Diving in Red Sea
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Red Sea's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Red Sea, sea. This region features 100 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Red Sea has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Red Sea (6)
Popular Spots in Red Sea (100+ spots)
7 sisters (الشعاب السبعة)
The 7 Sisters, or الشعاب السبعة, consists of a cluster of seven distinct coral reefs known for their exceptional visibility and unique marine biodiversity. The site features strong currents and depths that are more suited for experienced divers, making prior diving experience beneficial. Divers can observe a diverse range of hard and soft corals, along with notable marine life such as large schools of great hammerhead sharks and barracuda. The entry to this dive site is from the shore.
Abo Almadafee أبو المدافع
Abo Almadafee is a shore entry dive site characterized by its diverse marine life, including various species of sharks, tuna, barracuda, and dolphins. The site features notable underwater caves and an area suitable for snorkeling and swimming located behind the main dive site. Visibility is generally good, and the currents can vary, making it important for divers to be aware of conditions. Additionally, whiting fish and different types of shrimp can also be observed in this area.
Abu Dabab Garden
Abu Dabab Garden features a fringing reef characterized by vibrant coral formations and a diverse array of fish species. The depth ranges from 5 to 30 meters, with notable features including a small and a large lagoon, as well as canyons and caves, particularly around the jetty area. Divers can expect to see a variety of typical reef fish, and there is a possibility of encountering dolphins, schools of barracudas, batfish, turtles, and occasionally dugongs or whale sharks.
Abu Dabab I
Abu Dabab I is characterized by a diverse coral garden featuring numerous coral blocks adorned with vibrant soft corals. The site includes several small caves that allow light to filter through, creating an interesting visual effect. Access to the dive site is via boat. Marine life commonly observed here includes groupers, scorpion fish, moray eels, flute fish, lionfish, anemones, parrotfish, surgeonfish, and triggerfish.
Abu Dabab II
Abu Dabab II features a diverse underwater landscape with coral gardens and canyons. The site includes a notable cave that allows light to penetrate, creating a unique visual experience. Divers can also explore a small, aged wreck that is adorned with soft corals. Marine life is abundant, with sightings of parrotfish, surgeonfish, small eagle rays, and Napoleon wrasse. Access to this site is via boat.
Abu Dabab III
Abu Dabab III is a shallow reef dive site with depths ranging from 15 to 20 meters. Divers can explore several options, including drift diving along the east and west sides. The eastern side features a stunning coral garden and multiple pinnacles, which are ideal for observing diverse marine life. This site is accessible from the shore.
Abu Dabab IV
Abu Dabab IV is accessed via a zodiac. The site features a prominent coral block surrounded by smaller coral formations and pinnacles. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including Goldspotted sweetlips, Yellowfin goatfish, Butterflyfish, Snappers, Batfish, and Crocodile fish. The underwater landscape is characterized by both soft and hard corals, contributing to the site's biodiversity.
Abu Dabab V
Abu Dabab V is accessed by boat and features a variety of coral structures, including both large and small coral blocks. The site is characterized by a mix of hard and soft corals, providing habitat for diverse marine life. Divers can observe species such as Butterflyfish, Damselfish, Hogfish, Scorpionfish, and Nudibranchs, particularly in the caves that are present in the area. The dive site also offers open spaces that allow for striking light conditions, enhancing the underwater experience.
Abu Dabab VI
Abu Dabab VI is accessed by boat and features a large coral reef characterized by unique wave patterns that create interesting shapes. The site is surrounded by small pinnacles, enhancing its underwater topography. Divers may encounter white tip reef sharks, along with various small fish species that are preyed upon by barracuda, tuna, scorpionfish, and stingrays.
Abu Dabbab
Abu Dabbab is a popular dive site in the Red Sea, known for the opportunity to see dugongs, green sea turtles, and occasionally guitar sharks. The site features six reefs with varied topography, including reefs, tunnels, pinnacles, caves, and a small wreck. The shallow waters are rich in coral and seagrass, supporting diverse marine life.
Abu Galawa Kebir Wreck
Abu Galawa Kebir, translating to 'big lagoon', features two prominent reefs. The northern reef is larger and includes a shallow lagoon, a coral garden, and a sandy bottom that leads to a drop-off. The southern reef is notable for its wreck, which adds an interesting dive site. Marine life in the area includes turtles, whitetip reef sharks, blue-spotted stingrays, octopuses, clownfish, and scorpionfish, alongside various soft and hard corals.
Abu Galawa Small
Abu Galawa Small, translating to 'small lagoon', features four minor coral reefs surrounding a central lagoon. The western side of the site includes a small wreck of a sailing vessel. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including bluespotted stingrays, lionfish, clownfish, whitetip reef sharks, slugs, boxfish, anthias, stonefish, and scorpionfish.
Abu Ghusun (Wreck)
Abu Ghusun is a wreck dive located approximately 70 kilometers south of Marsa Alam. The dive site features a sandy bottom with depths ranging from 5 meters to 25 meters, with the shipwreck lying at a depth of 16 to 17 meters. Access to the site is from the shore, making it suitable for entry-level divers. However, divers should be aware that visibility may be reduced during rough conditions. The area is home to various marine life, including blue spotted rays, crocodile fish, moray eels, and soft and hard corals. There is also a possibility of encountering sea turtles during the dive.
Abu Hashish
The Abu Hashish dive site features a sloping wall that reaches depths of up to 50 meters, with a sandy plateau at 10 to 20 meters. Divers can explore a coral ridge and a sea grass area, making this site suitable for novice divers. It can be accessed as a drift dive or from a mooring.
Abu Hashish Lagoon
Abu Hashish Lagoon is a dive site accessible by boat, suitable for novice divers with a maximum depth of 30 meters. Visibility is excellent and current is minimal, allowing divers to observe barracudas, jacks, moray eels, squid, mackerel, groupers, rays, and occasionally hammerhead sharks.
Abu Hashish South Ergs
Abu Hashish South Ergs is a dive site on the south side of Abu Hashish Island, accessible by boat from Hurghada in about 90 minutes. The reef extends 1 km, with depths ranging from 15 to 22 meters (50-72 feet) and includes both a steep wall with stronger currents suitable for drift diving and calmer areas. Marine life includes barracudas and various reef fish.
Abu Kafan
Abu Kafan is a long, narrow reef in Safaga with a vertical wall that descends over 100 meters. Divers can expect to see large marine life such as barracudas, tuna, and various shark species, along with moray eels and groupers in the reef structures. This site is recommended for experienced divers due to its depth and conditions.
Abu Kafan
Abu Kafan is characterized by a long, narrow reef featuring a prominent plateau that extends from north to south. The site is known for its steep wall that descends vertically beyond 100 meters. The depth and often strong currents contribute to a diverse marine environment, with an abundance of soft corals and opportunities to encounter larger fish species.
Abu Kafan North
Abu Kafan North is located approximately 80 minutes from Soma Bay, featuring depths ranging from 6 to 100 meters. The site is characterized by its diverse marine life, including reef sharks, rays, barracudas, and turtles, particularly at the northern tip where soft and fan corals thrive. This area is often compared to a smaller version of Elphinstone, making it a notable dive site for those exploring the region.
Abu Kafan South
Abu Kafan South is a dive site located approximately 80 minutes from Soma Bay, with depths ranging from 6 to 100 meters. The name translates to 'father of the abyss', reflecting the site's deep characteristics. This reef is often compared to Elphinstone but on a smaller scale. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life including moray eels, lipfish, groupers, schools of anthias, barracudas, turtles, and reef sharks. Additionally, mackerel and occasional whale sharks may also be spotted in the area. The site is accessed by boat.
Abu Makadi Middle
Abu Makadi Middle is a dive site in Makadi Bay, Egypt, starting at a depth of 7 meters on a coral plateau and sloping down to 16 meters. Divers can explore a steep drop-off at 20 meters, with marine life including scorpionfish, stonefish, angelfish, groupers, crabs, and occasional sea turtles and dolphins. This site is accessed by boat.
Abu Nawas Garden
Abu Nawas Garden is a shore dive site located at coordinates 25.237900, 34.797100. This site features a diverse coral garden composed of both soft and hard corals. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine species while exploring the underwater landscape. The site is known for its rich biodiversity and offers high chances of wildlife sightings in the surrounding blue waters.
Abu Ramada North
Abu Ramada North is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates 27.173300, 33.985000. The area is characterized by a rich diversity of live corals and an abundance of fish species. Notable features include large gorgonian corals found at the southern point of the site, which provide habitat for various marine life, including long-nosed hawkfish. The site is part of a chain of reefs, making it a significant location for observing marine biodiversity.
Abu Saaf ED
Abu Saaf ED is a shore dive site characterized by an entry through an opening in the reef's roof. Divers will navigate an approximately 80-meter tunnel that leads to a coral garden at a depth of 7 meters. Within the tunnel, divers can observe various marine life, including lobsters, Spanish dancers, and several species of nudibranchs. Additionally, common sightings include snappers, wrasses, and scorpionfish.
Abu Saile
Abu Saile is a dive site located approximately 50 minutes from Port Ghalib Marina, accessible via shore entry through a gap in the reef top. This site is suitable for divers of all experience levels. In the shallow areas, divers can observe a variety of hard corals. The marine life includes common shallow-water species found in the Red Sea, along with schools of juvenile barracudas and frequent sightings of baby oceanic whitetip reef sharks.
Abu Sawatyr
Abu Sawatyr features a sandy entry point leading into a bay. The sandy bottom gradually descends to a depth of 40 meters. Coral gardens are located on both sides, extending to approximately 30 meters. Divers may find it beneficial to use a rope for easier entry and exit due to potential currents. Marine life in the area includes large moray eels, Napoleon wrasse, and, with some luck, sightings of dolphins, eagle rays, and sharks.
Abu Soma Garden
Abu Soma Garden is a dive site that features depths ranging from shallow areas to over 30 meters, making it accessible for beginner divers. The site has minimal current, which enhances the diving experience. The coral garden is also an excellent location for snorkeling. Divers can observe various schools of fish, and it is common to find moray eels and octopuses hiding among the corals. Occasionally, eagle rays are spotted in this area.
Abu Tair
Abu Tair is situated around 45 kilometers southwest of Jeddah and is notable for its diverse marine life and historical shipwrecks. The site provides a unique opportunity for divers to explore both the underwater ecosystems and remnants of past maritime activities. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels. The area is characterized by its rich biodiversity, which includes various species of fish and coral formations, enhancing the diving experience.
Aiona Wreck (حطام أيونا)
The Aiona Wreck is considered one of the premier wreck dives on the Saudi side of the Red Sea. The site is divided into two sections: one suitable for entry-level divers with open spaces, and another designed for advanced divers featuring corridors and rooms, reaching depths of up to 50 meters. The wreck is teeming with marine life, including colorful reef fish, large barracudas, and hammerhead sharks, providing a rich underwater experience.
Al Kahfain (Wreck)
The Al Kahfain wreck is accessible primarily from the south wind, as diving from other directions is not advisable. Divers enter the water from the boat directly at the wreck site and proceed to dive past the wreck. The recommended route involves keeping the right shoulder over a coral garden before returning to the anchorages located on the eastern side of Shaab Sheer. The area is characterized by a variety of hard coral species and is home to the typical fish species found in the Red Sea.
alfasma
Alfasma is a dive site located at the end of Yanbu Creek, approximately 10 minutes from the coast guard center. This site is suitable for beginner divers and is characterized by a rich diversity of marine life. Notable species include guitar rays, dolphins, lionfish, and groupers, alongside many other typical Red Sea fish. The coral formations here are healthy and thriving, contributing to the vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Alharrah الحرة
Alharrah is characterized by its ancient fossilized lava formations, which appear as black rocks along the shore. The site features soft sand beaches that are conducive for swimming and suitable for beginner divers. The depth reaches 10 meters within a distance of 400 meters from the shore. Marine life includes stingrays, clownfish, and various soft corals, along with nocturnal species such as shrimp and coral tubules.
Altafyah Middle Reef
Altafyah Middle Reef is located approximately 90 kilometers south of Jeddah and is accessible via safari boats. The reef features large pinnacles that begin at a depth of 11 meters and extend down to 23 meters. Divers can expect varying current conditions, ranging from minimal to strong, and visibility can fluctuate between medium and excellent. The marine life is diverse, with sightings of shoals of yellow, blue, and silver fish. Additionally, groups of barracuda are often seen, along with occasional encounters with silky sharks, napoleon fish, and tuna.
Anas Reef
Anas Reef is a coral island situated near the Abu Tair area. The reef is characterized by healthy coral structures and abundant marine life, contributing to clear waters that provide excellent visibility throughout the year. Commonly observed species include blue spotted rays and jackfish, along with schools of various fish. Additionally, blacktip reef sharks can occasionally be seen passing through the area. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Anemone City
Anemone City is a dive site located near Shark and Yolanda reefs. The depth exceeds 700 meters (2,300 feet), featuring dense colonies of anemones and clownfish. Strong currents may bring schools of blue-fin, big-eye, and giant trevallies, along with barracudas and tuna, while sharks can also be observed in the blue.
Anemone Garden
Anemone Garden is accessed via speedboat, with divers descending on a buoy. This site features prominent coral blocks that host the largest anemone garden in the El Quseir area. Marine life includes various species such as snappers, moray eels, stonefish, scorpion fish, rays, and puffer fish, making it a diverse underwater ecosystem.
Ann Ann (Wreck)
The Ann Ann wreck is the largest dive site of its kind in Jeddah, situated between two reefs. The wreck is in good condition, making it appropriate for intermediate and expert divers. It lies at a depth of 30 meters, with the top starting around 14 meters. Following a storm in 2022, the wreck is now positioned on its side. Divers can observe various marine life in the vicinity, including snappers, blue-spotted stingrays, shellfish, and tuna. Additionally, schools of barracuda are present throughout the year.
Banana Reef
Banana Reef features a coral formation shaped like a banana, surrounded by sandy areas at a depth of 15 meters. It is suitable for divers of all levels, but drift diving is recommended, making it ideal for advanced divers. Visibility averages 30 meters, allowing for sightings of anemones, soft and hard corals, gorgonians, turtles, eagle rays, clownfish, and angelfish.
Bayadah (بياضة)
Bayadah is characterized by a reef island that serves as a habitat for various fish and coral species. Entry to the site is made via boat, providing a sheltered environment from rough waves and currents. Notably, a resident school of Trevally can be observed in the northern part of the island, particularly active during the early morning hours. Other marine life includes Malek fish, large resident moray eels, parrot fish, clown fish, and jellyfish, making it an engaging spot for divers, especially beginners.
Ben El Gebel
Ben El Gebel is located between Big Giftun Island and Small Giftun Island, featuring a main reef surrounded by sandy areas and three large pinnacles. The average depth is 14 meters, with some areas reaching up to 18 meters. Visibility is generally good at around 15 meters, allowing for clear observation of the reef structure and marine life.
Big Brother
Big Brother is an offshore island characterized by its impressive reef walls that surround the site. Divers should be prepared for potentially strong currents that can vary during the dive, making it essential for participants to have experience in drift and deep diving. An SMB is recommended for every dive. The marine life here includes grey reef sharks, thresher sharks, manta rays, Napoleon wrasse, moray eels, and various species of tuna, alongside a diverse array of reef fish and vibrant coral formations.
Big Brother East
Big Brother East, part of the Brothers Islands, is accessible exclusively by liveaboard boats. This dive site is characterized by strong currents and deep drop-offs, making it suitable for advanced divers. The area is known for its clear blue waters, where divers can encounter hammerhead sharks and oceanic whitetip sharks, which are frequently sighted in this region.
Big Brother South
Big Brother South features a plateau that begins at a depth of approximately 30 meters and extends southward for about 500 meters, reaching depths of 60 meters at its southern point. The plateau itself is roughly 20 meters wide, with steep drops to over 80 meters on either side. Divers should be aware that currents typically flow from the north, which can make returning against the current challenging. Marine life sightings may include thresher sharks, large tuna, giant trevally, napoleon wrasse, and occasionally oceanic white tip sharks, silky sharks, grey reef sharks, or silver tips.
Blue Belt Wreck
The Blue Belt Wreck, also known as the Toyota Wreck, is a general cargo vessel that measures 103 meters in length. Launched in 1950, it was en route from Jeddah to Port Sudan carrying Toyota vehicles and spare parts when it struck a reef in 1977. The wreck now rests upside down on a slope that ranges from 21 to 90 meters deep. Divers can observe large schools of big eye trevallies and snappers in the vicinity, along with lunartail groupers. White tip reef sharks are also frequently sighted around the wreck.
Cable Wreck (حطام سفينة الكيابل)
The Cable Wreck, located in the southwest region of Jeddah near Abu Tair Island, is characterized by the remnants of a Greek ship, Stavronisos. The site is notable for the extensive array of cables, fences, and steel bundles that are strewn across the seafloor. This wreck has become a habitat for diverse marine life, including white tip sharks, goatfish, blue chromis, and luminous blue Luma fish. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its unique underwater features.
Cannon Reef
Cannon Reef is accessible by boat, located approximately 90 minutes from the departure point. The dive site features two main areas: the primary reef and the southern blocks, with depths reaching around 15 meters. It is characterized as a drift-free dive site, making it suitable for divers seeking a stable environment. Marine life includes opportunities for dolphin encounters and a variety of schooling fish. Additionally, divers may spot the Red Sea Walkman, known for its distinctive appearance.
Carless Reef
Carless Reef is located approximately 2 hours southeast of El Gouna and is known for its vibrant marine life. The reef is situated in open waters, which often results in strong currents. These conditions support a diverse range of predators, making it a notable site for sightings of larger fish species. Divers may encounter various types of reef fish, as well as larger species such as tunas and barracudas. With some luck, divers might also spot tiger sharks in the area. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Chicken Wreck
The Chicken Wreck, formerly known as M.V. Glaros, is a 60-meter-long cargo ship that sank in 1976 at a depth of 20 meters (66 feet). The wreck is covered with hard and soft corals and is frequented by various marine life, including pipefish, hawkfish, and lionfish.
Chicken Wreck (M.V Glaros)
The M.V. Glaros, a 60-meter diesel refrigerator vessel, lies on its side at a depth of approximately 20 meters. This wreck, known as the 'Chicken Wreck', is notable for its original cargo of frozen chickens, remnants of which can still be found inside. The vessel ran aground on November 20, 1976, and all crew members were rescued shortly after on November 22, 1976. Divers can observe various soft and hard corals growing on the masts, along with a variety of Red Sea marine life, including numerous pipefish.
Cleopatra'S Palace
Cleopatra's Palace is a historical dive site located in the Eastern Harbor of Alexandria, Egypt, at a depth of approximately 10 meters (33 feet). Divers can explore the remains of the palace, including columns, two shattered Sphinxes, and large bowls used for storage. The site features murky waters and a mix of marine life typical to the region.
Conshelf Ii
Conshelf II is an underwater habitat located at Sha’ab Rumi, Sudan, in the Red Sea. The habitat consists of a starfish-shaped structure at 10 meters (33 feet) and a cabin at 30 meters (100 feet). Divers can explore the structures and observe marine life in the surrounding area.
Coral Garden / Gassous Bay
Coral Garden, located at Gassous Bay, offers a house reef accessible from the beach, with both northern and southern sections to explore. The site is characterized by the absence of boat traffic and typically features calm conditions, making it suitable for diving in various weather. Night and early morning dives are available every day. Marine life is diverse, with sightings ranging from seahorses to whale sharks. More frequently observed species include leopard and ferret-tailed stingrays, along with various snails and shrimps.
Coral Gardens 1 حديقة المرجان
Coral Gardens 1 is located near the Chicken Wreck and features a diverse array of coral life. The depth at this site ranges from 15 to 20 meters. It is accessible via shore entry. Divers can encounter various marine species, including numerous types of coral fish, barracudas, and occasionally dolphins.
crazy eight
Crazy Eight is located 26 kilometers from Jeddah Creek and features a diverse underwater landscape. The northern section of the site has a shallow reef that ranges from 7 to 13 meters in depth, while the southwestern area presents a drop-off that extends beyond 60 meters. The site is known for its excellent visibility throughout the year. Marine life includes barracudas, jackfish, and moray eels, with silky sharks frequently observed in the vicinity. Typical Red Sea fish species are also abundant.
Daedalus Reef
Daedalus Reef is a large offshore coral formation measuring 400 meters long and 100 meters wide, located in a remote area of Egypt. Divers can expect to see an abundance of both soft and hard corals, as well as various pelagic species, including oceanic sharks. Access is typically via liveaboard from Marsa Alam due to strong currents in the area.
Destination Reef
Destination Reef is located approximately 20 minutes by boat from Abo Madafea. The dive site features a maximum depth of 15 meters, with an average depth of 12 meters, making it accessible for divers of various skill levels. The underwater environment is characterized by an abundance of marine life, including kelp fish, sweetlips, sea turtles, and barracuda. The reef is noted for its healthy corals, with no signs of bleaching, providing a vibrant habitat for the diverse species found here.
Dolphin House
Dolphin House, or Sha’ab Samadai Reef, is a diving site in Marsa Alam, known for its resident pod of dolphins, though sightings are not guaranteed. The site features shallow waters, minimal current, and excellent visibility, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. Diving is available year-round.
Dolphin House Sataya Reef North
Dolphin House at Sataya Reef North, located near Marsa Alam, is renowned for its population of spinner dolphins. Divers and snorkelers frequent this site for the opportunity to observe these dolphins in their natural habitat. The area is characterized by vibrant coral formations and a variety of marine life, enhancing the underwater experience. While encounters with dolphins are common, they cannot be guaranteed. The site is accessed by boat, making it suitable for divers looking to explore this unique ecosystem.
Dugais Main Reef
Dugais Main Reef is an atoll situated about 6 kilometers off the coast of Jeddah, with a circumference of 3 kilometers. The site offers excellent visibility year-round, which tends to improve during the winter months. It features a range of depths suitable for both novice and experienced divers, making it an accessible location for snorkeling as well. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including numerous species of soft and tree corals, as well as hard corals in various colors. Common fish species found in the Red Sea can also be seen here.
El Aruk
El Aruk is a dive site accessible by a 35-minute boat ride from Hurghada. The site features a sandy bottom with multicolored corals and underwater structures called ergs, reaching depths of up to 15 meters. Divers can encounter marine life including manta rays, turtles, lionfish, moray eels, barracudas, and blue-tip reef sharks.
El Fanadir North
El Fanadir North features a reef wall that drops to 12 meters (39 feet), followed by a plateau extending to 20 meters (66 feet) and a drop-off beyond 30 meters (100 feet). Expect to see various marine life including trunkfish, goatfish, sweetlips, scorpionfish, lionfish, stonefish, and octopuses. The coral is less vibrant compared to other sites, but the marine diversity makes it a valuable dive.
El Fanadir South
El Fanadir South features a wall that ranges from 10 to 15 meters deep, a sandy plateau at 30 meters, and a steep wall reaching 40 meters. Divers can observe marine life such as glassfish, shrimp, frogfish, groupers, and moray eels near cleaning stations. This site accommodates divers of all levels.
El Fanadir, North
El Fanadir, North features a prominent wall dive that begins at a depth of approximately 20 meters and descends to over 70 meters. The site includes a wide plateau above the wall, which is about 20 meters across. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including moray eels, scorpion fish, nudibranchs, lionfish, stonefish, starfish, and octopuses. Occasionally, frogfish can be spotted in the area. In the open water, eagle rays may be seen swimming by. This site is accessible from the shore.
El Fanadir, South
El Fanadir, South is located approximately one hour south of El Gouna. This dive site features a prominent wall teeming with diverse marine life, including moray eels, scorpion fish, nudibranchs, lionfish, stonefish, starfish, and octopuses. Occasionally, frogfish can also be spotted here. Beyond the wall, there is a plateau that is roughly 20 meters wide, leading to a steep drop-off that descends to depths exceeding 70 meters. The plateau includes several pinnacles that divers can explore. In the open water, eagle rays may be observed, adding to the site's rich biodiversity.
El Fanar
Reef flat colonized by dozens of giant clams and its spectacular reef drop-off. The jetty at El Fanar Beach offers an easy entrante to the drop-off. The marine life is splendid, great variety of fish and colourfull corals.
El Makluf ED
El Makluf ED is a shore dive site characterized by an entry through a gap in the reef and a canyon. The underwater landscape features coral blocks that extend from depths of 10 meters to 40 meters, with some reaching just below the surface. To the south, divers can explore a coral garden that includes numerous table corals. Marine life commonly observed at this site includes snappers, hatchetfish, scorpionfish, turtles, crocodile fish, wrasses, crabs, and nudibranchs.
El Malek
El Malek is a dive site located north of Makadi Bay, Hurghada, featuring a reef wall with a plateau at 20 meters and a drop-off to 40 meters. Expect to see bluespotted stingrays, tuna, trevallies, groupers, reef sharks, and mackerels. This site is suitable for divers of all experience levels.
El Mina
El Mina offers a unique diving experience beginning with a drift entry that descends without the use of a rope. Divers will encounter a coral wall, followed by stunning coral formations interspersed with sandy areas and seagrass. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including Stone Fish, Scorpion Fish, Eagle Rays, Turtles, and with some luck, Ghost Pipe Fish may also be spotted.
El Mina / El Minya
El Mina is a shipwreck located in Hurghada Harbour, lying on its port side with a bow depth of 25 meters and a stern depth of 32 meters. The wreck, measuring approximately 60 to 70 meters in length, features visible anti-aircraft guns and minesweeping equipment from its sinking in 1970. Penetration is only recommended through the hole in the hull created by fighter planes.
El Mina, wreck
The El Mina wreck is a Russian-built minesweeper located near the Hurghada marina. It sank in June 1970 after being struck by an Israeli missile during an attack on the port, resting at a depth of 30 meters where it was anchored. The site is notable for its macro marine life, including nudibranchs and pipefishes. While underwater currents are typically mild, strong surface currents can occur, making it essential for divers to be aware of conditions before entering.
El Sakhwa
El Sakhwa is located approximately one hour south of El Gouna. The site features a wall that extends from a small bay, leading to reef blocks in the shallows. Divers can explore a drop-off that reaches depths of 40 meters, where a small canyon can also be found. The marine life here includes stonefish, scorpion fish, and the notable Red Sea walkman. Additionally, divers may encounter starfish, moray eels, and shrimp along the wall.
Elphinstone North
Elphinstone North is situated approximately 30 kilometers from Marsa Alam and is accessible via boat. This dive site is recognized for its diverse marine life, including frequent sightings of oceanic whitetip sharks, tiger sharks, and hammerhead sharks, along with barracudas. The site features some of the healthiest coral reefs in the region, making it a notable location for divers. The journey to the site takes about 90 minutes by boat.
Elphinstone Reef
Elphinstone Reef is a notable dive site located at coordinates 25.309600, 34.860400, accessible by boat. The site is characterized by its healthy coral formations and clear blue waters, making it a prime location for observing diverse marine life. It is particularly recognized for the presence of shark species, including oceanic whitetip and hammerhead sharks, which are often seen in the area due to the site's unique environmental conditions. The reef's structure and depth variations contribute to its significance as a habitat for these species.
Elphinstone Reef
Elphinstone Reef features a cigar-shaped structure with depths ranging from 20 to 40 meters. Divers can encounter white-tip and hammerhead sharks, along with diverse marine life including various fish species, soft corals, and large gorgonians. The site includes plateaus and caves that offer different diving experiences.
Elphinstone South
Elphinstone South is an offshore reef dive characterized by a depth range from 18 meters to a plateau at 40 meters. This site is particularly noted for the presence of Oceanic whitetip sharks, especially prevalent during the months of October, November, and December. Divers can also observe a variety of healthy hard and soft corals, along with numerous fish species. Additionally, there is a possibility of encountering manta rays and barracuda during dives. The site is typically accessed by boat.
Erg Abu Diab
Erg Abu Diab is a prominent pinnacle dive site that rises from the surface and descends to a depth of 75 meters. This site offers divers the opportunity to encounter various marine life, including groups of barracuda, sharks, moray eels, and a variety of colorful fish such as lionfish, clownfish (Nemo), boxfish, surgeonfish, and triggerfish. The site is accessed from the shore, making it convenient for divers to enter the water directly.
Erg Somaya
Erg Somaya is a drift dive site for experienced divers, featuring a plateau at 18 meters and a reef top at 5 meters. It has a drop-off exceeding 50 meters and offers visibility of about 30 meters, allowing divers to see hard and soft corals, gorgonians, and various reef fish.
Excalibur
The Excalibur, also known as Susana, is a wreck dive site located at a depth of just over 20 meters, making it accessible for Open Water divers. The site features an easy entry point for penetration, allowing divers to explore the wreck. Notable marine life includes several large lionfish residing in the bow and a shoal of batfish found in the captain's cabin.
Fire coral garden
Fire Coral Garden is a dive site accessible from the shore, suitable for both beginner and advanced divers. The site features a significant expanse of fire coral fans that extend over a considerable distance, showcasing clusters of healthy fire coral. This coral garden is located on the west side of a coral island, providing a unique underwater landscape for exploration.
Flamenco Beach Resort
Flamenco Beach Resort offers a shore entry to a wall dive that begins at the jetty and descends to depths of approximately 40 meters and beyond. Below 18 meters, coral formations are less prominent, but the site is known for its excellent visibility and opportunities to observe marine life in the blue waters. Divers can expect to see species such as fusiliers, eagle rays, moray eels, and hawksbill turtles. Additionally, sightings of tuna, dolphins, and, during favorable seasons, passing whale sharks are possible.
Fort Arabesque Hotel Reef
This House reef is phenomenal. Walk in straight off the beach. Lots of space to explore. Spotted Eagle Ray, Turtle who is a resident to the area. Octopus and the usual Red Sea suspects. Truly magical place.
Gamul Kebir
Gamul Kebir is a shore dive site located at coordinates 26.786000, 33.987700. The reef reaches a maximum depth of 16 meters and is characterized by excellent lighting conditions. The site generally experiences little to no current, except in the channel area. Divers can expect to see a variety of colorful fish throughout the reef, and squid are often spotted in the open water. Encounters with eagle rays are also common, adding to the site's appeal for divers.
Gamul Soraya
Gamul Soraya is a small reef with depths ranging from 8 to 26 meters (26 to 85 feet). Divers can see various marine life, including eagle rays, tuna, snappers, Napoleon fish, sea turtles, and garden eels. This site is suitable for divers of all levels.
Gasus Soraya
Gasus Soraya is an easily accessible dive site located between Safaga and El Quesir, with entry from the shore. The shallow waters are home to sand eels, while the outer northern corner is known for sightings of sweetlips. This site offers a straightforward diving experience suitable for divers of various skill levels.
Ghurab Reef
Ghurab Reef is located approximately 50 kilometers from Jeddah Creek. The site features healthy coral formations, although they are not extensive in size. It is situated away from fishing activities, resulting in minimal human impact and no signs of coral bleaching. The maximum depth around the reef reaches 25 meters, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. The area is populated with small fish shoals and a variety of colorful reef fish typical of the Red Sea, including angelfish and clownfish. However, larger marine life has not been observed at this location.
Gota Abu Makadi
Gota Abu Makadi offers diving from 6 to 30 meters with minimal current, making it suitable for novice and experienced divers. The site features a plateau with coral boulders, canyons, and pinnacles, supporting diverse marine life such as fish and invertebrates.
Gota Abu Ramada
Gota Abu Ramada has an average depth of 15 meters and features sandy areas surrounding the main reef. The site includes coral pinnacles with soft and hard corals, gorgonians, and anemones, hosting marine life such as butterflyfish, parrotfish, groupers, and moray eels. Occasionally, divers may encounter turtles, dolphins, and rays. The current is generally mild, making this site suitable for divers of various experience levels.
Gota El Dir
Gota El Dir is located approximately 30 minutes from Elgouna and is the nearest coral reef to the area. The site features a shallow entry point, making it suitable for training dives and introductory courses. Snorkelers will also find it appealing due to its diverse marine life. Common sightings include clownfish, snappers, moray eels, anthias, pufferfish, schools of barracuda, parrotfish, and sergeant major fish. Additionally, eagle rays and dolphins are often observed in this area.
Gota Hossam
Gota Hossam is characterized by two reefs that form a horseshoe shape, creating a sheltered area reminiscent of a pool. This site features several coral gardens and reaches a maximum depth of 18 meters. It is located approximately 90 minutes south of Port Ghalib by boat. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of reef fish within the diverse marine life present in the area.
Gota Iris
Gota Iris is situated as the final block of the Shaab Iris formation in the Abu Nugar area, approximately 1.5 hours from El Gouna. The site features a main reef along with several coral blocks, with an average depth of 14 meters. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including octopus, puffer fish, porcupine fish, moray eels, anthias, and swarms of glass fish. The underwater landscape is complemented by an array of soft corals.
Gota Sataya
Gota Sataya is situated approximately 15 minutes north of Satayh Lagoon. The northern section of the reef features six ergs that rise from a depth of 22 meters to the surface. The southern plateau begins at around 10 meters and extends down to 30 meters. This site is home to a variety of marine species, including coral reef sharks, white tip reef sharks, triggerfish, Napoleon wrasse, and hawksbill turtles. Entry to the site is by boat.
Gotha Abu Galawa
Gotha Abu Galawa is situated on the Abu Galawa reef, approximately one hour south of Elgouna. This dive site is accessible from the shore and is appropriate for divers of all experience levels, particularly beginners. The site features a depth range of 4 meters, with a maximum depth reaching 10 meters. Divers can explore beautiful pinnacles that host a variety of marine life, including glass fish, anthias fish, puffer fish, clown fish, octopus, morays, stingrays, eagle rays, fantail stingrays, scorpion fish, stone fish, lion fish, snake eels, and the possibility of encountering dolphins. Drift diving is also an option at this location.
Habiba Wall
Habiba Wall offers a drift dive along a coral wall that begins at a prominent pinnacle reaching depths of 27 meters. The dive progresses along a beautiful coral wall situated between 15 and 25 meters, characterized by numerous coral blocks. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, amidst the soft and hard corals, as well as brain corals. This site provides an opportunity for exploration in a diverse underwater environment.
Habili Coconut
Habili Coconut is a dive site characterized by two pinnacles rich in marine life. The area features soft corals, Gorgonia, and table corals, providing habitat for various fish species. Divers can expect to see jackfish, tuna, frogfish, clownfish, triggerfish, anthias, and white tip reef sharks. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers.
Habili Ganna
Habili Ganna is located near Shaab Claudio and features several coral pinnacles. The site is known for its diverse hard and soft coral formations. One notable pinnacle contains a hole filled with soft coral, providing an opportunity to observe white tip reef sharks. Marine life commonly seen here includes Nemos, glass fish, trigger fish, turtles, tuna fish, and blue spotted stingrays. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Habili Orca
Habili Orca is a small reef located close to the shore, first discovered in 2017. The site features a depth that is slightly deeper than the surface water, making it necessary to have calm sea conditions for diving. Divers can explore the area within 60 minutes, which is rich in hard coral formations. Notable marine life includes clownfish, moray eels, Napoleon wrasse, scorpion fish, white tip reef sharks, and a variety of other species such as puffer fish, parrot fish, and trigger fish. An eel garden is situated near the southern part of the reef, enhancing the biodiversity of the site.
Habili Sama
Habili Sama, also known as Habili B, is recognized for its two small reefs situated between larger formations. This site features an extensive anemone city that begins at a depth of 2 meters and extends down to 17 meters. Divers can observe a variety of marine life including blue spots, white tip reef sharks, boxfish, lionfish, triggerfish, and butterflyfish. The underwater landscape includes soft corals, table corals, gorgonians, and numerous pinnacles, making it a diverse environment for exploration.
Jackfish Alley
Jackfish Alley, also referred to as Fisherman’s Bank with Stingray Alley, is a dive site characterized by its two large caves that host large schools of glassfish. The depth ranges from 6 meters to 20 meters, making it suitable for intermediate divers. This site is notable for its abundance of jackfish and features the largest barracuda-cleaning station in the area. Access to the site is via boat.
Kalawy House Reef, South
Kalawy House Reef, located just offshore from the Magic Life resort, is accessible via the beach or jetty. The site features calm conditions and clear water, making it suitable for divers and snorkelers. The reef is vibrant with a variety of marine life, including surgeon fish, glass fish, moray eels, and turtles, providing an engaging underwater experience.
La Plage Resort House Reef
La Plage Resort House Reef is located at the entrance of Jeddah Creek in Saudi Arabia. This site features a typical Red Sea coral reef ecosystem, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. The area is well-maintained and offers opportunities for both diving and snorkeling. Marine life commonly observed includes manta rays, blue-spotted rays, groupers, clownfish, and boxfish, among others. The site benefits from the flow of various fish species entering and exiting the creek, enhancing the biodiversity. Entry to the site is from the shore.