Marsa Alam, located along Egypt’s southern Red Sea coast, has become one of the world’s top diving destinations.
Its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life provide an unparalleled underwater experience.
However, Marsa Alam is not just for divers – it’s a treasure trove for adventurers, nature lovers and relaxation seekers alike.
Let’s explore the 10 Best Things To Do in Marsa Alam.
Dive at Elphinstone Reef
Elphinstone Reef is one of the most visited dive sites in Marsa Alam and the Red Sea.
Experienced divers will find Elphinstone Reef, known for its steep drop-offs and strong currents, an interesting and challenging place.
Among the marine fauna found on this deep reef are hammerhead sharks, barracudas, and whitetip reef sharks.
It is a stunning site with vibrant coral formations and soft corals.
Explore the Sha’ab Samadai (Dolphin House)
Another excellent diving spot is Marsa Alam’s Samadai Reef, often known as the Dolphin House. Popular hangout of spinner dolphins, this horseshoe-shaped coral lets snorkelers and divers swim alongside these friendly species. Rich in brilliant coral and fish species, the small lagoon offers perfect diving for all skill levels.
Visit the Abu Dabbab Dugong Sanctuary
The resident dugongs of Abu Dabbab Bay are well-known. One of the few locations worldwide where you may routinely see these peaceful giants is For both divers and snorkelers, the area is also a must-see because of its green sea turtles and range of vibrant coral reefs.
Dive at Daedalus Reef
Daedalus Reef is a diver’s fantasy, some eighty kilometers offshore. This big, far-off reef has vertical walls covered with both soft and hard corals. Schools of hammerhead sharks, manta ray, and whale sharks among other big pelagic species abound on the reef. One of the most satisfying dive sites in the area is the stunning underwater scene and the profusion of aquatic life.
Discover Fury Shoals
The Fury Shoals area is one of the most beautiful diving spots in Marsa Alam and is a vast network of coral reefs, lagoons and coral gardens. Each dive site within Fury Shoals has its own unique character, from shallow coral reefs full of life to deep walls with large pelagic fish. Colorful coral formations, caves and tunnels make this area a favorite for underwater photographers.
Snorkel at Sataya Dolphin Reef
Go to Sataya Reef, often known as the Dolphin Reef, if you’re not a diver but still want to see Marsa Alam’s marine life. Popular hangout for pods of spinner dolphins, this big reef allows snorkelers to swim alongside them in glistening clean seas. Additionally for investigation are a variety of vivid coral and fish species on the reef.
Dive at St. John’s Reefs
Deep south of the Red Sea, St. John’s Reefs is an assembly of underwater pinnacles and coral gardens. The great visibility and variety of the immaculate reefs here are well-known. Divers may see big schools of fish, sharks, turtles, and sometimes even dolphins. The distant position guarantees that the reefs are mostly pristine, therefore providing a pure diving environment.
Relax at Marsa Mubarak
For novices especially, Marsa Mubarak is a calm bay with great diving and snorkelling chances. Green turtles and dugongs find attraction in the seagrass meadows filling the shallow seas. With easy access and tranquil surroundings, this is a perfect place for a leisurely day at the beach where you may swim or snorkel amid the aquatic species.
Liveaboard Diving Adventures
Joining a liveaboard diving tour is one of the greatest ways to really enjoy the diving locations surrounding Marsa Alam. These multi-day trips let divers reach far-off locations such Elphinstone, Daedalus, and St. John’s without having to return daily to land. A liveaboard offers a more full and complete Red Sea diving experience by allowing one to dive both dawn and night.
Discover the Desert on a Quad Bike Safari
Although Marsa Alam is well-known for its underwater exploits, take advantage of the opportunity to explore the vast deserts inland. Riding a quad bike safari throughout the Marsa Alam desert will provide an exciting journey with breathtaking scenery, Bedouin settlements, and the possibility to see a once-in-a-lifetime sunset. Following a day of diving, this land-based activity provides a fantastic counterpoint to your Red Sea experience.