I still remember my first dive in the Red Sea; the visibility was so clear that I could see fish swirling around the reef from more than 20 meters away. In this guide, I’ll share the Top 10 Red Sea diving spots you simply can’t miss.
1. Ras Mohammed National Park (Sharm El Sheikh)
At the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula lies Ras Mohammed, a diver’s paradise famous for its dramatic coral walls and teeming schools of fish. On a good day, you might find yourself surrounded by barracudas, trevallies, and even dolphins. It’s a must for beginners and experts alike.
2. Thistlegorm Wreck
The SS Thistlegorm is one of the most famous wreck dives on the planet. This World War II ship rests at around 30 meters, filled with wartime cargo such as trucks, motorbikes, and rifles. Swimming through the wreck feels like visiting an underwater museum frozen in time – it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
3. Elphinstone Reef (Marsa Alam)
A long, narrow reef with sheer drop-offs, Elphinstone is where divers go for adrenaline. It’s well-known for encounters with oceanic whitetip sharks and hammerheads. Currents can be strong, so it’s better suited to advanced divers.
4. Brothers Islands
Two remote islands rising from the middle of the Red Sea, the Brothers are famous for their pristine walls, dense coral gardens, and encounters with large pelagics like manta rays and thresher sharks. Strong currents make this site an adventure for experienced divers only.
5. Daedalus Reef
Located further offshore, Daedalus Reef is often visited by liveaboard trips. It’s one of the best places in the Red Sea to see schools of hammerhead sharks. The coral formations here are breathtaking, and the sheer scale of the reef makes every dive memorable.
6. Abu Nuhas Shipwrecks (Hurghada)
Nicknamed the "Ship Graveyard," Abu Nuhas is home to several wrecks including the Carnatic and Giannis D. Each wreck has its own story, and exploring them is like stepping into a time capsule. If you love wreck diving, this site is unmissable.
7. St. John’s Reefs (Deep South Egypt)
This collection of reefs near the Sudanese border is perfect for divers who want to escape the crowds. Expect untouched coral, swim-through caves, and calm drift dives. The remoteness adds a sense of adventure that makes St. John’s truly special.
8. Giftun Islands (Hurghada)
Just a short boat ride from Hurghada, the Giftun Islands are perfect for day trips. These reefs are ideal for beginner divers and snorkelers, thanks to their gentle conditions and rich marine life. Bright coral gardens and friendly fish make this a fun and relaxing dive spot.
9. Sha’ab Abu Dabbab (Marsa Alam)
A shallow sandy bay where you might spot dugongs (sea cows) and giant green turtles grazing on seagrass beds. Whether you’re snorkeling or diving, Abu Dabbab offers close encounters with marine life you don’t often see elsewhere.
10. Fury Shoals (Southern Red Sea)
This network of reefs is famous for its colorful coral gardens and playful pods of dolphins. Diving through its swim-throughs feels like exploring a hidden underwater playground. It’s great for intermediate divers who want variety in their dives.
Tips for Diving the Red Sea
- Best Time to Dive: The Red Sea is diveable year-round, but the best conditions are from March to May and September to November.
- Experience Levels: Many sites are beginner-friendly, while others (like Brothers and Daedalus) require advanced certification.
- Gear Tip: In winter, water temperatures can drop to 22°C, so a 5mm wetsuit is recommended.
- Liveaboards: For remote dive sites such as Brothers, Daedalus, and St. John’s, joining a liveaboard trip is the best option.
Conclusion
The Red Sea offers a rare combination of natural beauty, marine diversity, and historic wrecks that make it one of the best dive destinations on the planet. Whether you’re chasing sharks, photographing coral gardens, or simply enjoying your first snorkeling trip, the Red Sea has it all.
Which of these dive sites is on your bucket list? Share your thoughts, and when you’re ready, check out our Red Sea liveaboard trips to plan your ultimate adventure beneath the waves.
