Sawadi Beach Kitesurf Spot in Barka

The predominant winds from the Indian Ocean blow up the Arabian Coast and hit the northern section of Oman from June to September. Despite the short season, you can count on pretty consistent kitesurf friendly winds during those 3–4 months. With average winds between 20 and 30 knots, you will be cruising across the Gulf of Oman on your kiteboard, with the sun on your face and salt in your hair.

In the winter the mean temperature in the area is around 25° C, but in summer the temperatures are likely to reach 40° C so definitely pack your sun cream and stay hydrated while kitesurfing! Even in the winter, the water temperature is usually above 24° C. This particular spot is ideally suited for kiteboarding beginners because of the shallow flat water, and the wind is usually not too strong compared to some other spots in Oman.

Look for surfers, divers, and swimmers at this location because it is a popular destination for various watersports, including the aforementioned diving at the adjacent Damanyat Islands. However, the beach spreads for kilometers in both directions, so there is still plenty of room to launch and find your personal kite spot.

Cruising along the Arabian coastline has a few benefits, such as crystal blue waters, abundant marine life, and miles and miles of empty beaches. This area is known as the Batina Area, and it is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors. Hotel resorts in the area are luxuriously designed and have their own kitesurfing schools for people who want to start their journey into kiteboarding. With a vast open ocean to surf on, Sawadi Beach is ideal for beginners. 

There are nine low, rocky islets here, stretching out in a line from east to west and organized into three distinct groups, all surrounded by coral reefs. The islands have been designated as natural reserves and they are an essential nesting location for hawksbill and green turtles, as well as a variety of migratory species, including the highly endangered sooty falcon, which is also found in the Sawadi Islands, so nature watching trips are a great way to spend some time.

What you won’t find much of here is a party scene. Oman is a dry country both physically and in terms of alcohol, so bars are limited to hotels and your best option is to just enjoy the brutal natural beauty around you!

Musannah is a fantastic place to visit if you want to relax in the luxury of a beachfront resort while also engaging in several sports and activities. It is located 75 kilometers north of Muscat International Airport, and takes 45-60 minutes to get to the spot from the airport. Your best bet is to rent a car or a 4x4 on arrival as transport infrastructure in Oman leaves a bit to be desired!