Summer in Oman is undeniably hot, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C (104°F). The relentless heat can be daunting for visitors, but with proper planning and an understanding of where to go and what to do, the summer can be an ideal time to explore this fascinating country.
One of Oman’s most unique summer attractions is the Khareef season in Dhofar. From June to September, the monsoon winds transform this southern city into a lush, green paradise. The hills and valleys around Salalah become blanketed in mist and greenery, with waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs.
Because of this, travelling to enjoy the cool, misty weather of khareef has become a yearly routine for many people from the different regions of Oman, most especially Muscat. But not everybody has the means, time and opportunity to enjoy it every year, so we are mapping out where you can go and what you can do to still fully enjoy summer.
Beach Bliss and Water Sports
Oman’s extensive coastline along the Arabian Sea is a haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The pristine beaches, with their golden sands and crystal-clear waters, provide a perfect setting to cool off. Beaches like Al Bustan, Qurum, and Bandar Jissah near Muscat are popular spots for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
For those seeking adventure, Oman’s waters offer thrilling activities such as snorkelling, diving, and jet skiing. The Daymaniyat Islands, a marine nature reserve, is a snorkeler’s paradise with its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The sea breeze and refreshing waters make these activities perfect for a hot summer day.
The coastal waters around Muscat are teeming with marine life, making dolphin watching a popular activity. Early morning boat trips from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha or Al Mouj Marina offer the chance to see playful dolphins leaping through the waves. The refreshing sea breeze and the sight of these majestic creatures provide a memorable experience.
Additionally, boat trips to the nearby islands, such as the Daymaniyat Islands, offer opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, and simply relaxing on secluded beaches. These excursions are perfect for escaping the summer heat and enjoying the tranquility of the sea.
Extreme adventures down South
If you have a few hours to waste on driving, then heading towards Al Ashkarah and Masirah Island will bless you with a cooler climate that makes these locations perfect for extreme water sports and camping.
Al Ashkarah and the nearby coastal villages enjoy the same cooler climate in Dhofar during this time of the year. Because of this, the long stretch of Ashkarah Beach becomes host to campers looking for cooler temperatures.
If you drive straight to Barr al Hikman, you will join extreme water sports lovers not just basking in the sun but enjoying activities like surfing, kitesurfing and diving. This is simultaneously happening on some amazing beaches in Masirah.
Exploring Caves
Oman’s geological wonders include several impressive caves, which offer cool retreats from the summer heat. Al Hoota Cave, near Nizwa, is one of the most famous. This cave system, with its underground lake and stunning stalactites and stalagmites, provides a fascinating and refreshing adventure.
Guided tours of Al Hoota Cave take visitors through its cool, dimly lit passages, showcasing the natural beauty and geological history of the region. The constant cool temperature inside the cave is a welcome break from the outside heat.
Beyond Al Hoota and for those looking for more challenging adventures, the fascinating Majlis al Jinn is the go-to destination. Majlis al Jinn is a vast single chamber, approximately 310 meters long and 225 meters wide, with a domed ceiling that soars 120 meters high. It has three roof entrances, and its freestanding roof is around 40 meters thick in most areas. The cave's deepest point lies 178 meters below the highest entrance.
Wadi Adventures and Mountain Escapes
Exploring Oman’s wadis (valleys) is a must-do during the summer. These natural oases, often with flowing streams and pools, are scattered throughout the country. Wadi Bani Khalid, Wadi Shab, and Wadi Tiwi are among the most popular.
Wadi Bani Khalid, with its turquoise pools and shaded palm groves, offers a cool respite from the heat. Visitors can swim in the refreshing waters, explore the caves, or relax by the pools. The greenery and natural beauty of these wadis provide a serene escape from the heat of the desert.
The Hajar Mountains, stretching across northern Oman, offer a dramatic contrast to the desert plains. With their higher altitudes, these mountains provide cooler temperatures and breathtaking landscapes. Jabal Akhdar and Jabal Shams are two prominent mountain destinations for summer escapes.
Jabal Akhdar, known as the “Green Mountain,” is famous for its terraced farms, fruit orchards, and rose gardens. The cooler climate here makes it ideal for hiking and exploring traditional villages. Jabal Shams, the highest peak in Oman, offers spectacular views of the Grand Canyon of Arabia. Camping here during summer allows for stargazing under clear skies and enjoying the crisp mountain air.
Within the Al Hajjar mountain range, you can also explore the beautiful peaks found in Wadi al Sahtan including Wajma. The beautiful Wakan village is also a great destination and for those who love long hikes, pushing it till Hadash offers not just amazing views but scenic paths.
Go indoors with these activities.
Indoor activities provide a perfect way to make the most of your time in Muscat during the summer months.
Almost all major malls in Oman come fully equipped with kids' activity areas where they can indulge in arts and crafts activities, and fun educational programmes, learn about different underwater creatures with a visit to Oman's biggest indoor aquarium, or enjoy the freezing temperature of Snow Oman.
Fitness and wellness enthusiasts can stay active with high-intensity interval training classes in different gyms scattered all throughout the city, with different outlets offering fitness, self-defence, yoga, and other health-centric activities catering to different levels. Health and wellness activities can also include guided meditation and mindfulness workshops offered at various centres, swimming at hotel pools with day passes or public pools like the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex.
For those who want to relax and get pampered, standalone spas or hotel spas offer relaxation and rejuvenation packages which also include luxurious treatments in a serene and therapeutic ambience.
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