Bandar Khayran

Bandar Khayran is a drowned valley system on the coast southeast of Muscat where the sea has flooded a network of wadis, leaving a maze of narrow inlets, coves, small islands and channels between bare rock headlands, with mangrove growing in the sheltered arms. It is the main sea-kayaking and snorkelling ground near the capital, with coral in the sheltered bays, turtles and rays, and a wreck sunk as a dive site. Boats run from the Muscat marinas and kayak operators launch from the inlets. Camping is possible on some beaches. The rock is bare and the water clear, and the contrast between the two is the character of the place.

What you actually see

• The inlet maze - the flooded wadi system of coves and channels.
• Mangrove arms - the sheltered inlets with mangrove stands.
• Coral and reef fish - the snorkelling in the protected bays.
• Rock headlands - the bare cliffs enclosing the water.

When to go

October to April for comfortable temperatures and the calmest water; summer is very hot and humid. Mornings are calmer for kayaking. Weekends bring boat traffic from Muscat.

Honest expectations

Access is essentially by water; the road approach reaches only one part. Boat and kayak hire needs arranging in advance. Coral condition varies and some areas have been damaged by anchoring. There is no shade or facilities on most beaches.

Nearby

Muscat lies northwest; As Sifah is southeast.