Bar Al Hikman

Road Trip to Bar Al Hakman via the Sur Coastal Road: A Journey Through Oman’s Hidden Gems

Oman’s coastline is a paradise for road trip lovers, and our journey to Bar Al Hakman via the stunning Sur coastal road was an unforgettable adventure. From scenic ocean views and historic towns to untouched white sand beaches and vast salt flats, this trip had it all.

Here’s how our journey unfolded.

Day 1: Coastal Drive from Muscat to Sur

We kicked off our trip early in the morning, hitting the road from Muscat and heading southeast towards Sur, following the picturesque coastal highway. This route is known for its breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, dramatic cliffs, and charming fishing villages.

Stop 1: Bimmah Sinkhole

Our first stop was the famous Bimmah Sinkhole, a stunning natural pool with turquoise water. Legend says it was formed by a falling star, but in reality, it’s a sinkhole created by limestone erosion. Either way, a quick swim in its clear waters was the perfect way to refresh ourselves before continuing our journey.

Stop 2: Wadi Shab

Next, we made a stop at Wadi Shab, one of Oman’s most beautiful wadis. After a short boat ride across the wadi entrance, we hiked through palm groves and rocky trails before reaching the hidden pools and the famous waterfall inside a cave. The cool water and the thrill of swimming inside a cave made this a must-do experience.

Stop 3: Sur – A Town of Maritime History

By midday, we arrived in Sur, a coastal town famous for its traditional dhow-building yards. We visited the Sur Dhow Factory, where craftsmen still build wooden dhows using age-old techniques. A quick visit to Al Ayjah Lighthouse gave us panoramic views of Sur’s coastline before we grabbed a seafood lunch at a local restaurant.

After a relaxing meal, we continued our journey south towards Oman’s remote and untouched landscapes.

Day 2: From Ras Al Jinz to Bar Al Hakman

Stop 4: Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

We spent the night near Ras Al Jinz, home to Oman’s most famous turtle nesting beach. Before dawn, we joined a guided tour to witness green turtles laying their eggs—a magical experience that felt straight out of a nature documentary.

After the tour, we hit the road again, heading deeper into Oman’s wild and rugged landscapes.

Stop 5: The Remote Journey to Bar Al Hakman

Leaving the coastline behind, we ventured towards Bar Al Hakman, one of Oman’s largest salt flats and an important wetland ecosystem. The drive was a mix of gravel roads and off-roading, passing through vast desert plains and isolated fishing villages.

Arriving at Bar Al Hakman felt like stepping onto another planet. The endless white salt flats stretched as far as the eye could see, with shimmering mirages and a surreal sense of emptiness. This remote region is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to thousands of flamingos, herons, and other migratory birds.

Camping Under the Stars

As the sun set over the salt flats, we set up camp and enjoyed a peaceful evening under a sky filled with millions of stars. The silence was absolute, except for the occasional distant calls of birds. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration.

Day 3: Exploring the Wetlands & Journey Back

Before heading back, we took some time to explore the shallow lagoons and tidal flats around Bar Al Hakman. The area’s rich marine life and untouched beauty made it a hidden gem for nature lovers.

As we began our journey back to civilization, we couldn’t help but appreciate how diverse and breathtaking Oman’s landscapes truly are. From coastal cliffs and wadis to endless salt flats, this road trip was a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and natural wonders.

Final Thoughts

Our road trip to Bar Al Hakman via the Sur coastal road was an incredible experience filled with hidden gems, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable moments. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Oman, this journey should be at the top of your list!

Would you take this road trip? Let us know in the comments!