Marsa Alam Travel Guide: Turtles, Dugongs and the Red Sea's Best Reefs

Three to four hours' drive south of Hurghada, Marsa Alam is the Red Sea at its wildest and most beautiful. Long stretches of desert coastline, mountains rising behind the beaches and coral reefs right off the shore make it a favourite of divers, snorkellers and anyone looking for a quieter Egyptian holiday.

In the water

1. Snorkel with turtles at Abu Dabbab

The sandy bay of Abu Dabbab is famous for the green turtles that graze on its seagrass meadows. Snorkel quietly, keep your distance and never touch or chase them. If you're very lucky, you might also spot a dugong.

2. Look for dugongs at Marsa Mubarak

This sheltered bay north of Marsa Alam is another place where turtles feed – and occasionally dugongs. Early morning, before the boats and crowds arrive, is the best time.

3. Swim with dolphins at Samadai Reef

Samadai, known as "Dolphin House", is a horseshoe-shaped reef where spinner dolphins rest. Visits are regulated, with zones closed to swimmers to protect the dolphins – go with a licensed boat operator and follow the guides' instructions.

4. Dive Elphinstone Reef

One of the Red Sea's most famous dive sites, Elphinstone is a long offshore reef with steep coral walls and a chance of oceanic whitetip sharks. Strong currents make it best for experienced divers.

5. Island-hop at Hamata

Far south, the Qulan islands off Hamata have powder-white beaches, mangroves and turquoise lagoons that feel like the Maldives. Boat trips include snorkelling stops on the reefs.

6. Relax on Sharm El Luli

Inside Wadi El Gemal National Park, this lagoon of soft white sand and shallow turquoise water is one of the most beautiful beaches in Egypt.

On land

7. Explore Wadi El Gemal National Park

The "Valley of the Camels" protects desert valleys, mangroves and wildlife, including gazelles. Join a jeep safari to visit Bedouin communities and ancient emerald-mine sites.

8. Stargaze in the desert

With almost no light pollution, the desert behind Marsa Alam is perfect for stargazing. Evening trips include dinner at a Bedouin camp and a guided tour of the night sky.

9. Stroll Port Ghalib marina

North of Marsa Alam, Port Ghalib has a marina promenade with cafés and restaurants – a pleasant change of scene for an evening out.

10. Visit El Quseir old town

The historic port of El Quseir, about an hour and a half north, has an Ottoman fortress, old merchant houses and a quiet seafront – a glimpse of the Red Sea coast before the resorts.

Practical tips

• Choose your hotel for its house reef – many Marsa Alam hotels have excellent coral right off their jetty.
• Pack reef shoes, a long-sleeved rash vest and reef-safe sunscreen.
• Book your transfer in advance: the airport is quiet, and hotels are spread along more than 100 km of coast.

Exploring more of the coast? Compare Marsa Alam with Hurghada and El Gouna in our guide to Red Sea family holidays, and plan the rest of your trip with the 15 best places to visit in Egypt.