Let’s just make something clear from the start – Hurghada is among the best snorkeling places found anywhere in the world! In total contrast to its barren and lifeless landscape, with no plants, and just sand, once you enter the underwater world, you’re greeted with a spectacular feast of fluorescent colour and fish of all kinds.
With visibility stretching to eternity and beyond, you’ll see more species of fish together in a single place, than anywhere else on Earth. This is a snorkeler’s paradise! If you have never snorkeled before, there is no better place to learn than Hurghada. There are virtually tons of breathtaking snorkeling places in Hurghada, on top of numerous other attractions.
When I visited Hurghada I was amazed by the incredible reefs, crystal clear water and the numerous wrecks waiting to be explored. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about snorkeling at the Red Sea in Hurghada.
1. What to expect to see when snorkeling in Hurghada
The reefs are virtually full of mysterious holes and hollows, vertical walls and dramatic drop-offs, with every square inch completely covered with corals, sponges and anemones of every kind and colour imaginable, from the softest of pastels to the brightest of reds, orange and yellows.
Hovering above the reefs, you’ll find species ranging from the dainty sea goldies, barely a few inches long, to the lethargic giant groupers, several hundred kilograms, and everything else in between.
Close to the reef, you’ll be mesmerized by the spectacular butterfly fish, little clown fish (yes Nemos), exquisite emperor angelfish, parrotfish, coral trout, moray eels, surgeon fish, brightly-coloured wrasse, including the giant unmistakably-shaped Napoleons and the strikingly beautiful, but deadly lionfish.
Another stunningly beautiful reef fish that abound here, is the various colourful triggerfish species, including the vivacious Red Sea Picasso Pusher, which looks like it could only have been painted by the famous artist himself. In fact, all triggerfish do! Snorkeling in Hurghada is a dream!
You may also spot many turtles munching away the corals in deep or shallow waters, and many species of rays, including the beautiful blue-spotted ray, honeycomb spotted eagle ray, and of course, the gigantic manta rays, which can attain a wingspan of over six metres.
Predatory fish you’ll likely encounter in deeper waters and along the drop-offs include, massive shoals of jacks (trevallies), including the giant trevally which can attain weights of over 60 kilograms, the speed kings, dorado, tuna, and Spanish mackerel, and of course the notorious barracuda.
There are two dominant species of barracuda, the smaller one, often seen “tubing” in massive shoals, and the larger species, which can reach 40 kilograms in weight. These are usually solitary characters, hovering motionless in mid-water with their big black eyes and protruding lower jaws displaying a row of dagger-like teeth, giving them a mean and menacing look. Contrary to belief, they hardly pose any danger to humans…if left alone.
Fishermen usually return them alive to the water, as in the tropics, they are known carriers of the deadly ciguatera poison. The barracuda get it by feeding on small reef fish, which in turn have eaten tiny aquatic organisms from the corals called dinoflagellates.
This toxin builds up in the food chain, entering the barracuda where it accumulates in its body. The larger the fish, the larger the concentration of the poison. There, now you know why you never see barracuda steaks on any restaurant menus.
Good to know – Keep in mind that Egypt is a Muslim country. There is a strict dress code for those who choose to visit public beaches. Read more about Egypt’s dress code here.
2. Are there sharks in Hurghada?
There has to be. With such an abundance of food available in the Red Sea, sharks form the last link in this amazing food chain. The most dominant species is the grey reef shark. The oceanic whitetip, silky shark, tiger, hammerhead, blackfin and the short fin mako are also fairly prolific in the Red Sea.
Although shark attacks are extremely rare in the Red Sea, Hurghada experienced two fatal attacks in 2022, in the space of three days, and only a few hundred metres apart. The official report blamed a female tiger shark for the attacks, although others suggest that a mako and oceanic whitetip were responsible.
Strangely enough, shark attacks appear to occur in spurts in the Red Sea. In 2010, four non-fatal attacks occurred at Sharm El Sheikh, within minutes of each other, while a fatal attack occurred just five days later in the near vicinity. It was not established whether, this was the work of one specific shark. A further three fatal attacks took place in 2015, 2018 and 2020 at Sharm.
But, coming into contact with sharks is an accepted reality for most divers, snorkelers and anyone venturing into the ocean. According to statistics, the most dangerous part of snorkeling in Hurghada, or anywhere else in the world for that matter, is driving to and from the airport.
Find out more about Hurghada – Click here for a complete list of incredible things to do in Hurghada!
3. Where to get your snorkeling gear?
All serious snorkelers prefer to bring and use their own gear, but there is no shortage of dive shops and dive centres scattered everywhere in Hurghada. However, they tend to be fairly pricy – goggles and a snorkel cost around 40 to 50 Euros. Most hotels insist that you use your own gear and many of them have their own shops and dive centres in their complexes.
Snorkeling tour operators do provide all diving gear. The fees for renting snorkeling gear are included in the price of the tour.
4. The best time to snorkel in Hurghada
Hurghada is an all year round snorkeling destination, with temperatures remaining above 20°C in mid-winter. The best time however, is from March through to November, when the sea is calmer and less windy. The summers can be hot, usually around 35°C, but can reach over 40°C sometimes.
Don’t forget to use plenty of sunscreen!
5. The Best Hotels for Snorkeling in Hurghada
Fort Arabesque
Just 20 minutes south of the Airport, Fort Arabesque is situated on the shores of picturesque Makadi Bay and is one of the best resorts for snorkeling in Hurghada. It offers access to its own house reefs, located a few metres from their private beach. The shallow reef is under a metre deep, making it the ideal spot for novice snorkelers, while dozens of other fish-filled reefs lie in water between 2 and 7 metres deep.
They have their own dive shop and offer trips to the numerous dive and snorkel sites in Hurghada, as well as all other activities both above and below the water.
I spent a few nights at this hotel and I loved the place. The rooms were spacious, clean and they had great amenities. Also, snorkeling here was a dream!
Sunrise Royal Makadi
Near Fort Arabesque, is the 5-Star Sunrise Royal, in close proximity to some of the best snorkeling spots in Hurghada, including the two house reefs mentioned above. Its lush gardens, with 8 pools and Water Park, makes it an ideal family holiday destination.
The IDive Diving Centre directly on the beach in front of the hotel, takes care of all snorkeling and diving excursions to the Hurghada hotspots. Here you can also book courses and equipment for novices and divers of all levels.
Serenity Beach Makadi
Serenity Beach Resort, a few kilometres to the south of Makadi Bay, is another world-class resort, popular with snorkelers and scuba divers. Their own diving centre offers scuba and snorkeling training courses in their pools and excursions to various reefs and wrecks.
You can also rent snorkeling gear and meet face to face some of the incredible Red Sea inhabitants in no time. The resort also offers all the amenities and activities you’d expect from a luxury resort, as well as spectacular views of the Red Sea. Serenity Beach is one of the top resort for best snorkeling in Hurghada!
Iberotel Makadi Beach
Located on Makadi Beach, Iberotel is amongst the best hotels for snorkeling in Hurghada, with a shallow coral reef teeming with life directly in front of it. It’s like having your own aquarium on your doorstep.
This high-end resort is superb, offering all the luxuries you’d ever need. The resort offers snorkeling and diving excursions to the various other diving sites.
Beach Albatross Resort
A little closer to downtown Hurghada and the airport, the Albatross Resort is another excellent choice for snorkelers and scuba divers. Located directly on the beach, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling or kayaking without having to travel anywhere.
This upmarket resort boasts of no less than 11 monstrous pools, 6 of which are heated (have no idea as to why), with slides and other water features, to keep small children entertained all day and all night. There is also a dive centre on site, to arrange excursions to the best snorkeling spots in Hurghada.
6. Best public places for snorkeling in Hurghada
There are many miles of coastline with sublime snorkeling conditions, without having to go through or stay in any fancy hotel resort. Below are just a few beautiful snorkeling places in Hurghada.
Good to know – Egypt is a Muslim country and there is a strict dress code for those who choose to go to public beaches. Read more about it here!
Giftun Island
Situated about 10 kilometres offshore, Giftun Island is a narrow stretch of sand not more than 6 kms long, almost surrounded by coral reefs hosting a staggering variety of marine life in the clearest waters you’ll ever see.
I recommend choosing Eden Island on Giftun, a small beach resort that will steal your heart. It was by far my favorite place in Hurghada!
There are many boat operators offering day trips to Giftun Island that include a stop for snorkeling and full-day access to a beautiful beach resort. You can book your tour in advance here!
Turtle Bay
This underwater Garden of Eden is situated off the northern tip of the larger Giftun Island and is easily reached by one of the many day-trips from Hurghada. You can easily spend the day exploring the vast lagoon in water up to 12 metres deep, with acres of shallower reefs alongside it, holding a remarkable variety of fish, corals, octopus, moray eels, and blue-spotted stingrays and of course, turtles.
Abu Ramada Island
This island, or rather, sandbank is located about 2 kms southeast of the larger Giftun Island and can also be reached by boat from Hurghada. The south tip is the most spectacular section, with steep drop-offs and coral coated pinnacles dropping about 20 metres to the white sandy floor.
At Abu Ramada Island you’ll see open water species like barracuda, tuna, jacks, and Napoleon Wrasse, while hovering on the reef, groupers, coral trout and hundreds of other colourful reef fish, will make you think you’re snorkeling in an aquarium.
Shadwan Island
At about 35 kilometres offshore is one of the best places for snorkeling in Hurghada. If you’re cruising on a yacht or you’re on a private boat tour, don’t you dare miss snorkeling or scuba diving around Shadwan Island.
This barren outcrop barely 15 x 3 kilometres has absolutely nothing of interest on it, except a lighthouse on the southern tip, but is surrounded by spectacular coral reefs bursting with life, with several wrecks clustered in 30 metres of water.
Currents in this section tend to run from south to north, so it’s best to jump in upstream and drift north with the current. Shadwan Island could easily be one of the best diving sites in the world.
Utopia Bay (Island)
Situated south of Hurghada near Soma Bay, a day cruise boat from the port of Safaga, will get you to Utopia Island for the snorkeling experience of a lifetime. This snorkeling trip is one of the most popular day excursions in the Red Sea.
Along the way, you may get a chance to catch a fish for the on-board cook to prepare for your lunch, before you arrive to your underwater Utopia. The boat will moor off the beautiful and somehow unspoilt island, while you snorkel in crystal clear turquoise water over coral reefs teeming with life.
All in all, a most memorable day in one of the most picturesque Hurghada snorkeling places.
7. Best snorkeling tours in Hurghada
Beeing a snorkeling and diving Mecca, Hurghada has dozens of tour operators offering a wide range of underwater activities and tours to cater for every taste. From multi-day trips, to half-day excursions, there’s something for everyone.
These operators take out the stress of choosing where to go, also picking you up from your hotel and bringing you back to your door. Their knowledgeable skippers take you to amazing locations.
Below are just a few snorkeling trips in Hurghada that will not disappoint you.
Snorkel with Dolphins
For an unforgettable day exploring the underwater wonderland of the Red Sea while meeting some friendly dolphins, choose this tour. The tour also includes various watersports and a sumptuous meal served on the deck. They provide snacks, drinks and fresh water showers as well as snorkeling gear.
The skippers have updated information about the sea conditions on the various reefs and dolphins’ whereabouts, increasing your chances of intercepting a pod considerably.
For more info or bookings, click here.
Giftun Island Orange Bay Snorkeling Cruise
Your day begins when you are picked up from your hotel and taken to the jetty from where you embark on a 10 kilometre sail to Orange Bay on Giftun Island. Along the trip you’ll be making two stops to snorkel and after that you’ll have breakfast served on deck.
You’ll have two free hours on the island to snorkel to your heart’s content or relax on the soft white beaches and enjoy a buffet lunch, before heading back to the mainland and dropped off at your hotel. A stunning, stunning way to spend a day.
For more info or bookings, click here.
Giftun Islands Full-Day Snorkeling Tour
This tour allows you to spend the entire day snorkeling on the various coral reefs around the Giftun Islands, swimming in tranquil crystal blue waters, and relaxing on the soft white sandy shoreline. The tour includes a visit to the famed Orange Beach with breakfast, lunch and drinks thrown in throughout the trip.
Also included in the package, is transport to and from your hotel, use of snorkel gear, and your own snorkeling instructor. The Giftun Islands are a mere hour or so from the mainland and are among some of the best snorkeling spots in Hurgahada.
For more info and bookings, click here.
8. Where to stay in Hurghada
I spend a few incredible days at Fort Arabesque, and I recommend it with all my heart. I also had the chance to visit Rixos Premium, and let me tell you – this resort is truly impressive and luxurious.
If you’re looking for the best value-for-money stays in Hurghada, here’s a list of amazing options to choose from.
- Budget – Panorama Bungalows – beautiful resort with clean rooms and good amenities, friendly staff, close to Hurghada city
- Mid-Range – Fort Arabesque – excellent for snorkeling, spacious and clean rooms, all-inclusive option, great food, beautiful pools
- Luxury – Rixos Premium – incredible resort with multiple pools and restaurants, luxurious rooms, excellent amenities
Final Thoughts
What once was a sleepy sea port and fishing village, is now a world class resort town, drawing thousands of sea loving visitors every year. The crystal waters of the Red Sea along with its pristine reefs teeming with over 2000 different species of fish and colourful sea bed fauna, are a prime destination for snorkelers, scuba divers, fishermen, underwater photographers and all lovers of the ocean.
Hurghada is a must-see destination while in Egypt. I spent an entire week exploring it and just can’t wait to go back! Hurghada ranks amongst the best snorkeling locations anywhere on the planet.
Egypt is not just about mummies, pyramids and sand, it’s also about marine life and nature. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section below. May the travel bug bite you!
Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.
She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here.
To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!