The dive sites around Marsa Alam stretch from Port Ghalib in the north down to Abu Ghosun in the south, covering a wide range of pristine reefs, sheltered bays, and coral gardens. This part of the southern Red Sea is known for its high biodiversity, clear water, and relatively untouched reef systems.
The region offers year-round warm water, typically ranging from the low 20s to high 20s °C, making diving comfortable in every season. The variety of habitats — from fringing reefs and coral plateaus to sandy bays with seagrass — supports a rich marine ecosystem.
Green sea turtles, dolphins, and, in some areas, even dugongs are part of the natural fauna of the region, supported by healthy reef structures and seagrass meadows. Sightings are never guaranteed, but the diversity of life and reef quality make every dive unique.
What makes diving here special is the contrast between sites: some are calm and ideal for relaxed dives, while others offer more dramatic reef formations. Conditions, marine life, and light change throughout the year, ensuring that no two dives feel the same.
Dive Sites
Marsa Alam Divesites
Nearby Divesites
Elphinstone Reef is a legendary offshore dive site about 30 km northeast of Marsa Alam. Known for its steep walls, vibrant soft corals and regular pelagic encounters, it is considered one of the most iconic dive sites of the Red Sea.
read moreDolphin House (Sha’ab Samadai) is a protected horseshoe-shaped reef south of Marsa Alam. The sheltered lagoon is a natural resting area for spinner dolphins, while divers explore the outer reef with coral gardens and swim-throughs.
read moreOm Halhala is an offshore fringing reef north of Marsa Alam, typically reached by speedboat. Known for its coral pinnacles and shallow reef scenery, it’s a favourite for relaxed drift dives with excellent visibility and vibrant reef life.
read moreAbu Dabab 2 & 3 (Gota Abu Dabab) are two circular offshore reefs north of Marsa Alam, best reached by speedboat. With shallow plateaus, coral pinnacles and calm conditions, this is a favourite for relaxed, varied reef diving.
read moreAbu Dabab 4 is a quieter reef in the Abu Dabab area north of Marsa Alam. With wide coral gardens, large pinnacles and excellent visibility, it’s ideal for relaxed reef and gentle drift dives.
read moreAbu Dabab 5 is the southernmost reef of the Abu Dabab chain and offers a calm, uncrowded diving experience. Known as a macro playground, it’s ideal for slow, relaxed dives with a focus on small marine life.
read moreMarsa Mubarak is a sheltered natural bay north of Marsa Alam, best known for its extensive seagrass meadows and resident green turtles. With calm, clear water and easy conditions, it’s one of the most relaxed and wildlife-rich dive and snorkel sites in the region.
read moreSha’ab Marsa Alam is a long, kidney-shaped fringing reef located about 4 km offshore from Marsa Alam town. With multiple reef zones in one site, it offers varied and engaging dives ideal for drift and reef exploration.
read moreMarsa Egla is a wide natural sandy bay about 11–13 km north of Marsa Alam and one of the area’s easiest shore dives. Calm conditions, a gentle slope and rich marine life make it a great choice for relaxed diving and snorkeling.
read moreMarsa Assalaya is a wide, shallow sandy bay just north of Marsa Alam with easy shore access. Calm conditions, clear water and diverse habitats make it an excellent spot for both diving and snorkeling.
read moreMarsa Samadai is a wide, sheltered bay south of Marsa Alam with easy sandy beach entry. Calm conditions and clear reef structures make it a relaxed and versatile shore dive.
read moreShaab Eschta is a large reef running west to east that rises close to the surface. Its shape provides natural shelter on windy days, making it a reliable choice with consistently beautiful diving.
read moreTorfa el Mesheich is a long coastal reef stretching around 2.5 to 3 km along the shoreline. Known for its diverse reef structure and frequent turtle sightings, it offers rewarding dives for all experience levels.
read moreShaab Eman is a compact reef inside Wadi el Gemal National Park. Rising close to the surface, it offers natural shelter on windy days and consistently relaxed diving conditions.
read moreGota al Shalaniat is a large offshore reef west of Wadi el Gemal Island, naturally sheltered and known for varied dive profiles and vibrant coral structures.
read moreAbu Ghosun is a unique wreck dive inside Wadi el Gemal National Park. The Hamada, a 65 m long freighter, sank in 1993 and now rests on its side in shallow water, making it accessible for both divers and snorkelers.
read moreHabili Melawin, named after the Arabic word for "colorful", is the house reef of Wanderlust Blue. Two striking pinnacles rise between the main reef and the open blue, creating a vibrant and dramatic local dive right on our doorstep.
read moreHabili Amar is one of the Wanderlust Blue house reef dives. A single striking pinnacle and a long reef formation that runs like an underwater street make it a structured, scenic site right in front of the dive center.
read moreHabili Abu Scharara North is a colourful reef with small pinnacles and soft coral growth. It offers relaxed, easy dives with plenty of reef life and the occasional a reef sharks passing through.
read moreHabili Abu Scharara South is a vibrant coral garden with open blue-water sections. The mix of rich reef life and occasional pelagic encounters makes it a dynamic yet relaxed dive.
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