The Daymaniyat Islands (also written Dimaniyat) are a chain of nine small, uninhabited islands off the coast west of Muscat, protected as a nature reserve since 1996. Their coral reefs are among the healthiest in the region, and the clear water teems with reef fish, turtles, rays and occasionally reef sharks and dolphins.
The islands are also an important nesting site for hawksbill and green turtles and for seabirds, so access is regulated: visits are made with licensed boat operators, landing is restricted to certain beaches, and some areas are closed during the nesting season.
Top things to do at Daymaniyat Islands
Snorkel with turtles
A typical half-day trip includes two or three snorkelling stops over coral gardens. Turtles are seen on most trips, grazing on the seabed or surfacing to breathe. Masks, snorkels and fins are provided.
Dive the reefs
The Daymaniyat is Oman’s best-known dive area close to Muscat, with sites suitable for beginners and experienced divers. Dive centres in the city’s marinas run daily trips.
Kayak the lagoons
Some trips add kayaking in the sheltered water around the islands — a quiet way to explore the coves.
How to get to Daymaniyat Islands
- By boat: trips leave from marinas on Muscat’s western side (such as Al Mouj) or from the coast at Seeb and Barka; the crossing takes roughly 30–60 minutes depending on the departure point.
- With a tour: hotel pickup is often included. Compare the best Daymaniyat trips.
Insider tips
- The best conditions are usually from October to April. In summer, winds can make the sea choppy and trips are more likely to be cancelled.
- Book early in your stay so a weather cancellation can be rescheduled.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen and a rash vest; the sun on the water is intense.
- Do not touch or chase turtles, stand on coral or take anything from the islands — it is a protected reserve.
- If you get seasick, take medication before the boat ride.
Best tours & tickets for Daymaniyat Islands
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to see Daymaniyat Islands:
Boat trip from €61 Muscat: Daymaniyat Islands Snorkelling Trip with Brunch
The most-booked experience in Muscat. A fast boat crosses to the Daymaniyat Islands nature reserve, where clear water, coral gardens and resident turtles make for some of the best snorkelling in the Gulf region. Relaxed, well organised and back by early afternoon.
- Speedboat to the protected Daymaniyat Islands
- Snorkel over coral with turtles and reef fish
- Brunch, drinks and snorkel gear included
Boat trip from €69 Muscat: Snorkel & Kayak with Turtles at Daymaniyat
A longer, more active Daymaniyat day that combines snorkelling over coral gardens with kayaking in the calm lagoons of the islands. Highly rated for its guides and for the number of turtles people see.
- Snorkel with turtles in the Daymaniyat reserve
- Kayak around the islands’ coves
- Small-group focus on marine life
Boat trip from €46 Muscat: Dolphin Watching & Snorkelling Excursion
Two of Muscat’s best sea experiences in one short trip. The boat heads out in the calm morning water to look for dolphins, then anchors in a quiet bay for snorkelling over the rocks and coral before returning to the marina.
- Look for pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins
- Snorkel stop in a sheltered cove
- Back by late morning
