Al Haffa Beach is one of prettiest stretches of sea front in Salalah. It is right on the center of the city, which spreads on both east and west side.
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Haffa Beach is like a Beach in Caribbean
Haffa Beach is famous for its coconut palms and the beautiful beach. The white-sand beach extends in either direction as far as eyes can see.
Therefore, it makes the beach similar to the Caribbean beaches. This is the best place to experience coconut plantation along the beach.
Grab a Coconut Drink
In addition to palms on the beach, Haffa district has lot of farms of coconut palms and banana trees, which makes the place unique in Arabian Peninsula. Since, Oman an Islamic country and alcohol is not available at the beach. Instead, you can drink healthy and natural coconut juice.
This is not only fresh but has lots of health benefits. One coconut will cost 200 biaza, which is 60 cents. These are available in the fruit huts on Sultan Qaboos Street, nearby. These huts are under the shades of the tall palm trees stretched in both direction.
In addition to coconut, these wooden huts sell local banana and papaya as well. Each shop has a price list displayed, which is standard list from the ministry.
A Beach Next to a Palace
This beach has two important landmarks on its both ends. Firstly, on its western side, it has the Al Husn Palace – one of the palaces of Sultan. You cannot see the palace from outside, as it is protected by high walls. Surely, you cannot enter inside as its not permitted.
A Beach Next to Ancient Ruins and Museum
On the other side of the beach, on its eastern side to be specific, lies the remains of the ancient city of Zafar. Many famous travelers of the past, including Ibn Battuta, visited that city and mentioned it in their travelogues. Today, these remains are known as Al Baleed Archaeological Park.
Moreover, an onsite museum, The Museum of the Frankincense Land, is besides the ruins.
There are 2 halls – Maritime and History halls inside, and the museum hosts the following:
- Artifacts excavated from Al Baleed Archaeological Site, Sumhuram Old City at Khor Rori and Wubar Archeological site at Ash Shisr, which are other UNESCO sites.
- Governorate of Dhofar’s historical and archaeological heritage.
- Superb models of Omani boats from 3000 BC to current.
Moreover, you can find other things and informative material inside the museum.
Old Style Dhofari Houses
Previously, old style Dhofari houses could be seen from the shore of Al Haffa Beach. Most of which are demolished now to make way for future development. While some of these are barricaded.
A Beach Besides the Old Souk
Interestingly, just few meters away from Haffa Beach, lies Al Husn Souk is the Frankincense souq in Haffa District. It is an old market in Salalah. And is a popular open air market for shopping of frankincense, perfumes, local garments, handicrafts and souvenirs. This souq is the best place to buy these products in the town.
Haffa is a Popular Beach for the Locals
Furthermore, the beach is really popular among locals and you will find them in huge number at dusk. They sit in foldable chairs and colorful mats, just besides the car and experience the cool breeze and the stunning beach. Subhan Allah!
The other popular beach is Salalah City is Ad Dahariz Beach. On the contrary, Dahariz has a walkway and gazebos. While Haffa is in natural state.
Stay Near Haffa Beach
We highly recommend the below two resorts for staying besides Haffa Beach. Since these resorts are high in demand, we advice you to book them as soon as possible.
1. Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara offers Villas with Private Pool. This resort at walking distance from the archeological site. Occupying a beachfront location, Al Baleed Resort is is the first luxury villa resort in Salalah.
Check best rates online at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
2. Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah
A waterfront resort, Crowne Plaza Resort is one of the best places to stay in Salalah. Lush tropical garden surrounds the hotel building. Crowne Plaza has 153 rooms.
Check best rates online at Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah
