Things To Do
in Suar
Suar, often anglicized as Sohar, is a historic coastal city in northern Oman on the Gulf of Oman, with a rich maritime heritage. The town blends ancient fortifications and a bustling modern port, giving visitors a sense of old Oman alongside growing industry. The Corniche along the harbor offers sunset strolls and fresh seafood, while the surrounding hills and wadis provide easy day trips.
Visitors can explore Sohar Fort, wander the old town lanes, and sample coastal specialties as part of a relaxed Arabian coastal experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Suar and settle into your accommodations, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe that serves traditional Omani dishes, while soaking in the hospitality of the locals. After breakfast, take a stroll around the quaint village to familiarize yourself with the area.
Visit the nearby Suar Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or participate in water sports such as kayaking or snorkeling. Grab lunch at a beachside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while enjoying the sea breeze. Spend the afternoon exploring the traditional fishing boats and perhaps learn about the local fishing community.
As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic drive to the nearby rocky cliffs for breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Dine at a charming restaurant overlooking the water, sampling local specialties as you watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors. Wind down your day with a peaceful walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Start your day with an early breakfast before heading out to explore the nearby desert landscapes. Join a guided tour that takes you through the rugged terrain, where you can marvel at the unique rock formations and the stark beauty of the desert. Make stops to capture stunning photographs and learn about the ecological significance of this arid environment.
After an adventurous morning, enjoy a picnic lunch in a shaded spot in the desert, surrounded by the mesmerizing dunes. Continue your exploration by visiting ancient ruins and hidden oasis, where you can learn about the history of the region and its previous inhabitants. Engage with local guides who share fascinating stories and myths of the desert.
Return to Suar for a relaxed evening, where you can enjoy a traditional Omani dinner prepared by a local family. Participate in cultural activities, such as Omani music and dance, to immerse yourself further in the rich traditions of the area. As the evening unfolds, gaze up at the starry sky, marveling at the beauty of the clear desert night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🥤Coke (0.33L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚖Taxi start (short ride) | $2-6 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich maritime heritage and seafood cuisine
- Walkable waterfront with easy day trips to the Hajar mountains
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Hot summers can be exhausting for outdoor activities
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Suar
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic walls and archways provide dramatic backdrops timed for golden hour.
Harbor views and palm silhouettes frame compelling sunset photography.
Narrow lanes with traditional houses and palm groves offer intimate street photography.
Workboats and nets provide maritime photo opportunities early in the morning.
Food in Suar
Suar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice and meat dish cooked with saffron and spices; widely available in coastal restaurants.
Must-Try!
Tender lamb slow-roasted with spices in a clay oven, often enjoyed during special occasions.
Seafood-based variant of Machboos featuring fresh fish with spiced rice.
A creamy wheat and meat porridge that is comforting and popular in cooler months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning stalls offer freshly caught seafood, grilled to order on nearby grills.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public; shoulders and knees should be covered in most places outside tourist areas.
Be respectful during Ramadan; avoid eating in public during daylight hours; observe local prayer times.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private homes or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Suar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; leave small tips (5-10%) for good service if not included in the bill.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants; ATMs are common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect very hot days with high humidity; plan outdoor activity for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated, and seek shade.
Milder daytime temperatures and clear skies; great for outdoor exploration and coastal walks.
Pleasant temperatures around 20-30°C, ideal for hiking and city sightseeing.
Suar at Night
Hiking in Suar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails with panoramic coastal and mountain vistas.
Day-trips to wadis offer cool pools, rock formations, and scenic canyon paths.
Airports
How to reach Suar by plane.
The primary international gateway to Oman; about a 2-3 hour drive from Suar depending on route.
Major regional hub; reachable by international flight connections and commonly used for long-haul connections, though not in Oman.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with strong cultural traditions and family-centered communities.
A mix of expatriates from India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and other Gulf states who work in industry, trade, and services.
The growing number of visitors drawn to the coast, fortifications, and beaches.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and casual games throughout the year.
A favorite among expatriate communities and local clubs.
Swimming, snorkeling, and fishing along the coast are common recreational activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Suar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for vegetable and lentil-based options, or opt for zesty rice with vegetables.