Plan your visit

Plan Your Visit

Access requires a 40 to 50-minute boat ride from Muscat. Plan around the strict seasonal rules for beach landing.

Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve

Gulf of Oman, off the coast of Seeb/Barka

GPS 23.856, 58.075

Open directions

Getting there

All trips require a boat tour from the mainland.

How	Time	Cost	Notes
Boat: Guided snorkeling, diving, or dolphin-watching boat tours departing from Al Mouj Marina or Seeb Marina in Muscat.	40-50 minutes	25-45 OMR	Prices generally include the mandatory government reserve permits, snorkeling equipment, and refreshments. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

When to go

QuietModerateBusyPeak

The reserve is open year-round for boating and snorkeling. Visit between November and April to access the beaches and enjoy cooler weather. Visit between July and October for the highest chance of seeing whale sharks. Note that island landing is banned from May 1 to October 31.

What to bring

Snorkel and mask (if you prefer using your own)
Reef-safe sunscreen to protect the fragile coral ecosystem
Swimwear and a UV rash guard for sun and jellyfish protection
Quick-dry towel and a dry change of clothes
Waterproof camera or GoPro
Motion sickness medication (if prone to seasickness on open water)
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in the heat
Hat and sunglasses with a secure strap
Light windbreaker or jacket for the boat ride back during winter months

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Bring a reusable water bottle and reef-safe sunscreen.

Single-use plastics and harmful chemicals damage the coral ecosystem.

How the day runs

Typical half-day itineraries from Muscat.

A standard morning trip to see turtles and corals.

8:00
Depart Muscat
Leave Al Mouj or Seeb Marina on a speedboat.
8:50
Arrive at the Reserve
Enter the protected marine area and secure the boat at a mooring buoy.
9:00
First Snorkel Spot
Swim at Turtle City to spot green and hawksbill turtles.
10:30
Second Snorkel Spot
Move to a different reef to see diverse fish species.
12:00
Return Journey
Head back to the marina in Muscat.

What to bring

Pack for an active day on the water. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, and a UV rash guard. You will also need a quick-dry towel and motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness. Read our full packing guide: Packing List.

Remember that you cannot collect shells, corals, or stones. Drones and professional cameras require prior official permission from the Ministry.

Easiest way to do it

A sea turtle swims underwater with three snorkelers visible near the surface above.

Daymaniyat Islands Snorkeling Sharing Trip

5 h 4.9 (566)

Bottled water
Snacks
All Fees and Taxes
Use of Snorkelling equipment

From$85per person

Viator$85 GetYourGuideCompare

Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.

Planning questions

How do you get to the Daymaniyat Islands?

You must take a boat tour departing from Al Mouj Marina or Seeb Marina in Muscat. The journey takes 40 to 50 minutes.

Can you walk on the beaches at Daymaniyat Islands?

You can only walk on the beaches between November 1 and April 30. Beach landing is strictly prohibited from May to October to protect nesting turtles.

Is snorkeling in Oman safe?

Yes. The coral depths here range from 3 to 15 meters. Tour guides monitor water conditions and assist snorkelers.