Sur was once a major port, trading mainly with East Africa, and exemplifies Oman’s seafaring traditions with an attractive cornice, some beautiful beaches, two forts and the dhow yards where these vessels have been built for centuries.

Bilad Sur Castle and Sunysilah Castle were both built as fortresses to protect against outside marauders. There is also plenty to see during a stroll along the cornice, including great views of the nearby village of Ayjah whose watchtowers marked the passage of vessels making their way into the harbour. Depending on the time of year and the amount of business, it is sometimes possible to see craftsmen at work constructing dhows using methods unchanged for centuries.