Muscat: Oman has announced official holidays as part of the National Day celebrations from November 26 to 27. With the weekend included, citizens and residents will enjoy a four-day break — a welcome opportunity for families and individuals to relax or explore new places.
While some people are planning to travel abroad to international destinations, a considerable majority have expressed their preference to spend the holidays within the Sultanate, according to a poll conducted by the Oman Observer. The results of the poll highlight a growing local trend: many residents now see domestic travel as both convenient and rewarding, especially during the cooler months.
As winter sets in across Oman, this season is widely regarded as the best time to explore the Sultanate’s stunning outdoors. Cooler temperatures, clear skies and refreshing breezes make journeys comfortable and scenic, whether you are travelling with family, friends or visitors.
Oman offers a remarkable range of experiences — from calm family-friendly wadis to dramatic mountain viewpoints, pristine beaches, hidden caves and historic coastal towns. With so many choices just a short drive from Muscat, the long weekend provides the perfect chance to rediscover the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
To help families maximise the upcoming holidays, here is a detailed one-day itinerary starting from Muscat. This route brings together nature, adventure, culture and coastal charm, allowing travellers to enjoy some of Oman’s best attractions within a single day.
8:00 AM – Begin Your Journey From Muscat Towards Quriyat
Start your day early and drive southeast toward Quriyat. Leaving around 8 AM allows you to travel comfortably, avoid peak crowds and enjoy the outdoors while the weather is still cool.
Destination 1: Wadi Dayqah Dam
Your first stop is one of Oman’s most impressive engineering landmarks: Wadi Dayqah Dam. Surrounded by mountains and overlooking a vast reservoir, the dam offers expansive views that make it a perfect place to begin your trip.
This is a recommended breakfast location. Since there are limited cafés or restaurants nearby, bringing your own food is advisable. Families can enjoy a relaxed meal while taking in the serene scenery. For those looking for light activity, pedal boats and small watercraft are usually available, and a short zip-line adds an element of fun. Spend about an hour here before continuing your journey.
Destination 2: Khor Al Milh (Ancient Salt Pans)
A short 30-minute drive from the dam brings you to Khor Al Milh, home to Quriyat’s ancient salt pans. This historic site showcases traditional salt extraction techniques used by Omani communities for generations.
Walking around the shallow, sunlit pools offers a glimpse into the artisanal process that has supplied local households with salt for centuries. It is an informative stop for children and adults alike, revealing the cultural and economic significance of salt harvesting in the region.
Destination 3: Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm)
Next, head to Bimmah Sinkhole, one of Oman’s most popular natural attractions. The limestone cavity filled with turquoise water is both visually stunning and geologically intriguing.
Visitors may swim here, but care is essential. The water gets deep in some areas, and the rocky bottom can be sharp. Children should be supervised at all times, and cliff jumping should be avoided. The surrounding park area is well-maintained, offering shaded seating areas and walkways.
Destination 4: Fins Beach (Pebble Beach)
Continue your coastal drive to the striking white-pebble shores of Fins Beach. Known for its crystal-clear waters and bright shoreline, Fins is an ideal spot for lunch and relaxation.
Bring lunch from Muscat, as the area has limited dining options. Shade is minimal, so carrying umbrellas or portable shades is recommended. Children can swim, but life jackets are a good precaution due to occasional strong tides. A short walk nearby leads to a naturally formed cave called Romantic Cave with a stunning sea-facing opening, a popular spot for photography. Google Romantic Cave for the exact location.
Destination 5: Wadi Shab or Sur
From Fins Beach, you can choose between two different experiences:
Wadi Shab is ideal for those seeking adventure. The journey involves a brief boat ride and a hike along a scenic valley leading to freshwater pools. However, it is often crowded during holidays and may not be suitable for very young children.
Sur is the more relaxed option. This charming coastal town offers cultural sites, scenic waterfronts and an easy-paced experience that suits families wanting a calm afternoon. If you are choosing Wadi Shab, you may go back to Muscat after the hike here.
Destination 6: Sur Dhow Factory
If you choose Sur, make your way to the dhow-building yard, where craftsmen continue to build traditional wooden vessels using time-honoured methods. Watching the slow, meticulous construction process gives visitors a rare window into Oman’s maritime heritage. It is both educational and culturally enriching, especially for younger travellers.
Destination 7: Sur Hanging Bridge Viewpoint
Just a short drive away is the town’s suspension bridge, offering panoramic views of the lagoon and surrounding coastline. The viewpoint is particularly beautiful during the late afternoon as the light softens across the water.
Destination 8: Sunset Boat Ride in Sur
End your day with a coastal boat ride, with departures typically offered from beneath the suspension bridge. The gentle cruise offers a peaceful sunset experience as the sky changes colours over the Arabian Sea.
Sur is renowned for its fresh seafood, so consider stopping for a grilled fish dinner in the town before driving back to Muscat in the evening.
Remember to carry lifejackets while swimming in waterbodies.
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