Shangri La Barr Al Jissah - Al Waha, Muscat, Oman

Very popular family beach resort with excellent facilities overlooking the Gulf of Oman

7 nights from around £920pp sharing (low season) a Superior Room on bed and breakfast basis, with flights and transfers

Located in the stunning bay at Barr al Jissah, this beach resort is an extremely popular option with families. Set in 124 acres of landscaped gardens, it offers fantastic accommodation and facilities along with beautiful scenery and a fabulous beach. The resort consists of three hotels: Al Waha, Al Bandar and Al Husn. Al Waha is the largest and most family friendly of the three hotels in the resort and is located closest to the Kids' Club and childrens' pool. It is also the best option for those who require guaranteed interconnecting rooms. We would describe Al Waha as good 4*, whilst neighbouring Al Bandar is 5*.

Accommodation

All rooms and suites have private balconies or terraces, with views of the sea or of the gardens and pools. All accommodation options feature an electronic safe, computer data port, satellite television with interactive menus for hotel and local information, telephones, voice mail, mini-bar, iron and ironing board, broadband internet access and 42 inch flat screen, high definition televisions.

Suites also feature Nespresso coffee machines and iPod docking stations.

Activities & Experiences

Al Waha offers wonderful excursions, allowing you to explore the picturesque landscape alongside your local guide's inexhaustible knowledge. Discover the area's fascinating marine life with dolphin watching trips, scuba diving, and the wonderful Turtle Care Project that strives to protect the charming yet endangered Hawksbill and Green Turtles. During your stay at Shangri La Barr al Jissah you can enjoy complimentary volleyball, snorkelling, sailing, windsurfing and kayaking. You could also organise diving, spa treatments, motorised water sports and desert excursions at an additional charge. The concierge service will be more than happy to help you organise any activities you would like to try.

Families

Children’s facilities at the Shangri La Barr al Jissah are excellent. The Cool Zone Kids' Club located in the Al Waha Hotel provides air-conditioned indoor and outdoor play areas, both under trained supervision - open daily from 08.00 to 20.00. Children up to 8 years old are welcome but those under 4 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The 'Adventure Zone' is an exciting family entertainment venue located in the Al Mazaar souk adjacent to the 'Omani Heritage Village' and is open daily from 09.00 to 22.00 offering a variety of play areas, a climbing wall, soft play areas and daily Nintendo Wii Sports challenges. Other children's activities include treasure hunts, henna painting, the Sand City Competition and Arabian arts and crafts.

Facilities & Services

Facilities at the Al Waha include 5 restaurants and bars, swimming pools (including one for children), the fabulous Lazy River and kids' clubs, sandy beach, spa and the Omani Heritage Village.

Weather & Seasons

The best time to visit Oman is between November and mid-March with daytime temperatures averaging 25°C. For the rest of the year, much of Oman is oppressively hot and hazy, particularly during the European summer months.