature lovers: Ras Al Jinz
Muscat, Oman
Travelers head to Muscat for its perfect blend of old-world charm and modern development along Oman’s coast. The capital city sits between rugged mountains and the Gulf of Oman, where traditional dhow boats bob next to luxury yachts in the harbor. While many come to explore the marble-clad Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and wander the narrow lanes of the Muttrah Souq, the city also serves as a gateway to desert adventures and dolphin watching in the gulf. The cooler months from October to March bring perfect weather for exploring the corniche and royal palace grounds, but you’ll find Muscat’s mix of culture, history, and natural beauty compelling any time of year.
Salalah, Oman
Salalah was my introduction to Oman’s quieter side back in 2019. Nestled along the southern coast of the country, this laid-back city offers a unique contrast to the desert landscapes most associate with Oman. Between June and September, monsoon rains transform the surrounding Dhofar region into a green oasis, with waterfalls cascading down limestone cliffs and mist rolling through the mountains. Local frankincense trees dot the landscape, their aromatic resin still harvested just as it was in ancient times. The city’s Al Husn Souk buzzes with energy as vendors sell traditional Omani textiles and that precious frankincense, while nearby beaches like Al Mughsail stretch for miles, their white sands meeting the deep blue waters of the Arabian Sea.
Nizwa Fort, Oman
Step back in time at Nizwa Fort, one of Oman’s most important historical sites from the 17th century. The massive round tower offers 360-degree views of the surrounding Hajar Mountains and palm groves, while the interior houses exhibits showcasing traditional Omani life. Take a walk through the maze-like corridors to discover ancient defense mechanisms, including hidden traps and holes for pouring hot date syrup on invaders. Don’t miss the Friday cattle market that still takes place at the fort’s base – it’s a lively glimpse into local culture that’s been happening here for hundreds of years.
Jebel Shams, Oman
At 3,000 meters above sea level, Jebel Shams stands as Oman’s highest peak, earning its nickname “Mountain of the Sun.” I first visited this rocky giant in 2019, drawn by tales of its massive canyon known locally as the “Grand Canyon of Arabia.” The mountain’s rugged landscape stretches across the Al Hajar range, where ancient villages cling to its weathered slopes. Local Bedouin families still tend their goats along the rocky paths, while hikers tackle the famous “Balcony Walk” – a trail that hugs the canyon’s edge and offers clear views down to abandoned settlements nearly a kilometer below. The crisp mountain air and cool temperatures make it a natural escape from Oman’s desert heat, especially at the various camping spots that dot the plateau near the summit.
Wadi Shab, Oman
If you ask any local about their favorite natural spot in Oman, Wadi Shab usually tops the list. This dramatic gorge carves through towering limestone cliffs, creating a natural playground of crystal-clear pools and hidden waterfalls. The adventure begins with a short boat ride across the entrance, followed by a moderate 45-minute hike along rocky paths and ancient falaj irrigation channels. As you make your way deeper into the wadi, you’ll discover a series of emerald swimming holes perfect for cooling off. The real treasure lies at the end – a partially submerged cave that requires a short swim to reach a cascading waterfall inside. It’s not the easiest spot to reach, and you’ll want decent swimming skills to explore fully, but the reward of finding your own private oasis makes it worth every step.
Wahiba Sands, Oman
Step into a true desert adventure at Wahiba Sands, where golden dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. You can zoom across the rippling sand in a 4×4, try your hand at sandboarding down the slopes, or spend the night under the stars at a traditional Bedouin camp. For an authentic experience, join a local guide who’ll show you how desert dwellers have lived here for generations. The sunset views from the top of the dunes are especially magical, making it a perfect spot to snap photos or simply take in the peaceful desert atmosphere.
Muttrah Souq, Oman
If you want to experience the heart of traditional Omani commerce, head to Muttrah Souq. Located along Muscat’s waterfront, this historic marketplace has been a trading hub for centuries, where local merchants sell everything from colorful textiles and traditional jewelry to fragrant frankincense and aromatic spices.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Oman
Step into Oman’s largest mosque, where Islamic architecture meets modern design at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. The main prayer hall features a massive handwoven Persian carpet that took 600 women four years to complete, while a 50-meter dome towers above. You can wander through the peaceful courtyard gardens or marvel at the Swarovski crystal chandelier that hangs in the main hall. Time your visit for early morning to see how the sun’s rays play with the marble walls and intricate mosaics. Just remember to dress modestly and visit outside of prayer times – the mosque welcomes non-Muslim visitors between 8:30 AM and 11 AM, Saturday through Thursday.
Bimmah Sinkhole, Oman
About an hour southeast of Muscat lies the natural wonder of Bimmah Sinkhole. While Oman has many wadis and natural swimming spots, this perfectly circular limestone crater feels like something from another planet. Local legend says it was created by a meteorite, but scientists will tell you it formed when the limestone bedrock simply collapsed. Drop down the concrete stairs to find a pool of bright turquoise water, where you can swim alongside tiny fish that dart through the crystal-clear depths. Because it’s right off the coastal highway and free to visit, you’ll often find both tourists and locals cooling off in its waters, especially during Oman’s scorching summer months.
Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, Oman
Get up close with endangered green sea turtles at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, one of the most important nesting sites in the Indian Ocean. You can join guided night tours to watch these gentle giants lay their eggs in the sand, or wake up early for dawn visits to see baby turtles making their first journey to the sea. The reserve also features a modern museum where you can learn about turtle conservation and marine life. For the full experience, stay overnight in one of the eco-friendly rooms at the reserve’s accommodation, giving you the best chance to witness these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.
Bahla Fort, Oman
I always recommend checking out Bahla Fort when visiting Oman. Located in the Al-Dakhiliyah region, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Oman’s largest and oldest fortresses. The massive clay and stone structure stands guard over an ancient oasis settlement, complete with a traditional souq and towering walls that stretch for nearly 13 kilometers.
Masirah Island, Oman
Masirah Island stands out as one of Oman’s best-kept secrets, sitting quietly off the country’s southeastern coast. This 95-square-mile island serves as a sanctuary for sea turtles and draws kitesurfers who come to catch the steady winds that sweep across its shores. Unlike the mainland’s busy beaches, Masirah offers a raw, untouched experience where you can drive for miles along empty coastlines, watch fishermen bring in their daily catch, and spot dolphins playing in the warm waters. It’s not the easiest place to reach – you’ll need to take a ferry from Shannah Port – but those who make the journey find themselves in a world where time moves slower and nature rules supreme.
Wadi Bani Khalid, Oman
Ever wandered through an oasis that feels like it was plucked straight from a desert fairy tale? That’s Wadi Bani Khalid for you, a natural gem tucked away in Oman’s eastern region where emerald pools meet limestone cliffs. This natural water paradise draws visitors year-round with its crystal-clear pools perfect for swimming, and smooth rocks ideal for picnicking in the shade. The wadi’s accessible pools and well-maintained walking paths make it popular with both locals and tourists, while the more adventurous can trek deeper into the canyon to discover hidden caves and natural pools all to themselves. Don’t forget to pack your swimming gear – the cool waters here offer perfect relief from Oman’s desert heat.
Jabreen Castle, Oman
Built in the late 17th century during Oman’s Yaruba dynasty, Jabreen Castle rises from the desert landscape about 2 hours from Muscat. One of the best-preserved castles in the country, Jabreen tells the story of a sultan’s quest to create not just a fortress, but a center of learning and culture. Its cream-colored walls house intricate wooden carvings, traditional Arabic calligraphy, and hidden chambers that once served as a library and school. The castle’s most memorable feature is the “Sun and Moon Hall,” where light streams through carefully positioned windows to create natural spotlights on the ornate ceiling paintings. Walking through its corridors today, you can still sense how this place balanced military might with scholarly pursuits, making it different from other defensive structures of its time.
Sur, Oman
Just a three-hour drive southeast of Muscat lies the coastal city of Sur, a place where Oman’s maritime soul comes alive. Like other port cities along the Arabian Sea, Sur bustles with fishermen and boats, but what sets it apart is its deep-rooted connection to traditional dhow building. Watch skilled craftsmen piece together these wooden vessels using techniques passed down through generations at the dhow yards, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back into the age of ancient seafarers. Thanks to Sur’s strategic location during the spice trade era, the city developed a unique blend of architecture, mixing traditional Omani elements with influences from East Africa and India. You’ll spot this heritage in the whitewashed buildings of the Al Ayjah district and the distinctive lighthouse that keeps watch over the corniche.
Al Alam Palace, Oman
Located in the heart of Muscat, Al Alam Palace is one of those places that makes you stop in your tracks the moment you see it. This royal palace, with its blue and gold columns rising against the clear Omani sky, serves as the ceremonial home of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq. While you can’t go inside (it’s still a working palace, after all), the outside is where the real magic happens. The surrounding area is full of old Portuguese forts, traditional souks, and narrow streets where locals go about their daily lives. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours just wandering around, soaking in the mix of modern royal architecture and centuries-old military buildings that tell the story of Oman’s rich past.
Jebel Akhdar, Oman
If you’re looking for a cool escape from Oman’s desert heat, head up to Jebel Akhdar. Perched high in the Al Hajar Mountains at 2,000 meters above sea level, this “Green Mountain” is known for its terraced farms and pleasant Mediterranean climate. The mountainside villages grow pomegranates, walnuts, and fragrant damask roses, which carpet the slopes in pink blooms every spring.
Musandam Peninsula, Oman
If you’re looking to escape into a totally different world, the Musandam Peninsula should be at the top of your list. This isolated region of Oman, separated from the rest of the country by the UAE, is where steep mountains dive straight into the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf. The locals call it the “Norway of Arabia” for good reason – the rugged coastline is dotted with tiny fishing villages only accessible by boat, and traditional dhows regularly cruise through the deep fjords. It’s not the easiest place to reach, requiring either a flight from Muscat or a border crossing from Dubai, but the reward is worth it – you’ll find yourself in one of the most unique corners of the Arabian Peninsula, where mountain goats roam free and dolphins play in the turquoise waters below.
Wadi Ghul, Oman
If you’re interested in seeing Oman’s most impressive natural wonder, head to Wadi Ghul, often called the “Grand Canyon of Arabia.” Located in the Al Hajar Mountains, this massive gorge drops nearly 3,000 feet to the valley floor, with steep limestone walls flanking a historic village at its base. The wadi offers some of the country’s best hiking trails and leads to Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak at 10,000 feet.
Telegraph Island, Oman
Telegraph Island, set in the middle of a fjord in Musandam’s rugged coastline, offers a fascinating glimpse into Oman’s history of communication. Once home to a British telegraph station in the 1860s, this tiny rock outcrop served as a vital link for messages traveling between India and Britain. The abandoned station’s remains still stand on the island, while the surrounding turquoise waters make it a popular spot for boat trips and swimming in the sheltered coves.
