best time to visit egypt for diving

The best time to go to Egypt to avoid the heat and crowds

Mar 12, 2024 • 4 min read

There's always something incredible to see or do in Egypt, no matter which month you visit © Lizavetta / Shutterstock

Tourism in Egypt is bound by the seasons. While only the hardiest want to troop through temples during the scorching heat of July and August, Egypt’s mild winter brings in flocks of visitors to flop on the beaches, gawk at Giza’s pyramids and cruise the Nile.

A happy medium can be reached by traveling during the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring when the press of fellow travelers isn’t as intense at major sites and daytime temperatures hover at manageable levels.

Read on for the best time to visit whether you're heading to Egypt to sightsee, go scuba diving or cruise the Nile. 

March to May plus September are the best for avoiding crowds

Traveling during shoulder season often brings the best of both worlds. Major monuments aren’t as packed and there’s usually an accommodation bargain or two to be had.

Daytime temperatures can still be very hot in May and September so shoulder season travelers sensitive to heat (and families traveling with little ones) would do well to aim for March, April or October instead.

The weather is generally bearable so you can spend an entire day outside from about late-September into October. This is really Egypt’s best travel season.  It's also a good time for diving. The light along the Nile is at its most soft and clear – great for photography in Luxor and Aswan – while in the Western Desert oases, the date harvest is in full swing.

The sand-loaded khamsin wind begins blowing in March, and the resulting sandstorms can disrupt travel and occasional ground flights; prevent feluccas from sailing in Aswan; and make sightseeing impossible due to low visibility. Add an extra day or two into your itinerary in case plans go awry.

In April, the khamsin can still be an issue, but when it isn’t blowing this is a near-perfect month for Egypt travels. The warmer evenings make it particularly good for overnight felucca trips from Aswan and camping in the White Desert.

May is usually a good time for package-deals to resorts like Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, El Gouna and Marsa Alam. 

June through August is the best time to go diving in Egypt 

The weather switches to sweltering as average high temperature hit 108°F (42°C). Luxor’s temples and tombs open at 6am so it’s still possible to beat the heat by being an early bird. 

Expect to be greeted with an ironic “Welcome to Alaska!” in Aswan. Unless you’re made of extremely tough stuff, it’s best to skip the Western Desert.

Summer is when serious divers head to Sharm el-Sheikh and the Red Sea coast. They’re willing to take the baking heat on land in return for the payoff of calm, warm sea conditions and fantastic underwater visibility. Although Egypt can be dived year-round.

Just to flip the low season rule, summer is the peak domestic-holiday period along the Mediterranean coast as half of Cairo decamps to the beach. Yes, it’s still boiling in Alexandria but at least there’s a breeze.

October to February is best for milder weather in Egypt

In the Northern European winter, many travelers (and tour groups) escape the gray skies back home to bask on the beaches of Sharm el-Sheikh and the Red Sea coast  this time of year.

You'll find decent weather across most of the country, although in Cairo and Alexandria  be prepared for rain. If you’re here to delve into Luxor’s glut of Pharaonic riches, winter brings blue skies and pleasant daytime temperatures to make long days of rambling around ancient ruins a pleasure rather than an endurance test.

This is also the most popular season to head into the Sinai or the Western Desert for outdoor adventures (from hiking to camel trekking), or to bask in the winter sun between learning to dive in South Sinai and along the Red Sea coast . Divers should note that sea conditions can get choppy on boat dives around December, but shore dives are generally fine.

In Cairo , the cooler weather makes November a good bet for long strolls to discover the capital’s madrassas and mosques. Be aware, it will get colder than you probably expect (especially else after dark) so you also need to pack something warm. Finally, expect high accommodation prices during the winter peak season, especially around Christmas and New Year. 

Can I travel in Egypt during Ramadan?

The dates for Ramadan (the month when Muslims fast during daylight hours) change annually as the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar year.

If you’re traveling during Ramadan, be aware that tourist sites, along with most shops and services, operate shorter hours and many non-tourist orientated restaurants and cafes only open after sunset. 

In Egypt, non-Muslims are not expected to observe the fast but visitors should politely show respect for fasters by being discreet – don’t blatantly swig from your water bottle or munch snacks on the street.

This article was first published Aug 3, 2021 and updated Mar 12, 2024.

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DIVE Magazine

Scuba Diving Luxury Travel Magazine

Ten of the best places to scuba dive in Egypt

2 December 2021 12 minutes

By Mark 'Crowley' Russell

Egypt has been a favourite of scuba divers for the better part of half a century thanks to its proximity to the Red Sea, which runs along the entirety of Egypt’s eastern coastline. First brought to the world’s attention by Hans and Lotte Haas’ award-winning black-and-white documentary  Adventures in the Red Sea , and later popularised by Jacques-Yves Cousteau’s 1956 full-colour documentary  The Silent World , the Egyptian Red Sea is now regarded as one of the best scuba diving destinations on the planet.

The clear blue waters of the Red Sea, a product of increased salinity due to high evaporation over the desert and very little in the way of rainfall, hosts 1,200 species of fish and more than 200 species of coral. The narrow straits of Bab El Mandab far to the south, which connects the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean, allows much in the way of species crossover, yet almost 20 per cent of the Red Sea’s residents are endemic.

Much of Egypt’s dive tourism over the years has centred around large resorts such as Hurghada on the mainland and Sharm El Sheikh, situated on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, but there are plenty of options for dive tourists, and many people forget that Egypt’s northern coastline lies along the shores of the Mediterranean. Here are ten of the best places to scuba dive in Egypt

The Brothers Islands

St john’s/zabargad and the deep south, sharm el sheikh, need to know.

With most of the diving focused around Egypt’s Red Sea resorts, it’s easy to forget that the northern coastline lies along the shores of the Mediterranean, and scuba diving in Alexandria affords visitors to the chance to dive into Egypt’s historical past. From the remains of Cleopatra’s palace around the sunken island of Antirhodos and the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. to more modern historical artefacts from the Napoleonic Battle of the Nile and the Second World War.

Visitors can also dive the clear waters of the Siwa Oasis, a three-hour safari through the desert in which old Roman ruins are located. This is not a dive spot for bright coral and fishes – there’s little of either, the water is often murky and the temperatures much cooler, but for scuba diving history buffs looking for a new adventure, the ancient city of Alexandria and its rich history may well be something worth dipping your toes into.

How to get there:  direct flights to Alexandria are available from the likes of Turkey, Dubai and Greece but there are few other options from most of Europe. A better alternative is to fly into Cairo and take the 2.5-hour bus ride to Alexandria

Big Brother and Little Brother are two island reefs approximately 70km distant from the port town of El Quseir, and only accessible by liveaboard. They are some of the best dive sites in the Red Sea as their distance and the surrounding currents make the reefs suitable for advanced divers only. However, for those prepared to brave the ever-changing conditions, the results are spectacular, especially for lovers of big fish, as sharks and other large pelagics are regularly spotted at various times of the year.

Big Brother is around 400m in length with deep-sided walls, all manner of hard and soft corals are in abundance, and wreck enthusiasts will love the Numidia, sunk in 1901 and the Aida, sunk in 1956.

Little Brother, around 500m from its partner, is often home to schooling hammerheads, thresher sharks and oceanic whitetips, along with an equally spectacular array of coral formations.

How to get there:  The brothers form part of a range of different liveaboard itineraries, with some spending more time around the reefs than others, some departing from Hurghada and others from Port Ghalib (Marsa Alam). Direct flights are possible to both locations (Hurghada more so than Marsa Alam), but the liveaboard operators will usually arrange all flights and transfers based around the itinerary.

Dahab is one of Egypt’s best-loved destinations, a wonderful mixture of great scuba diving in a chilled and laid-back atmosphere, popular with the backpacking community and a relaxed contrast to the overwhelmingly touristy Sharm El Sheikh, 80km to the south. Almost all of the diving is easily accessible from the shore, including the extremely popular Blue Hole, best dived from El Bells, a narrow (but easy) entry to the exterior wall, and the Canyon, a deep rock crevice in a gently-sloping reef interspersed with small coral bommies and huge numbers of fish.

Big stuff passes by only infrequently but there’s plenty to see, and chilling in the Bedouin cafés is a relaxing way to spend your surface interval. The central area of Masbat is full of beach-front bars and restaurants (in a good way) and comfortable budget accommodations, with bigger hotels just south in Mashraba. Day trips to visit Tiran, Ras Mohamed and the Thistlegorm are available, if you don’t mind an early start.

How to get there:  Fly into Sharm and take an inexpensive taxi to Dahab. The ride is approximately 1.5 hours through some magnificent desert scenery, your accommodation or dive centre will be happy to arrange transfers.

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El Gouna is a privately-developed, purpose-built resort, located approximately 25km north of Hurghada. There’s very little in the way of an ‘authentic’ Egypt here, but it has been very well designed with a range of boutique hotels, spas and private villas available for rent. The resort is popular for kitesurfing and boasts an 18-hole golf course, all set in an environment that is a lot more tranquil than the hustle and bustle of Hurghada.

Visitors can enjoy the freedom to walk around without constantly being hassled to buy souvenirs, and the nightlife is a lot more subdued than some of the more garish elements of Sharm. The waterfront at Abu Tig is a wonderful place to spend an evening, with some excellent restaurants. El Gouna is a favourite amongst wreck divers for its proximity to Sha’ab Abu Nuhas, where lie the famous wrecks of the Chisola K, Carnatic and Giannis D, among others. Sha’ab El Erg and Dolphin House, less frequently visited by the day boats from Hurghada, is home to a large pod of dolphins and encounters are common.

How to get there:  Direct flights to Hurghada are available from most European countries, and transfers to El Gouna will be arranged by your hotel or accommodation

El Quseir is an ancient town of some 5,000 years, once one of the most important ports in Egypt due to its proximity to the Nile. Lying approximately halfway between Hurghada to the north and Marsa Alam to the south, El Quseir has remained relatively unaffected by the huge growth in tourism that formed the resorts of Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. Much of the diving is from shore, with plenty of shallow locations for entry-level divers and training, but divers with certification beyond entry-level will find more to enjoy.

Large pelagics are only occasional visitors, but the unspoilt and vibrant reefs are filled with all of the popular Red Sea denizens, from the ubiquitous lionfish and blue-spotted ribbontail rays to sea snakes and guitarfish. Divers wanting to find bigger stuff can take day boats to the legendary Elphinstone reef, famous for frequent encounters with oceanic whitetips in the latter half of the year, or explore the haunting wreck of the Salem Express. Visits to see the 4,000-year-old rock inscriptions at Wadi Hammamat, or the ruins of the ancient port of Myos Hormos round out a trip to the historical destination.

How to get there:  Direct flights to either Hurghada or Marsa Alam. There are fewer flights to Marsa Alam, but as the airport is around 20km north of the city, transfer times to El Quseir are reduced to approximately one hour. Flights to Hurghada are far more frequent, with a transfer time of around 1 hour 45 minutes.

Once a small fishing village, since regular tourism began in the 1980s, Hurghada has grown to be the largest resort on the Egyptian mainland and is now considered to be one of the best locations for scuba diving in Egypt. It is an exceedingly good location for entry-level diving and dive courses, with many of the reefs located in easily accessible, shallow, sheltered environments, yet teeming with the Red Sea’s rich marine life. More advanced divers will feel equally at home, with deeper sites and stronger currents.

The Giftun islands are popular with divers of all abilities, and, like El Gouna just a short drive to the north, the proximity of Sha’ab Abu Nuhas and its wrecks is popular with wreck divers from beginner level to advanced tech. Day trips to the SS Thiistlegorm are widely available, as are trips to the much deeper Rosalie Moller which, unlike Thistlegorm, is rarely visited from Sharm. Hurghada is also the foremost departure point for Red Sea liveaboards, with a range of itineraries to almost all of the Red Sea’s reefs and wrecks available.

How to get there : Regular, direct flights to Hurghada are available year-round from most of Europe. Alternative routes involve flying to Cairo and catching an internal flight to Hurghada.

Marsa Alam is home to some excellent Red Sea diving in a location that is growing steadily in popularity since the international airport opened in 2003, but is still relatively undeveloped when compared to the scale of Hurghada and Sharm. Daily diving is from shore or boat, so it’s a great option for people who don’t like spending all day at sea, but still want to visit some of the best dive spots in the area.

Marsa Abu Dabab is a particular highlight, famous for the resident population of dugong, one of the few places in the Red Sea that these animals can still be seen on a daily dive excursion. Marsa Alam is another great place to depart for day trips to Elphinstone to spot sharks, including the hammerheads that often school around the north plateau. Port Ghalib, around 60km to the north is the departure point for many liveaboards heading towards the deep south of the Red Sea, and Marsa Alam the airport of choice where possible.

How to get there : Direct flights to Marsa Alam are available but much more limited schedule than to Hurghada, which may be a better alternative for the schedule but means an extra 3 hours’ transfer by road. Flying via Cairo and taking an internal flight is also an option, but may add an extra day to the travel time. Package prices via tour operators are the best option.

Safaga is located around 70km south of Hurghada, a popular scuba diving destination famous for wall dives, beautiful coral gardens and the wreck of the Salem Express, a passenger ferry that sank in 1991 with the loss of an estimated 470 lives. The dives at Ras Abu Soma are considered to be some of the best in the region, along with the Tobia reefs, also known as the ‘Seven Pinnacles’. All sites easily available by boat, with some shore-based diving depending on whether or not you stay in Safaga itself or the nearby Soma Bay.

Perhaps the most famous dive site in the region, Panorama Reef, is home to spectacular 200m deep walls and perfect for drift diving, huge hard and soft coral formations and sightings of grey reef sharks, barracuda and schooling jacks. Abu Kafan provides a similar, even more, spectacular experience, and Middle Reef is home to some of the most luxurious coral gardens in the region. The Salem Express is considered to be one of the best wreck dives in the world, a well-respected but sombre dive, with the hull now encrusted in coral. Makadi Bay, around 30km to the north, is also an excellent choice, offering a half-way house between the dive sites of Hurghada and Safaga, but not as well known to tourists.

The most unspoiled and pristine reefs in the Egyptian Red Sea, the Deep South contains such famous names as St John’s, Zabargad and Rocky Island, all accessible only by liveaboard. St John’s ranges from fairly easy diving to much more dramatic drop-offs and currents, home to the richest coral gardens in the Red Sea, spectacular gorgonian forests and some of the most plentiful and biodiverse wildlife in the region including sharks and large schools of pelagic fish such as jacks and tuna.

Further out to sea, the strong currents around Rocky Island and its neighbour, Zabargad, allow experienced divers to experience some thrilling drift dives, with regular sightings of manta, hammerheads, Silvertips and dolphins. The long chain of reefs known as Fury Shoal, often a part of deep south liveaboard itineraries, has become accessible by day boats thanks to new developments in the town of Hamata, providing access to some of these pristine reefs without the need for a liveaboard, albeit a long (180km) trek south by road from Marsa Alam.

How to get there:  Departure to the deep south is most often from Port Ghalib, with the closest airport being Marsa Alam. As with other destinations, it’s often easier to fly to Hurghada and make the three-hour road trip to Port Ghalib, but liveaboard operators generally fulfil the travel requirements.

Sharm El Sheikh is, for many people, considered to be the best place in Egypt for scuba diving, and has probably contributed more to the European dive business than any other resort in the world. Situated at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, the deep gulf of Aqaba, shallow Gulf of Suez and the Red Sea proper all come together at Shark and Yolanda reef, the region’s most famous and most frequently dived hotspot in the national park of Ras Mohamed.

Sharm has an excellent mixture of easy to challenging dives, suitable for both entry-level training, and fast drifts along the island reefs in the Straits of Tiran. Although some shore diving is available, most diving is conducted by boat in order to explore the best of the reefs and one of the world’s most famous wrecks, the SS Thistlegorm. Following a drop in tourism during 2020-2022, the reefs have rebounded with large schools of fish returning to the area, and pelagic species such as whale sharks and manta rays spotted on a regular basis.

How to get there:  As one of the most popular destinations in the region, regular direct flights to Sharm are available from multiple airports in most European countries.

When to go:

Diving in Egypt is year-round, but the best time of year to visit is from late July to early December, depending on location, with water temperature rising to over 30°C in August and September.

The water temperature drops significantly between January and April, dropping to around 18°C in Dahab, and even cooler on Alexandria’s Mediterranean shores (it even snows there from time to time), although the deep south remains a more tolerable 23°C on average.

Incessant winter wind makes long trousers and fleeces essential, especially if you are out at sea. High seas during these months can affect liveaboard itineraries.

Based on the current (September 2023) UK FCDO travel advice fpr Egypt , there are no travel advisories to any of the mainland resorts, nor the South Sinai resort (including the airport) of Sharm El Sheikh. Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba along the eastern coast of the Sinai Peninusla are also currently green-listed, although they were restricted to ‘all but essential’ travel for a period prior to the pandemic.

Visitors from other countries should check their own government’s travel advice, but it’s worth noting that a widely reported  November 2019 Gallup Poll  ranked Egypt the 8th safest country in the world. 

Visitors are required to purchase a visa to enter Egypt . These can be purchased online from the official  Visa2Egypt portal  or by submitting an application in person or by post to the  Egyptian Consulate in London . Visas-on-arrival can also purchased from kiosks in the airport, at the current (September 2023) fee of US $25.

Free entry stamps are available for visitors who plan to stay in Sharm, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba for up to 15 days, but for scuba divers visiting Sharm and Dahab, it is important to note that these do not cover Ras Mohamed National Park (including the wrecks of the Thistlegorm and Dunraven) – so divers visiting Sharm (and Dahab, just in case) are advised to purchase the full visa

There is a popular myth that travellers who have previously visited Israel and have an Israeli stamp in their passports will be denied access. The decision, technically, is up to the immigration officer on the day, but highly unlikely that European visitors will be denied entry.

Dive Centres

Almost all of the dive centres in Egypt are established, professional and safe, but there are a small number of operators who have tried to take advantage of regional uncertainty and offer cut-price diving to the unsuspecting traveller.

The  Chamber of Diving and Watersports  (CDWS) is Egypt’s governing body for scuba diving and all dive centres must be properly accredited for operation. The CDWS website has a  complete list of accredited dive centres  and a  blacklist for those that aren’t .

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Best Time to Dive in Egypt

Our Original Diving experts, made up of marine biologists, divemasters and lovers of all things underwater, know the best time to dive in Egypt. They can offer up their first-hand knowledge to ensure you know when to dive to enjoy the very best marine life, be it the tiny critters or bigger beasts of the ocean. We understand that annual leave is precious so we can ensure that you are in the right place at the right time to see the very best that the underwater world (and overwater, if you plan on surfacing at any point on your diving holiday) has to offer.

Below are our recommendations for the best months to dive in Egypt, as well as our suggestions for the best places to dive in each month of the year. Get in touch with our specialists for even more in-depth travel advice.

Where to go when

Our travel experts have highlighted our favourite places to visit each month

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Where to Dive in October

Where to Dive in November

Best Scuba Diving in December

Where to Dive in January

Where to Dive in February

Best scuba diving in March

Where to Dive in April

Best Scuba Diving in May

Best Scuba Diving in June

Best Scuba Diving in July

Best Scuba Diving in August

Where to Dive in September

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?

By Sophie Prideaux

Egypt is a destination that features on many travelers' bucket lists, and for good reason. But deciding on the best time to visit Egypt depends on your itinerary. Not only is it home to one of the world's most famous and intriguing archaeological sites , its year-round sunshine, world-class diving, and abundant culture continue to entice travelers the world over. Here's what you need to know when planning a trip to Egypt.

Editor's note: On October 7, 2023, violence erupted across Israel and Gaza in one of the worst conflicts the region has seen in decades, according to The New York Times . While travel experts advise postponing travel to Israel, no travel advisories have been issued against travel to surrounding countries in the Middle East, including Egypt , at press time.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller Middle East .

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

It depends. If you want to relax on the beaches of Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh , you’ll likely want sunshine and warm temperatures. The months either side of winter, October and November or March and April offer the best conditions, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures hovering around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, occasionally creeping into the low nineties.

If you’re planning to explore the busy streets of Cairo , you’re better off waiting for the cooler temperatures that December and January bring. Like much of the Middle East and North Africa, Egypt experiences warm and dry weather year round, although coastal areas do see rain and milder temperatures during winter.

When is the best time to visit Egypt to see the Pyramids?

The Pyramids of Giza are Egypt’s most-visited attraction, so naturally, many travelers plan their itinerary around a stop here. If you want to make the most of exploring the major archaeological sites at this complex, including the three pyramids of kings Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure and the Great Sphinx, it’s best to avoid the summer months, when temperatures regularly reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

The months between December and February are the coolest, with highs of around the high sixties. However, evenings can get chilly during these months, so pack accordingly. This is also a popular time for organized group tours , so attractions can get crowded. March and October are good options, still offering cooler temperatures, with fewer tourists around.

Evenings in Egypt can get chilly during the winter months, so pack accordingly.

When is the cheapest time to go to Egypt?

It’s always cheapest to travel during the off-season, which would fall between May and August across Egypt. These months bring about harsh desert summer temperatures, so if you are planning to travel in summer, you’re better off heading to coastal areas , which are slightly cooler. On the plus side, this is the best time to find deals on flights and hotels, when occupancy rates are lower. The next best option are the shoulder months, so look for deals in September or late April.

When is the busiest time to visit Egypt?

Peak tourist season across Egypt lasts from mid-October to mid-February, so expect major attractions to be busy during these months. However, Egypt is particularly busy around the traditional festive season in late December, as well in early January, when many in Egypt celebrate Orthodox Christmas on January 7.

When is the best time for diving in Egypt?

Egypt’s Red Sea coast has long been a haven for scuba divers , who flock to these waters to explore its thriving coral reefs which are home to more than 1,200 underwater species. For divers keen to spot the likes of hammerhead sharks and manta rays, June to September offers the best chance, when water temperatures are at their warmest.

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Scuba Diving in Egypt: Comprehensive Guide

Egypt, a land steeped in ancient history, offers more than just pyramids and pharaohs; it’s a treasure trove for underwater adventurers. As a scuba diving destination, Egypt presents a world of unparalleled aquatic beauty, especially in the mesmerizing waters of the Red Sea. This sea, known for its crystal-clear visibility and vibrant marine life, stands as a unique appeal to divers from around the globe. The underwater world reveals a kaleidoscope of colorful coral reefs, enchanting fish species, and historical wrecks, promising an unforgettable diving experience. The Red Sea isn’t just a body of water; it’s a gateway to exploring the secrets and wonders of the marine world, making Egypt a top destination for scuba enthusiasts.

  The Allure of the Red Sea

The Red Sea, a seawater inlet of the Indian Ocean, lies between Africa and Asia and is one of the most beautiful marine habitats in the world. Its geological and ecological significance is profound. Formed over millions of years, this sea is a rift valley that continues to widen, making it a unique spot for marine biodiversity.

This underwater paradise is home to some of the most unique marine life and coral ecosystems on the planet. The coral reefs of the Red Sea are renowned for their spectacular beauty and diversity. These vibrant ecosystems are visually stunning and crucial habitats for many marine species. Over 1,000 species of invertebrates and more than 200 species of soft and hard coral form the backbone of this underwater ecosystem, creating a living, breathing underwater city that’s bustling with activity.

The marine life here is equally fascinating, featuring a mix of Red Sea endemics – species found nowhere else in the world. The range of life is astounding from the majestic, slow-moving whale sharks to the tiny, vibrant nudibranchs. Schools of brightly colored fish swim amongst the coral, while larger species such as barracudas and hammerhead sharks patrol the deeper waters. This rich biodiversity not only makes the Red Sea a diver’s paradise but also a crucial area for marine research and conservation.

In the Red Sea, every dive is an opportunity to witness the delicate balance of marine life and to appreciate the natural beauty that thrives beneath the waves. It’s a world that continues to enchant and inspire, drawing divers back time and time again to explore its depths

  Top Dive Sites in Egypt

Egypt’s Red Sea coast is dotted with numerous dive sites, each offering its own unique underwater experiences. Here’s a glimpse into some of the most renowned diving destinations in Egypt.

Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh, a staple in the diving community, boasts an array of spectacular dive sites, with Ras Mohammed National Park being the crown jewel. This protected area is famed for its stunning coral walls and diverse marine life. Divers here are treated to a visual feast of vibrant coral gardens, teeming with schools of fish, and the occasional visit by aquatic species.

Another gem, Hurghada, offers an exciting mix of dive sites including several fascinating shipwrecks. The most famous among them is the SS Thistlegorm, a British World War II ship, now a haven for marine life and an underwater museum for divers. The wrecks and the area’s beautiful reefs make Hurghada a must-visit destination for divers.

Dahab is known for its relaxed vibe and incredible dive sites, with the Blue Hole being its most famous. This sinkhole is a challenging dive spot known for its deep blue waters and intriguing underwater arch. Alongside the Blue Hole, Dahab’s coastline is sprinkled with other dive sites, each offering its unique underwater landscapes and marine life.

 Marsa Alam

Further south, Marsa Alam is gaining popularity for its pristine dive sites. Elphinstone Reef, a region’s highlight, is a magnet for experienced divers. The dramatic walls of this offshore reef plunge into the deep blue, offering encounters with oceanic white-tip sharks and many other marine species.

Remote Dive Sites

Egypt’s Red Sea offers remote dive sites for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. These locations, while less accessible, reward divers with untouched coral reefs, abundant marine life, and the tranquility of having the underwater world almost to themselves.

4-Marine Life in the Red Sea

The Red Sea is a vibrant underwater mosaic teeming with a diverse array of marine life. Divers here are often astounded by the sheer variety of species they encounter.

In these waters, one can observe over 1,200 species of fish, of which around 10% are endemic to the Red Sea. This includes the colorful clownfish, majestic lionfish, and the elusive Red Sea angelfish. Larger species such as manta rays, dolphins, and even the occasional whale shark grace these waters, providing awe-inspiring encounters for divers.

The Red Sea is teeming with marine life, making it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Here are some of the most commonly seen types of fish, coral, and other marine creatures:

These colorful fish are famous for their symbiotic relationship with anemones.

With their brightly colored bodies and flowing fins, angelfish are some of the most beautiful fish in the sea

Butterflyfish

These delicate fish are often seen flitting around coral reefs

These large fish are named for their beak-like mouths, which they use to scrape algae from coral reefs.

Surgeonfish: These fish have a scalpel-like spine on their tails that they use to defend themselves.

 Hard coral

 These corals build the reefs that are home to many marine creatures.

These corals have no skeleton and can move with the currents

Stony coral

These corals are the most common type of coral in the Red Sea

Brain coral

This type of coral has a brain-like appearance.

This type of coral has a stinging sensation that can cause pain.

Other marine creatures

Sea turtles.

 These reptiles are often seen grazing on seagrass.

These playful mammals are often seen swimming in pods.

The Red Sea is home to a variety of shark species, including reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, and tiger sharks.

 These large, filter-feeding fish are often seen gliding through the water.

Nudibranchs

These colorful sea slugs are often seen on coral reefs.

Conservation efforts

 The Red Sea is a fragile ecosystem that is threatened by a number of human activities, including pollution, overfishing, and climate change. There are a number of conservation efforts underway to protect the marine life of the Red Sea, including:

 Establishing marine protected areas

These areas are off-limits to fishing and other activities that can harm marine life.

Enforcing fishing regulations

These regulations help to prevent overfishing and protect endangered species.

Educating the public

 This helps people to understand the importance of protecting the marine environment.

Supporting sustainable tourism

This helps to minimize the impact of tourism on the marine environment.

We can help protect the Red Sea’s marine life for future generations by working together.

Best Times to Dive in Egypt

With its warm waters and diverse marine life, Egypt offers exceptional diving opportunities throughout the year. However, the best time to dive in Egypt depends on your preferences and the specific diving experience you seek. Here’s a breakdown of the seasonal variations and their impact on diving conditions:

Spring (March-May)

• Water temperature: 21-24°C (70-75°F)
• Conditions: Pleasant water temperatures, good visibility, and calm seas make springtime an ideal time for diving. The abundance of marine life, including manta rays, turtles, and nudibranchs, adds to the allure of diving in Egypt during this season.

Summer (June-September)

• Water temperature: 25-30°C (77-86°F)
• Conditions: Summer brings the warmest water temperatures, making it a popular time for diving. The visibility remains excellent, and the waters are teeming with marine life, including pelagics like sharks and dolphins. However, the peak tourist season can bring crowds to popular dive sites.

Autumn (October-November)

• Water temperature: 24-27°C (75-81°F)
• Conditions: Autumn balances pleasant water temperatures, good visibility, and fewer crowds. The marine life remains abundant, and the cooler temperatures attract pelagic species like hammerhead sharks and thresher sharks.

Winter (December-February)

• Water temperature: 21-23°C (70-73°F)
• Conditions: Winter brings the coolest water temperatures, but the visibility remains good, and the crowds are minimal. This is an excellent time for diving if you’re looking for a more secluded experience. However, some pelagic species may be less active during this season.

Recommendations for planning a dive trip to Egypt:

• Consider your personal preferences: If you prefer warmer water, plan your trip during the summer or autumn. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider spring or autumn.
• Choose your dive destination: Egypt offers a variety of dive destinations, each with its unique attractions. Research different destinations to find the one that best suits your interests.
• Book your trip in advance: Egypt is a popular diving destination, so it’s advisable to book your trip in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Pack appropriately: Pack warm clothing for the evenings, as well as sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection from the sun.
• Choose a reputable dive operator: Choose a dive operator with a good reputation and experienced instructors.
• Respect the marine environment: Be mindful of marine life and the underwater environment. Avoid touching or disturbing marine creatures and follow local regulations.

By considering these factors and following these recommendations, you can plan an unforgettable dive trip to Egypt and experience the wonders of the Red Sea.

Diving Conditions and Safety

Egypt’s Red Sea is renowned for its exceptional diving conditions, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and diverse dive sites suitable for divers of all levels. Here’s a comprehensive overview of diving conditions and safety considerations for divers in Egypt:

General Conditions

 water temperature.

The Red Sea boasts warm water temperatures throughout the year, ranging from 21°C (70°F) in the winter to 30°C (86°F) in the summer. The average water temperature remains around 25°C (77°F), making it comfortable for diving year-round.

 Visibility

 The Red Sea is known for its exceptional visibility, averaging around 20-30 meters (65-98 feet). Although visibility can be affected by weather conditions and plankton blooms, it typically remains excellent

Diving Courses and Certification in Egypt

Egypt offers a wide range of diving courses, catering to beginners to advanced divers. Various internationally recognized certification bodies, such as PADI , SSI, and BSAC, have affiliated centers across the Red Sea coast.

For beginners , introductory courses and open water diver certifications provide the essential skills for safe and enjoyable diving.  Advanced divers can opt for specialized courses in deep diving, wreck diving, and even underwater photography.

Selecting a Dive Center

• Research is key when choosing a dive center. Look for centers with good reviews and certified instructors.
• Prioritize centers that emphasize safety and environmental awareness.
• Some popular dive centers are located in Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Dahab, known for their professional service and extensive course offerings.

Accommodations and Travel Tips

The Red Sea coast has a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels, many of which cater specifically to divers.

Staying at Dive Resorts

• Many resorts offer dive packages, which include accommodation, diving trips, and sometimes even courses.
• Dive resorts are convenient as they provide easy access to dive boats and equipment rentals.

Transportation and Getting Around

• Major tourist destinations like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are well-connected by air with international and domestic flights.
• Local transportation options include taxis, buses, and car rentals, making it easy to travel between different dive sites and towns.

Cultural and Environmental Responsibility

As divers, respecting the underwater environment and local customs is vital.

Responsible Diving Practices

• Follow all guidelines for sustainable diving, such as not touching or disturbing marine life and coral.
• Be mindful of your buoyancy and avoid stirring up sediment, which can harm the reefs.

Respecting Local Customs

• When visiting Egypt, it’s important to be respectful of local traditions and dress codes, especially when outside tourist areas.
• Support local communities by choosing local services and products where possible.

Diving in Egypt is an experience like no other, offering a unique blend of breathtaking marine life, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a novice diver or a seasoned underwater explorer, the Red Sea’s captivating underwater world awaits. You can ensure an unforgettable and fulfilling diving adventure in Egypt by choosing the right course, staying in comfortable accommodations, and diving responsibly. Remember to respect both the marine environment and the local culture, and you’ll not only enjoy your diving experience but also contribute positively to this incredible destination.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that DIVEMONDO may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon Associate this website earn from qualifying purchases.

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Scuba Diving In Egypt: Complete Guide

Most Tropical islands such as Indonesia, Philippines and Hawaii are well known among the diving community. Aside from them Egypt too has gained a rapid popularity among scuba divers as a great location for diving in the Red Sea which features more than 200 dive sites. Undoubtedly the first thought that popped into your head after hearing the name Egypt are the Pyramids. The River Nile, Archaeology and the thousand year old mummies! With of all attractions in the mainland, the adventurous, nature lovers spot is really the Red Sea. How is that so? What lies in the Red Sea waiting to be witnessed by you? What are the best spots for scuba diving in Egypt? Keep reading to plan your next trip to this magnificent and historically valued destination!

There exists a whole of diving sites in Egypt filled with breathtaking coral reefs, historical shipwrecks, mighty sharks and other diversities of fish. Egypt truly owns a great coastline and an equally valuable underwater world. The waters are clear blue as a result of the high salinity given the evaporation across the deserts, and it is hard resisting to plunge into the clear blue water right when you see it! There are plenty of spots along the coastline(actually more than 1,800 miles of it) for tourists to enjoy scuba diving and not get overly populated in one place. The northern line consists of the shores of the Mediterranean and there too you can get an unparalleled scuba diving experience in Egypt. With all that said, here is the complete guide to the top destinations for scuba diving in Egypt!

What you need to know before you go Scuba Diving in Egypt

A little trivia about scuba diving in Egypt wouldn’t hurt. Egypt is known for its complicated yet rich history both spread in the lands and underwater. Shipwrecks are a great peek into the wars fought back in the day and a mesmerizing experience for any diver. These artifacts, the rich marine biodiversity and crystal clear waters is what makes the scuba diving experience in Egypt unique and memorable. Most of these shipwrecks are centered on the northern coastline(Mediterranean).

The rest of the diving is covered in the southern the Red Sea. And this part is experienced at best using liveaboard . The special thing about liveaboards over a regular diving excursion offered by the resorts near the Red Sea is that you get to witness remote locations of diving. These spots aren’t accessible by on a day trip. Using a liveaboard you can be the first person to visit these locations and the last to leave, because it is customized just for you.

These liveaboards aren’t just limited to a single destination. They sail to different spots on the Red Sea and you can choose your the one that suits with your desires. If you have everything planned out initially, you can pick the perfect liveaboard that includes your specific destinations. The Egyptian liveaboards offer top level service with well trained diving instructors for you to safely master diving, excellent cuisine and an all around pleasant environment for a vacation. Of course there is a rather heavy price tag involved, but its your choice.

Best time for diving in Egypt

The name “Red” Sea originates as a result of periodic algal blooms that occur here and its very warm with almost no rough waves. Therefore you can dive almost during any time of the year. However temperature brought out by the climate has an impact. The water is about 30°C from June to August. And about  22°C in February. Regardless of temperature scuba diving is also meant to be educational apart from being a fun activity. Therefore the best time for scuba diving for someone very interested in marine life observation would be between May and August .

If you choose to dive between those months, you have a higher probability of witnessing the Egyptian marine life. Whale sharks, Sea horses, Manta Rays, Hammerhead Sharks and turtles are often spotted during these times. The winter months too are fantastic if you want to observe some of the fish. Therefore scuba diving during December to February can also help you observe some grey reef sharks, dolphins and dugongs.

As we mentioned earlier, both liveaboards and resorts are chosen ways by tourists to experience the underwater world. The privilege with liveaboards is the that your experience can surpass the diving sites close to land. You can reach the best parts of the Red Sea, north and south alike. Therefore don’t hesitate to book a liveaboard and get the once in a lifetime experience if you have the budget!

Now that we have covered a few essentials to know before you plan your trip, lets hop on to the best destinations for scuba diving in Egypt!

SHARM EL SHEIKH Scuba diving

Sharm el-Sheikh is the undoubtedly the most popular scuba diving and tourist destination in Egypt and Red Sea. Hence the crowd is not in small numbers and you can’t expect to enjoy the water all by yourself unless you hire a liveaboard. However if you are lucky, you will get to experience some of Egypt’s best marine life with coral reefs and world famous shipwreck the SS Thistlegorm. It is situated at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula and is great for a diver of any level. From beginner to advanced you won’t be bored around Sharm el-Sheikh.

First you have the remains of the SS Thistlegorm wreck and there is a ton of stuff to observe like locomotives, motorbikes and tanks. Then you get the Ras Mohammed Marine Park where you can observe fishes like Barracudas and Trevallies swimming by. Although Yolanda and Shark Reefs are the two most popular, there are ten dive sites altogether. If you are an experienced diver you can have fast drifts along the reefs of the Straits of Tiran or if you are a beginner you can enjoy gliding alongside the corals. You can also observe Hammerhead Shark or the Tiger Shark in the Straits of Tiran. It maybe a bit overcrowded and noisy, but don’t miss out on this excellent diving spot!

Yes, The ancient city known for hosting a world wonder The Lighthouse of Alexandria, this too is a spot you don’t want to miss on your trip to Egypt especially if you are a history lover. As we mentioned earlier the northern Mediterranean shores are also open for divers and offers a ton of value. There cannot be a better place for someone keen on diving into the colorful history of Egypt. There aren’t many colorful coral reefs in here unlike the Red Sea, however an estimated 7000 artefacts and monuments from the Pharo and Roman eras are preserved underwater in this part of the Egyptian coastline.

 Cleopatra’s Palace which collapsed into the sea after an earthquake and Pharos Lighthouse are great diving spots here in Alexandria. You can also witness remains of battle of the Nile in the eastern part of the city. The best dive for beginners is the wreck of an airplane from World War II or the Faros Island. Another awesome spot to dive are the crystal clear waters of Siwa Oasis right in the middle of the desert where the Roman ruins are found. You should also try out  sand boarding and kite sailing to complete the tour of Alexandria. Not to mention the unique local culture experience. The best way to get to Alexandria is to take the two and half hour bus ride from Cairo.

Scuba diving in Hurghada

If you are a beginner diver then this is the perfect spot for you to start snorkeling or scuba diving. Located on mainland Egypt at the mouth of the Gulf of Suez it is the main gateway for liveaboards on the north or the south of the Red Sea. You should really consider allocating at least three days for Hurghada alone. Reck diving in Hurghada is mesmerizing. The popular Abu Nuhas wrecks are located in northern Hurghada. There are four shipwrecks in total in this part of the reef and there’s so much variety in each of the wrecks. The Rosalie Moller, the Kingston, Ulysses and Gubal Barge are some other dive sites you should definitely checkout in the Shadwan and Gubal islands.

Also the Giftun islands have many coral reefs scattered around it and it is quite shallow. There is also a cave passage at Umm Gamar heading to the northern parts that is worth exploring. Hurghada is mostly the primary departure point for liveaboard safaris to the Southern Red Sea where you encounter many more attractions sites some of which we will talk about next. Therefore you can book your liveaboard itinerary here to visit any wreck or reef in the Red Sea. Believe it or not Hurghada was a small fishing village which became a flourishing tourist epicenter of Egypt. You can check some of the Hurghada diving resorts here .

The Brothers

Made up of two islands namely the Little Brother and Big Brother this site has earned its name as The Brothers and is located in the middle of the Red Sea. As you can probably guess it is only accessible by liveaboard. And diving in this part of the Red Sea isn’t for the amateur diver. The advanced diver is perfectly capable of handling the current changes and hence can experience the magnificent reefs and the barracudas, tunas, and manta rays swimming by you. You can also observe varieties of sharks here such as the hammerheads and reef sharks.

If are still interested in observing the shipwrecks, there are a couple around the big Brother. Namely Numidia and the Aida that sunk in the early 1900s. The Little Brother on the other hand is the diving spot for the marine observer. The sharks and coral reefs are found in abundance here. We mentioned that Hurghada is the departure point for most liveaboards to the Red Sea. Therefore you should checkout the liveaboard itineraries from there to The Brothers. Some liveaboards also depart from Port Ghalib.

Diving in Dahab

Remember how we said that the scuba diving in Sharm El-Sheikh isn’t going to be peaceful? Well Dahab is the perfect place if chilling back while scuba diving is what you are looking for. The best known Dahab dive site is the enchanting Dahab Blue Hole dive site. Having a depth of about 130m there is also an exciting adventurous arch connecting the Blue hole to the Red Sea. However you should NEVER try diving under the arch as it has resulted in the death of many in the past.

Mainly consisting of coral reefs and coral gardens the Dahab diving sites are exceeding 50 in number. Although here in Dahab encountering sharks are rare, you can still observe turtles, barracudas and jacks. Also no shipwrecks are seen around these parts of the Red Sea. Some other prominent dive sites in Dahab include The Canyon, The Bell, Lighthouse reef and Eel Garden. Definitely make sure to take a dive in the Canyon which is about 30m deep featuring miniature corals and a great many number of fish. Also some time in the Bedouin cafés and bars and restaurants in Masbat is appropriate after your dives and to experience the locality. Also day trips to the other diving attractions such as Ras Mohamed and the Thistlegorm wreck are available here.

Marsa Alam is the latest and trending dive site in the Red Sea. And this is the gateway to the Elphinstone Reef where you can discover plenty of colorful corals, abundance of marine life and plenty of spaces to venture. Especially known for the many whitetip and hammerhead shark encounters. However Elphinstone Reef is best recommended to advanced divers given the strong currents and the open sea diving.

In Marsa Alam you have better chances of encountering Dolphin varieties, Sea Turtles and Dugongs. And if you visit during May to August you might be fortunate enough to observe the Manta Rays or the Whale Shark.

St John’s and the Deep South

St John’s and the Deep South contains three of the most famous dive sites namely St John’s, Zabargad and Rocky Island all of which are accessible by liveaboard. The best thing about this location is that it contains the most untouched and undamaged reefs of the Egyptian Red Sea. Even in here you get to observe a variety of fish. Mantas, Hammerheads, Silvertips and dolphins can be witnessed around Rocky islands and Zabargad and as you get a bit closer to the shore, you can see the Tuna and Jack fish.

Strong currents come from the Rocky islands and Zabargad, which means those spots are for the experienced diver ready to experience drift dives. In contrast St John’s is suitable for beginners because of its smooth waters, however it is safer to anticipate stronger currents too. Departure to the Deep South is mostly from Port Ghalib and the closest airport is Marsa Alam. You’ve also got to experience the Fury Shoal which is a series of coral reefs and is easily accessible. If you want to experience some gorgeous unspoiled coral reefs definitely head over to the Deep South.

Widely popular for the Salem Express wreck, wall dives and splendid coral gardens Safaga is located 70 km from the south of Hurghada. Panorama Reef is the most famous spot here for wall diving as it has 200m deep walls for drift diving. Also make sure to visit Ras Abu Soma, Abu Kafan and Tobia Reeds and your diving sites in Safaga are covered. Most probably you will get to see grey reef sharks, Barracudas and schooling jacks while you are diving in these parts of the Red Sea. All diving sites are accessible by boat. Wherever you choose to dive make sure to witness the Salem Express first, for it is a best wreck dive in the world.

That’s pretty much covers the best spots for scuba diving in Egypt. There are a few other locations such as El Quseir, El Gouna and Hamata which are also located in close proximity to these other famous dive sites. If you have the the time make sure to check those out too.

The current visa fee for visitors entering Egypt is US $25 and can be purchased at the airport. There is a 15 days visa free stay with restraints for visitors. But our advise is to purchase the visa and dive about freely without any restrictions. There are large numbers of legal diving centers in Egypt to help you experience everything the Red Sea and the Mediterranean has to offer. Always remember to leave nothing but footprints behind and only take the memories back with you!

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Best Time to Visit Egypt: Month by Month Breakdown

Egypt is a destination of rich archaeological sites, beautiful coastline and compelling history and culture stretching back thousands of years.

Tourists have been visiting Egypt for centuries, intent on delving into the ancient world, cruising the Nile River, and staring in awe at the Pyramids of Giza. 

For tourists, the weather is great in Egypt. The country enjoys sunshine and hot weather all through the year, with very little rainfall even in winter.

The weather can vary from region to region, with a Mediterranean climate on the coast, and a more desert-like climate inland. 

There are usually two high seasons to consider when deciding the best time to visit Egypt.

The cooler winter months between December and February are the best time for exploring the ruins and archaeological sites.

The scorching hot summer months, between June and August, are a favorite time of year for hanging out at the Red Sea beach resorts. 

Spoiler Alert! Our favorite time to visit Egypt is November.

To help you to plan your getaway, here’s our guide to choosing the best time to visit Egypt!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Egypt (Travel Guide)

Table of Contents

Egypt Winter Months

Winter in Egypt is high season because the weather is cooler than other months of the year yet still beautifully sunny.

It’s a favorite spot for winter sun-seekers, and especially for lovers of Egyptology.

While the desert gets cold at night – bring a light jacket – the ruins, temples, and tombs of the Ancient Egyptians are best enjoyed in cooler climes when you won’t work up too much of a sweat.

December in Egypt

December is one of the most popular times to be in the country, and if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s never the best time to visit Egypt.

It’s sunny across the country, although the Mediterranean coast can be hit by the odd storm or rainy day.

It’s still hot, with temperatures hovering in the mid-twenties in most destinations. 

The Red Sea beach resorts are always popular over Christmas and New Year, as families head here from Europe looking for winter sun and a hot place to spend their holidays.

You’ll be paying high season prices, and sharing the beaches with a lot of other tourists.

Head south to the famous cities of Luxor and Aswan, and take a Nile River Cruise between the two.

While it’s definitely going to be busy, because the weather is perfect for exploring archaeological sites all day, it’s the best time to be in this part of Egypt. 

January in Egypt

January is likely to be just as busy as December, although visitor numbers will definitely start to fall off towards the middle of the month after the rush of the holiday season is over. 

If you want a winter sun getaway then head to the Red Sea for beaches, snorkeling, and diving.

If you’re a fan of all things Ancient Egyptian, then the weather is perfect for exploring iconic places such as the Pyramids of Giza or the Valley of the Kings, but you’ll be sharing the iconic sights with a lot of other tourists.

Culturally, this is the best time to visit Egypt if you’d like to learn more about the Coptic Christian communities.

January 7th is the most important day in the Coptic calendar, as this is when they celebrate Christmas. Head to the cities of Cairo or Alexandria to see and experience more.

February in Egypt

Compared to December and January, February is a lot quieter and it’s a great time to explore Egypt if you’re a fan of shoulder season travel.

The weather is getting much warmer already, but you might catch a few of the last winter storms, although these are a rarity even on the coast.

This is a great time to explore southern Egypt. Take a Nile River cruise from Luxor to Aswan, and enjoy the archaeological sites before it gets too hot. The crowds won’t be quite as large as the previous two months. 

Time your visit to coincide with the Abu Simbel Festival, held each February at the famous Abu Simbel Temples.

These are found on the Sudanese border, just a short journey from Aswan, and were built thousands of years ago by Ramesses II. The festival is a throwback to the region’s thousands of years of history and culture.

Egypt Spring Months

The weather really starts to warm up across Egypt as you leave winter behind and enter the spring season.

The Nile River is green and verdant after the winter rain, while there are many festivals and celebrations across the country.

This is a great time for shoulder season travel, before the busy summer months, but be aware of when important religious events such as Ramadan are, as this generally tends to happen around April and May.

March in Egypt

March is another shoulder season month, and it’s a great time to visit Egypt if you want to escape the crowds.

On the Red Sea, you can score cheap deals on flights and all-inclusive packages. With warmer waters and lots of sunshine, it’s really not a bad time lounge on the beaches or to enjoy some Scuba diving. 

You’ll have fewer crowds in the south as well, but remember that the desert is starting to heat up in March.

In reality, it’s a good time to visit the temples and pyramids before the heat and the crowds of summer.

April in Egypt

April can be a mixed bag in terms of visitor numbers because over the Easter holidays you’ll find plenty of tourists arriving.

Try to avoid these weeks if you want to visit in April.

Travel south to Luxor and Aswan, or stick around Cairo and explore the Pyramids of Giza and other famous ancient sites, because, after this, visitor numbers will start to rise again, as will the heat.

Alexandria is glorious in April, with lovely Meditteranean weather, sunny days and clear skies.

Visit the famed Biblioteca Alexandria and the many catacombs and ruins that date back to the Greek and Roman era, when the city was one of the most important in the ancient world. 

May in Egypt

May is the last quiet month before the summer high season begins in earnest in Egypt, and oftentimes, this is the month when Ramadan is likely to fall.

This can be a unique festival to witness, although non-Muslims will need to be aware of the rules and local customs during the holiday so as not to cause offense.

Weather-wise, it’s getting much hotter in May, and temperatures are rising exponentially.

It’s not a good time to be in the desert, but you will enjoy the sun and cooling winds that are found on the Mediterranean coast and the Red Sea. 

Egypt Summer Months

Summer is the high season and it’s the best time to visit Egypt if you’re looking for a beach holiday.

It’s not the best time if you can’t handle the heat and the crowds. It’s hot and it’s busy, all through summer.

June in Egypt

June is the start of peak season travel in Egypt, and prices for flights, accommodation, and tours will begin to go up.

It’s not quite as busy as July and August are going to get, so it’s a good time to visit the resorts on the Red Sea before the huge crowds arrive.

With warm waters, it’s a great time to snorkel and scuba dive on the Red Sea too, or you could even dive below the waves of Alexandria Harbour.

This is where you’ll find the uniquely preserved remains of Cleopatra’s Palace many centuries after it was lost below the waterline. 

July in Egypt

July is busy because this is when the school holidays usually begin in earnest across Europe.

It’s guaranteed to be hot, and in the desert, temperatures will routinely rise well above 40 degrees Celsius in the middle of the day. Even the night time can be unbearably hot.

The heat doesn’t stop people visiting, although admittedly most vacationers tend to stick to the resorts, where you’ll find busy beaches all through June. 

August in Egypt

August will be just as busy as July because it’s still peak season and it’s the summer holiday season in Europe.

Prices will be higher than other times of the year, and beaches and tourist attractions will be crowded.

It’s going to be too hot to be anywhere other than the beaches though, so if you are visiting Egypt in August then brave the crowds and stick to the Red Sea resorts.

This way you can cool off in the swimming pools or in the sea. 

Egypt Fall Months

The fall season is a great time to explore Egypt’s interior, as the heat starts to dissipate.

Compared to summer, it’s going to be incredibly quiet through the fall months, and it’s a great time to grab a great deal on flights and tours. 

September in Egypt

If you can wait out the summer and travel in September, then this could be the best time to visit Egypt.

The weather is still undeniably hot, but things are starting to cool down, especially away from the coast. 

You can head south to explore the ancient sites around Luxor or cruise along the Nile River to Aswan and the Abu Simbel Temples.

Visit the Red Sea for good post high season deals on resorts.

October in Egypt

October is quieter than September, and it’s much cooler too. This is the perfect time to start visiting Egypt’s most famous attractions, and places that will soon become busy again in the winter.

Explore the archaeological delights of Luxor and Aswan, take in the bustling streets of Cairo and the Great Pyramids of Giza.

Or uncover the hidden history of Alexandria, while enjoying the warm climes of the Mediterranean. 

November in Egypt

November is the last shoulder month before the high season starts again in December.

It’s much cooler in November and it’s a beautiful time to explore Egypt, as you’ll avoid the worst of the summer heat and miss the worst of the winter crowds.

Take the opportunity to visit iconic destinations and famous tourist attractions, or get a steal on a resort on the Red Sea.

After this, it’s only going to get busier.  

More on Egypt:

• 8 Epic Places to Visit in Egypt (That You CANNOT Miss!)
• 21 Amazing Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt
• 15 Epic Things to Do in Luxor, Egypt
• 15 Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt (For First Time Visitors)
• 15 Unmissable Things to Do in Alexandria, Egypt
• Luxor Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Valley of the Kings in Egypt
• 15 Top Things to Do in Hurghada 
• Is Egypt Safe to Visit?
• Sailing Adventure: Nile River Felucca Trip in Egypt

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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The 10 Best Dive Sites in Egypt

With more than 1,800 miles of coastline, Egypt is a surprisingly great destination for scuba divers and snorkelers looking for unique and exciting experiences. The country's proximity to both the Mediterranean and Red Seas provides an amazingly diverse set of underwater environments that offer settings that simply can't be found anywhere else. With so many great options to choose from, the biggest challenge that most divers face when planning a trip to the "land of the pharaohs" is figuring out where exactly to go. Here 10 of the best dive sites across the country.

Sharm El-Sheikh

While there are numerous great locations across Egypt that provide fantastic opportunities to go scuba diving, any list of the best destinations has to start with Sharm El Sheikh. With over 30 fantastic dive spots accessible from this resort city alone, you can spend a week here and barely scratch the surface of what it has to offer. From great reef systems to sprawling shipwrecks, Sharm El-Sheikh has it all. Thanks to its position along the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aqaba, and the Gulf of Suez, it has a level of diversity and scope found in only a handful of other places around the world.

Truly one of the best dive spots across the globe, the only downside of Sharm El-Sheikh is that it can get busy and is a bit touristy. But because of the level of traffic that it sees, there is also an extensive infrastructure in place to help divers book tours, find equipment, and connect with local guides. This adds a level of convenience that is much appreciated when there are so many options from which to choose.

An emerging dive spot that is perfect for the adventurous traveler looking for new and unique experiences, Ras Gharib is another good alternative to the busier resort cities. Found on the Gulf of Suez, wreck diving takes center stage here with several well-mapped locations and several lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path places to explore too. The most famous of the wrecks is the S.S. Scalar, an oil tanker that was sunk by German U-boats during World War II. But there are other ships and aircraft scattered about the region as well, providing divers with opportunities to leave the reefs behind and experience something completely different instead.

Another resort city, not unlike Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada provides a similar dive experience with more of an emphasis on the Red Sea's abundant sea life. That said, there are still several impressive wreck dives to be had here, along with fantastic coral reefs to explore as well. A busy tourist hub in its own right, Hurghada has plenty to offer both on and off the water. It is an especially appealing destination for beginner to intermediate divers, as several local companies offer certification programs . Advanced divers will still find plenty to like, too, as this is yet another well-rounded scuba haven on the Red Sea.

Ras Mohamed Nature Reserve

One of the most famous and popular national parks in all of Egypt, Ras Mohamed sits at the junction of the Red Sea and the Sinai Peninsula. Here, the corals are abundant and healthy, which provides a diversity of wildlife for divers and snorkelers to enjoy. During the warm summer months, large schools of fish appear along the reefs, with the waters teeming with color and motion. For those looking to catch sea life in its natural habitat, the park can be awe-inspiring. And since these waters are protected, they are crystal clear and pristine, too, making for a fantastic dive experience at any time of the year.

Not quite as touristy as Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, Marsa Alam has grown into a nice alternative to those bustling resorts. Situated on the Red Sea, this town offers excellent day trips to some impressive dive sites throughout the region. One of Marsa Alam's best claims to fame is that travelers can go shore diving , spotting colorful wildlife and reefs by simply walking off the beach and into the water. That can save on money and time for those who don't want to spend hours on a dive boat and would prefer to come and go as they please.

The Brothers

Accessible only by a liveaboard boat, the Brothers are a pair of coral reefs found in the heart of the Red Sea. The two sites are well known for the beauty and abundant sea life, with colorful fish appearing by the thousands. Dubbed Big Brother and Little Brother, the two reefs are best suited for experienced divers who feel comfortable in waters that include fast-moving currents. Here, they'll not only find a large number of big fish, but they'll also discover shipwrecks and corals in all of the colors of the rainbow. Sharks are frequently spotted in these waters, too, including hammerheads, whitetips, and threshers. If you don't mind staying aboard a ship rather than at a resort, this is a location that shouldn't be missed.

Dahab is another dive site that offers easy accessibility to many great locations right from the shore. One of the most popular of those spots is the Blue Hole—not to be confused with the Blue Hole in Belize —which is a submarine sinkhole more than 300 feet deep. This can be a tricky, technical dive, however, so it is best reserved for advanced divers. Others may take to "the Canyon" instead, which is a nearby coral reef that is renowned for its abundant colors, sea life, and large fish. The laidback culture found in Dahab gives it a nice change of pace over the more touristy resorts, which makes this a favorite of veteran Red Sea divers looking to avoid the crowds. That quiet atmosphere is a welcome respite to the busier destinations like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh.

If a quiet and relaxed scuba destination sounds good to you, El Quseir is a great option for visitors to Egypt. This is a spot that is perfect for beginning divers to cut their teeth, with some very accessible sites that can be reached right from the beach. This makes shore diving a viable option, as it is much less intimidating and daunting for those who are just starting. Venture out a bit further from shore, however, and you'll soon discover some of the most pristine coral reefs in the entire Red Sea. There, you'll find lionfish, rays, sea snakes, turtles, and dozens of other aquatic animals. And thanks to El Quseir's 5,000-plus years of history, there is plenty to see back onshore as well, reminding divers that they are indeed visiting one of the oldest civilizations on Earth.

Another ancient Egyptian city, Alexandria is proof that not all of the country's best dive sites are found on the Red Sea. Located along the coast of the Mediterranean, this bustling port town has a lot to offer scuba enthusiasts too. Under the tranquil waters found there, you'll discover a host of sunken ruins. The most popular of those include Cleopatra's palace and the remains of the Lighthouse at Alexandria, which was once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World . There are also historical wrecks from various eras throughout history to be found in the darker, cooler waters of the Mediterranean. What you won't find is much in the way of coral and only a small amount of sea life. But if you want a taste of Egypt's history that has been lost to the sea, there are more than a few memorable experiences to be found here.

Like many of the other Egyptian dive sites, Safaga offers a diverse set of features to entice visitors. Those include thriving coral reefs and one of the best wreck dives in the world in the form of the Salem Express. This passenger ferry sunk back in the early 1990s and grew into a popular and easily accessible scuba spot over the past few decades. But what sets Safaga apart from other places on the Red Sea are its towering coral walls that drop to incredible depths. Here scuba divers can visit a site called Panorama Reef, where the walls plunge more than 650 feet into the dark depths below. Naturally, these massive reefs are home to a wide variety of species, including barracuda and reef sharks, making it yet another all-in-one location for divers visiting Egypt .

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The 10 Best Places to Dive in Egypt

Popularized by the beautiful pyramids, ancient ruins, and sandy beaches , Egypt is a top tourist destination for a good reason. But another side to this country that often gets overlooked is its stunning underwater world. With crystal clear water, abundant marine life, and dive sites suitable for all levels of experience, Egypt is an actual scuba diving paradise.

With lots to offer, knowing where to start your diving adventure in Egypt can be challenging.

Here are some of our top picks for the best places to dive in Egypt:

1. sharm el sheikh.

One of the most popular diving destinations in Egypt, Sharm El Sheikh, is home to world-famous dive sites like the Blue Hole and Ras Mohammed National Park . With warm water and good visibility, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike. You can find everything to love, from gentle reefs and colourful fish to dramatic walls and swim-throughs. Sharm El Sheikh is a top pick among the rest of the Red Sea.

How to Get There?

Sharm El Sheikh is located in the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. You can fly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport or take a bus or ferry from Cairo or Hurghada. The best way to reach the dive sites is by boat, and most hotels and dive centers offer day trips or liveaboards.

Where can you stay?

If you’re looking for a luxurious dive vacation, Sharm El Sheikh has plenty of 5-star resorts. There are also many mid-range hotels and hostels in the area for something more affordable.

2. Marsa Alam

Marsa Alam is another excellent dive destination in Egypt. This area is home to the Red Sea’s only liveaboard dive operation, which takes divers to some of the best dive sites in the region. You’ll be amazed by its massive coral reefs, abundant fish life, and pristine waters . It also offers the chance to see some of the Red Sea’s more elusive creatures, such as hammerheads and whale sharks . It is worth noting that most of the dive sites in this area are only accessible by liveaboard.

Marsa Alam can be reached by plane or bus from Cairo. There are direct flights from Cairo and Hurghada. You can also take a bus from Cairo or Hurghada, but the journey is quite long (about 10 hours). Once you arrive in Marsa Alam, most dive centers offer pick-up services from your hotel. You will need to take a taxi or car to get to the liveaboard dock.

There are a few hotels in Marsa Alam, but most people stay in budget-friendly hostels or campgrounds. There are also a few luxurious resorts in the area, but they are expensive.

3. Ras Gharib

Ras Gharib is a small fishing village located on the Red Sea coast. It is a great place to dive if you’re looking for something a bit more off the beaten path. There are some fantastic dive sites in Ras Gharib, including the famous Blue Hole. Unlike the others, Ras Gharib is only accessible by boat. But you’ll experience some of the best diving in Egypt if you try to get there. Ras Gharib is also a great place to see whale sharks. It is recommended to visit Ras Gharib with a dive center, as the village is quite remote and there are no English-speaking dive centers in the area.

Ras Gharib can only be reached by boat. The best way to get there is to arrange a boat trip with a dive center in Hurghada or Marsa Alam. It will take about 3 hours to reach Ras Gharib by boat from Hurghada.

There are no hotels in Ras Gharib. The best way to experience this village is to stay with a local family. However, you can also camp on the beach if you don’t mind roughing it.

4. Hurghada

Hurghada is one of the most popular dive destinations in Egypt. The dive sites in this region are famous for their dramatic cliffs and rich marine life. Hurghada is also a great place to see whale sharks. It is renowned for dive sites like the Abu Hashish dive site, known for its abundance of sea turtles. Diving here means you will also have the chance to see a wide variety of reef fish. The best time to dive in Hurghada is from May to September when the water is warm, and visibility is at its best. However, diving is possible all year round.

Hurghada is located on Egypt’s Red Sea coast. It is about a 4-hour drive from Cairo, or you can fly into Hurghada International Airport. You can also take a bus from Cairo or Alexandria.

The area’s beaches provide various lodging alternatives, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels. There are also several hostels and campgrounds in the vicinity.

5. The Brothers Islands

The Brothers Islands or Al Ikhwan dive site are two small uninhabited islands in the Red Sea. These islands are known for their dive sites, some of the best in Egypt. Famous for its walls, swim-throughs, and caves, the dive sites around the Brothers Islands offer something for everyone. Visit The Brother Islands during the summer months when the water is warm, and visibility is at its best.

The Brothers Islands are located about 60 kilometers from Hurghada. To get there, you will need to take a boat from Hurghada. Most dive centers in Hurghada offer day trips to the Brothers Islands.

There are no accommodations on the Brothers Islands. The best way to experience this region is to make a day trip from Hurghada.

6. Ras Mohamed Nature Park

Ras Mohamed Nature Park is a marine park located on the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula. This park is known for its dive sites, which are some of the best in Egypt. Ras Mohamed is well-known for its walls, swim-throughs, and caves. The dive sites here offer something for everyone. Ras Mohamed is also a great place to see whale sharks. Visiting during the summer months is the best time to dive here.

To get to Ras Mohamed Nature Park, you must take a boat from Sharm el-Sheikh. Several dive resorts offer day trips to the park in Sharm el-Sheikh.

There are no accommodations in Ras Mohamed Nature Park. The best way to experience this region is to make a day trip from Sharm el-Sheikh.

Dahab is a small town located on the southeastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula. It is a popular destination for dive enthusiasts and those who want to relax on the beach. Dahab is known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent dive sites. The Blue Hole is one of the most popular dive sites in Dahab. This site gets its name from the deep blue water that surrounds it. The Blue Hole is great to see various marine life, including reef sharks and barracudas.

There are several ways to get to Dahab. The quickest and most direct way is to fly into Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport and then take a taxi or shuttle to Dahab. You can also take a bus or ferry from Cairo or Nuweiba. If you are coming from Israel, there is a daily border crossing from Eilat.

Dahab has many accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels and hostels. There are also several campgrounds in the area.

Safaga is a small town located on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. It is a popular destination due to its many dive sites and clear waters. Popularized by Jacques Cousteau, Safaga is known for its shipwrecks. Safaga’s most popular dive sites are the Abu Nuhas wrecks, a group of four shipwrecks sunk in the 1980s. Other popular dive sites include the El Minya and Panorama reefs. Many divers choose Safaga because it offers a wide range of dive sites for all levels, from beginner to advanced. The average water temperature is 26°C, and visibility can reach up to 40 meters. Take note to dive early in the morning to avoid the strong winds that often blow in the afternoon.

There are direct flights from Cairo to Safaga, which take about an hour. You can also take a bus or train from Cairo to Hurghada and then take a boat from Hurghada to Safaga, which takes about 3 hours.

There are a few hotels and resorts in Safaga. For a more budget-friendly option, you can stay in one of the many hostels in the area.

9. El Quseir

El Quseir is a small town on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. It is a popular dive destination for both beginner and advanced divers. The average water temperature is 26°C, and visibility can reach up to 40 meters. Every diver will find something to enjoy in El Quseir, as dive sites are suitable for all levels. The best time to visit El Quseir is between October and April. If you want to experience the best diving, visiting during winter is recommended. It is because the water is calmer, and visibility is at its best.

There are direct flights from Cairo to El Quseir, which take about an hour and a half. You can also take a bus or train from Cairo to Hurghada and then take a boat from Hurghada to El Quseir, which takes about 3 hours.

There are a few hotels and resorts in El Quseir. You may stay at one of the many hostels in the region if you want a more budget-friendly option.

10. Alexandria

Alexandria is Egypt’s second-largest city and is located on the Mediterranean Sea. Although the water temperature in Alexandria is a bit cooler than other dive spots on this list, averaging 22°C, it still offers clear waters with a visibility of up to 30 meters. It is best to dive here from June to September. You can expect to see various marine life, including barracuda, grouper fish, and turtles. Great memories and adventures await you in Alexandria!

There are direct flights from Cairo to Alexandria, which take about 45 minutes. You can also take a bus or train from Cairo to Alexandria, which takes about 3 hours. You can fly to Alexandria’s Borg El Arab Airport if you are from outside Egypt.

You can stay in one of the area’s many hotels, resorts, or hostels in Alexandria.

What Do You Need to Know?

Before you dive into Egypt, there are a few things you need to know.

• Dive sites are often located in remote areas, and it is essential to have a4 4×4 vehicle to reach them. You can rent a car or join a dive center tour.
• Most dive sites are only accessible by boat. So, it would be best if you were comfortable diving from a boat.
• It is crucial to be aware of the strong currents in many dive spots in Egypt. Make sure you dive with a guide who is familiar with the area and always heed their safety instructions.
• Dive sites in Egypt are often crowded. Be respectful of other divers and dive within your dive level to avoid endangering yourself or others.
• Many dive sites have strong currents, and it is imperative to be aware of this before you enter the water.
• Don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreens! The Egyptian sun is intense, and you will spend a lot of time in the water.
• Finally, dive sites in Egypt are often located in areas with a lot of coral, so it is important not to touch or damage the coral.

To Top it All

Diving in Egypt is a fantastic experience for all levels of diversity. Choosing from various dive sites and crystal clear waters is something for everyone. The average water temperature is 26°C, and visibility can reach up to 40 meters. Make sure you visit between October and April to enjoy the best diving conditions. Remember to bring plenty of sunscreens and be respectful of the coral. Have fun and happy diving!

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The Best Time Of Year To Visit Bordeaux, France

Inspiration

April 26, 2024

Imagine strolling through rows of lush vineyards, a glass of world-class wine in hand, under the gentle warmth of the Bordeaux sun. Welcome to Bordeaux, France—a city synonymous with fine wine and rich history, nestled in the heart of one of the most prestigious wine-growing regions in the world.

Picking the perfect time to visit Bordeaux isn't just about catching the best weather; it's about experiencing the city in its full glory, whether that’s during the bustling harvest season or the relaxed winter months. In this guide, we'll dive into what makes each season in Bordeaux unique, offering you practical tips and recommendations to plan your visit.

Whether you're a wine connoisseur, a history buff, or simply in it to soak up the local culture and cuisine, knowing when to go can make all the difference in your travel experience. Let’s uncork the secrets of Bordeaux’s seasonal charms and find out when is the best time for you to visit this iconic city.

Overview of Bordeaux’s Climate

Bordeaux is graced with a temperate maritime climate, which means mild temperatures and moderate rainfall are the norms throughout the year. But don't let the word "moderate" fool you—the weather can be as varied as the region's famous wines. Understanding the climate is key to packing right and enjoying your trip to the fullest.

Spring in Bordeaux brings fresh blooms and slightly unpredictable weather. March can still be crisp, but by May, the city is often bathed in gentle sunlight, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). It’s the perfect weather for light jackets and leisurely walks through the city's historic streets or its nearby vineyards.

Summer turns up the heat and the tourist traffic. From June to August, temperatures can soar up to 25°C (77°F) or higher, creating ideal conditions for those who love the sun. Summer in Bordeaux is vibrant, filled with lively markets and buzzing cafes. Pack your sunglasses and sunscreen, and be ready for warm evenings perfect for patio dining.

Fall sees a shift as the air cools and the leaves in the vineyards turn fiery shades of orange and red. September and October are particularly magical, with temperatures ranging between 11°C and 19°C (52°F to 66°F). This season is less about the light linens of summer and more about embracing the cozy ambiance of autumn. It's also the time of the grape harvest, making it a peak season for wine enthusiasts.

Winter in Bordeaux is mild compared to many other European destinations , with temperatures rarely dipping below 6°C (43°F). While you might encounter rain, snow is a rarity, making winter an underrated season for those looking to explore the city without the crowds. It’s a time for warm coats, scarves, and enjoying the local cuisine in quaint bistros that feel like hidden gems.

Knowing what to pack based on these seasonal insights will not only ensure you’re comfortable but also help you blend in with the effortlessly chic locals. Whether it’s layering up for a brisk winter day or choosing the perfect ensemble for a sunny vineyard tour, a little insight into Bordeaux’s weather will go a long way.

Bordeaux Through The Seasons

Spring in Bordeaux is like watching the city wake up from its winter slumber. The air is filled with the scent of blooming flowers, and the vineyards begin to buzz with activity as the first green shoots appear. Visiting Bordeaux in spring means fewer tourists and more room to explore its charming streets and bustling markets. The city's public gardens are in full bloom, offering picturesque settings for leisurely strolls. Key events to check out include the Bordeaux Spring Fair and various wine festivals that start popping up in the region, where you can taste young wines and seasonal delicacies.

Summer is when Bordeaux truly comes alive. The streets echo with the sounds of music festivals and outdoor events, from jazz concerts to wine-tasting sessions held under the stars. Visiting Bordeaux in summer offers the perfect opportunity for vineyard tours, as the vines are lush and full. It's also the ideal time for exploring nearby Atlantic beaches or taking river cruises on the Garonne. Remember, though, that summer is peak tourist season, so booking accommodations and activities in advance is wise.

Fall in Bordeaux is a spectacle of nature, with vineyards turning shades of gold and red. The grape harvest begins, and the city celebrates this crucial time of year with harvest festivals that are both vibrant and deeply rooted in local tradition. Visiting Bordeaux in fall also allows you to experience the region's wine-making process firsthand, from picking grapes to the first stages of fermentation. The weather is cooler, making it comfortable for exploring outdoor sites and participating in harvest activities.

Winter in Bordeaux is serene, with misty mornings and quiet, cobblestone streets. The city does not shut down; instead, it shifts its focus to indoor attractions like museums, historical sites, and cozy wine bars. Christmas markets light up the city in December, offering handcrafted goods and seasonal treats. Visiting Bordeaux in winter means enjoying the city's cultural offerings without the crowds, from opera performances to exclusive wine tastings in cellars not typically open to the public.

Best Times To Visit Bordeaux For Specific Interests

Wine enthusiasts.

For wine lovers, the Bordeaux wine season is a pilgrimage that transcends mere travel—it's an experience. The best time to visit for those who want to dive deep into Bordeaux's wine culture is during the fall, specifically from late September to October. This is when the grape harvest takes place, and the entire region buzzes with activity. Vineyards are open for tours, and many estates host special events where visitors can participate in the harvest and sample freshly pressed wines. It's an authentic way to connect with Bordeaux's most famous export.

Arts and Culture Buffs

If your trip is motivated by a love for arts and culture, consider planning your visit in the spring or early summer. During this time, the Bordeaux cultural events calendar is packed with festivals and performances, from contemporary art exhibitions to live theatre and music concerts. The Bordeaux Spring Fair and the Bordeaux Wine Festival, held every two years in June, are highlights, offering a blend of cultural exhibits, food, and wine.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

For those who prefer being active and exploring the outdoors, the mild weather of late spring through early fall offers the best conditions. Activities like cycling through the vineyard trails, kayaking on the Dordogne river, or even surfing at nearby beaches are all accessible during these months. The things to do in Bordeaux extend beyond the city, with the beautiful landscapes of Aquitaine beckoning for day trips and outdoor adventures.

Practical Travel Tips for Bordeaux

Getting there and around.

Bordeaux is well-connected by air and land. Several airlines offer cheap flights to Bordeaux, especially from European cities. The Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport is just a 30-minute bus ride from the city center. Once you're in the city, public transportation is efficient and bike-friendly, with extensive tram and bus networks, plus numerous bike-sharing stations.

For exploring the wider Bordeaux region, consider renting a car or using the local train services, which can take you from scenic coastal towns to picturesque vineyards. Remember, driving in the vineyard areas can be a delight, offering freedom to explore at your own pace and witness the stunning landscapes that make Bordeaux so unique.

Proximity to Other Attractions

Bordeaux's strategic location also makes it an excellent base for exploring other parts of France and even Northern Spain. You're a short train ride away from places like Toulouse, Biarritz, and the Pyrenees mountains. Even exciting destinations like San Sebastian in Spain are feasible for a longer day trip or a short overnight stay.

Recommendations and Conclusions

Bordeaux is a city that offers something for everyone, regardless of when you choose to visit. Each season holds its own charm and set of activities that can cater to different travel preferences and desires. Whether you're coming for the wine, the culture, or the beautiful landscapes, Bordeaux will not disappoint. Remember to book in advance during peak seasons to secure the best accommodations and ensure you get the most out of the unique experiences Bordeaux has to offer.

Choose the right season for your interests, pack accordingly, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of experiences that Bordeaux has waiting. Bon voyage!

Monthly Breakdown: Weather and Things to Do in Bordeaux

• Weather: Cold and damp with average temperatures around 5°C to 10°C.
• Activities: Visit cozy wine bars and museums like the Cité du Vin. Enjoy the winter sales in local boutiques.
• Weather: Still chilly, similar to January.
• Activities: Explore indoor attractions such as the Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Bordeaux Carnival.
• Weather: Begins to warm up slightly, with averages around 10°C to 15°C.
• Activities: Stroll through the awakening public gardens and enjoy the start of the outdoor café season.

• Weather: Mild, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 17°C.
• Activities: Participate in the Printemps des Vins de Blaye, a wine festival in the nearby Blaye region.
• Weather: Pleasantly warm, perfect for outdoor activities, with temperatures between 15°C and 20°C.
• Activities: Visit vineyards before the tourist rush, and enjoy the Bordeaux Fête le Fleuve, celebrating river culture.
• Weather: Warm and sunny, averaging 18°C to 25°C.
• Activities: Experience the Bordeaux Wine Festival and numerous music festivals.

• Weather: Hot, with temperatures frequently above 25°C.
• Activities: Relax on the beaches of Arcachon Bay, just an hour away, or join local Bastille Day celebrations.
• Weather: Similar to July, hot and occasionally humid.
• Activities: Continue beach trips or explore the night markets and open-air cinema events.
• Weather: Begins to cool, especially in the evenings, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
• Activities: Participate in the harvest activities in the vineyards and visit the Medoc Marathon for a unique wine and running experience.
• Weather: Crisp and autumnal, with averages of 12°C to 18°C.
• Activities: Experience the fall colors in local parks and vineyards. Enjoy the Fête de la Gastronomie, celebrating French cuisine.
• Weather: Cooler, with temperatures dropping to 8°C to 15°C.
• Activities: Ideal time for cultural exploration inside the city’s museums and galleries as the tourist numbers dwindle.
• Weather: Cold, with occasional frosts and averages between 5°C and 10°C.
• Activities: Don’t miss the Bordeaux Christmas Market, a perfect place for holiday shopping and festive treats.

Where to Visit in Southern France for an Unforgettable Escape

April 20, 2024

Where to Visit in Southern France: Your Ultimate Guide to Adventure and Culture

Picture this: you’re sipping a chilled glass of rosé under the warm, golden sun, surrounded by the gentle hum of a bustling marketplace. Welcome to Southern France, a region that promises not just postcard-perfect views but a full sensory immersion into a lifestyle that many dream of but few truly experience.

From the sun-kissed beaches of Nice to the historic streets of Avignon, Southern France offers a tapestry of cultural and natural beauty that beckons urban adventurers and serenity seekers alike.

Whether you’re cruising the glamorous French Riviera or exploring the rugged landscapes of the Gorges du Verdon, every corner of this region has a story to tell.

1. Nice: Sun, Sea, and Art

Nice is where the essence of the French Riviera comes alive – a city that blends artistic elegance with the laid-back beach life. Stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais and feel the Mediterranean breeze as you watch the azure waters kiss the pebbly shores.

Venture into the heart of the city to explore the old town, Vieux Nice, where the scent of fresh socca (chickpea pancakes) fills the air. Don’t miss a chance to visit the Musée Matisse, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of Matisse’s works, set amidst the olive trees of the Cimiez neighborhood.

For the best experience, visit during the late spring or early autumn when the weather is blissful and the crowds are thinner. Dining here is a treat; indulge in a salad Niçoise in its birthplace, where the freshness of local ingredients bursts in every bite.

2. Marseille: A Melting Pot of Cultures

Dynamic, diverse, and downright gritty at times, Marseille is the proud heart of the French Mediterranean. As France’s oldest city, its history stretches back to 600 BC, offering layers of cultural richness seen in its architecture, museums, and bustling port life.

Start your visit at the vibrant Vieux Port (Old Port), where fishermen sell their catch of the day against the backdrop of bobbing boats. A short walk away is Le Panier, the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, with its narrow, winding streets offering a stark contrast to the wide avenues of modern cities. The centerpiece of Marseille’s cultural scene is the striking MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations), where exhibitions weave together European and Mediterranean history.

Marseille is also the gateway to the Calanques National Park, a stunning area of limestone cliffs and azure waters perfect for hiking and kayaking. When it comes to food, you must try the local Bouillabaisse, a rich fish stew that captures the essence of the city’s maritime heritage.

Safety in Marseille has improved, but it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid less-touristed areas late at night.

3. Avignon: A Leap Back in Time

Steeped in history and drama, Avignon takes you back to the days when it was the seat of the Popes. The Palais des Papes, a formidable Gothic fortress and palace, stands as a testament to Avignon's medieval might and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

As you wander through the cobbled streets, the rich history of this walled city unfolds through its architecture and vibrant cultural scene. If you find yourself here in July, the Avignon Theatre Festival transforms the city into a stage, with performances in every corner, from traditional theaters to public squares.

Accommodations can be scarce during the festival, so book early and be prepared for a lively atmosphere. The local cuisine offers a taste of Provence, with dishes like ratatouille and tapenade that are as colorful as the landscapes around.

4. Cannes: Glamour and Film

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the famous Cannes Film Festival, the city of Cannes offers year-round charm with its luxurious boutiques, sandy beaches, and elegant boulevards. Take a stroll along the Promenade de la Croisette to soak in the chic atmosphere, where the blue of the sea meets the urban sophistication.

For a day trip, hop on a ferry to the Îles de Lérins, an archipelago just off the coast that offers serene walks and historic sites like the Fort Royal on Île Sainte-Marguerite. Although the film festival in May is the peak time for star-spotting, it's also when the city is most crowded.

Visiting in the off-season allows for a more relaxed experience, where you can enjoy high-end shopping or a quiet coffee with views of the marina without the festival crowds. And if you’re into film, make sure to check out some of the lesser-known cinemas and film workshops that operate year-round.

5. Saint-Tropez: Party Like a Star

Once a sleepy fishing village, Saint-Tropez is now synonymous with the jet-set lifestyle, luxury yachts, and exclusive parties. Its transformation is largely credited to the allure of its beautiful beaches and the influx of artists and celebrities in the 20th century.

Spend your days here lounging at Pampelonne Beach, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant beach clubs, or wandering the charming old port with its pastel-colored buildings and quaint cafés. Saint-Tropez’s nightlife is legendary; whether you're looking for an upscale nightclub or a cozy beachside bar, the town thrives after dark.

For a taste of local life, visit the market at Place des Lices, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted jewelry. While the summer months bring the biggest crowds, visiting in the early fall offers a perfect blend of lively atmosphere and milder weather, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy the party scene without the peak season rush.

6. Aix-en-Provence: City of a Thousand Fountains

Aix-en-Provence, often simply called Aix, is the quintessential Southern French town, famous for its elegant architecture and vibrant cultural life.

Walking through Aix, you'll be charmed by the harmonious blend of historic and modern elements, from the Cours Mirabeau, a wide avenue lined with 17th-century mansions and shaded by plane trees, to the lively markets that fill the squares with colors and scents.

Art lovers will be drawn to the Atelier Cézanne, where the famed painter Paul Cézanne worked, which remains much as he left it. The city's many fountains add a refreshing touch to the warm, sun-filled streets, making for delightful exploration stops.

Be sure to try some local specialties such as calissons, a sweet made of candied fruit and ground almonds, as you enjoy the leisurely pace of life that typifies Aix.

7. Montpellier: The Eclectic Heartbeat

Montpellier is a dynamic mix of the old and the new, with a vibrant student population infusing the medieval streets with youthful energy.

This city is a hub for art and history lovers, featuring numerous museums and galleries alongside contemporary architectural marvels like the Porte du Peyrou, a triumphal arch built in the 17th century, and the Antigone district, a neoclassical neighborhood designed by the Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill.

Montpellier is less touristy than other Southern French cities, offering a genuine taste of local life with its eclectic bars and cafes. The Place de la Comédie, the city’s central square, is a great starting point for newcomers, buzzing with activity and fringed by historic buildings. Here, the charm of Southern France is tangible, set against the backdrop of an energetic, forward-thinking community.

8. Toulouse: The Pink City

Nicknamed "La Ville Rose" (The Pink City) due to the terra-cotta bricks used in many of its buildings, Toulouse stands out with its unique color palette that glows in the sunset light. It’s a city where history intersects with high-tech, housing both a bustling aerospace industry and some of the oldest universities in Europe.

Explore the Basilique Saint-Sernin, a Romanesque masterpiece, and stroll along the Garonne River for some of the best views of the city. Toulouse’s vibrant market scenes, particularly at the Marché Victor Hugo, offer a plethora of local tastes and smells—here, sampling the local sausages and cheeses is a must.

The city’s relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for those looking to soak up culture at a leisurely pace. With its blend of educational heritage, culinary delights, and pink-hued vistas, Toulouse provides a deeper understanding of the French lifestyle away from the Mediterranean’s edge.

9. Arles: A Canvas of History and Art

Arles is a city where history paints every street, a place where you can walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh and see the landscapes that inspired over 200 of his works. The Roman and Romanesque monuments of Arles, including the ancient amphitheater now used for bullfighting, concerts, and plays, are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Dive into the local history at the Musée Arles Antique to explore artifacts from Arles' extensive Roman past. Art enthusiasts will delight in following the Van Gogh trail to view the sites where the artist set his easel.

For a truly unique experience, visit in late spring to early summer when the Rencontres d’Arles photography festival turns the city into a gallery, showcasing works from international artists.

10. The French Riviera (Côte d'Azur): Glamour on the Med

The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is synonymous with luxury and the glamorous lifestyle associated with its stunning Mediterranean coastline. Stretching from Saint-Tropez to the Italian border, the Riviera offers an array of star-studded towns, each with its own character.

Beyond the well-trodden paths of its major cities, the Riviera is dotted with charming hilltop villages like Èze and Saint-Paul de Vence, offering spectacular views and artisanal shopping experiences. The crystal-clear waters invite visitors to sail, swim, or simply soak up the sun.

This region is also an ideal base for exploring the wider Provence area, known for its vineyards and lavender fields. Whether you're looking for nightlife, culture, or relaxation, the French Riviera provides a picturesque setting with endless activities.

11. Camargue: Wild Beauty

In the Rhône River delta lies the Camargue, an area of raw natural beauty and one of Europe’s largest river deltas. Known for its briny lagoons, wild horses, and pink flamingos, the Camargue offers an escape into nature unlike any other in Southern France.

It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with numerous trails and guided tours available to explore its vast marshlands. The Camargue is also famous for its salt flats and rice paddies, contributing unique elements to the local cuisine, including the region’s distinct version of paella.

Visiting here provides a stark contrast to the bustling cities and glamorous coastal towns, offering a moment of tranquility and a chance to connect with the wild landscapes of Southern France.

12. Luberon: Quintessential Provence

Luberon epitomizes the idyllic Provencal landscape with its rolling hills, vibrant lavender fields, and picturesque stone villages perched on rocky outcrops. This region is a haven for those seeking peace and natural beauty.

Explore the charming towns of Gordes and Roussillon, where you can meander through narrow streets and discover artisanal boutiques. Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails offering panoramic views and the chance to stumble upon ancient abbeys nestled in secluded valleys.

Luberon is also a culinary delight; be sure to sample the local wines and visit a traditional market to try fresh produce and regional specialties like truffle and olive oil. A visit in the early summer when the lavender is in full bloom will treat you to a landscape bathed in purple and a sensory overload of sights and scents.

13. Gorges du Verdon: Europe’s Grand Canyon

For an adventure amidst breathtaking scenery, the Gorges du Verdon is a must-visit. Known as Europe's Grand Canyon, this spectacular river canyon is a vibrant turquoise contrast to the stark, rugged cliffs that surround it.

Ideal for kayaking, hiking, or simply enjoying the stunning views from the numerous lookouts, it offers a range of activities that can cater to both the thrill-seeker and the serene observer. The surrounding area provides ample opportunities for camping and picnicking, making it perfect for a family outing or a romantic getaway.

Don’t miss the chance to drive along the ridge of the canyon for some of the most dramatic vistas in Southern France. The Verdon Gorge is not just a place to visit; it's an experience to be embraced and remembered.

14. Biarritz: Surf and Sophistication

Nestled on the Atlantic coast, Biarritz is a stylish seaside town that has long been a retreat for European royalty and celebrities alike. Today, it is renowned for its world-class surfing beaches, such as the Grande Plage and Côte des Basques.

Beyond the surf, Biarritz is rich with culture, boasting the Sea Museum, which explores marine life through its aquariums, and the Art Deco casino that lights up the night sky. The town’s Thalassotherapy centers offer a unique blend of relaxation and wellness treatments using seawater, perfect after a long day of surfing or exploring.

Dining in Biarritz includes enjoying fresh seafood and Basque specialties, providing a gastronomic complement to its chic, laid-back vibe.

15. Carcassonne: A Medieval Dream

Carcassonne will transport you to another time with its well-preserved medieval fortress that dominates the landscape. This fairy-tale citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a stunning example of medieval military architecture.

Wander through the ancient walls and narrow cobblestone streets, imagining life as it was centuries ago. Inside the fortress, lively shops and restaurants provide modern comforts in a historical setting.

For a truly memorable experience, visit during the Festival de Carcassonne, when the city comes alive with music, theatre, and dance performances set against the dramatic backdrop of the medieval walls.

Practical Advice for Travelers

Navigating Southern France is easiest by car, giving you the freedom to explore small towns and remote attractions at your own pace. Trains and local buses also connect major cities and tourist spots. For accommodations, consider charming bed-and-breakfasts or vineyard guesthouses for a more authentic experience.

Sampling the local cuisine is a must; from Provencal ratatouille in Nice to cassoulet in Toulouse, each dish offers a taste of the region’s culinary diversity.

Southern France is more than just a destination; it’s a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.

Whether you’re lounging on a beach, exploring a medieval fortress, or indulging in local delicacies, Southern France offers endless opportunities to create memories that will last a lifetime.

15 Nice Beaches In The US

April 19, 2024

Nice Beaches In The US - 15 Coastlines You Have To Check Out!

Ready to hit the perfect beach? Let's face it, there's no better escape than sinking your toes into warm sand, diving into crystal clear waters, or just chilling under the sun with a drink in hand - and there' s no shortage of nice beaches in the US!

Whether you're into the wild surf scenes of Hawai i or the tranquil shores of the East Coast, the US boasts some seriously top-notch beach destinations . From family-friendly shores with all the amenities to hidden gems perfect for a romantic getaway, this list has you covered.

So pack your sunscreen and let’s dive into the 15 best beaches across the US, where every grain of sand tells a story.

1. Clearwater Beach, Florida

If the Gulf of Mexico had a VIP list, Clearwater Beach would be on it. With miles of that famous sugar-white sand and emerald waters, it's a haven for those who crave a bit of action alongside their sunbathing. You can try your hand at parasailing, enjoy a game of beach volleyball, or simply soak up the sun.

Visiting in early spring or late fall can help you avoid the crowds while still enjoying fantastic weather. Don’t miss out on the nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60, where street performers and local vendors create a festive atmosphere. For a bite to eat, head over to Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill for some of the best seafood on the beach.

2. Ka'anapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii

Imagine a beach where you can snorkel alongside colorful fish by day and watch cliff divers leap into the sunset in the evening. Welcome to Ka'anapali Beach , a three-mile stretch of Maui perfection. This beach isn't just about the soft sand and clear waters; it’s also steeped in culture, with the daily cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock, a tradition that honors the legendary leap of King Kahekili.

The snorkeling here is some of the best in Hawaii, so bring your gear and explore the underwater world. For accommodations, the hotels along the beach offer luxury and stunning views, but book early as they tend to fill up fast. Don’t leave without trying a shave ice from one of the local vendors, the perfect cool down after a day under the Maui sun.

3. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is a powerhouse in the world of premier beach destinations, offering something for everyone. This beach boasts a stunning coastline that stretches as far as the eye can see, lined with a boardwalk that’s alive with the energy of arcades, souvenir shops, and live entertainment.

Families will love the SkyWheel, one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the nation, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic. If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, visit during the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn when the weather is still warm but the crowds have thinned.

At night, head to the boardwalk again for some of the best seafood and live music the South has to offer, truly making it a top US beach destination for all ages.

READ NEXT: 11 OF THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN THE USA

4. coronado beach, san diego, california.

Step onto Coronado Beach and you might just feel like you’ve walked into a postcard. With its gentle waves and broad stretch of golden sand, it's a paradise for families and couples alike. The iconic Hotel del Coronado sets a stunning backdrop with its red-roofed turrets and Victorian elegance, adding a touch of historical grandeur to your beach day.

The beach is ideal for building sandcastles, paddleboarding, or just taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. Visit in the early morning to enjoy the peace before the crowds, or at sunset for an unforgettable view.

Dining options abound in nearby Coronado Village, where you can grab anything from gourmet burgers to artisan ice cream.

5. Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is not your ordinary beach town; it’s a glimpse into America's seaside past with its well-preserved Victorian buildings and quaint streets. This historic beach town offers a serene retreat with its picturesque beaches that are perfect for sunbathing or catching a sunrise.

Bird watchers and nature enthusiasts will find the nearby Cape May Bird Observatory a fascinating visit with migratory birds often spotted. The beach itself is clean and family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty throughout the summer. Make sure to explore the local shops for unique antiques and finish your day with a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants, serving fresh, local seafood.

For a touch of romance, book a carriage ride through the town at dusk. Cape May combines charm with the tranquility of the seaside, making it a distinguished destination among the quiet beaches in the United States.

6. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is a sanctuary for those who revel in nature's dramatic displays. Known for its breathtaking views of Haystack Rock, an enormous monolith that rises from the ocean, this beach offers more than just a picturesque landscape.

It's a hub for artistic inspiration and ecological exploration. The town itself is filled with galleries, cozy cafes, and quaint boutiques, reflecting its vibrant local arts scene. For an active day, explore the tide pools at low tide or take a hike through Ecola State Park, just a short drive away.

Don't miss the chance to snap a sunset photo of Haystack Rock—arguably one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the Pacific Northwest. Visiting in the off-season can mean fewer crowds and misty, enchanting mornings.

READ NEXT: 11 Ideas For A Bucket List Vacation In The USA

7. south beach, miami, florida.

If you're looking for a beach with a pulse, South Beach is the place. This iconic Miami beach is famous not only for its beautiful stretch of sand but also for its Art Deco architecture and vibrant nightlife. The colorful lifeguard stands and the parade of sunseekers and rollerbladers make it a visual feast.

During the day, the clear blue waters and palm-lined streets are perfect for soaking up the sun and people-watching. As night falls, the area transforms into a party haven, with some of the best clubs and bars in Florida. South Beach is the quintessential spot for those who crave a side of hustle and bustle with their beach time.

For a true taste of local flavor, try a Cuban sandwich from a street vendor or a fancy cocktail at one of the trendy beachfront hotels.

8. Siesta Key Beach, Florida

Siesta Key Beach is a paradise for those who appreciate the finer things—like the finest, whitest sand you’ll ever set foot on. Ranked consistently as one of the best beaches in America, its powdery sand is made from 99% quartz, cool underfoot even on the hottest days.

This eight-mile-long barrier island offers more than just stunning beaches; it's also home to a vibrant village of shops, casual eateries, and nightlife. For families, the shallow waters and lifeguard presence make it a safe and enjoyable beach day.

If you visit on a Sunday evening, don’t miss the Siesta Key Drum Circle, a spontaneous gathering of musicians and dancers that captures the unique, laid-back spirit of this Floridian gem. Whether you're looking for relaxation or a bit of local culture, Siesta Key delivers with style and comfort.

9. Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii

Nestled on the north shore of Kauai, Hanalei Bay offers a serene escape into a tropical paradise, where lush green mountains meet crescent-shaped shores. This stunning bay isn't just for relaxation; it's a playground for surfers and paddleboarders alike, thanks to its favorable waves.

Beyond the beach, Hanalei Town exudes a laid-back charm with its local boutiques and farm-to-table restaurants, perfect for a leisurely day out. For those adventurous at heart, nearby hiking trails offer panoramic views of the bay and surrounding valleys. The bay's pier provides a picturesque setting for fishing or simply enjoying the sunset.

Hanalei is not just beautiful; it’s a place where the soul feels at ease, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility.

10. Coligny Beach Park, Hilton Head, South Carolina

Coligny Beach Park is the heart of Hilton Head Island and a favorite for both locals and tourists. This beach is celebrated for its excellent accessibility, with amenities like free parking, clean restrooms, and outdoor showers. The beach itself is wide, with soft sand and gentle waves, making it perfect for a family day out.

The nearby Coligny Plaza offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, effectively making the beach trip an all-in-one experience. For a unique local treat, try the frozen custard from one of the beachside vendors.

If you’re looking for a beach that combines convenience with natural beauty, Coligny Beach Park is your go-to destination, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable visit.

11. Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

Waikiki Beach is arguably one of the most famous beaches in the world, renowned not only for its gorgeous sandy stretch but also for its rich history of surfing. Here, the spirit of Duke Kahanamoku, the legendary Hawaiian surfer and Olympic swimmer, is palpable, inspiring beginners and seasoned surfers alike to catch a wave.

The beach is flanked by high-rise hotels and bustling Kalakaua Avenue, where luxury shops, fine dining, and vibrant nightlife are just steps away. For those who prefer a quieter moment, the early mornings at Waikiki offer peaceful swims and stunning sunrises over Diamond Head.

Engaging with local beach boys for a surf lesson or a canoe ride is a must-do for a full Waikiki experience. This beach is a testament to the surf, sand, and sun that make Hawaii a beloved destination across the globe.

12. Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York

Nestled in the prestigious village of Southampton, Coopers Beach offers an exclusive slice of shoreline that's as pristine as it is beautiful. Ranked among the top beaches in the nation, this beach boasts soft white sand and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Its backdrop of historic mansions adds a touch of elegance and grandeur to your beach day. Coopers Beach is the perfect spot for those seeking a quieter, more refined beach experience. Amenities like chair and umbrella rentals are available, making it easy for visitors to settle in for a day of relaxation.

For a truly local experience, stop by the nearby village for gourmet sandwiches and pastries—ideal for a luxurious beach picnic. Visiting in early June or late September will help you avoid the summer crowds, offering a more serene visit.

13. Laguna Beach, California

Laguna Beach is more than just a beach; it's a cultural haven for artists and nature lovers alike. Known for its scenic coves and environmental preservation, this beach attracts those who appreciate both natural beauty and artistic expression. The community's commitment to the arts is visible in its numerous galleries and the annual Pageant of the Masters.

Laguna's marine protected areas ensure that snorkeling here offers glimpses of a vibrant underwater world rarely seen elsewhere. Above water, the hiking trails through Laguna Coast Wilderness Park provide stunning vistas of the rugged coastline.

Whether you're exploring tide pools or enjoying art walks, Laguna Beach offers a unique blend of ecological and artistic richness that captivates all who visit.

14. Nantucket Beach, Massachusetts

Nantucket offers a variety of beaches, each with its own personality, from the wave-crashed shores of Surfside to the calm waters of Children's Beach. The island's charm is encapsulated in its cobblestone streets and lighthouses, setting a scene that feels both timeless and idyllic.

Nantucket's beaches are perfect for those who enjoy quieter, more secluded spots. The local bike paths offer a great way to explore the island's scenic landscapes, and the historical sites provide a deeper understanding of its maritime heritage. For a taste of local cuisine, try the fresh seafood, especially the clam chowder, which is a staple at many island eateries.

A visit here is not just a beach trip; it's a step back in time to a slower, more thoughtful way of life.

15. Bahia Honda State Park, Florida Keys, Florida

Bahia Honda State Park features some of the most beautiful beaches in the Florida Keys, offering an escape into a natural paradise. The park is renowned for its crystal clear waters, excellent snorkeling, and picturesque sandspits. Its remote location means you can often find a quiet spot on the beach, making it ideal for those seeking peace and solitude.

The state park also provides ample opportunities for kayaking, bird watching, and stargazing, with minimal light pollution. Accommodations in the park include campsites where you can sleep under the stars, just a stone’s throw from the gentle waves.

Bahia Honda is a jewel in the Florida Keys, perfect for nature lovers and those looking to disconnect and rejuvenate.

From the tranquil bays of Hawaii to the historic shores of New England, the United States is home to some of the most diverse and stunning beaches in the world. Each beach offers its own unique blend of natural beauty, local culture, and recreational activities, making them perfect destinations for any beach lover.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a beautiful place to spend the day, these 15 beaches provide a wonderful glimpse into the coastal treasures of America.

12 Of The Best Places To Visit In France

April 17, 2024

Exploring France: 12 Unforgettable Destinations You Must Visit

Ah, France! A country synonymous with romance, exquisite cuisine, and a rich tapestry of history and culture.

Whether you're gazing up at the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower, sipping rosé on the sun-kissed Riviera, or wandering through the sprawling vineyards of Bordeaux, France offers a diverse array of landscapes and experiences that cater to every traveler's fantasy.

In this guide, we'll explore the twelve must-visit destinations across this charming country, each promising unique attractions and unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, and let’s embark on a journey through the crème de la crème of French locales.

There’s nowhere in the world quite like Paris. The city is a colossal treasure chest of art, fashion, food, and literature. Stroll along the Seine at sunset, admire the masterpieces in the Louvre, or enjoy a café au lait at a sidewalk café—every corner of Paris tells a story.

Don’t miss the chance to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night; it's a magical sight that epitomizes the romance of Paris . For the shoppers, the Champs-Élysées offers chic boutiques and flagship stores galore. And of course, no visit to Paris is complete without a night at one of its legendary cabarets. Truly, Paris is not just a city; it’s a feeling.

2. Mont Saint-Michel

Emerging from the mists of the Normandy coast, Mont Saint-Michel appears like a mirage on the horizon. This rocky isle, topped with a gravity-defying medieval monastery, is one of France's most iconic landmarks. Visiting Mont Saint-Michel is like stepping back in time.

The winding, narrow streets of the Mont are lined with quaint shops and cozy eateries, leading up to the majestic Abbey at the summit. Here, you can explore the fascinating architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding bay.

The island changes character with the ebbing tides, a reminder of the natural forces at play. This stunning blend of natural beauty and architectural wonder makes Mont Saint-Michel a must-visit for any traveler to France.

READ NEXT: THE BEST ISLANDS IN FRANCE FOR A LUXURY GETAWAY

3. French Riviera (Côte d'Azur)

The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is synonymous with glamour and sophistication. Stretching along the Mediterranean coast from Saint-Tropez to the Italian border, this sun-drenched region offers some of the most stunning seaside scenery in the world.

Spend your days lounging on the beaches of Nice, cruising the azure waters on a yacht, or mingling with celebrities at the glitzy film festival in Cannes. The Riviera is not just about star-studded events; it's a cultural hub with vibrant markets, enchanting old towns, and stunning art museums, including the famous Picasso Museum in Antibes.

As the sun sets, the nightlife awakens with an array of chic bars and clubs. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, the French Riviera promises a taste of the high life.

4. Provence

Provence is a picturesque region that epitomizes the charm of rural France. It's a tapestry of lavender fields, vine-covered hills, and ancient olive groves, all basking under the Mediterranean sun. The scent of herbs fills the air in the bustling markets, where you can sample local delicacies like ratatouille and tapenade. The cities of Provence, including Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, are steeped in history with beautifully preserved Roman ruins and Renaissance architecture. For a truly local experience, visit during the lavender season in early July when the fields are in full bloom—a sight so striking it looks like a painting come to life. Provence's relaxed pace and stunning landscapes offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

5. Loire Valley

Referred to affectionately as the "Garden of France," the Loire Valley is a verdant escape renowned for its spectacular scenery, fine vineyards, and the grandeur of its châteaux.

This region boasts some of the most beautiful castles in the world, such as Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, which seem to have leaped straight out of a fairy tale. Each castle tells a story of historical intrigues, artistic endeavors, and architectural evolution.

Beyond the castles, the Loire Valley is a haven for wine enthusiasts and gourmets, offering a chance to indulge in wine tasting tours and savor exquisite French cuisine in its natural, rustic setting. The region's gentle pace and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for cycling, boating along the Loire River, or simply enjoying a leisurely picnic in the lush, rolling hills.

6. Bordeaux

If wine is your passion, Bordeaux is your paradise. This elegant city, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its outstanding urban ensemble, is the gateway to one of the world's most famous wine regions. Bordeaux itself is a cultural treasure trove, with impressive museums, a vibrant theatre scene, and lovely public gardens that invite leisurely strolls.

Venturing beyond the city, you'll find the vineyards that produce some of the globe’s most prestigious wines. Visiting the wine estates of the Médoc or Saint-Emilion, you can learn about the wine-making process, from vine to bottle, and, of course, sample the final products.

Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Bordeaux offers a deep dive into the world of winemaking that is both educational and thoroughly enjoyable.

Nestled at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon has earned its reputation as a UNESCO World Heritage site through its dynamic blend of history, gastronomy, and vibrant urban life. The city is renowned as the gastronomic capital of France, a place where food is elevated to an art form.

From traditional bouchons serving Lyonnaise specialties like quenelles and coq au vin to innovative eateries led by avant-garde chefs, Lyon offers a culinary adventure like no other.

The city's historical fabric is equally rich, with the ancient Roman district of Fourvière offering breathtaking views and ruins, and the Renaissance district of Vieux Lyon featuring narrow passageways (traboules) that weave through buildings, revealing hidden courtyards and historic charm.

Lyon's cultural scene is buzzing with festivals, museums, and a lively nightlife that ensures there's always something new to discover.

8. Dordogne

The Dordogne region, often referred to as the Périgord, offers a dive into the heart of old France.

Here, medieval bastide towns and prehistoric caves, such as the famous Lascaux, tell the ancient stories of the land and its people. The Dordogne River itself invites leisurely canoe trips that allow for stunning views of cliffside castles and lush, green landscapes.

Gastronomy is a serious affair in Dordogne, with the region known for its truffles, foie gras, and walnuts. Local markets brim with fresh produce, and the welcoming ambiance of a rural French café offers a slice of life in the countryside.

For those who delight in the outdoors, hiking, biking, and hot-air balloon rides provide unique perspectives on the region’s breathtaking scenery.

READ NEXT: THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN THE FRENCH COUNTRYSIDE

9. chamonix-mont-blanc.

For those drawn to the majestic allure of the Alps, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an essential destination. Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak, Chamonix is a haven for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Renowned as one of the world's top destinations for skiing , snowboarding, and mountaineering, Chamonix offers thrilling activities year-round. In the warmer months, hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding transform the landscape into a playground for the active traveler.

The town itself is charming, with cozy alpine architecture and bustling streets that offer a range of dining and shopping options. Whether you're looking for a serene escape in the mountains or adrenaline-fueled exploits, Chamonix does not disappoint.

10. Strasbourg

Strasbourg, with its enchanting blend of French and German cultures, serves as a symbol of European unity.

The city is the official seat of the European Parliament, but it's also celebrated for its scenic beauty and historical depth. The Grande Île, Strasbourg's historic center, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the stunning Gothic cathedral with its intricate astronomical clock and a view that captivates all who climb its spire.

The quaint district of Petite France, with its timber-framed buildings and serene canals, offers a picturesque stroll through the past. During the festive season, Strasbourg hosts one of Europe's oldest and most vibrant Christmas markets, turning the city into a winter wonderland.

Beyond its aesthetic and historical appeal, Strasbourg is a gateway to the Alsace wine route, promising further explorations into the region’s renowned vineyards and gastronomy.

Nestled along the shimmering Mediterranean, Nice is the quintessence of French Riviera charm. With its famous Promenade des Anglais, a sweeping boulevard along the seafront lined with palm trees, Nice beckons visitors to bask in its sunny disposition.

The city's vibrant old town, Vieux Nice, is a colorful tapestry of Italianate architecture, bustling markets, and lively cafés, reflecting its historical Italian influences. Art enthusiasts will find a wealth of treasures here, including the Matisse Museum, which houses one of the world's largest collections of Henri Matisse's works.

Beyond the cultural allure, Nice's pebbly beaches and crystal-clear waters offer a perfect setting for relaxation and scenic beauty. It’s a city that perfectly blends artistic heritage with the laid-back lifestyle of the Riviera.

12. Alsace Wine Route

For wine lovers and explorers alike, the Alsace Wine Route offers an unforgettable journey through rolling vineyards set against the backdrop of the Vosges Mountains. This scenic route stretches over 170 kilometers, winding through more than 70 wine-producing villages that are among the most beautiful in France.

Renowned for its aromatic white wines like Riesling and Gewurztraminer, the region invites visitors to taste their way through picturesque villages such as Riquewihr and Eguisheim, each offering their own unique charm and history. Along the way, you can stop at various wineries to learn about the winemaking process and enjoy pairings of wine with local specialties like flammekueche, a delicious Alsatian tart.

The Alsace Wine Route not only captivates with its culinary delights but also enchants with its cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling through France.

From the romantic boulevards of Paris to the sunlit vineyards of Alsace, France offers a breathtaking variety of landscapes and experiences that cater to every traveler’s dreams. Whether you are drawn to the allure of city lights, the tranquility of rural retreats, or the adventure of the great outdoors, France promises a rich array of destinations each imbued with their own unique charm and history.

This journey through France’s top places to visit showcases the nation’s capacity to enchant, educate, and inspire. So why wait? The adventure of a lifetime awaits in the heart-stirring landscapes of France. Pack your bags, bring your passions, and prepare to be captivated by one of the world’s most beautiful countries. Bon voyage!

What to Do on a Rainy Day in Paris

April 12, 2024

Paris in the Rain: The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying the City's Indoor Charms

Think Paris is only enchanting under the sun? Wait until you see it blush under a veil of rain. The City of Light transforms into a mysterious, cobblestoned canvas, inviting the intrepid explorer to discover its secrets veiled by the drizzle.

Paris in the rain is not a deterrent; it's an invitation—an opportunity to see the city through a different lens, where every raindrop mirrors the endless possibilities for adventure and coziness. Whether you're dodging puddles or seeking refuge in a warm café, rainy days in Paris unveil a whole new world of experiences, far from the madding crowd of sunnier times. This guide is your key to unlocking the hidden pleasures of Paris when the clouds decide to play.

1. Dive into the Underworld: Exploring the Catacombs

Beneath the bustling Parisian streets lies a silent world, steeped in history and shrouded in mystery— the Catacombs of Paris . This vast underground cemetery, holding the remains of over six million people, offers a chilling yet fascinating exploration opportunity that's perfectly suited for a rainy day.

As you venture into the dimly lit tunnels, lined with neatly arranged skulls and bones, you're walking through Paris's history, a somber reminder of the city's past epidemics, wars, and cemetery overcrowding issues.

Practical Tips: To avoid the notoriously long queues, consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets online. The temperature underground is cooler, so bring a sweater even if it's warm outside. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces. And remember, photography is allowed, but flash is not—so adjust your settings accordingly.

2. Coffee Shop Hopping in Le Marais

After the eerie quiet of the catacombs, warm up and wake up with a coffee shop hop in one of Paris's most vibrant neighborhoods—Le Marais. This area, known for its historic architecture, fashionable boutiques, and dynamic nightlife, also boasts some of the coziest coffee shops in the city. Each café in Le Marais offers its unique ambiance, from the rustic charm of old Paris to sleek, modern interiors. It's the perfect setting for watching the world go by on a drizzly day, latte in hand.

Recommendations: Start your hop at Café Charlot , a former boulangerie with a classic Parisian vibe, before heading to Ob-La-Di for some of the best coffee and Instagram-worthy interiors. Don't miss Fragments , where the cozy atmosphere is only matched by the quality of the brews.

Practical Tips: These spots can get busy, especially on weekends, so aim for late morning or early afternoon visits for a more relaxed experience. Each café has its signature drink, so ask the barista for recommendations. And while you're in the area, take advantage of the covered passages—historic shopping galleries that offer shelter from the rain and a glimpse into Parisian life of yesteryears.

3. A Day at the Louvre

Rainy days create the perfect backdrop for a visit to the world-renowned Louvre Museum. With fewer tourists and shorter lines, you can enjoy a more intimate experience with the artworks, including the enigmatic Mona Lisa and the majestic Venus de Milo. The Louvre's vast collection spans thousands of years and cultures, from ancient civilizations to Renaissance masterpieces, making it an endless treasure trove for art lovers.

Practical Tips: While the main entrance at the Pyramid is iconic, it's also the busiest. For a quicker entry, use the less crowded Passage Richelieu or the Porte des Lions. Plan your visit by downloading the Louvre's official app, which includes maps and itineraries to help you navigate the museum's expansive halls. Don't try to see it all in one day; instead, choose a few sections that interest you most.

4. Lost in Pages: Bookstore Browsing

No rainy day in Paris is complete without losing yourself among the stacks of a quaint bookstore. Shakespeare and Company, overlooking the Seine and Notre-Dame, is a literary haven that has welcomed book lovers since the 1950s. This English-language bookstore is not just a place to buy books; it's a cultural landmark where you can attend readings, enjoy a cup of tea, and maybe even meet a few resident writers.

Practical Tips: Shakespeare and Company can get crowded, especially on weekends, so consider visiting on a weekday morning for a quieter experience. Make sure to explore the upstairs reading room, where time seems to stand still, and don't forget to get your purchases stamped with the store's iconic logo—a unique souvenir from your time in Paris.

5. Wine Tasting Class

When the Paris skies turn grey, it’s the perfect excuse to dive into the world of French wines—a journey that promises warmth and enlightenment. Paris houses numerous cozy spots where beginners and connoisseurs alike can savor the richness of French viticulture. A wine tasting class on a rainy day not only educates you about the country's diverse wine regions and grape varieties but also offers the pleasure of discovering your new favorite bottle.

Recommendations: Look for wine tasting sessions at O Chateau , renowned for its extensive selection and knowledgeable sommeliers. For a more intimate setting, Les Caves du Louvre offers a historic backdrop to your tasting journey, right in the heart of Paris.

Practical Tips: Reserve your spot in advance as these experiences are highly sought after, especially on rainy days. Most classes are designed for both beginners and seasoned wine lovers, so don’t shy away if you’re new to wine tasting. Remember, it’s not just about the taste but also about the stories behind each bottle.

6. Culinary Workshop: Cook Like a Parisian

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in French culture than by learning how to cook a traditional French dish. Culinary workshops are a fantastic indoor activity where you not only learn the secrets of French cuisine but also enjoy the fruits of your labor in a warm, convivial setting. From mastering the art of making the perfect baguette to whipping up a delectable coq au vin, these classes offer a hands-on approach to understanding why French cuisine is revered worldwide.

Recommendations: La Cuisine Paris and Le Foodist are among the top culinary schools offering classes in English, catering to an international audience. These workshops range from baking classes to market tours followed by cooking sessions, providing a comprehensive French culinary experience.

Practical Tips: Book your culinary workshop in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and rainy days. Most schools cater to dietary restrictions, so be sure to inform them ahead of time. Dress comfortably, as you’ll be standing and cooking for a few hours.

7. Spa Day the French Way

On a drizzly Parisian day, indulge in the ultimate form of relaxation—a day spent at one of Paris's luxurious spas. French beauty and wellness are celebrated worldwide, and what better way to experience this aspect of French culture than by pampering yourself? From steamy hammams to serene massages, a spa day in Paris is not just about beautification; it's a cultural dive into the French way of life, where self-care is paramount.

Recommendations: Spa de La Belle Juliette offers a cozy yet luxurious setting, ideal for unwinding and recharging. For those interested in experiencing a traditional Turkish hammam, Hammam Pacha provides an exotic escape, complete with steam rooms and soothing treatments.

Practical Tips: Advance booking is a must, especially on rainy days when everyone is looking for an indoor retreat. Many spas offer packages, so explore options that might include a massage, facial, and access to steam rooms or pools for a comprehensive experience. Remember, tranquility is part of the package, so switch off your phone and immerse yourself in the serene environment.

8. Indoor Markets: A Gourmet Adventure

Paris's covered markets, or marchés couverts , are a feast for the senses and a shelter from the rain. These markets aren't just about grocery shopping; they're vibrant hubs of Parisian life where locals and tourists alike come to savor gourmet foods, discover artisanal products, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Each market has its own character, offering everything from fresh produce to cheese, meats, and ready-to-eat meals.

Highlights: Marché des Enfants Rouges in Le Marais is Paris's oldest covered market, known for its diverse food stalls offering cuisines from around the world. Le Marché Couvert des Batignolles focuses on organic produce and products, making it a hit among health-conscious foodies.

Practical Tips: Visit during lunchtime to enjoy a wide variety of ready-to-eat options, from traditional French dishes to exotic international cuisine. These markets can be busy, so keep an eye on your belongings. Also, bring cash as not all vendors accept cards.

9. Art Galleries in the 6th Arrondissement

The 6th Arrondissement of Paris, with its quaint streets and elegant charm, is a haven for art enthusiasts, especially on a rainy day. This district is brimming with galleries showcasing a mix of classic and contemporary works that reflect the vibrant artistic spirit of Paris. Ducking in and out of art galleries is not only a perfect way to avoid the rain but also an opportunity to discover the next big names in art, or perhaps find a piece that speaks to you personally.

Recommendations: Galerie Kamel Mennour is known for its contemporary exhibitions, often featuring thought-provoking installations and works by emerging artists. For lovers of more traditional art, Galerie Daniel Varenne offers a curated selection of modern and post-war artwork.

Practical Tips: Many galleries in the 6th Arrondissement are free to enter, making this a fantastic budget-friendly option. However, it's polite to show genuine interest and respect for the space. Don't hesitate to ask the gallery staff about the artists or the artworks; they're usually eager to share their knowledge.

10. Cabaret Show: A Night of Dazzle

No rainy evening in Paris should go to waste, and what better way to spend it than by immersing yourself in the glitz and glamour of a Parisian cabaret show? From the world-famous Moulin Rouge to the avant-garde Crazy Horse, Paris's cabaret scene offers a mesmerizing blend of dance, music, and theater, all wrapped in a spectacle of feathers, sequins, and lights.

The Moulin Rouge, with its iconic windmill, has been a symbol of Parisian nightlife since 1889, offering the classic cabaret experience. For a more modern take, Le Crazy Horse celebrates the female form with artistic and sophisticated performances.

Practical Tips: Booking your tickets in advance is crucial as shows often sell out, especially on rainy nights. Dress to impress; while the dress code may not be strictly enforced, it adds to the whole experience. Arrive early to enjoy a drink and settle into the ambiance before the show starts.

Paris, with its timeless charm, doesn’t pause for the rain, and neither should you. The city's array of indoor activities—from the eerie allure of its underground catacombs to the cozy corners of its cafés and the dazzling lights of its cabaret stages—ensures that there’s always something to explore, regardless of the weather. This guide to rainy day pursuits in Paris is not just about staying dry; it’s about diving deeper into the heart of the city, discovering its culture, its art, and its joie de vivre that flourishes come rain or shine.

As you wander through the streets of Paris, let the rain bring a new perspective, turning every puddle into a reflection of the city’s enduring beauty and every raindrop a beat in the rhythm of Parisian life. So, grab your umbrella and let these experiences illuminate your rainy days in Paris, proving that the City of Light shines brightest when it’s reflected on wet cobblestones.

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Your Guide to Scuba Diving in Egypt's Red Sea

Moses would have been amazed.

• Page contents:
• Your options
• Diving season
• Where is it?
• Reef summary
• Useful references

... Highlights: hammerhead sharks, shark action, dolphins, manta rays, turtles, schooling fish & big pelagics, non diving activities... ... Diving environment: healthy reefs, wrecks, walls, drift diving, caverns, beginner and advanced divers, very popular...

Few locations crop up in conversations about scuba diving the way that the Red Sea does. If it isn't the first destination to crop up in a wow conversation, it is typically among the first 3. Join an Egyptian liveaboard to experience the best diving that this region has to offer. The Red Sea takes its name from the periodic algal blooms that occur here painting the sea with a reddish hue, and not the red-tinted Egyptian mountain ranges that surround it. It's a diver's paradise, with the warmest of warm seas, very little wave action and unsurpassed visibility .

It is considered to be one of the 7 Wonders of the underwater world , harbouring more than 1,000 species of invertebrates and over 200 species of soft and hard coral . This forms the basis of a marine eco-system which includes 1,100 species of fish, of which just under 20% are endemic to the Red Sea, i.e. these fish species can only been found here. The high level of endemism here is one of the main factors that makes Egypt scuba diving so interesting.

The Red Sea dive sites offer you unobstructed opportunities to spot tropical marine life in crystal clear waters, ranging from sharks and dolphins to gorgonian fans and feather-stars. Variety is in no short supply either and depending on which region of Egypt you choose to visit, your diving holiday could include shallow patch reefs, drift dives and walls , or a collection of some of the most interesting wrecks you are likely to find anywhere. In other places vibrant reefs stretch out far into the sea and form intricate labyrinths of plateaus, lagoons, caves and gardens .

One moment you could find yourself on a coral garden atop a summit and the next a sheer wall could plunge thousands of feet into dark ocean depths. The Red Sea's abundance of marine life and depths of the reef are a thrill that many divers will tell you is unbeatable.

The Highlights

More detailed information on dive sites of the Red Sea:

››Hurghada & Wrecks

››Sinai Peninsula

Southern Red Sea

The Northern Red Sea

Diving in Egypt as a whole is a pretty special attraction and like a box of Quality Street - everybody has their own favourite. Some would say that Sharm El Sheikh on the Sinai Peninsula has the best of what Red Sea scuba diving has to offer. The legendary dive location that is Ras Mohammed, wrecks the likes of the Thistlegorm and the Straits of Tiran are all easily accessible from Sharm El Sheikh. Dotted with at least 10 other interesting wreck sites, the area is also alive with big fish such as barracuda, turtles and eagle rays. Show more

Sharm El Sheikh is located on the historic Sinai peninsula in the far north of the Red Sea. The town itself is among the best places on the Egyptian coastline for variety of restaurants, hotels and nightlife. It is popular among people doing dive courses since there are many nearby sites suitable for instructional dives. It is also a very popular spot for certified divers doing daytrips or boarding one of the liveaboards that depart from here. Daytrips from Sharm can reach sites as diverse as Ras Mohammed, the Straits of Tiran, the wreck of the Dunraven and of course, the famous SS Thistlegorm. The liveaboards operating in the northern Red Sea visit all of these sites and more. Ras Mohammed is the site of the first national park in Egypt. Its location is at the confluence of waters from the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba. This mix results in a wide range of diversity in terms of coral and fish life. Its best known dive sites include Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef , 2 peaks rising up from the depths and home to grey reef sharks, tuna, barracuda, snapper and even hammerhead sharks. As you poke around looking for sting rays, moray eels and scorpionfish around Yolanda Reef, you can indulge in some unexpected lavatorial humour! As you fin over the sloping reef, strewn over the sea-bed beneath you are dozens of toilets and other bathroom accessories which were the cargo of the sunken Yolanda wreck. The SS Thistlegorm wreck is possibly the most famous site in all of Egypt diving, and with good reason. It is a memorable sight to see WWII motorcycles and jeeps still in the same position they were when this ship went down. They are now heavily encrusted and are part of the ocean floor. What an amazing glimpse into history this dive is! It is a very popular site and is best dived early in the morning from a liveaboard, before the daytrip boats arrive. The Thistlegorm is king among the many great wrecks in the northern Red Sea. Straits of Tiran is a reef system adored by divers who are keen to experience deep walls and reef flats teeming with schools of fish. Shark lovers are drawn here by the promise of encounters with hammerhead sharks and possibly even tiger sharks. The 4 reefs that comprise this system are Woodhouse, Thomas, Gordon and Jackson reefs. Hurghada is at the centre of the Red Sea diving world. While courses and daytrips are both conducted from Hurghada, it is unarguably the main port for Egypt liveaboards. From this location boats can either travel north to do northerly routes (including many famous wrecks) or south to do southerly routes, or a combination of the 2! Local sites reachable by daytrip include Giftun Island and further to the Abu Nuhas wrecks and Salem Express , offering a good variety of experiences. You might even encounter dolphins at local sites near Hurghada. Abu Nuhas a.k.a. the Shaab Abu Nuhas Reef is a shallow reef that has caused the sinking of more boats than anywhere else in the Red Sea. There are currently 5 wrecked cargo ships lying off its northerly slopes. Most of them, including the Giannis D , the Chrisoula K and the Kimon K met their watery fate in the 1970s or 80s. However, the oldest of them is the Carnatic which sank en route to India in September 1869. Its cargo of gold, wine and cotton went down with it, although sadly none is left these days. What is left of the frame of this boat is now completely part of the marine world and covered in soft corals, encrusting sponges and hydroids.

The Southern Red Sea

For jaded divers who have seen it all, the further south you go in the Red Sea, the higher the quality of the diving. Hurghada and Marsa Alam offer you a starting point from which to explore the incredibly rich sites and pelagic shark action at The Brothers, Daedalus Reef and St. John's which satisfy even the most experienced scuba divers. These areas in the south of Egypt are your best bet for encounters with oceanic whitetip sharks and large schools of fish. They are also home to interesting caves and have many tunnels to explore. Show more

The Brothers Islands are a central feature of diving in the southern Red Sea. For many regular visitors, no Egypt diving vacation is complete without a liveaboard trip that includes these famous twin islands. They are easily identifiable by the sight of a Victorian-era lighthouse rising up from the larger of the 2 islands. Numerous memorable dive sites surround these islands, including 2 wrecks: the Numidia and Aida . The Brothers are among the best sites for diving with sharks. Most frequently sighted species include whitetips, silvertips, grey reef sharks, hammerheads and even oceanic whitetips and thresher sharks. Daedalus Reef is another of the most visited sites of the south. Sometimes the steep walls of Daedalus are flushed with strong currents which hold the promise of predator action. Among the larger species likely to be seen here are schools of hammerheads, tuna and manta rays. Daedalus Reef is in a very remote location, over 80 km from Marsa Alam, and like many of the Red Sea's best dive sites, it is only visited by liveaboard. Elphinstone is a site that is often mentioned in the same breath as Daedalus and both sites regularly form part of the same liveaboard itinerary. Named after a British military commander, this reef is characterised as drift diving over healthy reefs, past sheer walls and exploring little caverns. Sharks, schools of various reef fish and colourful little delights like red-toothed triggerfish and purple and orange anthias make this an colourful experience! Elphinstone is popular both for liveaboard divers, but also as a daytrip destination, given its proximity to Marsa Alam. St. John's Reefs are found in the deep south of Egypt, not far north of the Sudanese border and are therefore considered slightly off-the-beaten-track. The dive sites here enjoy unusual topography featuring channels, caverns, overhangs and tunnels, atypical of the usual diving in the Red Sea. There are plenty of sharks and pelagics around this region too, as well as dolphins and mantas. Other creatures of note in this area include dugongs, squid, Spanish dancers, bigmouth mackerel and bumphead parrotfish.

How to Dive Egypt

There are 2 ways to experience diving in the Red Sea. For more information on your options, and all the other travel information you might need for a visit, view our Egypt liveaboard or day trips sections .

Resort stays will allow you the opportunity to base yourself close to a selection of fine dive sites. See our Sharm El Sheikh day trips , Hurghada and Marsa Alam day trip sections.

Red Sea liveaboards on the other hand, are always a top choice for those who want to see more than any land-based stay in the area can offer. These dive cruises can take you around the best of the northern region (Sinai Peninsula and the Hurghada wrecks) ot the south (from the Brothers down to St. John's and the Sudanese border). Breathtaking scuba diving, fantastic boats and inspiring topside scenery all await you here: North and Wrecks , Southern Red Sea .

››Most popular

››Top rated

››Staff choice

For the ultimate holiday of a lifetime, why not combine your Red Sea scuba diving trip with an adventure tour to discover the historical sights of ancient Egypt? You can take an overland tour of Cairo to visit the pyramids, the Sphinx and the famous museums, or a Nile cruise through the Valley of the Kings: Egypt antiquity tours .

The Diving Season

Egypt is a fine choice for scuba diving any time of year but the water temperatures do vary significantly. From June to August the water can reach 30°C but it falls to a chilly 22°C in February . Do bring an appropriate exposure suit for the time of year - northern hemisphere winter = 5 or 7 mm full length, northern hemisphere summer = 3 mm shortie to long.

Air temperatures in Egypt can reach a high of 40°C (104°F) in August and fall to 20°C (68°F) in the winter (December to February) , which may also dictate when you travel.

Whale shark season occurs from the end of May until the end of July when this majestic creature can be spotted, mainly in the northern Red Sea but also here and there in the south. Sightings are quite rare though. These warm summer months tend to be the best time for a range of creatures. The plankton blooms bring manta rays in to feed and turtles also nest at this time. The summer months are also the best for spotting hammerhead sharks throughout the sea.

The winter months have the benefit of less extreme air temperatures, superior visibility and, for many visitors to the Red Sea, often mean escaping the cold climate of Europe. Many creatures including grey reef sharks, dolphins and dugongs can be spotted year round, with some preferring the cooler water such as thresher sharks.

Where is Egypt and How Do I Get There?

Review our map below of Egypt and its location in the world. Here, you will find information on how to get to Egypt .

Reef Summary

Depth: 5m - >40m Visibility: 20m - >40m Currents: Gentle - strong Surface conditions: Calm, can be choppy in some places Water temperature: 22°C - 30°C Experience level: Beginner - advanced Number of dive sites: >200 Recommended length of stay: 1 - 2 weeks

Useful References

• Red Sea tour options: Daytrip diving   -   Cruise trips
• Diving video gallery
• The Red Sea's MPAs
• Endemism in the Red Sea
• Egyptian tourist activities
• Frequently asked questions

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• Diving in Egypt: A Travel Guide to the Best Diving Spots
• March 23, 2022 May 28, 2023
• Nadiya Farag
• Blog , Diving in Egypt

Egypt is a country that is renowned for its rich historical past, cultural diversity, and unique natural beauty. It is a land of mystical wonder with something to offer every traveler. However, for diving enthusiasts worldwide, Egypt is like a dream destination. The country boasts some of the most stunning marine life and coral reefs worldwide, making it a popular hub for divers from all corners. This blog post will explore diving in Egypt and what makes it a unique and thrilling experience for divers of all levels.

The Red Sea coast of Egypt is known for having some of the world’s most biodiverse reefs, home to various amazing marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and other sea creatures. The clear waters and favorable diving conditions allow divers to explore these beautiful underwater worlds nearby. The warm waters teeming with life in Egypt offer year-round diving opportunities, making it an excellent destination for those looking to escape the winter season in their home countries.

Diving in Egypt is also crucial for the economy, contributing significantly to tourism and creating jobs for local communities in coastal regions. Tourists visit and dive in Egypt to help sustain the environment and support efforts to protect delicate marine ecosystems.

The main purpose of this blog post is to explore the world of diving in Egypt, delving into the range of experiences and activities for divers of all levels. From exploring the Ras Mohammed National Park to diving at the world-famous Elphinstone Reef, there is much to see and do in Egypt. This post aims to give readers a glimpse into this fascinating world, offering insights into the many diving sites throughout the country. Whether you are an experienced diver or just starting, Egypt will amaze and delight you with its underwater wonders, and this blog post aims to be your guide to getting the most out of your diving experience.

What to Expect from reef diving in Egypt

Egypt is a dream destination for divers, with its stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic wrecks. Among the many diving experiences offered in Egypt, reef diving is undoubtedly one of the most popular. The Red Sea is home to some of the world’s most impressive coral reefs, which offer divers a chance to explore brilliantly colored fish, sea turtles, rays, and more. Among the best reefs in Egypt are Ras Mohammed National Park, where the coral formations are breathtaking, and Tiran Island, famous for its stunning underwater walls.

While exploring the reefs, divers can expect to see various marine life in Egypt’s Red Sea, including over 1,000 fish species. Some fish frequently spotted include parrotfish, angelfish, pufferfish, and moray eels. Spotting larger species, such as sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles, is common. Each location in Egypt offers its unique underwater landscape, and divers can expect to see different flora and fauna in other areas.

Another popular diving experience in Egypt is wreck diving. The Red Sea is rich in shipwrecks, many of which remain intact and in excellent condition. Some of Egypt’s most famous wreck sites include the SS Thistlegorm and Dunraven wrecks. The SS Thistlegorm is one of the most popular sites for explorers carrying the remains of military equipment from the Second World War. The Dunraven wreck, on the other hand, is an 1876 shipwreck that was run aground on the reef at Shadwan Island.

With diving sites such as vibrant coral reefs and historic shipwrecks, it’s easy to see why Egypt is one of the world’s top destinations for diving. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a newbie, there’s something for everyone here. The Red Sea’s crystal-clear waters, rich biodiversity, and impressive landscapes make it an ideal place to explore the underwater world. So why not take the plunge and discover the beauty of Egypt’s underwater reefs, wrecks, and more today?

Egypt’s Best Dive Spots: Unforgettable Underwater Adventures

Sharm el sheikh.

Sharm El Sheikh is a premier diving destination in Egypt. With crystal clear waters and abundant marine life, it is no wonder that this destination attracts divers worldwide. For those ready to take the plunge, here are some of the top dive sites in Sharm El Sheikh .

1. Ras Mohammed: This marine park is home to some of the most stunning underwater terrain in the world. From coral gardens to steep walls and wrecks, there is something here for divers of all skill levels. The abundance of marine life here is astounding, with over 220 fish species and hundreds of coral species to discover.

2. The Straits of Tiran: Known for its strong currents and challenging diving conditions, this site is not for the faint of heart; however, the rewards are worth it. Here, divers can spot large schools of barracuda, several species of shark, and even the occasional manta ray.

3. Thistlegorm: One of the most famous wrecks in the world, the Thistlegorm is a must-visit for any diving enthusiast. This British ship was sunk during World War II and now serves as an artificial reef. Divers can explore its cargo of trucks, motorcycles, and ammunition and see firsthand the history beneath the waves.

The best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh for diving is between March and May and October to November. The water temperature during these months is comfortable, ranging from 23-28°C, and visibility in the water is excellent. If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the off-peak season from June to September when the prices are lower and there are fewer tourists. However, during this time, the water temperature can be uncomfortably warm, and plankton blooms can affect visibility. No matter when you go, Sharm El Sheikh offers some of the most unforgettable dives in the world.

Hurghada is a diving destination that should be on every diver’s bucket list. This lively coastal town on the Red Sea coast in Egypt is the gateway to some of the most fantastic dive sites in the world. Here are the top dive sites in Hurghada that you shouldn’t miss:

1. Abu Nuhas is a ship graveyard that has become a popular dive site due to its many wrecks. The area is littered with the remains of sunken ships, making it an exciting site for wreck diving enthusiasts. Divers can explore the Carnatic, the Chrisoula K, the Kimon M, and the Giannis D, among others.

2. Giftun Island is a beautiful reef home to various marine life. The coral reefs here are in excellent condition, making for some spectacular diving. Giftun Island is suitable for divers of all levels, with shallow areas for beginners and deeper sections for more experienced divers.

3. Abu Ramada is a coral garden with diverse sea creatures like clownfish, blue-spotted stingrays, and octopuses. Giftun Island is another popular dive site with many exciting activities, including wall diving and exploring the many coral formations. The Shaab El Erg dive site is a must-visit for those interested in wreck diving.

The best time to visit Hurghada is between March and May or September and November. During these months, the water temperatures are warm, the visibility is excellent, and the crowds are smaller.

If you’re planning a trip to Hurghada, there are plenty of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious five-star resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. The town is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and other activities like snorkeling, kite surfing, and quad biking in the desert.

Dahab is a small town on the Sinai Peninsula ‘s eastern coast, a few hours’ drive from Sharm el-Sheikh. This town is famous for its picturesque shelved reef; just a few minutes walk from the shore. Diving in Dahab is one of the top things to do in Egypt, and it’s the reason behind this town’s growing popularity as a diving destination. Here are some top diving spots you do not want to miss:

1. Blue Hole – The most iconic dive site in Dahab, Blue Hole is a must-visit for all divers. It’s a gaping hole in the reef that drops to 130 meters. This spot is recommended only for experienced divers as it can be dangerous if they are not cautious.

2. Canyon – Another spectacular site in Dahab is the Canyon, a deep and narrow cleft in the coral reef. You’ll swim through small tunnels before emerging in a large cave filled with different species of marine life.

3. Lighthouse – The Lighthouse is one of Egypt’s best night diving spots. The site is just a few meters from the shore, making it a perfect location for night diving.

Regarding weather, the best time to visit Dahab for diving is from April to November, when water temperatures average around 25°C-28°C. The weather conditions are stable during this period, and the visibility of the water is at its best.

Accommodation in Dahab ranges from budget guesthouses to more luxurious resorts, and many restaurants serve local and international cuisine. Besides diving, you can engage in camel rides, hiking, Bedouin excursions, and desert safari trips.

Finally, hiring a reputable diving center is recommended to ensure your safety while diving in Dahab. You’ll be able to rent equipment, take courses and go on dives under the supervision of qualified instructors. Happy Diving!

What to Expect From Diving in Egypt

Water temperature

Egypt is a dream destination for divers worldwide, offering an abundance of underwater wonders waiting to be explored. Water temperature is one of the most important factors to consider before diving in Egypt. The Red Sea is relatively warm, and divers can expect water temperatures to range from 22 to 28 degrees Celsius. This makes it perfect for divers who want to experience the marvels beneath the surface without grappling with the cold.

Water visibility

Another essential factor to consider when diving in Egypt is the water visibility, which is consistently some of the best in the world. The clear waters of the Red Sea offer up to 30 meters or more of visibility, allowing divers to revel in the aquatic world surrounding them. The underwater scenery is undoubtedly one of the highlights of diving in Egypt, with many beautiful coral reefs, exotic fish, and fascinating marine creatures on show.

Currents and tides

Currents and tides are other vital factors to consider when diving in Egypt. The Red Sea is well known for its strong currents, which can be challenging for some divers. However, these same currents can enable significant drift dives where divers can effortlessly glide while admiring the stunning scenery. Listening to advice from local dive guides and dive centers is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while diving in Egypt.

In conclusion, diving in Egypt offers a fantastic opportunity for divers to experience the wonders of the Red Sea. The warm water temperature, excellent visibility, and often strong currents make it a challenging but exultant diving destination. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting, Egypt provides ideal diving conditions for all divers. So, why wait? Pack your dive gear, arm yourself with an adventurous spirit, and head to the land of ancient treasures for an unforgettable diving adventure!

How to Plan Your Diving Trip to Egypt

Diving in Egypt is a bucket list experience for many divers worldwide. With its vibrant and exotic marine life, crystal-clear waters, and stunning dive sites, it is not surprising that Egypt is a popular diving destination. For those planning a diving trip to Egypt, budgeting well in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip is vital.

One of the most significant expenses for any diving trip is the cost. The cost of living in Egypt varies depending on the location, dive center, and season. Generally, diving in Egypt is relatively affordable compared to other popular diving destinations worldwide. For a single dive, the cost can range from $30 to $60, while a full-day diving package can cost anywhere from $70 to $150. Researching and comparing prices from different dive centers before deciding is always a good idea.

Aside from the cost of diving, travelers also need to consider the cost of accommodation and other expenses. In Egypt, the cost of housing ranges from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. For those on a budget, guesthouses or hostels can be a great option, with prices ranging from $10 to $25 per night. Hotels and resorts can cost anywhere from $60 to $300 per night for a more comfortable stay.

Other expenses to consider include transportation, food, and equipment rental. Taxis and public transportation are relatively affordable in Egypt, with a one-way trip costing only a few dollars. Food, on the other hand, can be both cheap and expensive depending on where you choose to eat. Local street food can cost as low as $2, while a meal at a fancy hotel can cost upwards of $50.

Budgeting for a diving trip to Egypt is not as expensive as one might think. Proper planning and research allow travelers to enjoy a memorable diving experience without breaking the bank.

Best Time to Visit

Regarding diving, Egypt is a dream destination for many enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and fascinating underwater landscape, Egypt offers an unforgettable diving experience. However, knowing when to visit is essential to maximize your diving adventure.

Firstly, let’s talk about the weather in Egypt. As a desert country, Egypt is hot and dry, reaching temperatures above 30°C (86°F) during summer. The best time to visit Egypt is during the winter season, from November to February. During this time, the weather is more relaxed and comfortable, with fewer crowds.

So, what is the best time for diving in Egypt? The answer is simple – anytime between September and December. During this period, the water temperature is comfortable, ranging between 22°C (72°F) to 27°C (81°F), and the visibility is superb. This is when the underwater scenery comes to life, with schools of fish, colorful coral reefs, and even the chance to spot larger marine animals such as sharks and dolphins.

If you’re looking for a specific diving site to visit during your trip to Egypt, consider heading to the Red Sea coast. This region is renowned for its world-class diving spots, including Alexandria, Dahab, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Hurghada. Each destination offers a unique diving experience, with various wrecks, reefs, and marine life to discover.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Egypt for diving is during the winter months, from September to December. With comfortable temperatures, excellent visibility, and abundant marine life, it’s the perfect time to explore the waters of this magnificent country. Remember to visit the Red Sea coast to experience some of the finest diving in the world!

A. Summary of what to expect from diving in Egypt

Egypt is a fantastic destination for diving enthusiasts, offering many dive sites with diverse ecosystems and unique marine life. The Red Sea is a highlight for many divers, particularly with its clear blue waters and vibrant coral reefs. Expect colorful schools of fish, sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, and other magnificent creatures. Dive boats are plentiful and well-equipped, and experienced dive guides ensure your diving experience is safe and enjoyable.

B. Final recommendations

If you plan to dive in Egypt, we recommend researching beforehand to identify the best dive sites suited to your interests and skill level. Consider taking a PADI course or refresher before you go, and make sure your equipment is in good shape. We also recommend booking with a reputable dive operator and staying at an accommodation with excellent reviews from divers. Lastly, remember to participate in non-diving activities like visiting the ancient pyramids, cruising the Nile, or exploring local markets and cuisine.

C. Encouragement to plan a trip to Egypt and experience diving there.

In conclusion, Egypt is a dream destination for any underwater enthusiast. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and top-notch diving, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. We encourage you to plan a trip to Egypt and experience the thrill of diving into its world-class sites. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting, Egypt’s underwater world will inspire you. Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

When exploring the wonders, several Egypt vacation packages cater to all types of travelers. These packages include guided tours of the Giza pyramids and ancient temples and opportunities to experience Egypt’s vibrant culture and cuisine. For those with limited time, Egypt day tours offer a fantastic way to squeeze in some sightseeing and adventure, whether snorkeling in the Red Sea or exploring Cairo’s bustling markets. But for a truly unforgettable experience, a Nile River cruise is a must. These luxurious cruises will take you on a journey through Egypt’s history, with stops at iconic landmarks like Luxor and Aswan , and offer a chance to relax and recharge amidst stunning scenery. Whatever your travel style and preferences, there’s a perfect Egypt vacation package, day tour, or Nile cruise waiting for you to discover.

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Diving in the Red Sea: 10 Best Dive Sites

Written by Jess Lee Updated Sep 16, 2022

Diving is top of most travelers' things to do list on a Red Sea trip , and Egypt is home to the best of the Red Sea's dive sites.

The underwater tourist attractions of Ras Mohammed National Park and the eerie wreck of the Thistlegorm are world-renowned and remain among the best places to visit for keen divers, but there are many more underwater highlights off Egypt's Red Sea coastline.

Whether you want to add a day or two of diving into your Egypt sightseeing or are gearing up for a dive-dedicated vacation, check out the top areas and where to base yourself with our list of the best dive sites in the Red Sea.

On This Page:

Sharm el-sheikh: for dive & beach combo vacations, dahab: for learner divers & longer dive stays, hurghada & el gouna: for diving within easy reach of luxor, marsa alam: for diving the deep south sites.

• 10 Top Red Sea Dive Sites

Although today Sharm el-Sheikh, in Egypt's South Sinai, is just as well-known as a beach resort, it is still the main base for diving the sites of both Ras Mohammed National Park and the Straits of Tiran .

Ras Mohammed and the Straits of Tiran are two of the Red Sea's most famous dive destinations , and some of the dive sites contained in these two areas are rated among the top dives in the world .

Access to all the best dive sites around Sharm el-Sheikh is by boat, as well as day trips, and there are plenty of liveaboard options operating out of Sharm for tourists looking for a dedicated dive holiday.

One of the most popular shorter liveaboard options – which can easily be tagged onto a hotel stay – is the overnight dive trip to the Thistlegorm wreck in the Straits of Gubal, off the Sinai Peninsula's western shore.

Sharm el-Sheikh makes an excellent base if you are interested in a relaxing sun-and-sea break and simply want to add a day or two of diving into that plan.

The beach resorts here are fully set up for family-friendly vacations, and most have dive companies on-site, so you don't have to stroll far from your sun lounger to set up a dive.

Read More: Top things to do in Sharm el-Sheikh .

Dahab is a small beachside resort which has remained dedicated to diving.

It is the Sinai's budget traveler hub, mostly eschewing the glitzy resort style of Sharm el-Sheikh to instead focus on an activity-led, laid-back style of tourism.

It's renowned for its good-value diving packages and is also home to Egypt's free-diver community.

Dahab is also one of the best places to learn to dive in the Red Sea . This is due both to the fact that many of Dahab's dive sites can be accessed from the shore and the lower price of accommodation here, which makes the cost of long-stays for completing various PADI qualifications more affordable.

As well as diving, Dahab is a great base for visitors interested in exploring the Sinai with plenty of well-priced things to do in the desert such as camel treks and ATV (quad-bike) safaris.

This is the nearest base to Egypt's infamous Blue Hole dive site, which is just north up the coast from town.

The coast around Hurghada was Egypt's original Red Sea diving destination, and its popularity, as well as over-development, has caused much damage to dive sites over the decades.

This isn't to say divers should now completely steer clear, as this is the nearest base to the multitude of sites in the Red Sea's Straits of Gubal .

Experienced divers, though, are better off booking a liveaboard holiday starting from here rather than staying at a resort and taking dive trips to the nearer reefs, which tend to be both the most damaged and the most crowded.

Hurghada is known for its luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts, as well as offering good-value, family-friendly vacations.

Hurghada's beaches and other attractions draw flocks of northern Europeans here through the winter months.

For divers that want a trip that combines both a few days of diving and some time exploring Luxor's glut of historic sites, the resorts of Hurghada and El Gouna remain the closest and easiest option, with Luxor within day-tripping tour distance for sightseeing.

Marsa Alam has long been known among experienced divers as one of the Red Sea's best dive bases, thanks to being the closest town to the dive sites of Egypt's "deep south," such as the Fury Shoals .

Over the last decade, the coast around Marsa Alam has been developed into a beach resort area and now is home to a number of large five-star resorts, as well as the simpler dive-centric beach camps it was known for.

The best dive sites here are more suitable for advanced divers, so if you're a beginner diver looking for a beach resort and dive vacation, you're still better off checking out Sharm el-Sheikh or El Gouna.

If you're an experienced diver though, Marsa Alam could just be your next favorite Red Sea SCUBA diving destination.

Top Red Sea Dive Sites

1. the thistlegorm wreck.

The Thistlegorm is the Red Sea's most famous wreck dive and one of the top places to visit for divers.

This WWII cargo ship, which had been bringing supplies for the Allied troops in North Africa, was sunk by German fighter planes in the Straits of Gubal in October 1941.

The attack killed nine of the ship's crew, and the ship itself was split in two, sinking quickly to the seabed.

The wreck of the Thistlegorm was discovered by Jacques Cousteau in 1956, but its location was kept secret until the mid-1990s.

Diving here, amid the ship and its cargo, is exploring a WWII underwater museum. The Thistlegorm's cache of gun carriers, trucks, and motorbikes are still in the hold, and the railway carriages the ship had been carrying sit on the seabed beside the wreck.

Wreck diving here is an overnight trip by liveaboard boat which can be booked from either Sharm el-Sheikh or Hurghada. Most trips include at least two dives of the wreck and often a dive at another nearby site along the way.

Due to the popularity of Thistlegorm dives, nearly every dive operator offers this trip.

2. Shark and Jolanda Reefs

Most divers heading to Sharm el-Sheikh for the first time are here to dive these two reefs, which are rated among the world's top 10 dive sites .

Shark and Jolanda Reefs sit inside the protected Red Sea area of Ras Mohammed National Park , just off the southern point of Ras Mohammed's peninsula, easily accessed by day boat from Sharm.

Due to the currents, this is a major drift dive destination – heading through Shark Reef and ending at Jolanda Reef – which offers the best of both sea life and the Red Sea's renowned soft coral underwater vistas, as well as the wreck of the Cypriot cargo ship Jolanda .

Sea life spotting here is abundant, with large schools of a variety of small, colorful reef fish species along with barracuda, snapper and tuna, turtles, giant moray eels, manta rays, and sharks.

The coral variety here is just as impressive as the sea life, with colorful coral pinnacles and walls covered in bright coral gardens.

Normally the dive ends with an exploration of the Jolanda wreck, which had been carrying a cargo of porcelain bathroom equipment, now spilt across the sea floor when it grounded on the reef and sunk in 1980.

3. The Fury Shoals

The Fury Shoals is a group of several reefs stretching south from Marsa Alam to Berenice in the deep south of Egypt's Red Sea.

The coral gardens here are notable for being among the most pristine in the Red Sea and, with diver numbers much more limited in this area, it's a great dive site for spotting sea life.

White-tip sharks and manta rays are regularly seen, as well as turtles, spinner dolphins, and numerous octopus, barracuda, various reef fish, and nudibranchs.

These deep south dive sites also offer one of the best chances for a rare sighting of the Red Sea's dugong.

The dive sites contained within the Fury Shoals offer a hugely interesting variety of diving, from steep-walled underwater cliffs encrusted in corals and tunnel swim-throughs, to exploring small wrecks.

The Fury Shoals can be accessed by boat on dive trips from Marsa Alam. Liveaboard operators also offer multi-day dive tours to the Fury Shoals leaving from Marsa Alam and Hurghada.

4. Jackson Reef and the Lara Wreck

Jackson Reef is the most northern reef of the Straits of Tiran . Due to strong currents, this is a site for experienced divers.

The Straits of Tiran lie north of Sharm el-Sheikh, and Jackson Reef is normally accessed as a boat day trip from Sharm.

For advanced divers, a trip here during a Sharm el-Sheikh stay is a must due to the reef being home to some of the most vibrant hard and soft corals in the area. The gorgonians and fire coral are particular highlights.

Teeming reef fish flit around the coral gardens here, while larger marine life regularly seen includes hammerheads, grey reef sharks, white-tip sharks, large moray eels, octopus, barracuda, and schools of tuna.

The wreck of the Cypriot Lara freighter, sunk in 1981, can also be explored by advanced divers on the reef's northern edge.

5. Elphinstone Reef

Just north of Marsa Alam, Elphinstone Reef is one of the great attractions of a Marsa Alam dive vacation, known for both its marine life and the abundance and variety of soft corals carpeting the reef's deep plateaus.

With its often fast currents, Elphinstone is a brilliant drift dive destination.

The reef descends to 42 meters, with vertical cliffs, caves, and coral pinnacles, which can all be explored at the lesser depths.

The site is famous among the diving community for its shark sightings. Oceanic white-tips and hammerhead sharks along with grey reef sharks and black-tips are all regularly spotted here.

Due to the currents and depths, Elphinstone should not be dived by beginner or inexperienced divers.

This is the most popular Red Sea dive site in Egypt's deep south due to the easy day boat access from Marsa Alam.

6. Big Brother and Little Brother Island

The isolated Brothers Islands (about halfway between Hurghada and Marsa Alam) are part of Egypt's protected marine park islands and have restrictions on divers permitted to dive here.

The good news is that the dive operator is the one who deals with the paperwork to get the permits. You just need to be able to prove your diving experience to be granted the entry. Most of the dive sites here are advanced level only.

Accessed by liveaboard trips (departing from Hurghada or Marsa Alam), the Brothers Islands get only a handful of divers compared to other Red Sea sites.

The seven dive sites in the area are known for their shark sightings, with oceanic white-tips and hammerheads particularly common. There is a wealth of other smaller reef fish and huge schools of larger fish to see as well.

Off Big Brother Island, the fringing reef, carpeted with colorful different soft corals, is a particular highlight, while there are two wrecks nearby here also to explore.

Due to the need for permits, trips to this dive site area should be organized in advance, before you arrive in Egypt.

7. Thomas Reef and Gordon Reef

These two reefs sit in the Straits of Tiran and are usually accessed by day boat from Sharm el-Sheikh, though if you're based in Dahab, there are liveaboard trips to the Straits of Tiran dive sites that you could add on to your Dahab stay.

There are four Straits of Tiran reefs. These two sit at the most southern end of the reef system, so are often dived together on a day trip.

The reef walls here feature steep drop-offs leading down to yawning coral garden plateaus. Thomas Reef is the smaller of the two and the most popular dive due to its variety of colorful hard and soft corals, including whip corals, black corals, and huge gorgonians.

Both these reefs are known for their multitude of teeming reef fish plus regular shark and turtle sightings, with hammerheads, tiger sharks, and grey reef sharks regularly spotted.

The currents are strong here, so this is a dive site for experienced divers.

8. Shaab Samadai

This horseshoe-shaped reef south of Marsa Alam is a protected area, and there's a cap on daily visitor numbers due to the pod of spinner dolphins, which are regular visitors here.

Whether the dolphins turn up or not though, Shaab Samadai is a dive site with plenty of variety to offer divers, known for its multitude of coral pinnacles, as well as a canyon swim-through for more experienced divers.

Those who don't want to dive but would like the chance to see Shaab Samadai's dolphins can usually join one of the dive boats as a snorkeler.

The dive site is accessed by day boat trip from Marsa Alam or by liveaboard tours from Marsa Alam and Hurghada.

9. Dunraven Wreck

Situated off the southwest tip of the Sinai Peninsula, the Dunraven wreck is an 80 meter-long steamship that hit the reef here on its journey back to the UK from India and sunk (with all crew saved by local fishermen) in 1876.

Abundant fish have made their home here, and divers interested in macro sea life will be particularly happy, as there are plentiful nudibranchs to be seen. Reef fish that inhabit the wreck include scorpionfish, pipefish, and Napoleon wrasse.

If you're on a liveaboard trip from Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh to the Thistlegorm wreck, the Dunraven dive is usually included in the trip. It can also be accessed by day boat from Sharm .

10. The Blue Hole

Just north of Dahab, this sinkhole, vertically dropping to around 120 meters, is Egypt's most notorious dive site due to the amount of lives it has claimed.

Despite its reputation, though, as long as you dive safely within normal recreational diving depth limits, diving here is just as safe as other sites.

Only highly advanced, technical divers, with specialized equipment to counteract the effects of nitrogen narcosis and oxygen poisoning, should attempt venturing deeper than this, and even then, should be highly prepared and trained beforehand. All of the Blue Hole's deaths have occurred outside of the normal recreational diving depth limits.

On a normal recreational dive here, there are numerous different corals and small fish life to observe, including plenty of flitting clownfish. Accessed from the shore, the lip of the sinkhole is also a popular Red Sea snorkeling destination because of the rich variety of fish life.

Map of Diving in the Red Sea: Best Dive Sites

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• 11 Spots For Scuba Diving In Egypt Every Underwater Enthusiast Must Visit

You might be surprised to know that Egypt is not just about ancient remains or artifacts and desert, but is also about adventure activities that will make your tour amazing. Scuba diving in Egypt is the most thrilling adventure activities you can enjoy. There are many places where you can engage into this activity. One of the most visited sea is the Red Sea, which got it name from the periodic algae blooms occurring seasonally which paints the sea with reddish hue. The sea is the mecca of marine life and is the crystal clear sea.

Top 11 Sites For Scuba diving In Egypt

When we talk about scuba diving in Egypt, Red Sea isn’t the only place for the adventure. There are many sites for scuba diving available in Egypt. However, no matter which diving site you visit, you are required to have experience in swimming. Take a look at the top 11 scuba diving spots:

1. SS Thistlegorm, Sharm El Sheikh

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Located three hours from Sharm El Sheikh, SS Thistlegorm is a famous diving site in Egypt. One reason that makes this diving site famous is the British transport ship wreckage stretching over 128 meters long. One can clearly see the large vessel deep inside the sea. This large vessel was attacked and sunk in its journey from Glasgow to Alexandria. One of the interesting things about this large vessel is the cargo that includes armored cars, radios, rubber boots, and other things which are sitting on the bottom of the ocean. You along with your group can dive into the deep sea and explore this ship entirely. You will seriously love how these century old things are still lying in the sea. One thing to remember is not to miss the crocodile fish hiding in the sand around the wreckage. If you are in the North of Red Sea trips, then this is easily accessible.

Must Read: 20 Unique Things To Do In Egypt That No Travel Guide Will Ever Tell You About

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2. Big Brother, Hurghada

This Brother Island is world famous for scuba diving activity. There are two small islands- Big Brother and Small Brother. They are known for pristine corals and shark encounters. If you are diving into Big Brother, you will end up meeting Aida II, 75 meter wreck which was crashed in 1957. The wreck sits the slant between 25-65 meters covered with corals. The best thing about this island is the beautiful crystal clear water that looks stunning and gives clear underwater view. If you want to shoot the entire activity, then you will come across large-lipped Napoleon Wrasse. Near to Aida II, there is another century old wreck called as Numidia which is surrounded by white tip reef sharks, hammerheads and the train carriage along with large wheels at 12 meters deep.

3. Shark and Yolanda Reef, Sharm El Sheikh

If you want to have a once in a lifetime opportunity, then Shark and Yolanda Reed at Sharm El Sheikh is the best option. Through this dive, you will swim past variety of bathroom products, slates and other objects that fell from the cargo which sank in 1980. For photographers this is the great sea to get some amazing shots. This location is at Gulf of Aqaba which meets the Gulf of Suez. This area is known for strong currents and is rich with nutrients. It is in fact, perfect for marine life to breed on. The entire dive is of 30 minutes.

Suggested Read: 17 Mystical Places To Visit In Egypt, The Gift Of The Nile!

4. Elphinstone Reef, Marsa Alam

This 80 meters long reef is 25 meters deep. It has got steep wall and surrounded by strong currents, so this make the place right for drift driving. During the dive, you will float past fan corals and anthers. The Elphinstone Reef offers divers the chance to meet the Oceanic White tip reef sharks and Hammerheads. Moreover, you will also spot dolphins and tiger sharks. The reef is located 20-mins boat ride from the shore at Marsa Alam and earned the Top Diving Sites. It is better to pre-book your diving schedule.

5. Jackson Reef, Straits of Tiran

This reef is known for crystal clear water which means that you get clear view of underwater reef. Jackson Reef looks like paint and is stunning inside. The red and orange fire coral brighten up the surrounding area. However, professional divers will warn other divers to not to touch them as it may hurt. You can find different types of reef sharks like- white tip reef sharks and gray reef sharks. To reach this diving site, you need to take 30-minute boat ride from Sharm.

Suggested Read: A 4000 Year Old Tomb In Egypt Has Just Been Opened For Public & It’ll Leave Your Mind-Boggled!

If you tend to go into a remote area and stay close to the sea for diving purpose, then Hamata is the right option. This is the most famous dive sites in the southern Marine Park. To reach here, you need liveaboards. Being a small hamlet, very few tourists visit this place. Diving here is absolute bliss. The most famous spot is the Wadi el Gemal and is well protected by series of strict environmental laws.

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7. The Red Sea

Considered as one of the 7 wonders of the underwater world, it is the most famous diving site in Egypt. Upon diving in you get too introduced with more than 1000 species of invertebrates and 200 species of hard and soft coral. The Red Sea scuba diving site is crystal clear giving you clear underwater scene. The diving process includes- shallow patch reefs, drift dives and walls. Also you will come across some interesting wrecks inside. Corals here are so amazing that you won’t feel coming out of the sea world. The abundance of marine life and depths of the reef offers a thrilling experience.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Honeymoon Places In Egypt To Visit In 2022 For A Romantic Stint By The Pyramids

One of the most loved destinations in Egypt, Dahab is also known for scuba diving. The diving location here is easily accessible from the shore. Some of the sites are- Blue Hole and Canyon. Blue hole scuba diving in Egypt is one extremely popular among the visitors. The central area of the Masbat is plenty to see and to chill around. There are cafes in the surrounding area. So once you are done with the diving, you can chill out in any of the cafes.

9. El Quseir

This is an ancient town which dates back to 5000 years and is one of the important diving sites. Although there is an increase in the tourism in Egypt , El Quseir hasn’t been affected with this. The unspoilt, vibrant reefs are worth exploring. If you want to take a look at the coral reefs, then you will certainly have the best time here.

Suggested Read: A Trip To Egypt? See What All To See And Do For The Best Holiday Experience

Located 70 km from the south of Hurghada, Safaga is a popular scuba diving and is known for wall dives, beautiful coral garden, and Salem Express wreck. The express sank in 1991 taking 470 lives. If you are in Safaga, make sure to visit Ras Abu Soma which is considered as a top site for diving along with Tobia Reeds, which is also known as Seven Pinnacles. All sites of diving are reachable by boat. The most famous diving site here is Panorama Reef where you will comes across some spectacular 200m deep walls giving the best drift diving.

11. St John’s and the Deep South

An unspoilt paradise for scuba diving in Egypt Red Sea is the Deep South, which contains three famous sites- St John’s, Zabargad and Rocky Island. All three are accessible by liveaboard. Strong currents coming from Rocky Island and Zabargad gives the best diving experience of drift dives. Here, you will come across some wonderful underwater reefs which are worth exploring during the dive.

Further Read: Pyramids Of Egypt: 10 Places To Marvel At The Mysterious Ancient Wonders Of The World

Being the most divine diving site in the world, the Red Sea is one of the safest places to enjoy scuba diving in Egypt. But, there are other spots too. There are different scuba diving companies in Egypt that can take you scuba diving with all the security equipment. The prices of scuba diving varies from one service provider to another. Being prepared in advance will certainly help in getting the best diving experience. Take a trip to Egypt right away to dive in its pristine waters.

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Diving In Egypt

What is Egypt famous for?

Though most prominently known for the giant Pyramids, Egypt has a lot to offer to the world. From its delectable cuisines, amazing beaches and a plethora of adventure activities to explore, Egypt is soon becoming a popular tourist hotspot.

What to do in Egypt?

If you are looking for exciting things to do in Egypt, here are a few things worth trying: 1. Learn To Make Papyrus in Giza 2. Take a camel ride across Giza 3. Hike to the top of Mt. Sinai 4. Explore the Karnak Temples 5. Dive To The Lost City of Heracleion

Is Egypt a good place for diving?

Egypt is also known as the mecca of rich aquatic life, and clear blue waters which give an unique scuba diving experience found now where else.

Is scuba diving in Egypt safe for first-timers?

Yes. There should be no doubt about it. But make sure you have all the necessary training and safety equipment when you go scuba diving.

How much does scuba diving cost in Egypt?

Diving in Egypt can cost you anything between INR 2700 (€ 35) and INR 8600 (€ 110) per day per person. Cost may vary depending on the equipment, location, and additional services.

Which is the best scuba diving centers in Egypt?

A few popular dive centers in Egypt are: 1. Orca Dive Dahab 2. Camel Dive Club & Hotel 3. Scubatec Dahab Dive Shop 4. Sea Dancer Dive Center

Which is the best time to visit Egypt?

October to April is the best time to visit Egypt to escape the heat and explore the beautiful city comfortably. If you wish to avoid the crowd, you could avoid the peak season between December and January.

Is a diving certificate necessary for scuba diving in Egypt?

Though not law, many of the diving centers require you to have a diving certificate from an authorized agency if you wish to take up scuba diving activity.

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• Scuba Diving

Dahab Diving – The Ultimate Scuba Guide (by a local)

Originally posted on May 7, 2018 @ 11:53 am

Diving in Dahab has become popular because of its well-preserved reefs and abundant marine life.

This laid-back, small hippie town has a unique vibe, where Bedouins and expats live together and enjoy the beautiful nature.

Surrounded by the Red Sea and the Sinai desert, it’s a truly magical place. Many people stay much longer than they were planning – like me. A month has turned into almost 3 years now for me 😉

Side Note: A lot of people raise the question of safety (thanks, media!), so let me clear your head here once and for all – EGYPT IS SAFE!

Especially Dahab! I’m a German girl living here by myself and have had no safety issues. I’m much safer here than in any big city in Europe.

You’ll be surprised by the kindness and hospitality of the locals.

In this guide, I’ll give you all the information you need to know so you’re perfectly prepared for your Dahab diving trip.

I also have a list of 89 Things To Do In Dahab so you won’t get bored on days you’re not diving. There is so much to do, you could spend 3 months here and still discover new places and activities – like sandboarding e.g.

But you’re here for scuba diving, so let’s dive right in 😉

What is the best time to go Scuba Diving in Dahab?

Egypt has great climate all year long, it usually doesn’t get below 20°C. That being said, the water does get pretty cold in winter so if you prefer warm water, you shouldn’t come between December and March.

The perfect season in Dahab, in my opinion, is from September to November – the air temperature slowly cools down but the water is still nice and warm.

During summer it gets really hot, from June/July to August you will probably spend most of your time in your hotel or Airbnb hiding under the air-conditioning if you’re not in the water.

During these months though, marine life becomes even more abundant and your chances of seeing bigger sea creatures like dolphins or sharks are much bigger.

April and May are usually good months in terms of air temperature, the water is around 22°C. 

Dahab Diving Prices

How much scuba diving in Dahab costs depends a lot on the dive center (or freelancer) you choose. In general, Dahab is one of the cheapest places worldwide for scuba diving.

One of the reasons is that almost all dives can be done from the shore so there is no need for expensive boat rentals, the other one is that Egypt is a cheap country for traveling in general.

Below, I’m listing price ranges for PADI courses and guided dives. Now, there are dive centers that sell it much cheaper but I’m not going to include those as I do not want to support ruining the industry here.

Plus they have bad equipment and guides who don’t take good care of you, so for your own safety – please don’t risk your hard-earned vacation and possibly your life just to save a few dollars.

It’s not worth it! There’s plenty of Dahab Diving Centers that are fantastic and still reasonably priced.

The prices include equipment, tanks, a guide, and transportation to the dive sites.

• PADI Open Water Course: ca. 285€
• PADI Advanced Open Water: ca. 200€ – 225€
• 1 Intro Dive – ca. 35€
• 1 Guided Dive – ca. 30-35€
• 3 Guided Dives in 1 Day –  ca. 75€

My personal recommendation (I DO NOT earn a commission for this, it’s just based on my own experience) is to go with We Dive Dahab. 

Eslam is a very patient, skilled and safety-oriented freelance instructor who managed to teach me scuba diving after two failed attempts in Thailand & Mexico because of equalization problems).

He uses the facility of a dive center that has very well maintained and professional equipment. 

Word of warning: I advise female scuba divers not to go diving with “Dahab Days” dive center, located in Mashraba/Laguna. I went on a liveaboard with them and the manager continually harassed me sexually and refused to apologize for his behavior.

When I posted my reviews on their Facebook page and Google, he made up a lot of ugly lies about me which he later admitted under pressure of me reporting him to the police.

To show your support for your fellow female divers, I encourage everyone not to go with people who act like that.

If you want to make the most out of your Dahab diving experience, I recommend you do your Advanced Open Water here if you don’t have it already.

Quite a few dive sites are only for advanced scuba divers, or at least the highlights of these dive sites (like the entrance to the Blue Hole). It takes only two days and there is no test, so easy peasy 🙂

If you haven’t been scuba diving in a while, you will probably do a check dive at the Lighthouse, the “house reef” of Dahab, so to say.

I haven’t included Lighthouse in this list because I had dozens of locals vote for their favorite dive sites to write this article objectively and it didn’t make it to the top places.

It’s an amazing dive site nevertheless, don’t be disappointed if you go there just because it’s not on this list.

You may also do a liveaboard safari in the Red Sea , a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

10 Best Dahab Dive Sites

I don’t like to call one dive site the best in Dahab as preferences among divers are very different.

Some prefer to see unusual corals, some like a little action, some like to see bigger fish and some prefer to look for small creatures like nudibranchs.

I give a little explanation about each dive site so you can decide for yourself which ones you find most interesting.

Let’s start with the one that made Dahab diving famous – the Blue Hole. The Blue Hole dive site has no bottom, but the bottom of the Blue Hole Hole itself is at 110m.

You can go two different routes, the most popular (and coolest!) one is when you enter the Blue Hole from an open chimney called “The Bells”.

The name derives from the sound of tanks touching the walls as it’s very narrow, only one diver can go down at a time. You exit this chimney at 26m and dive along the wall of the Blue Hole.

Before you exit, you can swim to the middle of the Blue Hole and just be surrounded by the blue – almost like being in space 😉

Note: Since the “El Bells” entry goes all the way down to 26m, you need to be an Advanced PADI Open Water Diver (you can get your certification there!).

If you want to stick with your regular Open Water license, you can simply dive into the Blue Hole and go to the right to follow the beautiful wall full of hard and soft corals, it looks the same as when you enter from the chimney.

The Canyon dive site is on the way to the Blue Hole. Most likely you’re going to dive here as well when you go to the Blue Hole.

From 10-20m you’ll find a beautiful garden of corals and then discover the canyon itself – a split between the reef going down to 54 meters where technical divers can exit the Canyon.

Otherwise, you can just dive through the cracks.

Don’t confuse the name with actual islands, they’re basically underwater islands. This dive can only be done during high tide and in good sea conditions, there should be barely any wind.

You’ll see big pinnacles of hard corals and swim around the island. The bottom (17m) is full of hard and soft corals and you can meet schools of Barracudas, Snapperfish etc.

Eel Garden is the only dive site on this list that is directly in Dahab “City”. You’ll find a lot of colorful different fishes and a huge garden full of eels who gave this dive site its name.

They literally “stand” up in the sandy bottom and are super fun to watch, like dancing snakes who disappear very quickly once you get too close.

Umm El Sid is considered to be the most beautiful reef south of Dahab. There are more than 5-6 dive sites. The diving here usually starts very shallow on a sandy slope with a beautiful wall of corals.

There are a lot of eels, swim past them and you’ll find a coral table where you get lucky sometimes and see macro stuff like nudibranchs which makes the dive very interesting.

A little further south from Umm El Sid are two beautiful underwater caves, the only Dahab dive site that has an overhead environment in shallow water.

You enter the first smaller cave at 5m and go out at 12m, with beautiful corals around you. The bigger cave is entered at 17-18m, ascending up slowly inside the cave until you reach 5-6m for your safety stop.

The caves are wide-open so you can swim around and take some nice photos. Both caves can be visited in one dive. It’s one of my personal highlights when it comes to Dahab Diving.

There is a cafe/restaurant there that makes incredibly good homemade local food, but only if you make a reservation before. Call the owner Youssef (+201010808361) in advance and choose between vegetarian, fish and chicken – you won’t regret it, promise!

The following dive sites can only be reached by boat and each location takes a full day.

I recommend you go diving in Sharm El-Sheikh for at least a day or two, the marine life is even more abundant there thanks to different currents. I wrote another guide about scuba diving in Sharm El-Sheikh here.

Gabr El-Bint

Gabr El Bint is a dive site that you can only reach by boat or camel. I’ve just been by boat so far but isn’t it super cool to go diving by camel? Totally unique experience! Anyway.

It’s a drop-off dive site with beautiful walls and one of the most colorful around Dahab. You will see fan corals and so much life. Sometimes you can spot one of the rarest fish in Dahab – the Milkfish.

You can even see them in schools when you’re lucky. I myself saw a huge feathertail stingray here!

Ras Mohammed

Ras Mohammed is a protected area on the southern tip of the Sinai peninsula and my favorite national park in South Sinai.

It’s amazing to camp here for a night, but it will probably have to be a separate trip because diving from the shores there is extremely hard and usually you don’t get permission.

Your guide will take you there on a boat from Sharm El-Sheikh.

The fact that the area is protected and has strong currents guarantees big school of fishes like jackfish. You’ll see much bigger fishes here than in Dahab, giant morays e.g. and even sharks if you get lucky.

SS Thistlegorm

The Thistlegorm is a huge British shipwreck close to Sharm El-Sheikh. It sank during World War 2 and carried war equipment such as tanks, bikes, machine guns, and trucks. It’s 126.5m long and 17.5m wide.

Laying down at 30m depth makes it great for recreational diving around the wreck for the first dive. The second dive will be inside the wreck. This wreck is on the bucket list of many scuba divers!

Tiran Island

Tiran Island is a protected area with strong currents just like Ras Mohammed, which makes this dive site very colorful and rich in marine life. There are lots of hidden islands and patches of reefs underwater.

You spend all day on the boat, exploring the different dive sites around Tiran Island – they’re also great for snorkeling, so bring your non-diving friends along!

If you want to see dolphins, Tiran Island is probably your best bet (when the sea is calm) – they are relatively rare in South Sinai. The season for hammerhead sharks is in April & May as well as from July to September.

Pin “Dahab Diving – The Ultimate Scuba Guide” for later:

If you’re a scuba diver, these articles of mine might be interesting for you as well:

• Liveaboard Diving – Ultimate Guide for First-Timers
• Best Dive Computers for Beginners
• Scuba Diving Guide to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
• Scuba Diving Guide to Dahab, Egypt
• Scuba Diving Guide to El Gouna, Egypt
• 35+ Best Gifts for Scuba Divers
• Best Dive Watches under $300
• Best Dive Watches under $1000

The professional underwater photos on this blog post were taken by Grant Thomas, an extremely talented underwater photographer.

Make sure you check out his Instagram & Facebook profiles for more award-winning underwater photos .

If you’re traveling to Egypt, be sure you make the most of your trip by reading my other articles . I’ve been based here since 2016 and learned a lot that will help you 🙂

• Best Times To Visit Egypt
• Traditional Egyptian Food  
• 10 Reasons Everyone Should Visit Egypt At Least Once
• Guide to Hot Air Ballooning In Luxor
• Pyramids of Giza, Egypt – Why You Need To Visit NOW
• 5 Must-See Places in Cairo, Egypt
• 5 Mind-Blowing Secret Beaches in Egypt
• Sharm El-Sheikh: Diving Guide For Scuba Lovers
• Sharm El-Sheikh Snorkeling Guide
• 45+ Fun Things To Do In Hurghada, Egypt
• Hurghada Snorkeling Guide
• Scuba Diving Guide to El Gouna
• Ultimate Guide to St. Catherine, Sinai
• Climbing Mount Sinai – 8 Things You Need To Know Before
• 89 Things To Do in Dahab, Egypt
• Scuba Diving in Dahab – The Ultimate Guide
• Traveling to a Muslim country during Ramadan? Here’s what you need to know!

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I went to Egypt many years ago but only to one of the resorts. The diving looks incredible! A friend is an avid diver and says Egypt has some of the best diving in the world. You’ve shown a great side to Egypt!

This looks incredible! I have never been scuba diving but I totally want to give it a try now! Also thanks for clearing up that it is safe in Egypt- the media DEFINITELY makes it seem unsafe.

Absolutely, you’re most welcome here 🙂

It definitely has, you should come back and try it 🙂

If I ever leave the country, this is definitely somewhere I would go!

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Hi! I’m thinking going to dahab in september. How is the situation there now? Would you it consider it safe?

Absolutely safe, yes 🙂 Maybe see you there 😉

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The Best Time To Visit Egypt

Dreaming of exploring the ancient wonders of Egypt? Knowing the best time to visit is a must. From the Pyramids of Giza to the Nile and the Red Sea, Egypt offers a range of unforgettable travel experiences. In this guide, we'll give you a breakdown of the best time to visit Egypt so you can plan the perfect trip.

In this article:

• Egypt's main tourism seasons
• Best time to visit for fewer crowds
• Best time to visit for lower prices
• Best time to visit for good weather
• Best time to visit for Nile cruises
• Best time to visit for scuba diving
• Stay connected with an Egypt eSIM

Egypt's Main Tourism Seasons

Here's a breakdown of Egypt's main tourism seasons:

• High Season (October to February):  This period has cooler temperatures and is an ideal time to explore Egypt's many attractions. However, it's also when crowds are at their peak, especially around popular sites like the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor. 
• Shoulder Season (March to May and September to early October):  The shoulder seasons offer a pleasant climate with fewer tourists. It's a great time to beat the crowds while still enjoying favorable weather.
• Low Season (June to August):  The summer's scorching heat brings fewer tourists to Egypt. If you can bear the high temperatures, you'll find great deals on accommodations and be able to explore attractions with fewer crowds. 

Best Time to Visit Egypt for Fewer Crowds

March to May and September to early October

If you're seeking a more intimate and peaceful experience, it's best to visit Egypt during the shoulder seasons. Months like March to May and September to early October offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists buzzing around popular attractions. It's the ideal time to visit if you're hoping to see the sights without the stress of long lines and crowded venues.

Best Time to Visit Egypt for Lower Prices

June to August

Traveling on a budget? One of the best times to visit Egypt for lower prices is during the off-peak season, which includes the summer months of June, July, and August. While the temperatures can be scorching, prices for accommodations, tours, and even flights tend to be significantly discounted during this time. So, if you can handle the heat, you'll find plenty of bargains to make your dream trip more affordable.

Best Time to Visit Egypt for Good Weather

Egypt is known for its warm and sunny climate throughout the year. However, if you prefer milder temperatures, the shoulder seasons are ideal. During these months, the weather is pleasant during the day and cooler in the evenings, making it comfortable for outdoor exploration. Whether you're exploring the ancient temples of Luxor or strolling along the vibrant streets of Cairo, you'll enjoy the perfect balance of sunshine and gentle breezes.

Best Time to Visit Egypt for Nile Cruises

No visit to Egypt is complete without experiencing the beauty of the Nile River. Optimal months for Nile cruises and tours are during the shoulder seasons (March to May and September to early October) when the water levels are suitable for leisurely sailing. Picture yourself relaxing on the deck of a traditional felucca, gently cruising down the Nile. Perfection.

Best Time to Visit Egypt for Scuba Diving

June to November

Egypt's Red Sea offers remarkable underwater adventures. The best time to visit Egypt for scuba diving is June to November. During these months, the water temperature is comfortably warm, visibility is excellent, and marine life is abundant. Prepare to be awe-struck by vibrant reefs home to 1,200 underwater species, including sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, and manta rays. 

Stay Connected With an eSIM From Airalo

No matter when you travel, stay connected with an Airalo eSIM. Airalo gives you access to  affordable eSIMs for 200+ countries and regions  — including Egypt.

Why Airalo ? Here are a few reasons to use an Airalo eSIM when you travel:

• Connect to a mobile network within minutes of arrival.
• Choose from flexible local, regional, and global data plans.
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• Say goodbye to expensive roaming charges.
• Store multiple eSIM data plans on your device.
• Running out of data? Top up in the Airalo app.

Planning a trip to Egypt? Get an  Egypt eSIM  to stay connected during your trip.

Alisha is a Canadian expat based in Portugal. She’s an avid traveler and writes about all things travel and tech for Airalo.

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The Best Destinations for Diving and Snorkeling in Egypt

T he timeless Nile River, ancient pyramids, and magnificent temples are familiar mental pictures of a traveler’s experience in Egypt . However, a world of aquatic beauty exists beyond its storied past and desert landscapes. The waters of Egypt offer an unparalleled trip for divers and snorkelers. For travelers who are always looking for new depths to explore, Egypt is the right way to go.

Sharm El Sheikh – A Diver’s Paradise

Located on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh stands as the crown jewel of Egypt’s diving destinations. Sharm El Sheikh is renowned for its unparalleled visibility and thriving marine ecosystems. This coastal haven is also ideal for both novice snorkelers and experienced divers. Here, adventurers can plunge into the soothing waters of the Red Sea and discover a coral reef metropolis.

From majestic manta rays and graceful reef sharks to playful dolphins and bright clownfish, the vivid coral colors set the stage for encounters with various marine species. Visit world-renowned dive spots like Ras Mohammed National Park to see more coral reefs and sheer drop-offs. Travelers can also descend into the depths of the SS Thistlegorm, a World War II wreck filled with marine life. The SS Thistlegorm is rooted in history and offers a unique look into the past.

Hurghada – The Perfect Spot for Discovery

The beachfront city of Hurghada awaits you as you venture further down Egypt’s Red Sea coast . Revel in an exceptional underwater adventure at this lively resort town, which boasts many dive locations suitable for divers of all experience levels.

Next, board a boat to The Giftun Islands, a paradise for snorkelers thanks to its calm waters and reefs. Those with a thirst for adventure can go into locations like Abu Nuhas, sometimes called the “Ship Graveyard,” where several sunken ships lay beneath the water’s surface, each with its own story to tell.

Dahab – Unveiling Underwater Treasures

The little coastal town of Dahab offers unique diving opportunities and a laid-back vibe. This makes it an ideal destination for anyone looking for a less touristic experience. Dahab, situated between towering mountains and the dazzling seas of the Gulf of Aqaba, offers a serene retreat for divers and snorkelers alike.

Soak in the surreal beauty of the Blue Hole, a geological phenomenon that plunges to depths beyond comprehension. The iconic dive site is home to many marine life and coral formations, making for a spectacular underwater excursion.

Marsa Alam – A Hidden Gem

Marsa Alam waits for the daring visitor who wants to escape it all and explore uncharted aquatic worlds. Those searching for peace can find it at this secluded haven off the shore of the southern Red Sea in Egypt. Observe exciting reef fish darting among coral structures and see elegant sea turtles swimming over the blue seas.

A Snob’s Guide to Egypt

You can’t fully escape the crowds descending on Egypt now. But, as always, there are strategies…

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Egypt gives us what no other country can: the chance to see up close, in situ, the astonishing creative impulses of the world’s most long-lived ancient civilization. If it’s your first time, you’ll want to concentrate on the historic must-sees. They are scattered the length of Egypt, mostly in the narrow band along the banks of the Nile. The classic itinerary is Cairo–Aswan–Nile cruise–Luxor, then back to Cairo. (The order of Aswan and Luxor can be switched, depending on which cruise you take.)

But Egypt has not been standing still. There are new museums. There is a fever of excavations, with new sites opening to visitors and others restored. And there are off-the-beaten-path places to explore, including the newly accessible Sahara oases (the desert makes up about 95 percent of Egypt’s territory and is another world). All that, however, requires that you extend your trip beyond the usual 10 to 12 days—or, unimaginably, skip one of the classic stops. Want a full day at the Old Kingdom necropolis of Sakkara, to see the new finds? You’ll need a third day in Cairo. Ditto if you’re a rider and want to spend an afternoon galloping on an Arabian horse around Sakkara and Giza.

You need at least two days in Cairo, more if you can. To stay, I recommend the Four Seasons Nile Plaza , the Ritz-Carlton , and, if you don't mind a slightly more four-star place, the Marriott on Cairo's central, formerly chi-chi Zamalek Island, where I always stay; I like its convenient location, its Suez-Canal-related history, and most of all its large back garden and buzzy outdoor cafe, where tout le Caire still seems to congregate over hookahs and mighty strong G&Ts.

Devote the first day to pharaonic Egypt: the pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx in the morning, followed by the Memphis Museum and a walkabout of the vast funerary complex of Sakkara . On day two you’re in medieval Islamic Cairo: two mosques (the renowned Al-Azhar and the magnificently severe Ibn ­Tulun ), the Citadel (begun by Saladin to defend Cairo from the Crusaders), and an end-of-day meander (with shopping) around the Khan el-­Khalili market —part tourist trap, part real thing. A third day can be some combination of the below:

Two museums: The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization , where the mummies now reside, and the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, a.k.a., GEM (which is not officially open but is partially accessible, for a range of high fees—and worth it).

A full day at Sakkara: See the pyramid of Unas and its exceptionally fine carvings of funerary texts; the mind-bending Serapeum , where mummies of the sacred Apis bulls were buried in giant sarcophagi; and the king’s burial chamber tunnels beneath Djoser’s newly stabilized Step Pyramid ; you can now gaze straight down at his sarcophagus. End the day at the rarely visited three main pyramids of Dahshur (the Red, Black, and Bent), seven miles south of Sakkara. This is what you want in Egypt: to see something no one else is seeing, alone with ancientness.

For $3,000 you can spend time alone in Sakkara's colorful, newly discovered tomb of Wahtye, a high-ranking priest from the 25th century BC—who possibly stole the tomb from his brother.

An early morning flight from Cairo to Aswan and a short connecting flight to Abu Simbel, near Egypt’s border with Sudan, puts you face to face with as great a play for immortality (and ancient geopolitical power) as the pyramids of Giza. Contemplate Ramses II’s two staggering temples , then board the short early after­noon flight back to Aswan and the luxuries of Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel , with its ghosts of Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie, and many others—and the most perfect view of the Nile.

Aswan was always a frontier town, the last bastion of pharaonic religion, centered on the powerful cult of Isis worship in the temple of Philae . See the temple (it’s a tourist magnet, so go at dawn if possible), but even early travelers came here less for the antiquities than for the city’s tranquil “Nice of the Nile” beauty. Your next two days should include, between bouts of lounging, St. Simeon’s Monastery , in the desert on the opposite bank (the ancient Christian wreck has an oddly powerful aura); the elegant, eye-opening pink granite Nubian Museum (which presents the history and culture of Egypt’s ancient southern neighbor); Elephantine Island , a nexus of caravan routes from across Africa where you’ll arrive by felucca (an Aswan must); and a walk atop the ­Unfinished Obelisk , a fascinating ancient failure. Reputedly commissioned by the female pharaoh Hatshepsut, it would have been the world’s largest by far, but it developed fatal cracks. Its bottom end is still attached to the rock bed, workers’ marks still visible.

Foodie trove in the Aswan market: This small, manageable bazaar, which has rebounded in recent years, has the freshest, most varied spices procured directly from all over Africa. Stock up.

This is the mother lode of Egyptian antiquities, the country’s ceremonial capital for millennia. Stay at the grand but tatty Sofitel Winter Palace , overlooking the Nile on the east bank, or the boutiquey, just reno­vated Al Moudira , amid farmland on the west bank. Musts on the east bank, site of the ceremonial temples: the Karnak complex , the largest place of worship in the ancient world, and Luxor Temple . On the west bank, site of mortuary temples and tombs, get advance special entrance tickets (fewer visitors) for a handful of the best pharaonic tombs in the valleys of the kings and queens —especially those of Ramses VI, Nefertari, and Seti I. See the stunning Deir el-Bahri , mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, at dawn, as crowds truly interfere with sightlines. The Tombs of the Nobles offer a glimpse of how nonroyals lived and died. The temples of Medinet Habu and the Ramesseum are much less crowded; the shattered remains of Ramses II’s colossal statue in the latter are a reminder of how man’s best-laid plans can come to naught.

Avenue of the Sphinxes: It took 70 years to restore this ancient road, originally lined with 1,057 sphinxes and ram-headed statues, and you can now walk its entire 1.7 miles, from Karnak to Luxor Temple.

Temple of Khnum, Esna: The long-overlooked temple of the ram-­headed god, 35 miles south of Luxor, where most dahabiya cruises (see below) start, got a pharaonic face-lift; its columns now burst with their original colors.

Luxor Temple is already resplendently lit at night. Now imagine a private dinner amid the forest of giant columns in its Hypostyle Hall. Jim Berkeley of DAI can arrange it for you.

Nile Cruise

Do not, under any circumstances, be talked out of a Nile cruise in Upper Egypt. I resisted for a long time, but once I succumbed I found out what I’d been missing. You can cruise on a largish ship, with amenities like a plunge pool and spacious cabins (best choices would be Oberoi’s Zahra and Philae , or Egyptian-owned Historia ). Or, my preference: a traditional, flat-bottomed, two-masted dahabiya, with only eight to 12 cabins. Small cabins and bathrooms don’t matter, because you’re luxuriating on deck most of the time anyway, Agatha Christie–style, your hair blowing in the wind, a G&T in your hand, watching eternal Egypt pass by.

Consider one from chic Nour el Nil , which operates seven dahabiyas (the new Roman is the roomiest), or Zekrayaat , operated by Nile Dahabiya , or one from Lazuli Voyages . If you want total privacy, do a charter-only dahabiya, such as Zein Chateau , operated by A&K offshoot Sanctuary . Most commonly dahabiyas leave from Esna, south of Luxor, and sail four days upstream to Aswan. You can also board in Aswan and sail downstream, north to Esna—a shorter, 3-day voyage because of Nile currents. (How much time you spend on the boat will also determine in which order you visit Aswan and Luxor.) All ships stop at the temples of Kom Ombo and of Horus , at Edfu. But what only a dahabiya can offer is the ability to nose up to a pretty stretch of Nile shoreline and set up an impromptu picnic, after which you can walk to a nearby village where there are absolutely no other tourists.

Kazazian Cruises : It’s the striking new charter-only entrant in the Nile dahabiya competition. Their first boat can sleep 18, has a plunge pool on deck (as few others do), and has sleek all-white interiors.

Western Desert

Time in the desert gives any trip to Egypt an extra dimension. A vast region from west of the Nile to the Libyan border was closed for five years, because of instability in Libya, and only reopened recently. Fayoum oasis is just 69 miles southwest of Cairo, but it feels a world away: lush vegetation, waterfalls, a blue lake, rich birdlife (it’s on the migratory route between Africa and Europe). Fifty miles farther out is the Valley of Whales : gigantic fossils of whales and sharks from 40 million to 50 million years ago, when the Sahara was beneath the sea. (You will likely be alone.) Stay at the charming 16-suite Lazib Inn Resort & Spa , owned by a former VP of Four Seasons hotels.

Siwa oasis and its 40-room Adrère Amellal ecolodge , the inspired project of Cairo environmentalist and aesthete Mounir Neamatalla, require a 90-minute flight from Cairo or an eight-hour desert drive (which, believe it or not, has its charms). It is Egypt’s remotest oasis, a tropical garden of date palms, olive trees, and donkey carts, more than 200 freshwater springs, some hot, with the Great Sand Sea all around—the mammoth dunes of every Arabian fantasy, into which you can ride or drive. Visit the ruins of the temple of Amun , where Alexander the Great consulted the oracle in 331 BC after assuming the mantle of pharaoh, and the Mountain of the Dead , the startlingly beautiful graves of Siwa’s citizens going back to Greco-Roman times. Or just breathe, bathe, swim, and consume Adrère Amellal’s splendid organic meals—served at night by the light of hundreds of candles.

There is not more glamorous takeover than Adrere Amellal. You'll need a solar charger for your phone, but you can say you've done the "Sahara roller coaster" and slept where King Charles did.

Klara Glowczewska is the Executive Travel Editor of Town & Country , covering topics related to travel specifically (places, itineraries, hotels, trends) and broadly (conservation, culture, adventure), and was previously the Editor in Chief of Conde Nast Traveler magazine. 

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We almost missed our wedding celebration due to flight delays — so we partied on the plane.

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She’s the  flyest  bride by far. 

Erika Hammond didn’t let her flight’s delayed departure from the runway stop her from turning the airplane’s aisle into a bridal fashion runway. 

“You gotta just roll with the punches sometimes,” chimed the blushing bride-to-be, 33, as she got glammed up for her pre-wedding celebration at 35,000 feet in the air. 

Fast-trending footage of the stratospheric fête has scored nearly 1 million views on TikTok. 

But Hammond, a former WWE Diva and the founder of KNOCKOUT at Equinox, tells The Post that what turned out to be a sky-high spectacular almost caused an emotional crash and burn.  

“It was definitely stressful nearly missing our wedding welcome party,” said the NYC newlywed. She tied the knot with tech billionaire and founder of Bilt Rewards Ankur Jain, 34, in the foregrounds of Egypt’s Great Sphinx of Giza on April 26. 

But just ahead of their four-day “I Do” extravaganza, the Big Apple lovebirds were en route from a South African safari to their pyramid-studded wedding destination when a plane snafu nearly derailed the festivities. 

Hammond and Jain had chartered an EgyptAir plane to transport themselves and a few of their 130 guests to Cairo, where they’d arranged to kick off their nuptials with a soirée at the opulent Prince Mohamed Ali Palace at 8:00 p.m. April 24. 

However, after encountering a few fueling issues and permit problems, the twosome was told their flight wouldn’t be touching down until 2:30 a.m. the next day.

But thanks to some fast-thinking friends, they stylishly toasted their love on cloud nine — literally. 

“We were able to make lemonade out of lemons,” said Hammond, “and ended up having the best time on the plane getting ready together.”

While in midair, she and posh pals, including Fox5 news anchor Bianca Peters and Peleton instructor Aditi Shah, ditched their travel togs for chic garb, dolled up with makeup and transformed the aircraft into a wedding couture catwalk.  

“[Peters] got on the plane’s PA system and hyped everyone up to get ready,” Hammond said. “We had music playing, wine flowing and a runway show down the aisle after everyone was ready.”

“The crew was cheering us all in too,” she gushed. “It was one of our Top 5 wedding memories for sure!”

Wide-eyed social media watchers were stunned by the couple’s mile-high bash, too. 

“Getting ready in the plane with all your guests is not only iconic but something none of you will ever forget. You guys crushed this!,” applauded an impressed fan. 

“This is like a movie! I’m obsessed,” confessed another. 

“Doing hair and makeup on the plane with your guests is a vibe and it actually looks like part of the plan,” wrote an equally wowed commenter. 

Hammond and Jain aren’t the only jet-setting sweethearts to toast to forever in the friendly skies. 

A Texas bride-to-be donned a gown of toilet paper for her makeshift ceremony on a Southwest Airlines flight to Oakland, California in March 2023. 

High school honeys Vidhi Popley and Hridesh Sainani joined in holy matrimony on a Boeing 747 in November. Theirs became the first airplane wedding in the United Arab Emirates.

And although her airplane party was totally unplanned, Hammond tells The Post she wouldn’t have had it any other way. 

“When we all finally arrived at the Mohamed Ali Palace at 2:30 a.m. to meet our other guests we all had the best night,” bragged the brunette. She and Jain ate, drank and danced with A-list invitees, such as “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary, Lance Bass and “Million Dollar Listing New York” alum Ryan Serhant, until 5:30 a.m. 

“It was perfect,” said Hammond. “We’ll be forever grateful to our close friends and family for showing up for us.”

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