From its mountain trails to its pristine beaches, Oman is blessed with striking landscapes and enriching views which make our beachfront haven, Jumeirah Muscat Bay, a wonderful base for a restorative retreat from which to enjoy many of its highlights on your doorstep. Visiting the country during summer is still a well kept secret if you’re willing to embrace the heat to forgo the crowds. Here are our top tips to make the most of the peaceful months ahead.

 

1 - Snorkel off the Dimaniyat islands

A sprinkling of islands off the coast of Muscat, the Dimaniyat archipelago is a protected marine reserve that’s one of Oman’s snorkelling hotspots. Dive beneath the surface to see Turtles, Red Sea clownfish and Arabian butterflyfish darting among coral reefs and seagrass. If you are lucky, you might also spot spinner dolphins and mighty whale sharks – the gentle giants of the ocean. From the village of Al Sawadi on the mainland, it’s easy to spot another snorkel site. Off the coast are the seven mountainous Sawadi Islands, and boats regularly transport visitors to explore the waters around them.

 

2 - Explore Bandar Khayran

Another picturesque place which must be ticked in your ‘must visit places in Oman’ list is just 15 minutes away by boat or road trip from Jumeirah Muscat Bay. Bandar Khayran is a unique place where the water bodies play hide and seek with the mountains, it is a maze of khors (inlets) and bandars (natural harbours). A bird’s eye view of the valley from its rocky terrain and you won’t ask anything more, flat glistening seas and many secret beaches. The water here is so clear that you can see the marine life just with your naked eyes without even entering the water, but we highly recommend you jump in and go in search of turtles and many colourful fish, go on a SUP safari or learn wakeboarding – all amazing ways to cool off from the summer heat. Stay for sunset to see how the colours of the sandstone mountains come to life in the glow of golden hour.

 

3 - Jebel Akhdar #15degreescooler

During the hottest time of the year in the Middle East, Oman’s Jebel Akhdar region will reportedly be 15 degrees cooler. While it translates into “Green Mountain” in Arabic, Jebel Akhdar refers to an area that includes the Saiq Plateau, located 2000m above sea level. It is also part of Oman’s famous Al Hajar mountain range and goes up to 3,000m. The perfect spot to hike, discover ancient villages and explore lush wadis or even camp while enjoying a cooling breeze.

 

4 - Swim in a natural plunge pool

Despite its dunes, Oman is surprisingly fertile as it’s crisscrossed by streams and wadis (riverbeds) that nourish the mango trees, orchards and date palm groves. When it’s time to cool off, make for one of the region’s natural water pools. About an hour’s drive from Muscat, Wadi Arbaeen is an attractive option. Formed by a ravine on the eastern side of Mount Hajar, it encompasses several hiking routes, a collection of small, tumbling waterfalls and a handful of villages where locals tend to fruit crops. Meanwhile, at Wadi Shab, the fresh water that flows from the nearby mountain range merges with sea water. The area is 1.5 hours from Muscat and private tours will collect you from your hotel and transport you to the docks at Tiwi, where you can access the wadi by boat. Following a short walk through limestone ravines, on arrival you’ll be rewarded with your own natural swimming pool where sunlight filters through the rocky surrounds and dances on the pool’s surface.

 

5 - Watch turtles by moonlight at Ras Al Jinz reserve

Be enchanted by green turtles making their way towards the sea at Ras Al Jinz. These endangered creatures are now protected by the Omani government, and this fishing village provides a sanctuary for them to build nests and lay their eggs. During the day, this sandy stretch makes for an attractive walk, framed by sandstone cliffs and the Gulf of Oman. However, for the best chance of spotting turtles visit during summer, between May and September, and join a tour with a guide from Ras Al Jinz reserve. These tours take place under the starry night sky at around 9pm or with the blush-pink of dawn as a backdrop at around 5am.

 

6 - Tailor-made wellness retreats

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Oman while discovering new forms of fitness with our expert guides. Push your limits with early-morning endurance challenges, hikes and sports in awe-inspiring landscapes like the Hajar mountains. If you prefer to stay out of the sun, you can also explore our on-site dive centre, yoga centre, and sports and leisure facilities at the resort. Those simply seeking to relax can escape from the ordinary and indulge in a bespoke schedule of locally inspired spa treatments in our sanctuary overlooking the picturesque Gulf of Oman.

 

7 - A kitesurfing paradise

Oman is an ideal spot for kitesurfing, with reliable winds and shallow, flat water lagoons perfect for beginners. There are many spots to choose from, including Masira Island, Ras al Hadd Lagoon, Muscat’s Kite Beach, and Turtle Beach. The best time to kite is the summer, with strong winds and amazing uncrowded beaches and conditions ranging from safe and beginner friendly lagoons to thrilling waves for experienced riders.

Having explored Oman’s natural beauty, relax back at Jumeirah Muscat Bay set in the secluded cove of Bandar Jissah between the Al Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman.