
Diving into the Red Sea: A Guide to Egypt’s Underwater Paradise
The Red Sea is renowned globally as a premier diving destination with an unparalleled underwater experience. This guide focuses on Hurghada, one of the most popular diving locations along the Red Sea coast, noted for its vibrant marine life, stunning coral reefs, and diverse dive sites.
Hurghada: The Egyptian Riviera

Nestled on Egypt’s western Red Sea shore, Hurghada enjoys a warm, sunny climate. The ideal diving season spans from March to May and September to November when the weather is most pleasant.
Hurghada’s waters teem with life, from colorful reef fish and graceful sea turtles to the majestic reef shark. Even rare creatures like the giant moray eel and the Napoleon wrasse can be spotted.
Coral Reefs in Hurghada
Hurghada’s coral reefs are a major draw for divers. These vibrant underwater ecosystems are home to a dazzling array of marine life.
- El Fanadir Reef: Known for its stunning coral formations and vibrant fish, El Fanadir is a favorite location for underwater photography enthusiasts.
- Umm Gamar: This smaller island provides excellent snorkeling opportunities with thriving coral gardens and a chance to observe turtles and manta rays.
- Shaab Sakala: This reef is recognized for its broccoli-like corals and the possibility of encountering turtles.
Famous Dive Sites Near Hurghada
Carless Reef
Carless Reef is a favorite among divers for its steep walls and coral formations. It’s filled with marine life, such as barracudas, moray eels, and occasionally hammerhead sharks.
Giftun Island
Giftun Island, a protected marine park, offers multiple dive sites featuring coral gardens, diverse fish species, and excellent visibility. Popular areas are ‘Police Station’ and ‘Small Giftun Drift’.
Abu Ramada
Abu Ramada, also known as the “Aquarium,” is renowned for its high visibility and diverse marine life, including schools of snappers, goatfish, and jacks.
El Mina Wreck
The El Mina wreck, a sunken Egyptian minesweeper, is a fascinating diving spot with opportunities to explore the vessel and observe the marine life that now inhabits it.
Diving for Everyone: Beginners to Experts

Hurghada welcomes divers of all abilities.
- Beginner’s Bliss: Enjoy shallow, calm waters and easy-access dive sites like Turtle Bay, famed for its gentle turtles, or Sha’ab Abu Nuhas with its accessible wrecks.
- Expert Exploration: Experienced divers can embark on thrilling adventures, from the world-famous Thistlegorm wreck to the challenging currents and big fish encounters of the Brothers Islands.
- Liveaboard Diving Trips: They allow experienced divers to explore remote dive sites while living on a boat for several days. Offering multiple daily dives, comfortable accommodations, and a close-knit community, they provide an immersive and comprehensive diving experience.
Best Diving Schools in Hurghada
Hurghada is home to numerous reputable diving schools offering a range of courses.
- Blue Paradise Diving Center: Competent instructors and comprehensive courses.
- Colona Divers: For PADI and SSI certifications.
- Divers’ Lodge: Specializes in advanced and technical diving courses.
Overview of Courses
- PADI Open Water Diver: Ideal for beginners.
- Advanced Open Water Diver: For those looking to enhance their skills.
- Specialty Courses: Night diving, wreck diving, and underwater photography.
Diving Responsibly: Practical Information
- Diving Tips: Dive with a buddy, maintain proper equipment care, and always follow dive plans.
- Health and Safety: Be aware of decompression sickness symptoms, know the nearest recompression chamber, and carry comprehensive dive insurance.
- Dive Gear and Services: Hurghada boasts numerous dive shops for equipment rental and expert services, such as Dive In Hurghada and Divers’ Paradise.
- Diving Conditions: Hurghada is blessed with superb diving conditions year-round. Water temperatures range from 22°C (72°F) in winter to 29°C (84°F) in summer. Visibility is typically between 20 and 30 meters (65 and 100 feet), so underwater photography is a breeze.
Planning Your Hurghada Dive Adventure
- Travel Essentials: Most nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival. Also, taxis and shuttle services are readily available.
- Accommodation: Choose from luxurious resorts, budget-friendly hotels, or liveaboards for extended adventures.
Hurghada is a must-visit destination for divers of all levels. Its unique marine life, stunning coral reefs, and famous dive sites offer impeccable underwater experiences.
Contact Galaxia Group now to plan your Hurghada trip!