Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz are excellent spots to see the turtles in Oman. But there are a few other places to visit when you’re in this area, and most likely, you will avoid crowds.
Here are a few suggested spots for things to do in Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz, which include visiting a castle, hiking, going to the beach, and admiring unique rock formations. Check out these Oman nature experiences.
Ras Al Hadd
Hiking
There are some small mountains for those who like climbing. My friends and I were looking for another route but decided to park and try this area.
We had no idea what we were in for, but there was a rocky, semi-steep path at one point, which took about ten minutes to go up, so it was alright. We walked up and down a rocky path a few times until reaching another area.
This area is endless, so we decided to turn around after a few hours. We ended up at a place dubbed ‘Candy Cane Canyon’ by a friend and walked back to our car from there.
Getting here
While driving toward Ras Al Hadd from Sur, these mountains will be to the right before reaching the Ras Al Hadd/Ras Al Jinz turn-off. You can also look for Candy Cane Canyon on Google Maps.
Mother of All Outcrops
After hiking, we found this name on Maps and decided to see why this spot seemed so popular. This place should also be on the list of things to do in Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz.
We drove about ten minutes down a dirt and rocky road and saw this uniquely shaped rock. There is nothing to do here except take pictures and admire the unique formations.
Ras Al Hadd Castle
I went here for the first time and was impressed with the castle’s size and the fact visitors can take a tour with a local guide. When I went, Rashid Al Amri took me around.
The castle was built between 1560-1570 AD and consists of stone and sarooj. Make sure to visit the fort inside and catch lovely city views. There are also some old wooden traditional doors, which are always my favorite to see.
Cost
The fee is 1 OMR for citizens and residents and 3 OMR for tourists. Guests can only pay by card.
Hours
The castle is open from 8 am to 6 pm, but sometimes it will be closed in the afternoon. I suggest going between 9 – 11 am or after 4:30 pm to ensure it is open.
Beach Picnic
Ras Al Hadd beach is an excellent place for a picnic and another great Oman nature experience. I’ve gone with friends for sunrise breakfast and afternoon picnics; both times are good because it is usually cooler here.
The waves are usually too rough to swim, but the beach is still great for walks because of the soft sand. Remember that someone will ask you to leave just before sunset because of the turtle protection.
Ras Al Jinz
Ras Al Jinz is about ten minutes away from Ras Al Hadd. There are a few beaches for swimming, and you can hike if you walk up some boulders to the right of one of the beaches.
Hike
I saw Ras Al Jinz tourist spot on Maps, so I parked here. I eventually walked around some boulders and then had views of the beach and mountains.
I walked along the flat rocks until I got a better beach view. The route looks like it’s possible to have a mix of a rocky path, walking on the beach, and climbing up again on the rocks.
I only walked about ten minutes because I was unprepared for hiking. I planned only to find the spot. I am planning to return one early morning to explore more and enjoy this Oman nature experience.
Getting Here
When looking at Maps, search for Ras Al Jinz tourist spot and park here. There are other suggested viewpoints, so you could also choose one. The path should be the same.
The Arch
Stop at the arch for photos for another Oman nature experience. It is about a 20 minute drive from Ras Al Jinz beach. I’ve pasted the location here.
The arch is off the side of the road with beautiful mountains in the background. I like coming here for pictures when heading to Al Ashkara or Asila.
Visiting Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz
These spots are additional places to visit when you’re in the area and looking for Oman nature experiences. Several things keep you busy when you’re here, whether a short hike, walking along the beach, or exploring a castle.
If you’re coming through Sur and looking for things to do here, click the link. You can also check out my Youtube video which highlights things to do in Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz.