Salalah Beach named among 30 best beaches in the world

Muscat: Condé Nest Traveller magazine has selected Salalah Beach in Dhofar Governorate among the 30 best beaches in the world, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism said. 

The magazine stated: “There’s something Mad Max-esque about Al Mughsayl, with its unflinchingly white sand, parched frankincense trees and cinematic blow holes (especially impressive during monsoon season) which erupt every couple of minutes, shaking the earth and spewing out seawater with a deafening sound. Stretching for four unbroken miles and fringed with sheer limestone cliffs, the beach is lapped by gleaming turquoise water which can get a little choppy at times.

“That said, it’s a wonderful spot from which to watch fishermen pilot traditional dhows just offshore; catch them at dusk for the most dramatic photographs, when they are silhouetted against the treacly Omani sunset,” the magazine added.

Oman’s southernmost region is host to many unique attractions including the blowholes of Mughsayl and the Land of Frankincense – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Deep sea diving and snorkelling off the coast of the Hallaniyat Islands are just some of the more adventurous activities available through local tour operators, according to the ministry.

“In the summer months, when most of the Arabian Peninsula experiences soaring temperatures, Dhofar ushers in the monsoon season, bringing with it lush greenery, cooling rains and pleasant temperatures. Locally known as Khareef, this special season starts from late June to early September,” the ministry added.

The blowholes are a particularly iconic attraction at the beach, drawing tourists from Oman and beyond.

A popular picnic spot located near the Marneef Cave, the blowholes make anyone’s visit to the beach worthwhile.

There are plenty of tourist amenities for those who want to spend a day at the beach, or just sit on the soft, fine sand and enjoy the calm and relaxation nature brings with it.

Other places definitely worth a visit while in Oman’s southern governorate are Khor Taqah, Wadi Darbat, Ain Razat, the Hallaniyat Islands, Thumrait, Jebel Samhan, the cliffs of Hasik, and the town of Mirbat, which is also home to an anti-gravity point that brings forth the curiosity of all those who hear of it.