Reaching Masirah is an adventure involving a cross-country drive and a car ferry from Shannah Port. Once you arrive, the atmosphere is instantly different: it's cooler, saltier, and much quieter than the mainland. The island is world-famous as the nesting ground for tens of thousands of loggerhead turtles and as one of the best kitesurfing spots on the planet.
Things to Do
Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: Masirah is legendary among board-sports enthusiasts. During the summer (Monsoon/Khareef season), steady, strong winds create world-class conditions. Sur Masirah on the west coast is the go-to spot for its shallow, flat lagoons.
Turtle Spotting: The island hosts a massive population of Loggerhead turtles. Between May and August, you can witness these ancient creatures coming ashore to nest. Note: Please use a red light and keep a respectful distance.
Wild Camping on White Sand: Masirah is one of the best places in Oman for wild camping. You can pitch a tent on miles of empty white sand and wake up to a sunrise over the ocean with no one else in sight.
Shipwreck Photography: The island’s rough eastern coast is dotted with the eerie, rusted remains of old dhows and ships that have run aground over the decades—a photographer's dream.
Places to See
Ras Abu Rasas: The southern tip of the island where the ocean waves are at their most powerful. It feels like the "edge of the world."
Hilf Town: The island's only real town. It’s a simple, charming place where you can stock up on supplies, eat fresh grilled fish, and see the local fishing dhows in the harbor.
Jebel Humr: The island's highest point. A short, rocky hike to the top gives you a 360-degree view of the entire island’s coastline and its barren, moon-like interior.
Kite Beach: A long stretch of sand on the western side where the water is shallow and the wind is consistent.
2026 Trip & Itinerary Advice
Ferry Information (Updated)
The Route: Ferries depart from Shannah Port to the island's main town, Hilf. The crossing takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Operators: There are two main options. The modern National Ferries (Mwasalat) offer scheduled timings, AC lounges, and café facilities. Alternatively, several private local barges operate more informally; they typically leave when full and are often cheaper for vehicles (roughly 8-10 OMR for a sedan).
Booking: For the National Ferries, it is highly recommended to book in advance via their official channels, especially on weekends. For private ferries, you simply arrive at the port and join the queue.
Pro Tips
Vehicle: While a paved road circles most of the island, a 4WD is highly recommended to reach the best secluded beaches and campsites.
Supplies: Hilf has basic supermarkets, pharmacies, and petrol stations. However, for specific camping gear or specialty foods, buy them in Muscat or Sur before heading to Shannah.
Respect the Wind: It is almost always windy on Masirah. If you are camping, ensure your tent is high-quality and very well-secured with heavy-duty stakes.
Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1 (Morning): Drive from Muscat to Shannah Port (approx. 5-6 hours).
Day 1 (Afternoon): Catch the ferry. Arrive in Hilf and drive south to find a secluded camp spot on the east coast.
Day 2 (Morning): Wake up for a sunrise swim. Explore the shipwrecks along the eastern shore.
Day 2 (Afternoon): Visit the turtle nesting beaches (if in season) or watch the kitesurfers before catching the late afternoon ferry back to the mainland.
