Snorkeling in the Red Sea is an easy, mesmerizing way to meet coral gardens and friendly reef fish without scuba gear. Warm water, shallow reefs, and excellent visibility make it perfect for families and first-time ocean explorers.
Top snorkeling spots
- Giftun Islands (Hurghada) — shallow reefs, calm water; ideal for families and day trips.
- Sha’ab Samadai / Dolphin House (Marsa Alam) — famous for resident spinner dolphins; best for early morning visits.
- Abu Dabbab (Marsa Alam) — seagrass beds with green turtles and occasional dugong sightings; gentle entry.
- Tiran Islands (Straits of Tiran) — coral gardens near the surface; choose sheltered spots for snorkeling.
- Fury Shoals & Marsa Mubarak (South Sinai/Marsa Alam) — coral lagoons accessible from liveaboards or day boats.
Practical tips for a safe, fun snorkel
- Choose the right mask & snorkel: Fit is everything — no leaks, clear view.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen or a rashguard: Protect skin without harming corals.
- Use fins for easy movement: Short blade fins are great for snorkeling.
- Respect marine life: Observe, don’t touch; avoid standing on reefs.
- Check currents & tides: Ask a local guide about conditions — some sites can have strong currents near the edges.
- Stay hydrated and shaded between sessions.
Best times to snorkel
Year-round possible, but spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) have the best balance of temperature and visibility. Early mornings are calmer and often clearer.
Short personal tip
On a calm morning around Giftun, I floated over a garden of soft corals while a school of anthias danced beneath me — the kind of quiet marine theater that makes snorkeling addicting.
Snorkeling is one of the easiest ways to fall in love with the Red Sea. If you’d like, we can add a printable snorkeling checklist for your next trip or recommend the best day-trip operators from Hurghada and Marsa Alam.
