Barka is a small coastal town, approximately 75km west of Muscat. It makes an interesting daytrip from Muscat or as a stop off on a visit to Sohar further along the coast. It is famous for its fortnightly bullfights and large central fort, located only a few hundred metres from the shore of the Gulf of Oman.

Barka is still home to craftsmen practising traditional trades including weaving. The historical fort Bait Naa’man and the Ostrich Breeding Farm (see below) are attractions worth exploring while in Barka.