Egypt’s Red Sea coast offers world-class diving and snorkeling. With crystal-clear, warm waters and vibrant coral reefs, top hubs include Sharm El Sheikh (Ras Mohammed National Park), Hurghada (Giftun Island), Marsa Alam (Dugongs and sea turtles), and Dahab (The Blue Hole)
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, the underwater marine life is spectacular and accessible year-round.
Top Destinations
- Sharm El Sheikh: Located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. Home to the world-famous Ras Mohammed National Park, known for dramatic drop-offs, sheer walls, and swift drift dives with pelagic fish. You can explore the SS Thistlegorm and other World War II shipwrecks.
- Hurghada: The most popular mainland hub. The shallow fringing reefs right off the beach are great for snorkeling, while boat trips to Giftun Island and Abu Ramada offer access to incredible coral gardens and manta rays
- Marsa Alam: Located further south, offering quieter experiences. It is world-famous for Abu Dabbab Bay, where you can snorkel with wild dugongs and giant sea turtles, as well as the world-class deep dive sites of Elphinstone Reef
- Dahab: A laid-back, bohemian town just north of Sharm El Sheikh. It is a legendary spot for free-diving and technical diving, famously home to The Blue Hole and the Canyon.
What to See
- Marine Life: Over 1,000 species of fish live in the Red Sea. You can expect to see spinner dolphins at Shaab El Erg, reef sharks, moray eels, and vibrant soft corals
- Shipwrecks: The northern Red Sea is a graveyard of vessels. The Abu Nuhas reef near El Gouna holds four stunning wrecks, while the SS Thistlegorm is frequently ranked among the best wreck dives on the planet.
Practical Information
- Best Time to Go: Diving and snorkeling are possible year-round. The summer months (June to August) are great for warm water, while the period from September to November offers the best visibility and comfortable air temperatures
- Safety: Always book excursions through licensed PADI or SSI dive centers. Ensure they carry current certifications, especially for more advanced or deep-water scuba diving.
- Tours & Rentals: Snorkeling and scuba gear are easy to rent from any beachside resort or dive shop. Day boat excursions—which include lunch, guides, and multiple snorkel/dive stops—are readily available in all the main resort towns.