Marsa Alam — Sea Turtles, Wild Dolphins and the Quietest Reefs on the Red Sea

Drive south from Hurghada and the resorts thin out, the mountains come closer to the sea and the reefs start right off the beach. Marsa Alam is the Red Sea at its quietest — a place for people who come above all to be in the water.

Where it is

Marsa Alam lies several hours' drive south of Hurghada along the coast, with its own international airport. Hotels are spread out along a long stretch of shoreline, many with their own house reef.

Sea turtles at Abu Dabbab

The sheltered bay of Abu Dabbab is famous for green sea turtles grazing on seagrass in shallow water. Snorkelling quietly above them as they feed and rise to breathe is an extraordinary experience, and it often needs nothing more than a mask, fins and patience. Very occasionally, lucky visitors also see a dugong, a rare sea cow.

Wild dolphins at Samadai

Samadai reef, often called the Dolphin House, is a horseshoe-shaped reef where spinner dolphins come to rest in the calm lagoon. It is a protected area with strict rules about where boats and swimmers may go and how many visitors are allowed each day. Choose a tour that follows them: the best encounters happen when the dolphins choose to come close, not when they are chased.

Pristine reefs and diving

The reefs around Marsa Alam are some of the healthiest on the Egyptian coast, with fewer boats and plenty of fish. Divers come for famous sites such as Elphinstone, and beginners will find calm house reefs perfect for a first dive or a day of snorkelling.

Wadi el Gemal National Park

Just south of Marsa Alam, this national park protects desert valleys, mangroves, islands and reefs. Jeep tours explore the wadis and Bedouin life, and boat trips head to the islands of the park for snorkelling.

Desert evenings

As in Hurghada, desert safaris and Bedouin dinners under the stars are popular — and with so little light pollution, the night sky here is spectacular.

How to swim responsibly with marine life

• Keep a respectful distance, and never touch, chase or feed turtles or dolphins.
• Do not stand on coral or seagrass.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen, or cover up with a rash guard.
• Follow your guide's instructions in protected areas.

Who Marsa Alam suits

Marsa Alam is perfect for snorkellers, divers, nature lovers and anyone who wants a calm beach holiday. It is less suited to people who want nightlife or lots of shopping, and it is further from Luxor than Hurghada.

Plan your Marsa Alam days

Compare the best-rated things to do in Marsa Alam, all with real traveller reviews. Choosing between resorts? Our guide to Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh helps compare the Red Sea.