Are you unsure where to go when you come to Sur? Many people drive through to go to the desert or to see the turtles.
But there is more to do than people realize. Here are a few suggestions for the eight best places to visit in Sur.
The Marina
Before heading to the corniche, stop by the marina to look at the wall art. Paintings range from pictures of the souq, to Omani decor. There’s also a a nice walking path, which is about 2 kilometers return.
If you drive to the other side of the marina, you will find the fish souq, where you can buy fresh fish. If you come before 8 a.m., you can watch the traditional dhows return from the sea with a selection of fish. The market is open around 6:30 am and closes around 11 am. The best time to go is between 7:30 – 9:30 am.
Dhow Factory
This factory is near the main bridge, past The White Coffee Shop. Currently, there are two Dhows that the men are constructing. The bigger dhow takes two to three years to build, while the smaller one takes six to nine months to complete. It takes fifteen men to construct the larger ones and eight to ten men for the smaller dhows.
The workers will allow you to get on one to see the inside. While walking around, take notice of the traditional wooden doors lying around. A cute gift shop sells wooden crafts like bowls, mini doors, and dhows.
There’s now a gallery here that features how life would have been in the past, displaying traditional boats while providing history of this maritime city.
The museum is open from 9-6 pm. The entrance fee is 2 OMR.
Sunaysilah Castle
The castle is near Makkeh Hypermarket and once you drive up the hill, there is a parking lot. Expect to find different rooms, like the prisoner room, but to be honest, most of them are usually closed. The cannon rooms are usually open.
There is a beautiful view of Sur, with pockets of neighborhoods from afar. Visitors will also notice traditional copper cooking pots while exploring the grounds.
The castle is open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It might be open again after 4:30 p.m., but it has been closedte afternoon, so it’s when I’ve tried to go in the la best to try in the morning. The cost is 1 or 2 OMR.
Al Ayjah Watchtower
Located over the main bridge, the watchtower can be accessed by parking at the Al Ayjah Plaza Hotel. My favorite time to go is for sunset. There are some lovely views of Sur and the suspension bridge. You can also see the Dhow Factory from here.
I also enjoy stopping at the White Coffee Shop, just before the bridge, to grab karak (tea) and some snacks like sambosa or Luqaimat. Luqaimat is similar to a donut hole and sometimes has sesame seeds on top.
Al Ayjah Lighthouse
It’s possible to visit anytime, but more people tend to come at night when it’s lit up. There’s also a short walking path next to the sea, to the right of the lighthouse. There’s also a nice view from the corniche. The door is normally locked, so it’s not possible to go inside. But the iconic landmark is one of the eight best things to do in Sur.
Oman Handicrafts
This small shop is just before the lighthouse. Here, you can find traditional wooden dhows, clay pots, and more. Silver and gold jewelry, such as bracelets and necklaces, is also on display. After browsing around, have some Omani coffee and dates.
Souq
The souq is a good place to find silver and gold jewelry, perfume, clothing, electronics, and more. It is open from 9:00 a.m. to noon and 4:30 – 11:30 p.m. For those looking for traditional clothing, it is possible to buy material, have the shop measure you, and then they can make something for you.
I had a dress made, so my friends helped me pick a pattern, and we had the tailor make it. It took about five days, but the shops also sell ready-made dresses. The souq should definitely be on your list of the eight best things to do in Sur.
Othman bin Affan Masjid
Locals call this the Bahwan Mosque, located across from Zaki Restaurant. I’ve only gone inside once, but those interested in mosques can appreciate the modern motif of white decor on the inside. I do not have any history about this mosque, but the flowers and bushes on the outside add to the beauty.
There are no set hours, but to be safe, it is best to go between 8:30 and 11 a.m., Sunday through Thursday. Women should cover their heads before entering, and everyone should take off their shoes. There is the main hall, and then around the corner, there’s a women’s entrance with a separate hall.
Conclusion
This coastal city offers plenty, whether walking around the souk or checking out the marina wall paintings. Make sure to check out these eight best places to visit before making your way to Ras Al Had or the desert.