Thursday 19 / September / 2024
Muscat: Masirah is a stunning island located off the coast of Oman in the Arabian Sea. Attracting many guests from Oman and across the world over the year and is almost home to approximately 12,000 residents.
It hosts all four of Oman`s nesting species of Turtles and is world famous as the home of the largest population of Loggerhead Turtles.
Stopping at any of its numerous beaches and soaking in its breathtaking ambience, it is easy to understand why.
This is the largest island of our Sultanate with 95 km of coastline across a diverse range of breathtaking landscapes from rocky shores to cliffs or white sandy beaches. With temperatures remaining 10 degrees cooler than the mainland for most of the year, clear turquoise waters and diverse bird species, this sapphire gem is also home to the world’s largest population of Loggerhead turtles, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
For thrill-seekers, Masirah is a popular destination for kiteboarding which kicks off during the ‘windy’ season of May/June. If you are already a kitesurfer it is definitely a destination you will be visiting often during this time!
What’s more, Masirah just got easier to reach, with Salam Air offering flights from Muscat to the island for the first time earlier last year. Driving is also an option, taking approximately 5 hours to reach by car from Muscat which includes a 1.5-2 hour ferry ride from Shannah Port. We advise you to always stay vigilant and keep an eye out for camels on the road, and rest if you are tired.
With numerous accommodation options available on the island it is easy for visitors to pick what suits their needs best.
Masirah Island offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular things to do on Masirah Island:
1. Explore the Beaches: The Island is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Turtle Beach and Ras Al Hadd Beach. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, relax on the sandy shores, and enjoy the clear turquoise waters.
2. Turtle Watching: The island is a nesting site for endangered sea turtles, including the green turtle and loggerhead turtle. Visit during the nesting season (April to September) and witness the incredible sight of these majestic creatures coming ashore to lay their eggs.
3. Kiteboarding and Windsurfing: The island’s consistent winds and shallow waters make it an ideal destination for kiteboarding and windsurfing enthusiasts. You can rent equipment and take lessons to enjoy these thrilling water sports.
4. Bird Watching: A haven for bird lovers. The island attracts a variety of migratory birds, making it an excellent spot for bird watching. Bring your binoculars and observe the diverse bird species that inhabit the island.
5. Fishing: Engage in a fishing excursion and try your hand at catching some local fish species. Whether you prefer shore fishing or hiring a boat for deep-sea fishing, Masirah Island offers opportunities for fishing enthusiasts.
6. Discover Shipwrecks: Masirah Island’s coastline is dotted with historic shipwrecks, some of which can be explored during low tide. Discover these remnants of maritime history and learn about their stories.
7. Camping and Stargazing: Set up a camp on the beach or at a designated camping site and enjoy a night under the starry skies. Masirah Island offers a tranquil and remote setting for stargazing and experiencing the beauty of the night sky.
Remember to respect the island’s natural environment and follow any guidelines or regulations in place to preserve its unique ecosystem.
