Located in the eastern coast with its own lagoon, Sur was a major port for trade with East Africa, which unfortunately also involved slaves.
Shipbuilding yards are still on the edge of the lagoon. Teak from India and local wood are used to build these dhows, which are constructed by eye without plans from the outside in. Further into the lagoon is Fatah Al Khair, built in 1951 but restoration work is under way.
The more interesting part of town is across the suspension bridge in Al Ayjah, which was once a traditional fishing village that even maintained their own customs and flag.
I was surprised it can rain in Oman, and a lot as well. The sky was grey when I arrived the night before and got progressively grey again during my brief morning visit.
There is a coastal park with plenty of sand, although it is not a particularly noteworthy place to visit.
During turtle migration season, Sur is a good gateway to their nesting grounds at Ras Al Hadd further east.
