daymaniyat islands snorkeling tour

+968 98287001 | [email protected]

Snorkeling in daymaniyat island, daymaniyat islands, oman: the most beautiful beaches you’ve never heard of.

Daymaniyat Islands  is a protected area in Oman.

The Nature Reserve is located in Wilayat Al Seeb in the Muscat Governorate  The reserve has a rich natural heritage and is replete with several kinds of coral reefs, including some examples that are quite rare. The island is home to a large number of sea turtles that lay their eggs and nest there, as well as a magnet for migratory and indigenous birds.

Touring and snorkeling in Daymaniyat Islands  are one of the most surprising and must-do parts of a trip to Muscat, Oman. Nine small islands make up this snorkeling hotspot, with its brightly colored fish, sea turtles, white sand beach and clear beautiful water. The islands are a natural preserve, uninhabited, completely natural, and protected by a marine reserve. Sometimes we are lucky to spot dolphins on the way, also can enjoy the scenic beauty of Muscat breathtaking coastline views

Book Snorkeling in Daymaniyat Island

• Time: 08:30hrs to 14.30hrs (6hrs)
• Price: 44 OMR / adult, 22 OMR / child (3 years to 12 years)
• Included: Daymaniyat permits, Transfers from the hotels (Muscat City only), Snorkeling equipment, snacks, soft drinks and water
• Minimum passengers: 6pax (If you are coming 1 person or more, please contact us, may have already min passengers in the boat)
• PRICE FOR PRIVATE TRIP: 400 OMR (6HRS, TIME: 10AM TO 4PM)

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Daymaniyat islands (Oman) – Tips + Snorkeling Tours

Last updated on November 13, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Considered one of the top diving spots in Oman, the Daymaniyat islands are also a great place to snorkel or just relax on the white sand beaches. Below is my travel guide to help you discover the rocky islets and their underwater world with a snorkeling tour.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Oman:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Oman: DiscoverCars

My favorite adventure from Muscat: Dolphin and Snorkeling

My favorite excursion from Muscat: Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole

My favorite places to stay:

• Muscat , the capital – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: The Chedi
• Sur , for the turtles – see the best rated hotels
• Khasab , Musandam peninsula – see the best rated hotels
• Wahiba Sands , in the desert – see the best rated hotels or my favorite camp: Desert Nights Resort

Why visit the Daymaniyat Islands in Oman?

If you are looking for a great excursion from Muscat or the North Coast of Oman, the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve is a great choice:

• 9 Rocky islets
• Stunning white sand beaches
• Turquoise waters
• A protected marine reserve with colored fish and sea turtles
• Great diving and snorkeling opportunity

Below is a short video of my boat tour to the Daymaniyat Islands, where I toured several of them and snorkeled at 3 different spots:

Check out the Daymaniyat island tours .

More photos after the planning tips.

PLANNING TIPS & Map – Daymaniyat Islands Oman

Location – daymaniyat islands nature reserve – map.

• The Daymaniyat islands are off the coast and it will take you 30 min to 1 hour to reach them depending on your starting point (1hour from Muscat). 
• The 9 islands are clustered into 3 distinct groups, so plan also some time to travel between them.
• Located 17 kilometers off the Oman shore
• North of Muscat, between Barka and Seeb
• They are also called Dimaniyat or Dimaaniyat or al Dimaniyyat.
• Below is a map to help you located the islands:

The islands are included in my travel guide to help you plan your itinerary:

Plan your dream trip in Oman thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 190+ pre-selected locations
• Tips to make the most of your time
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• 100+ original photos to help you choose

Getting to the Daymaniyat Islands – Tours

• Tours depart from the Wave Marina (Almouj Marina) in Muscat or further along the coast from Al Sawadi beach resort or from the Millennium Resort Mussanah – I used SeaOman from the Wave and was satisfied with their service.
• 30 min to 1 hour with a small motor boat – depending on departure point
• See snorkeling or diving tour options on Getyourguide or the options on Viator
• This is a Nature Reserve so access is regulated (permit is required if you take your own boat)
• Landing is not authorized from May to October  in order to protect the ecosystem
• The best season for diving is supposed to be from April to October – scuba travel has some  diving maps
• Some of the snorkeling spots are very quiet and good for less confident swimmers
• Plan one day for a trip to the reserve – some tour operator organize lunch on the beach when authorized
• You can use their equipment, or you can bring your own snorkeling gear

Where to stay in Oman?

My favorites on a road trip:

• Muscat –  capital city –   see best rated accommodations
• Nizwa  – to explore the forts and hinterlands –  see best rated accommodations
• Sur –  for the turtles, beaches, wadis… –  see best rated accommodations
• Wahiba Sands  – for the experience of sleeping in the desert –  see best rated accommodations
• Salalah  – to explore the Southern lands –  see best rated accommodations
• Khasab  – to explore the Musandam Peninsula –  see best rated accommodations

Landscapes and beaches at the Daymaniyat Islands

The islands of Daymaniyat have been protected since 1996 as a Nature Reserve. The tiny islets are made of orange or grey rocks with some sandy area. 

It looks quite strange as you approach some of them on a boat. You wonder why there are such small islands here surrounded only by water…

This is a famous spot for diving, where the various isles offer different experiences:

But it also offers a few dreamy white sand beaches with shallow turquoise water. A great place to relax!

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

Daymanyiat Islands Snorkeling Tour

About snorkeling at the daymaniyat islands.

• The islands are a great places to snorkel
• Each group of isles offer a different experience: a great variety of corals, algae and fish
• Some areas are quiet and easy, while other will require you to be a good swimmer with waves
• The Daymaniyat islands are also a nesting ground for the turtles. Being off season, I was still hopeful to spot one, like I did on my Muscat Boat tours , but sadly I did not.
• Apparently, if you dive there are also caves to explore.

Daymaniyat Snorkeling in photos

And below is a selection of photos I took while snorkeling at 3 different spots along the various islands:

Check out the Daymaniyat island tours.

And if you like snorkeling photos, I also went along the Muscat Shores and spotted a turtle !

Need to rent a car in Oman?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
• Consider their full coverage option – for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Birds at the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve

But the Daymaniyat islands are not all about water and fish, with snorkeling and diving. The reserve is also a nesting site for several migratory birds. I was off season but still spotted few birds:

Want to see more of Oman?

• Best things to do in Oman – read article
• Best of photos from Oman – Landscapes – read article
• Where to stay in Oman –  read article
• Best days trips from Muscat – read article
• Planning a road trip in Oman – read article
• Driving in Oman – read article
• Best things to do in Muscat – read article
• The impressive Wadi Shab – read article
• The Bimmah Sinkhole – read article
• The desert of Wahiba Sands – read article
• The Ras Al Jinz turtle reserves – read article

Planning a trip to Oman?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

Want to see more of Oman’s beauty?

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Snorkeling with turtles in the Daymaniyat Islands, Oman (Full Review)

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Turtles, turtles, and more turtles. The Daymaniats are home to many of Turtles, Moray Eels, Rays, Cuttlefish, and at certain times of year Whale Sharks . The nature reserve is a fantastic snorkel and experience off the coast of Muscat, Oman .

• Whale Sharks seen specific times of year.
• Water can be green in November and December due to algae.

Snorkel Video

Snorkel Review

Star rating:, 2018/19/21/22, $70-$80 (30 omr), 4 hour trip.

The Daymaniyat Islands (Daymaniyats), are a group of protected islands situated approximately 69 km (43 m) off the coast of Muscat, Oman , in the Middle East . The protected nature reserve consists of 9 islands. The surrounding crystal clear waters are home to rich coral reef ecosystems, which is host several marine species.

Popular marine species include Green Turtle , Hawksbill Turtle , Omani Cuttlefish, Honeycomb Moray Eel, Parrotfish, Spotted Eagle Ray , Blacktip Reef Shark , Arabian Butterfly fish, Arabian Surgeonfish , Black Sea Urchin , Banded Snake Eel , Bluespotted Ribbontail ray , and more inhabit the waters. The islands are home to a wide variety of marine and bird biodiversity, where they nest on the island during the winter months (December to February).

Whale Sharks can inhabit the deeper waters at certain times of the year (September to November), as they migrate and feed on plankton rich waters.

Where is the Daymaniyat Islands?

Located just off the coast of Muscat, Oman . The Daymaniyat Island Nature Reserve is protected and has been from 1996 and are a collection of islands with many good quality coral reefs. These islands and surrounding waters are a haven for a wide variety of marine life and bird life.

Snorkel Spot

The coral reefs are in high-quality condition, but there are still signs of coral bleaching with dead coral visible. In the shallow coral reef waters, you can generally see Turtles, Parrotfish, Moorish Idol , If you venture slightly further out you can occasionally see Eagle rays and Mobular Rays that glide on off of the sandy shores and deeper coral reefs.

Safety Tip:

Be mindful of your surroundings, and be aware of where the boat or shoreline is. The island’s coast can be rocky and have sharp rocks. There are sea urchins, flippers are recommended to cover your feet and help swim.

There are snorkeling tour operators that depart from Al Mouj Marina that visit the Daymaniyat islands. Al Mouj is approximately a 25-30 minute drive. From the Al Mouj marina, it is approximately an hour’s boat ride to reach the islands. The tour operators require a permit to anchor in the islands, reducing the volume of tourists and boats.

The Daymaniyat Islands have the potential to be a fantastic snorkel if you visit the Daymaniyats on a good day when the water visibility is clear and low wave heights. Check the weather forecast, and wave height/swell before your trip to give you the best chance of good visibility. I would usually check using

If you visit the Daymaniyat islands September-October you can be lucky enough to see whale sharks feeding off the shore. You will need to be on a boat/tour operator as the  whale sharks  are offshore and can be hard to spot. You can be lucky enough to see Bottlenose dolphins and  Spinner Dolphins  on your boat journey off the North Oman coast.

Check the wave level before booking a tour, from experience this can affect the water visibility and quality of the snorkel. This is the website I used to check the wave.

On a specific snorkel trip to the Southern islands of the Daymaniyat Islands, the captain got word of Whale sharks feeding off the coast of Muscat, just off the Daymaniyat Islands. This was during the start of October when these gentle giants are known to feed in the waters off of Muscat, Oman . Whale Sharks are the largest fish in the Ocean, reaching lengths of 12 meters! These creatures are unfortunately Endangered creatures and can be very rare to see. Above was a picture of one of the larger adult Whale Sharks cruising in the deep blue waters.

Overall the Daymaniyat’s is one of my favourite snorkel locations in the world . It has high quality coral, turtles all year round , Reef sharks, Reef fish, crystal clear waters, and finally Spinner Dolphins and Whale Shark ’s in the surrounding waters at certain times of the year. From the several snorkel trips I’ve been on over the years, the Daymaniyat’s is up there.

Tour Guide Options

There are a handful of tour operators running from Al Mouj Marina, which is located a 20 minute taxi journey East of Muscat centre. Check the snorkel operators trip advisor rating and reviews before making a decision, as safety is always a priority.

Best Time Of Year

Towards the end of the year (November-January) it is rare to see whale sharks and algae forms which can affect water visibility.

The best time of year to visit the Daymaniyat Islands are April to May and the end of September to early November . October is probably the best month to see whale sharks . September and October Whale Sharks usually inhabit waters off of the islands. You can potentially see these giants on your boat trip to and from the Daymaniyat Islands. You will also likely see Green Turtles all year round.

(Seen on multiple trips to Daymaniyat Islands 2018/19/21/22)

Popular Marine Life

Green Turtle

Cowtail Stingray

Honeycomb Moray Eel

Oman Cuttlefish

Arabian Butterflyfish

Arabian Surgeonfish

Blacktip Reef Shark

Picasso Triggerfish

Moorish Idol

Rare Marine Life

Spotted Eagle Ray

Spinner Dolphin

Banded Snake Eel

Whale Shark

Blue Spotted Ribbontail Ray

Clark’s Anemonefish

Hawksbill Turtle

Black Sea Urchin

Leopard Sharks

Table Coral

Massive Boulder Coral

Brain Coral

Acroporidae Stoney Coral

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get to the daymaniyat islands.

There are tour operators at Al Mouj Marina located 15-20 minutes West of Muscat city center. Travel by boat is the easiest way to get to the Daymaniyat Islands, which takes approximately 45 minutes from the Al Mouj Marina

How much do the tours cost?

From our experience, the tours cost approximately $70-$80 for half a day (30 OMR). Usually, the tours include multiple snorkel locations and include light snacks and water.

What is the best time of year to visit the Daymaniyat Islands?

If you are visiting Muscat, Oman and you want to snorkel at the Daymaniyat Islands, tours are running all year. However, towards the end of the year and start the water can have an algae-green tint to the water. Not to say you won’t see turtles and other cool marine life. In the summer it can get very hot in the day. Generally, good times to visit are around March-May and September-October. If you are keen to snorkel with Whale sharks, then September to October is a good time.

What tour did you go on to the Daymaniyat Islands?

I went on the ‘Daymaniyat Shells’ tour, which operates from Al Mouj Marina, a 15-20min taxi from central Muscat. The ‘Daymaniyat Shells’ Captain was passionate about marine life, the environment, and sustainability. The tour was approximately 4 hours, setting off at 9 am and returning at around 1 pm.

How to get to the Daymaniyat Islands from Muscat International Airport?

The easiest way to get to the city center from Muscat International Airport is by taxi, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, to transfer to your hotel or accommodation in the city center. Tour operators at Al Mouj Marina are located 20 minutes west of Muscat city center. Taxis are readily available, you can hail a taxi or book via Otaxi, an app-based taxi service.

What time of year did you see Whale Sharks?

In October 2022, we went on a chartered snorkel trip to the Daymaniyat Islands. Whale sharks generally migrate to the coastal waters of Oman from September to early October. We snorkeled with Whale sharks at the start of October. It is important to have low wave height conditions, check before you book a trip.

How long does it take to get to the Daymaniyat Islands by boat?

Depending on speed and sea conditions, the boat trip takes approximately 45 minutes to get to the Daymaniyat Islands from Al Mouj Marina.

Can you see turtles at the Daymaniyat Islands in Oman?

You can see turtles all year round at the Daymaniyat Islands. There are a number of turtle species found at the Daymaniyat’s including Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley turtles’. Turtles can often be seen close to shore within the islands, feeding on algae, I have seen fifteen turtles feeding in an area of 4 square metres.

Luke is a passionate snorkeler who started  Snorkelverse  to live his dream of combining his passions for snorkeling, marine life, protecting marine ecosystems, and helping others.

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Snorkeling the Daymaniyat Islands

This spot has been added by

1 spot added - 15 photos shared

Last updated on April 3, 2021

The small Daymaniyat Islands archipelago, laying off Muscat, is one of Oman’s snorkeling hotspots. Its coral reefs teeming with brightly colored fish, its abundant sea turtle populations and the regular visit of whale sharks along its coasts make the Daymaniyat an absolute must for any snorkeling enthusiast visiting Oman.

How to go snorkeling the Daymaniyat Islands?

The Daymaniyat are a small archipelago of 9 islands located about forty kilometers off Muscat. The easiest way to get there is to book a boat trip (5 to 6 hours, from OMR25/EUR60pp., including visitor permit for the marine reserve).

The crossing lasts approximately 1 hour from the Wave Marina, near the airport, from where most boat trips leave. Note: landing is not allowed in the reserve between May and October, in order to protect the islands.

Where to enter the water to snorkel the Daymaniyat?

Water entrance is generally directly from your boat, sometimes from a beach.

Daymaniyat Islands snorkeling tips

Two areas are particularly recommended for snorkeling in the Daymaniyat, both located on the main island:

1. The seagrass beds extending in a small bay located on the southwestern side of the main island (zone 1 on the map) . It is the perfect area to encounter sea turtles, mostly green sea turtles , which come to feed and rest on the seagrass beds.

2. The shallow bay located on the northeastern side of the main island (zone 2 on the map). Here, you can snorkel a coral reef, mainly made of hard corals. Coral is healthy but not very colorful.

A wide variety of reef fish can be seen on the reef, including Sohal surgeonfish , Red Sea clownfish , Arabian butterflyfish, blackspotted rubberlip and Arabian Picasso triggerfish . With a little luck, you may also spot a moray eel hidden in the crevices of the reef, or an Arabian angelfish, probably one of the most beautiful fish of the Arabian Sea. Turtles are also easily spotted in the bay.

These two spots are the most visited of the Daymaniyat islands, but many other great snorkeling sites are scattered throughout the archipelago. When crossing to the islands, it is not uncommon to spot whale sharks , frequent in the Gulf of Oman between May and October.

If the sea conditions allow, your guide will let you jump in the water to snorkel with these fabulous fishes crossing peacefully just under the surface.

Restaurants and accommodation nearby

The Daymaniyat Islands are uninhabited, entirely natural, and protected by a marine reserve. You won’t find water or food on the islands. Tours usually include snacks and refreshments.

Between November and April, when landing on the islands is allowed, day trips to the islands including lunch on the beach can be organized.

• Level required Beginner
• Protected area Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve
• Maximum depth 18ft/6m
• Water entrance From a boat (sometimes from a beach)
• Lifeguard No
• Visitor numbers Low to medium
• Access costs Snorkeling tour price (from OMR 25/EUR 60pp.)
• Restaurants nearby No

These snorkeling spots are accessible to beginners and kids. You will enter the water gradually from a beach, or in a less than 3ft. deep area. The sea is generally calm, shallow, with almost no waves or currents. These spots are usually located in marked and/or monitored swimming areas. It is not necessary to swim long distances to discover the sea life. This level only apply when the spot experiences optimal sea and/or weather conditions. It is not applicable if the sea and/or weather conditions deteriorate, in particular in the presence of rough sea, rain, strong wind, unusual current, large tides, waves and/or swell. You can find more details about the definition of our snorkeling levels on our snorkeling safety page.

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Seabed aspect

Snorkeling spots are part of a wild environment and their aspect can be significantly altered by weather, seasons, sea conditions, human impact and climate events (storms, hurricanes, seawater-warming episodes…). The consequences can be an alteration of the seabed (coral bleaching, coral destruction, and invasive seagrass), a poor underwater visibility, or a decrease of the sea life present in the area. Snorkeling Report makes every effort to ensure that all the information displayed on this website is accurate and up-to-date, but no guarantee is given that the underwater visibility and seabed aspect will be exactly as described on this page the day you will snorkel the spot. If you recently snorkeled this area and noticed some changes compared to the information contained on this page, please contact us.

The data contained in this website is for general information purposes only, and is not legal advice. It is intended to provide snorkelers with the information that will enable them to engage in safe and enjoyable snorkeling, and it is not meant as a substitute for swim level, physical condition, experience, or local knowledge. Remember that all marine activities, including snorkeling, are potentially dangerous, and that you enter the water at your own risk. You must take an individual weather, sea conditions and hazards assessment before entering the water. If snorkeling conditions are degraded, postpone your snorkeling or select an alternate site. Know and obey local laws and regulations, including regulated areas, protected species, wildlife interaction and dive flag laws.

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How to Visit the Daymaniyat Islands in Oman

Spending a day exploring the Daymaniyat Islands off the coast of Muscat was one of my favorite experiences of our entire Oman trip, and I know you’re going to love it too.

It’s an absolute must-do you won’t want to leave off your Oman itinerary—trust me on this one.

In a land of ornate mosques, ancient forts, bustling souqs, and dramatic sand dunes, these tropical islands are a welcome surprise.

What makes Oman such a bucket list country in my opinion is the sheer variety of all that you have to explore, and the Daymaniyat Islands are a huge piece of that experience.

Not only are they one of the most stunning places to visit in Oman, but they offer some of the best snorkeling and diving throughout the Middle East.

Most people would never guess that nine tropical islands with pristine turquoise water and tons of sea life exist just 40 minutes by boat from Muscat. They do exist though, and in this post I’m going to share everything you need to know about visiting them!

Also referred to by other names like the Ad Daymaniyat, Dimaniyat or Dimaaniyat Islands, this protected nature reserve consists of an archipelago of nine small, uninhabited islands located off the coast of Oman in the Arabian Sea.

They are known for their rocky limestone terrain, white sandy beaches and diverse marine life, including whale sharks and a large number of sea turtles as this is a popular nesting area for them.

I’ve snorkeled all over the world and I’ve never seen as many sea turtles all at once as I witnessed in the Daymaniyat Islands (at least 15 + all grouped together)! It was truly one of the most magical experiences of all my travels and I hope you can experience something similar on your own trip!

In this post, I’m going to share exactly how to get to the Daymaniyat Islands, all the things you can do there, and the tour you need to book to have one of the most memorable days ever in Oman!

Book Our Exact Daymaniyat Islands Tour

For the absolute best experience exploring the Daymaniyat Islands, book our exact tour here — it’s also rated #1 on TripAdvisor! CHECK PRICING

Why You Should Visit the Daymaniyat Islands

Oman has over 1,900 miles of beautiful coastline, however, much of it has been overshadowed by other popular hotspots that draw tourists like its beautiful mosques, the epic sand dunes of Wahiba Sands, and the Jebel Akhdar Mountains.

Plus, it wasn’t until 2013 that the Daymaniyat Islands even became open to the public as they were previously reserved for visits from marine researchers and conservationists.

For this reason, many are still ignorant to the fact that the Daymaniyat Islands have some of the best diving and marine life in the Middle East, which makes it feel like a well-kept secret.

If you are someone who enjoys the beauty of tropical landscapes, loves snorkeling and diving, or just wants to add something unique and different into your Oman road trip itinerary , then you 100% need to book a trip to the Daymaniyat Islands.

Where Are the Daymaniyat Islands Located?

The Daymaniyat Islands are located off the coast of Oman, about 42 km from Muscat.

Here is a map for quick reference to show you where the islands are in relation to Oman’s capital.

How to Get to the Daymaniyat Islands

The absolute best way to get to the Daymaniyat Islands for a day trip is by boat through a tour company and most operate out of a harbor in Muscat.

Since this is a protected nature reserve, access is regulated, which means you must either book a tour or apply for your own permit if you plan on taking your own boat.

The trip by boat from Muscat takes around 40-45 minutes (at least with the tour we took , which was moving at quite a speedy pace)!

What to Expect on a Day Trip to the Daymaniyat Islands

I can only 100% speak for the tour we chose ( which is rated #1 on TripAdvisor , by the way), so I’ll give you the rundown of our experience!

On the morning of our day trip to the Daymaniyat Islands, we met our boat captain at the Al Mouj Marina and then departed Muscat on a small speedboat, which shockingly had a bathroom to our great surprise due to the boat’s size.

Our captain, Hussein, was great and instructed us to keep our items secured as once the boat gets going it moves pretty fast—like sunglasses flying fast!

After 30-ish minutes of speed boating, we began to see the islands up closer and began our approach. I’ll be honest—we were a little disappointed initially as we started to pull up to the islands, as they seem quite small by boat and the water didn’t look as turquoise as the photos we had seen.

However, our dismay was premature because once we got closer and started to approach the rocky limestone islands, the water got shallower and lit up in vibrant hues of blue and green. Our tune changed very quickly as we started to see fish and turtles swimming in the water below us.

I promise you, the second you arrive at the Daymaniyat Islands you’ll feel instantly transported worlds away from the hustle of Muscat!

Once we were anchored close to the shore, we were able to get off the boat, walk around on the beach, hike up to any viewpoints and explore.

Throughout the course of the day, we ended up visiting three different areas around the islands and spent our time swimming and snorkeling.

If you’re a scuba diver, this is also a great place to come for diving trips. If getting in the water is not your thing, you can still enjoy the beauty of these islands from the safety of the boat or beach and go exploring on foot or do some birdwatching.

The most shocking part of the whole day was that even though we were visiting on National Oman Day (one of the biggest holidays in Oman), the islands were not crowded and we barely saw or interacted with other tourists.

At the last spot we snorkeled where we saw a huge group of nesting sea turtles (15+ of them grouped together!), we were literally the only boat at the spot.

All in all, you can’t go wrong with a half-day or full-day tour to the Daymaniyat Islands for a fun day in the sun, that will provide some epic marine life spottings.

What Marine Life Can You See in the Daymaniyat Islands?

The Daymaniyat Islands are home to a diverse range of marine life, including many species of fish, coral, and other marine invertebrates, which is why Oman decided to officially protect the area in 1996.

These islands are a popular nesting site for both migratory birds and sea turtles. There are the Green Turtles who can be spotted in the shallow waters and Hawksbill Turtles who nest annually along the white sandy beaches.

Between May and October is the best time to spot Whale Sharks around the Daymaniyat Islands as well.

Here’s a list of just some of the species that can be found here:

• Bottlenose dolphins
• Spinner dolphins
• Green sea turtles
• Hawksbill turtles
• Humpback whales
• Whalesharks
• Red-billed Tropicbird
• Zebra Sharks
• Common Noddy
• White-cheeked Tern
• Arabian butterflyfish
• Red Sea clownfish
• Arabian angelfish
• Daisy Parrotfish

The Best Daymaniyat Islands Boat Trip to Book

If you’re convinced to add this beautiful place to your itinerary and are ready to book already, then look no further. This is the #1 rated tour and the one we took and loved!

After researching a bunch of the different operators running Daymaniyat Islands snorkel tours, we decided to go with this half-day tour because they had the best reviews across multiple sites and offered private tour options as well!

We ended up booking a private tour which was ideal for our group since we are photographers and wanted to have more autonomy over the locations we stopped at.

However, for the average traveler I wouldn’t say this is necessary at all as the boats and group sizes are already pretty small with this company and the guides know all the best places to take you.

We had a blast hiking around the islands, swimming, taking photos and snorkeling. The most incredible moment of our tour was when our guide took us to a reef and spotted a huge group of turtles for us, with no other boats in sight! It’s one of my favorite memories of our entire Oman trip!

Here’s a short peek of all the amazing turtles and fish we saw during the tour!

If you want to see even more video, check out this Instagram Reel I made for a quick peek at our day in the Daymaniyat Islands.

What to Expect on This Daymaniyat Islands Tour

What was provided on our tour: Transport out to the islands, your visitor permit out to the Nature Reserve, snorkel gear, lunch, snacks, and water. They also offer restrooms on board.

What was especially awesome about our tour was that none of us had a GoPro, but our guide let us borrow his and sent us the footage afterwards.

What wasn’t provided: Sunscreen and towels.

Best things about this tour: It was very clear that our guide knew exactly the best spots for snorkeling and spotting the most fish and sea turtles. As I mentioned above, at the end of the day, he took us to an area with no other boats in sight where we spotted at least 15 turtles feeding at once. To say it was magical would be an understatement!

These guides are super professional and truly want you to have the best experience in the Daymaniyat Islands.

Least favorite thing about this tour: The only thing I didn’t absolutely love about the tour was the food, but honestly that was my experience in Oman in general. It’s not a foodie destination in my opinion. The lunch on this tour is simple and if you’re a picky eater you might want to bring some snacks to be safe.

What else to know: You can book either a morning tour or sunset tour and they also offer other water sports like jet ski rentals if that is of interest.

Explore More Top-Rated Daymaniyat Islands Tours:

Where is the best snorkeling in the daymaniyat islands.

According to this local scuba diver , the best coral reef in the Daymaniyat Islands is along the northeastern bay, and the seagrass beds on the Southwestern side of the main island are also great for spotting turtles.

You don’t really need to know this info though, since you will most likely be booking a tour here, and your captain will know where to take you for all the best snorkeling.

That’s why it’s important to go with a reputable tour company that can navigate the islands well and is familiar with all the best spots.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Overall, any time of year is good to visit the Daymaniyat Islands and snorkeling and diving are possible year-round. Here are a couple timeframes to keep in mind depending on what you want to see and do.

November – April: If you want to be able to walk along the beaches or hike on the islands as boats cannot land between May to the end of October.

September – October: This is the best time of year to spot whale sharks in the area.

What to Wear on a Daymaniyat Islands Tour

Since Oman is a Muslim country, in general it’s best to dress more modestly. However, I found that in the places like the wadis, beaches and also in the Daymaniyat Islands, people were in swimsuits and it is totally acceptable.

Oman is definitely not as conservative as other Middle Eastern countries when it comes to women’s clothing, but you’ll still want to be dressed appropriately in the proper settings.

If you want to be a bit more reserved, you can wear a one-piece swimsuit with a cover-up, sarong, or t-shirt of some sort, but plenty of people were wearing bikinis while in the water.

What to Pack for a Daymaniyat Islands Day Trip

This is a day that is very heavily focused on being out in the sun and in the water, so pack like you would for any big beach day. Here are some items you should absolutely consider bringing:

• Swimsuit – Bikinis are fine, but a one-piece is great if you want to be more conservative
• Water Shoes or Sneakers – If you want to hike up onto land you’ll probably want some better shoes although you could get away with sturdy flip flops.
• Sarong or Cover-Up
• Waterproof iPhone Case

Also to note: Most boat rides to the island are pretty fast-paced, so try not to have a lot of small loose items with you. Keep everything secure in a bag so they don’t go flying during the boat ride!

Shop My Boat Day Must-Haves:

Well, i hope you found this daymaniyat islands guide helpful, and i hope i convinced you to visit because i know you won’t regret it if you have any questions i didn’t answer, leave them in the comments below, keep planning your oman adventures:, my exact oman road trip itinerary, best desert camps in oman, epic oman photography tips and locations, pin it later.

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Dive Daymaniyat Tours : Snorkelling & Diving

Awarded a certificate by Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs for work done at the Daymaniyat Islands Global Scuba Dive Centre operates in the Sultanate of Oman and is based in the Seeb Marina, Dama Street, Seeb, we close to most of the major hotels – Muscat Intercontinental, Grand Hyatt, Radisson, Crowne Plaza, Golden Tulip etc. Global Scuba is a NAUI Pro Scuba Centre, an SSI dive center and also a BSAC resort. We offer a full range of NAUI / SSI courses starting from NAUI /SSI Open Water course for those who wish to learn to dive and can qualify you up to as high as Instructor. Many speciality courses are also available including wreck diving both at Fahal Island – a particularly attractive tug boat and barge, and at Bandar Khairan – Al Munassir

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Daymaniyat Islands offer the best snorkeling experience in Oman for snorkelers of all levels and ages.

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We will take you for a full week end of amazing diving at Daymaniyat Islands, or Bandar Khairan if it is nesting period for turtles.

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We offer the best diving with Tanks & Weights in Daymaniyat Islands. Enjoy the huge diversity of corals has well has encounters with turtles, eels, schools of fish.

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Adventures of Alice

Daymaniyat Islands Oman: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting

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Are you considering visiting the Daymaniyat Islands in Oman and aren’t sure if it’s worth it? Here are my honest opinions and everything you need to know!

Of all the places I visited in Oman, this was easily one of my favourites. When I first heard about Oman, I never imagined the country would be so full of natural beauty. Given that it was the Middle East, I’d anticipated deserts dunes and stunning mosques. But breathtaking tropical islands like the Daymaniyat Islands never even crossed my mind. 

So, when I saw that places like this existed in Oman, I knew immediately that I had to book it. It was the only tour we did in Oman as we hired a car and drove to everything else ourselves. But, since we didn’t have a boat (obviously!), this was a no-brainer. 

By the end of the day, I was giddy with happiness. It was my first time swimming with so much marine life and this trip made me fall in love with Oman more than I already had. 

I Recommend This Daymaniyat Islands Tour

✅ I recommend this boat tour to the Daymaniyat Islands ✅ Here’s the hotel we stayed at during our time in Muscat.

Why You Should Visit the Daymaniyat Islands

Because it’s beautiful!

If you were to ask me this question, that would honestly be my answer. Quite simply, the islands are stunning. 

I’ve been scuba diving before in Egypt and Thailand and snorkelled through many coral reefs, but I’d never seen so much beautiful marine life so close to the surface. It took my breath away. 

Plus, I’d never seen turtles in the wild before. This was one of the reasons that I wanted to visit the Daymaniyat Islands in the first place and it definitely delivered on this front!

We saw huge groups of green turtles. At one point, I think there were about 5 or 6 of them all in one area which was just amazing to see. 

As well as under the waves, the actual islands themselves are pretty incredible. They’re a protected nature reserve and they’re so quiet and peaceful. 

The only people there were three tour groups (one of them was ours) which had about 8 people on each boat. Once we’d disembarked the boats and gone our separate ways exploring the islands, we were pretty much the only ones around.

Considering how overpopulated many beaches are in Europe, walking on a beach this beautiful that was completely empty felt unreal.

So, if you love marine life, snorkelling, and seeing beautiful empty beaches, don’t miss out on a trip to the Daymaniyat Islands in Oman.

✅ I recommend this boat tour to the Daymaniyat Islands

Where Are the Daymaniyat Islands?

These stunning uninhabited islands are located about 30 minutes off the coast of Oman. 

When we booked the tour, we were given a meeting point near Seeb Port . It was quite easy to drive to the port from where we were staying in Muscat , park up, and walk to the dock. 

We got a teeny bit confused working out which boat was ours (a few boat trips were getting ready to depart) but managed to get on the right one. After a quick safety briefing, we began to head to the islands. 

The only way to get to the islands is by boat and the easiest way by far is to use a guided tour. We booked our tour online and were sent all the information we needed about where to meet and what to bring. 

I recommend booking early to ensure you can go on your preferred time slot. 

What to Expect From a Daynamiyat Islands Day Tour?

Our guide informed us that we would be doing 3 to 4 stops at different snorkelling locations before heading to the main island and getting off the boat. He said that each stop would last around an hour depending on how much there was to see. 

They also handed out bottles of water or juice, masks, snorkels, and fins for each of us. In total, there were around 8 people on our boat not including the guide, so it was quite a small group. 

When we set off, it was a smooth ride, but very windy. I was a little worried about the ride because I often get travel sick and was unsure if the boat would make me feel awful. But, it didn’t. 

Top Tip : Despite the heat of Oman, once you start moving on the boat, the wind can make it quite chilly. Especially once you’ve got in and out of the water. So it’s worth bringing a cover-up to beat the wind. 

The first stop

After about 30 minutes, we came to our first stop. Our guide informed us that there had been some earlier sightings of turtles in this area and pointed out where we could find them. He said that we’d have around an hour at this stop.

I could tell that our guide was really passionate about what he did and keeping the area protected and was also really knowledgeable.

We were able to ask a lot of questions about the turtles, the other types of marine life in the area, and the islands in general, which I thought was fantastic.

And sure enough, we’d barely been in the water 15 minutes before we could see turtles. There were a couple of them swimming around the corals and one just sitting on the coral and chilling. 

It was completely amazing. There were also lots of colourful fish and beautiful corals under the water. 

Once our time was up, we hopped back on the boat and were given a few snacks and more drinks before heading to our next stop.

The second stop

The second stop was about 10 minutes by boat from the first. Our guide told us a little bit about the area and said we were stopping again for around an hour. 

We hopped back into the water and the sight was even more incredible than the first stop.

About 5 minutes swim from the boat there was a huge crowd of turtles. There must’ve been 5 or 6 in that one space. 

I was completely over the moon. This was my first time seeing turtles in the wild and it was better than I’d imagined. They’re such graceful creatures and it was one of the highlights of my trip to Oman.

The third stop

Once we’d finished watching the turtles and were all back on the boat, we headed around the islands to our third stop. This was where we were able to disembark the boat and explore the islands on foot. 

We also had some food included in the tour and the guide asked if we’d rather eat now or when we got back to the boat. The general consensus was afterwards, so we jumped off the boat and went to explore the islands. 

There was no visible wildlife here, but the views were spectacular. The sun was just starting to set and the whole islands were bathed in golden light. It was absolutely beautiful and the water was really warm as well. 

We spent about 45 minutes exploring, swimming, paddling in the waves, and watching the sun go down. It was the perfect end to the day. 

After that, we boarded the boat, grabbed some food (a variety of sandwiches and snacks), and started our journey back to Muscat.

The Best Daymaniyat Islands Boat Trip

If you’re planning on booking a trip to the Dayminayat islands in Oman, I highly recommend this boat tour.

This was the tour company that we used and it was a wonderful experience. It was a small group, so it wasn’t too busy, our guide was fantastic, very helpful and knowledgeable about the area, and it was clear that he knew all of the best snorkelling spots. 

The tour departs at two different times of day: 8:15 am of 1:30 pm. We opted for the 1:30 pm slot because, to be brutally honest, I hate early mornings!

But, in hindsight, I’m glad we went for the later slot because the sunset was spectacular. 

The tour lasted about 5 hours in total and we were back in Muscat by 6pm. 

When is the best time to visit the Daymaniayat Islands in Oman?

The best time to visit the Daymaniyat Islands in Oman is between November and April. In fact, this is the only time of year when you can experience the islands to the full. 

Between May and October is turtle nesting season and visitors aren’t able to access the shore of the islands during these times. However, you can still visit by boat, but you won’t get the full experience. 

Nonetheless, the ideal time to see whale sharks in the area is between July and September. So, if you’re purely after the diving, want to visit during whale shark season, and aren’t fussed about actually going on the beach, you could consider going between these times. 

Personally, I visited the Daymaniyat islands in December and it was perfect. The weather was warm, it wasn’t too crowded, and I saw lots of turtles and other marine life.

What to Bring to the Daymaniyat Islands

There’s not a huge amount that you’ll need to bring with you to the Daymaniyat Islands. Here are a few essentials that I recommend packing:

• Flip-flops for when the beach
• Water shoes for wearing with fins
• Snorkelling gear – you can bring your own if you don’t want to use the gear the guides will provide
• A waterproof phone case / waterproof camera
• Sun protection
• A beach cover-up – you’ll want it for the boat ride back.

FAQs for Visiting the Daymaniyat Islands in Oman

Have I convinced you to visit the Daymaniyat islands yet? Here are a few of the most popular questions you might have about the trip.

What to Wear to the Daymaniyat Islands

Since Oman is a Muslim country, you generally need to dress more modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. So, you might be wondering what type of swimwear you’ll need for this tour. 

In general, a regular swimming costume is completely fine. I wore a standard one-piece, but other girls on the tour group were wearing bikinis. 

When I wasn’t swimming in the water, I did cover up with my beach shirt and I changed back into my long dress before we got back to Muscat.

But while I was on the islands, wearing a swimsuit was completely acceptable.

How long is the Daymaniyat Islands tour?

This tour lasted around 5 hours. We left the Seeb Port at just after 13:30 and returned to Muscat by 6pm. You can also get full-day tours, but these tend to be private trips. 

What is There to Do on the Daymaniyat Islands?

The islands are primarily a snorkelling and beach destination. You can spend your day exploring the marine life beneath the waves, relaxing on the boat, exploring the islands on foot, or sunbathing on the beach. 

Some private tours will also organise a BBQ on the beach, which is a wonderful way to spend the afternoon.

What marine life can you see on the Daymaniyat Islands?

One of the main draws to the islands is its rich marine life. You can see lots of different species on the island including:

• Green sea turtles
• Hawksbill turtles
• Bottlenose dolphins
• Whale sharks
• Zebra sharks
• Humpback whales
• Red sea clownfish
• Arabian butterflyfish
• Arabian Picasso triggerfish
• Arabian angelfish

And much more!

Is visiting the Daymaniyat Islands worth it?

Yes! Yes, and 100% yes! Visiting the Daymaniyat islands is so worth it. It was one of the best things I did in Oman (did I mention that?), and it was such an amazing experience. 

Plus it’s the ideal contrast from many of Oman’s other top attractions such as desert camps, wadis, and incredible forts.

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Daymaniyat Islands in Oman

Overall, if you only go on one tour in Oman, make it this one ! A trip to the Daymaniyat islands is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. It’s peaceful, you can see so much amazing wildlife, and the views are out of this world. 

If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming with turtles, this is a great place to do it and it’s so much quieter than other tropical destinations around the world . 

I hope this article has inspired you to visit the Daymaniyat islands and I also hope you have an incredible time in Oman.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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1) Full day trip to ``Daymaniyat islands``

• Time: 9 am to 5 pm
• (@ OMR 40 per person)
• Includes permits, refresments, fruit, Lunch (BBQ), snorkelling gears.

(Special discount for groups more than 10 people)

2) Half day trip to ``Daymaniyat islands``

• Morning trip from (8:30 am to 1:30 pm) - Sharing or private.
• Evening trip from (2:00 pm to 6:30 pm) - Only private.
• Cost @ OMR 28 per person, including permits, refreshments, fruit, some snacks and snorkelling gears.

(Lunch not included, we provide upon request with additional charge in case of group)

3) Full Moon Dinner trip at ``Daymaniyat islands``

• Time: 4 pm to 10 pm (Group package only)
• Price: O.R. 45 each person - O.R. 20 below 12 years (Minimum 10 passengers)
• Includs permits, refreshments, fuit, Tea & coffee, BBQ, Omani sweet, Arabic sitting sofa and snorkelling gears.
• This type of trips can be done only when it is full moon time.

4) Camping trip at ``Diymaniyat islands``

• Time: 2 pm to 1 pm-next day.
• Price: OMR 90 per person - OMR 40 per kid below 12 years. (Minimum 10 passengers in a boat)
• The price includs pirmets, refreshment, fruit, snacks, 3 meals (dinner, breackfast and lunch), camping tools and snorkelling gears.

Note: Camping trips only during the period from 1st November to 30 April from the year.

5) Sunset Trip

• The cost O.R. 50 /hour/family.
• We provide free Refreshments and fruit.

6) Full day trip to ``Bandar Al-Khiran``, Dolphin watch

• Price: O.R 400 per trip (Group package Only), (Maximum 15 adults)

Only group package

7) Half day trip to ``Bandar Al-Khiran``, Dolphin watch

• Time:8 am to 1 pm
• Price: O.R 300 per trip (Group package only)

8) Private functions and exclusive charters

• Birthdays, Wedding anniversary Parties, Private trips, customize trips etc.

Customize Products

*All trips include free refreshments, fruit or snacks and snorkeling equipment on board. Also we provide water sports such as banana boat , tube boat , etc.

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Daymaniyat Islands sensational snorkelling tour

Exhilarating snorkelling around Oman's treasured islands

Located off the coast of Muscat, the Daymaniyat Islands are a protected nature reserve, home to a wide variety of colourful fish, turtles, coral reefs, and migrating birds. You will be chauffeured to the marina, where a speed boat awaits to transport you to the area. Qualified instructors will be on board to show you the best snorkelling spots for an underwater experience that promises to be a sensory wonder. After your adventure, refresh yourself with a signature Kempinski cocktail by the beach. 

Experience Includes:

• Boat trip to the Daymaniyat Islands
• Snorkelling tour assisted by qualified instructors 
• Signature cocktail at the Kempinski Hotel Muscat
• Round-trip transportation from the hotel

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Daymanyat island trips, daymaniyat islands tours packages, safe trip & good deal.

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