Sohar is a beautiful port city that is a must for people wishing to find a place between the sandy desert and the cool ocean. These are only a few of the Sohar must do’s to put on your list.

1. Sohar Castle

At the heart of the city is Sohars’ greatest must do, the Sohar Castle. Built in the 13th and 14th century by the Portuguese, it towers over the smaller buildings that surround it, while the white towers and walls can be almost blinding in the sun. A museum inside the thick walls shows artifacts from the castle's days as a government fort and office under the Portuguese and later the Oman rulers.

2. Beaches of Sohar

Most tourists consider the beaches of Sohar a must do. Located on the Gulf of Oman, the warm waters help tourists cool off during the hot desert afternoon. Because of the large tourist industry, the city government and resorts keep the beaches well cleaned, and vendors who wander the beach selling snacks and drinks are carefully watched by police to keep them from becoming annoyances.

3. Muttrah Souk   

A traditional bazaar, the souk is fairly large, covering several roads and alleys with stalls and carpets. Bargaining is a must, otherwise the merchants will badly overcharge tourists, but for tourists willing to argue, good deals can be had. While a number of items are regular tourist gifts, there are some treasures amongst the colorful stalls.

4. Camel Racing

Just outside Sohar, the small villages still entertain themselves and their guests in traditional ways. One of the must do’s for tourists willing to visit the desert is the camel racing. This local sport is not advertised, so tourists should hire a guide or speak the language to find out when a camel race will occur. The racers, who dress in traditional clothes, are a joy to watch, and the large number of spectators adds to the excitement.

5. Desert Tours

Sohar is surrounded by deserts, which can be fascinating for tourists willing to take the heat and hire a guide, but challenging at times. Most desert travel is done by vehicles; only a few guides will take tourists out by camel. Also, the winter months are peak times for desert travel, as the weather is more comfortable. Adventurous travelers can go in summer by camel, but it will generally cost more, and there are more risks of getting stuck in a sandstorm or getting hurt by a camel. Overall, however, the desert sights are worth the risks involved.