Sur – Travel Guide
Sur, a coastal city in Oman, is renowned for its rich maritime history and stunning natural beauty. Once a thriving port, it played a significant role in trade and shipbuilding, particularly known for its traditional dhow boats. The city boasts picturesque beaches, vibrant souks, and charming architecture that reflects its cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the scenic coastline, enjoy fresh seafood, and immerse themselves in the local culture. Sur is also a gateway to the nearby Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, where you can witness the nesting of endangered green turtles, making it a unique destination for nature enthusiasts.
All about Jebel Sur
Getting around Sur
Transportation
There is no public transportation in Sur besides taxis. Most people arrive by car and drive in Sur. The roads are generally in good condition.
Sur FAQ
Where is Sur located?
Sur is a coastal town of Oman located 124 miles southeast of Muscat, the country’s capital.
How do I get to Sur?
There is no airport in Sur. The most common way to reach Sur is by car, which takes approximately 2.5-hours. There are two routes from Muscat. The coastal Route 17 can be accessed from Wadi Adai in Muscat, or take the Muscat Expressway and exit at junction 5 for Amrat and Sur – these routes then merge and continue as Route 17. This journey is just over 125 miles. To travel by the inland route, initially take the Muscat Expressway to Junction 10B and exit from Nizwa on Route 15. Follow that for about 16 miles to the junction for Sur on Route 23; Sur is reached about 201 miles from Muscat.
There are a couple of bus services: bus 36 takes just over 2 hours on the coastal Route 17, while bus 55 travels inland on Route 23 via Ibra and takes around 5 hours. There is a bus office just 0.1 miles northwest from the Sur Hotel.
What is Sur known for?
Sur is renowned for its shipbuilding heritage, particularly the construction of traditional wooden shows. The city has a long history as a trading hub and remains an important cultural center in Oman.
How do I get around in Sur?
There is no public transportation in Sur besides taxis.
Read More
Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights.
What is the weather like in Sur? When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Sur is during the cooler months from October to April. The weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities and exploring the city. The temperature ranges from the mid-70s to the low 80s (Fahrenheit) during the day and drops to the mid-50s to the low 60s at night. This is also peak tourist season, so book accommodations and plan activities ahead of time. It’s worth noting that June through September can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 110 degrees F, making outdoor activities difficult.
What are the attractions in Sur?
Sur used to be an important shipbuilding center of vessels that crossed the oceans. It has a number of famous ancient monuments, including Bilad Sur Castle, As Sinaysilah Castle, Al `Ayjah Castle, Fanar Ras Al Meel and Ras Al Hadd Castle. Sur also has a number of valleys, the most prominent being Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi, in addition to Ras Al Hadd where the Turtle Sanctuary at Ras Al Jinz lies.
Visit the Bilad Sur Cast, the al Ayjah Fort, Sunaysilah Fort, the old town of Sur, the Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Shab, and the Sur lighthouse.
What is the currency in Oman?
The national currency is the Oman Rial (OMR). Circulation of the OMR is in banknotes and coins. Banknote denominations are 100 and 200 baisas, and 1/2, 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 rials. Coins have denominations of 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 baisas, and 1/4 and 1/2 rials.
When it comes to tipping, most restaurants and hotel establishments automatically charge a service charge. In addition, you are free to tip service staff – the norm is 10%. For more detailed information, consult our guide to tipping in Oman by clicking here Oman – Tipping.
There are several ATMs and banks around sure where you can withdraw cash and perform other banking services. Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it’s always good to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
I don’t speak Arabic will many people speak English?
Although Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken in cities and to a good extent in areas that have tourism. We recommend you get a good English-Arabic guidebook or app on your phone and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, thank you, excuse me and the numbers 1 -10.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
In case of a medical emergency, dial 999, the emergency services number in Oman.
Sur Hospital is located in Sur, offering various medical services and emergency care.
Top Attractions
Turtle Reserve
Visit this protected area to observe endangered green turtles nesting on the beach, a remarkable experience for wildlife lovers.
Maritime Museum
Discover the city’s rich maritime history through exhibits showcasing traditional shipbuilding, navigation, and the significance of the sea to Sur.
Al Ayjah Lighthouse
Explore this historic lighthouse, offering stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding area, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Sur Souk
Stroll through the vibrant local market, where you can find traditional handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs, immersing yourself in Omani culture.
Unique Experiences
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Experience a traditional dhow cruise along the coast of Sur, where you can relax on the water, enjoy stunning views of the coastline, and savor a delicious meal while learning about the region’s maritime heritage.
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Take part in a cultural tour of Sur, visiting historical sites, local markets, and traditional workshops, where you can engage with artisans and learn about Omani crafts and customs.
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Join a guided turtle-watching tour at Ras Al Jinz, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe nesting turtles in their natural habitat while learning about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.
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Embark on a desert adventure from Sur, where you’ll explore the stunning landscapes of the Wahiba Sands, enjoy dune bashing, and experience a traditional Bedouin camp under the stars.
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Indulge in a seafood cooking class in Sur, where you’ll learn to prepare local dishes using fresh ingredients, gaining insight into Omani culinary traditions while enjoying a delicious meal.
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What to expect while traveling
