Summary
- Hurghada has transformed from a small fishing village into a world-renowned diving paradise on Egypt’s Red Sea coast.
- With crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and diverse marine species, it offers top dive sites like Marsa Abu Galawa, Fanadir, and Giftun Island.
- Whether you’re a beginner or an expert diver, the variety of sites caters to all levels.
- Beyond diving, Hurghada boasts luxury resorts such as Soma Bay, Baron Palace, and Tropitel Sahl Hasheesh, blending comfort with prime proximity to the sea.
- Visitors can enjoy water sports, vibrant underwater ecosystems, and explore nearby cultural gems like Luxor and Cairo.
- Hurghada promises a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery for every traveler.
Hurghada Diving Sites are enchanting, offering every traveler to uncover the hidden treasure found at the bottom of the Red Sea. The goal of this article is to offer every traveler all the information and details about the best Hurghada diving sites. All the facts and details in this article are provided by the most informative and experienced tour guides, tour operators, and travel consultants who know all the finest Hurghada Diving Sites.
The history of anything in the universe starts small, like Hurghada, which was once a small fishing village, but since 1980, it has been transformed into one of the most beautiful and popular coastal resorts on the Red Sea. Hurghada is a heavenly dream that has become a reality that offering the most magical tropical experience. This mesmerizing place is known for its amazing water sports and aquatic activities through incredible facilities such as windsurfers, kite surfers, yachtsmen, scuba divers, and snorkelers, plus the chance to enjoy a magical night in Hurghada. Use your time wisely and witness the true allure and the Red Sea.
Enjoy the Top Hurghada Diving Centers
Hurghada is a world-renowned diving haven, offering unparalleled access to the Red Sea’s crystalline waters, vibrant coral ecosystems, magical beaches of Hurghada, and an incredible diversity of marine species. This guide explores this premier diving destination, offering unique encounters for both novice and expert divers, making this Egyptian coastal city a dream destination for underwater exploration. Through this article, here are the best Hurghada diving sites in 2025:
1. The Incredible Son Dijou Diving Center In Hurghada
The Son Dijou Diving Center is celebrated for its dedication to crafting memorable diving experiences, catering to all ages and experience levels. Families, friends, and solo divers alike can delve into the Red Sea’s natural beauty, encountering multicolored coral reefs and abundant marine life, including angelfish, parrotfish, and lionfish. Led by seasoned instructors, Son Dijou offers tailored programs, ensuring each diver is prepared and comfortable. Additionally, they provide equipment rentals and certifications, making it a one-stop location for those eager to discover the underwater treasures of Hurghada.
2. The Magical Diving Site of Marsa Abu Galawa (Carless Reef)
Marsa Abu Galawa, also called Carless Reef, is located about 14 kilometers northeast of Hurghada and boasts some of the Red Sea’s most iconic marine life. The reef features two distinctive pinnacles at a 12-meter depth, where divers can often spot giant moray eels gliding gracefully and white-tip reef sharks patrolling the waters. Adding to its allure is a lagoon filled with schools of butterflyfish, angelfish, and anemonefish, creating a kaleidoscopic underwater display. This site’s rich biodiversity makes it ideal for underwater photography, allowing divers to capture the Red Sea’s breathtaking ecosystem up close.
3. The Magnificent Diving Site of Fanadir (El Fanadeer)
Fanadir is among Hurghada’s largest coral reefs and has been a marine-protected area since 2006, preserving its underwater beauty. It caters to both beginners and advanced divers, featuring shallow and deep sections filled with hard and soft corals, sponges, and vibrant fish populations. Dolphins are frequently seen in the area, as well as barracuda, rays, and large schools of jacks and snappers. This site offers divers endless opportunities to observe Hurghada’s marine diversity and experience the natural beauty of an untouched coral reef system.
4. The Mesmerizing Diving Site of El Fanus (Dolphin Reef)
Known as Dolphin Reef, El Fanus offers the rare opportunity to dive alongside playful bottlenose dolphins and majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat. The shallow, submerged reef system creates an ideal setting for snorkelers and divers alike, with dolphins often seen performing graceful acrobatics. Beyond the dolphins, the reef hosts vibrant corals and various fish species, offering a complete diving experience filled with both beauty and excitement. The calm, shallow waters make El Fanus a family-friendly dive site, providing a safe and thrilling underwater adventure.
5. The Epic Diving Site of Hurghada El Giftun
A designated marine protectorate since 1986, Giftun Island is one of the Red Sea’s most celebrated spots for diving and snorkeling. Its turquoise waters and thriving coral gardens offer a captivating environment for aquatic exploration, with restricted boat access ensuring the preservation of its pristine ecosystem. Divers at Giftun Island can expect encounters with colorful parrotfish, clownfish, and anemones nestled in intricate coral formations. The island also features sandy beaches where divers can relax between sessions, making it a holistic destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
6. The Heavenly Diving Center of Hurghada Turtle Bay
Located at the northern tip of Giftun Island, Turtle Bay is aptly named for its frequent sightings of sea turtles gliding through calm, clear waters. The site’s serene lagoons and coral gardens provide excellent visibility, allowing divers to fully appreciate the bay’s underwater splendor. Beyond turtles, divers will encounter vibrant marine life such as angelfish, clownfish, and even eagle rays. Turtle Bay’s mix of adventure and relaxation makes it an ideal spot for divers, with nearby golf courses adding another layer of leisure to this already picturesque locale.
7. The Amazing Diving Center of Hurghada Oberoi House Reef
The Oberoi House Reef, located conveniently near the luxurious Oberoi Hotel, is a vibrant ecosystem filled with fascinating marine life. Turtles, eagle rays, lionfish, trumpetfish, and octopuses are commonly spotted, making this reef a rich source of discovery. Its close proximity to the shore provides divers with easy access, and it’s a fantastic site for underwater photography. The reef is especially popular among novice divers due to its shallow depths and clear visibility, offering a perfect blend of accessibility and beauty for all levels.
8. The Blessed Diving Center of Hurghada Center El Aruk
El Aruk, located north of Gota Abu Ramada, encompasses three dive sites: Aruk Diana, Aruk Giftun, and Aruk Gigi, each offering a distinctive dive experience. These sites are known for their unique coral formations, with Aruk Gigi often regarded as Hurghada’s finest. The coral gardens are teeming with butterflyfish, clownfish, and anemones, providing a lively underwater scene. Each site presents a unique landscape, from sandy slopes to vibrant coral pinnacles, ensuring divers enjoy a varied and unforgettable experience at each visit.
9. The Beautiful Hurghada Center of Gota Abu Ramada (The Aquarium)
Gota Abu Ramada is a haven for marine life enthusiasts, nicknamed “The Aquarium” for its diverse and abundant fish population. It’s located about an hour from Hurghada and offers some of the region’s calmest waters. The area’s large schools of yellowtail fish, as well as striking coral formations, make it a favorite among underwater photographers. Divers can explore gullies, grottoes, and three prominent pinnacles that are home to an array of marine species, creating an underwater spectacle that lives up to its nickname.
10. The Great Hurghads Center of Susana Wreck
The Susana Wreck lies at a depth of 15 meters and offers a unique opportunity for divers to explore a shipwreck near the coast of Hurghada. This site is home to an array of marine species that thrive around the wreck, creating a dynamic environment filled with hard corals, tropical fish, and anemones. The site is accessible by boat, making it an exciting addition to any diving itinerary and providing an eerie yet fascinating glimpse into the underwater remnants of the past.
11. The Wonderful Diving Center of Hurghada Gota Abu Makadi
Gota Abu Makadi, situated just off Makadi Bay, offers a range of depths from 6 to 30 meters, catering to divers of all skill levels. The coral gardens and diverse marine life make this site particularly attractive to photographers and beginners eager to experience Hurghada’s natural beauty. The shallow sections allow snorkelers and new divers to explore the reef’s vibrant marine environment, while deeper areas reveal unique species such as grouper, lionfish, and wrasse.
Best 8 Resorts to Dive in Hurghada
Hurghada has been a favorite spot of scuba divers for the better part of half a century, because of its easy accessibility to the Red Sea, which runs along the entirety of Egypt’s eastern coastline. Here are eight of the best resorts to visit for enjoying scuba diving in Hurghada.
1. The Magical Soma Bay Resort
A true oasis, Soma Bay Resort is known for its crystal-clear waters, which provide an inviting environment for both seasoned divers and beginners. The resort houses Caribbean World Soma Bay, which features a private beach, multiple swimming pools, and a lively water park, ideal for family-friendly fun. Nearby, the Sheraton Soma Bay Resort offers an elegant experience with scenic golf courses, spacious rooms, and serene beach views. After a day of diving, unwind in style with the resort’s exceptional dining options and spa facilities, perfect for relaxing those tired muscles.
2. The Majestic Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh Resort
Set in the picturesque Sahl Hasheesh Bay, Baron Palace exudes luxury and tranquility, making it a sought-after destination for divers and vacationers alike. Its sprawling sandy beaches, luxurious pools, and breathtaking sunrise and sunset views create an opulent ambiance. The resort’s premium location provides easy access to top dive sites, offering everything from coral gardens to vibrant reefs teeming with colorful marine life. With sophisticated rooms and fine dining options, Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh is perfect for divers seeking a serene, luxurious base.
3. The Incredible Seagull Beach Resort
Conveniently located on Hurghada’s Red Sea coast, Seagull Beach Resort offers direct beach access, giving divers easy reach to Hurghada’s popular dive sites. The resort’s well-appointed rooms feature private balconies with sweeping sea views, and its tropical gardens, waterfall pools, and spacious rooms provide an oasis of comfort. The relaxed atmosphere of Seagull Beach Resort makes it an ideal choice for those looking to dive by day and unwind in luxury by night. On-site restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, catering to all tastes, and the resort’s family-friendly ambiance ensures a memorable stay for everyone.
4. The Divine Tropitel Sahl Hasheesh Resort
This sophisticated resort, positioned along the pristine shores of the Red Sea, offers divers direct access to both sandy beaches and a private jetty. Tropitel Sahl Hasheesh combines elegance with adventure, featuring luxurious rooms, a diverse range of water sports, and exclusive diving experiences. Guests can enjoy the resort’s private snorkeling reef, which promises captivating encounters with marine life, or take a leisurely dive to explore Hurghada’s renowned underwater sites. With its impressive amenities and peaceful surroundings, Tropitel Sahl Hasheesh provides a complete Red Sea experience for divers and families alike.
5. The Magnificent Giftun Azur Resort
Surrounded by palm trees and adorned with outdoor pools, Giftun Azur Resort offers a tropical paradise for diving enthusiasts. Its modern, elegantly decorated rooms come with private sea or garden views, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for couples and families. Known for its warm, welcoming ambiance, Giftun Azur is particularly popular with honeymooners and is well-suited for guests looking for tranquility mixed with adventure. The resort’s location allows for easy access to some of the area’s best snorkeling and diving spots, making it an ideal choice for guests eager to explore the underwater world.
6. The Splendid Sunrise Holidays Resort
An adults-only resort, Sunrise Holidays offers a refined retreat where divers can focus on their underwater adventures while enjoying luxurious amenities onshore. Situated by a private beach with a lagoon and an island, the resort offers exclusive access to a world-class diving center, along with a health club and an infinity pool with panoramic views of the Red Sea. Rooms at Sunrise Holidays are well-equipped with modern amenities and provide a calming ambiance, ideal for relaxation after a day spent exploring the reefs. Its quiet, sophisticated environment caters to adults seeking a serene and exclusive diving escape.
7. The Astonishing Cleopatra Luxury Resort
Located along the Red Sea coast, Cleopatra Luxury Resort is a top choice for divers who want to combine underwater adventures with a wealth of on-site activities. With multiple swimming pools, direct access to the beach, and a diverse selection of restaurants, the resort caters to both excitement and relaxation. Cleopatra Luxury Resort also boasts a diving center that arranges excursions to Hurghada’s prime underwater sites, perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. The resort’s vibrant atmosphere, paired with its range of facilities, offers a comprehensive Red Sea experience ideal for families and groups.
8. The Fantastic Sunrise Royal Makadi Resort
Sunrise Royal Makadi Resort is a family-friendly haven on the Red Sea, boasting its own private beach and an impressive house reef that offers both diving and snorkeling opportunities. Guests can witness colorful fish darting through the shallow waters, and lucky divers may even encounter a resident turtle or two. The resort is also known for its extensive amenities, including spacious rooms, a variety of dining options, and a large pool area that’s perfect for unwinding. Its prime location, excellent service, and vibrant reef make Sunrise Royal Makadi Resort a popular choice for divers and snorkelers alike.