The Red Sea has long been a magnet for divers, with pristine coral reefs, rare marine species, and visibility that few places on Earth can match. Among its treasures, Hurghada stands out as one of the most accessible and diverse gateways. What makes it special is the sheer range of dive sites packed into a single destination from the calm lagoons and coral gardens for beginners to dramatic walls and drift dives for the advanced. This balance of variety and accessibility makes Hurghada one of the world’s most rewarding places to dive.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the top 10 dive sites in Hurghada that every diver should experience.

– Shaab El Erg (Dolphin House)

Shaab El Erg is the furthest north dive spot between Hurghada and El Gouna, which is why it’s a favorite stop for safari boats heading over from El Gouna. The reef itself is amazing , has some beautiful hard corals especially in the channel between the main reef and the smaller Gotta Shaab El Erg. Up in the northern part, divers get to explore beautiful coral gardens and huge coral structures that are covered in bright colors, creating a beautiful underwater landscape. What makes Shaab El Erg truly famous is the potential to see wild dolphins. On calm, windless days, pods of dolphins often glide through the area, and respectful divers may be rewarded with the unforgettable experience of swimming alongside these graceful creatures. With its shallow reefs and mild conditions, Shaab El Erg is considered one of the best scuba destinations for beginners while still offering plenty for experienced divers to enjoy.

– Abu Nugar

Located about an hour north of Hurghada, Abu Nugar is a stunning reef system shaped like a giant “T” and dotted with lagoons, sandy flats, and coral blocks. Its crystal-clear blue lagoons, which gave it the name “Father of the Pools,” make this site one of the best dive spots among divers seeking tranquility. With several dive spots to choose from such as Shaab Iris, Gota Abu Nugar, and Shaab Abu Nugar, the area offers both variety and charm. The shallow reefs are perfect for underwater photography, featuring vibrant hard corals, colorful reef fish, and fascinating macro life like nudibranchs. Abu Nugar appeals to many divers because it has slightly milder currents and sheltered from the wind it is great!

.Its pristine corals and peacefulness provide the impression of finding a hidden tropical paradise.

– Umm Gamar

• Location: Near a crescent-shaped island just off Hurghada, Umm Gamar is known for its distinctive moon-like curve and varied underwater landscapes.

• Features: The southern side has a shallow plateau but all dives head east towards the dramatic deep wall. While swimming east along the way to the deep wall divers pass large coral blocks in shallower depths that are covered in hard and soft corals and are filled with reef fish. Three impressive coral towers rise from the wall: one hides a cave filled with glassfish and groupers, while another, at about 28 meters, offers an exciting cave entry for those who venture deeper. You’ll probably see several large moray eels and possibly a turtle.

• Suitable for: Suitable for Beginner and Advanced divers. Beginners can stay on the plateau and coral blocks in the shallower depths, advanced divers can complete drift dives that start above the deep wall and finish on the shallow flat, or a pick-up drift at North Umm Gamar.

– Careless Reef

• Location: Careless Reef lies on a shallow shelf about 14 meters deep, dropping quickly into a steep northern wall. Its twin coral blocks rise close to the surface, offering little shelter from waves, so dives are possible only in calm, windless weather.

• Features: Between the blocks lies a vibrant coral garden, while along the drop-off a coral tower filled with fissures shelters abundant reef life. You’ll often spot schools of fish, large groupers, and feeding turtles. The site is also famous for its impressive moray eels that swim freely among the coral structures.

• Suitable For: This is one of the best scuba dive sites for intermediate and advanced divers as there can be large currents due to its exposed location.

– El Fanadir (North & South)

• Location: El Fanadir is a 3-kilometer-long reef divided into North and South sections. A sandy plateau runs along the wall, starting narrow and gradually widening toward the south, before ending in a steep drop-off.

• Features: This reef is known for its rich biodiversity. Lionfish, scorpionfish, stonefish, and a variety of moray eels are commonly seen here and octopus are often seen hiding in the reef wall. The combination of sandy flats and vibrant reef makes it an exciting spot for exploration.

• Suitable For: Ideal for divers of all levels. The site allows for an easy current dive from north to south, offering both simplicity and plenty of marine life encounters.

– El Fanous

El Fanous, often referred to as the “southern Dolphin House”, is a reef with a wide western lagoon where dolphins are frequently seen. Beyond the lagoon, divers will see coral blocks fully covered with corals including a garden with large magnificent table corals. On the eastern side, a striking pinnacle makes this spot especially attractive for underwater photographers. The northern wall, fed by nutrient-rich currents, is home to massive hard corals and occasional sightings of turtles, Napoleon wrasse, or large groupers. The calm lagoon makes El Fanous accessible for beginners, while its pinnacle and northern wall add interest for more experienced divers.

– Small Giftun (Erg Somaya / Erg Sabina)

• Location: Small Giftun Island is located just off Hurghada, and is well known for drift dives, which start near the police station over a deep wall.

• Features: Divers ride the current at 27–30 meters, gliding past gorgonian fans and often spotting Napoleons, groupers, or tuna near the drop-off. The drift continues over a plateau of hard and fire corals before reaching the main reef wall, alive with colorful marine life. Erg Somaya adds even more interest with coral towers, including a chimney at 30 meters and another pinnacle at 10 meters surrounded by swarms of anthias. Turtles are also frequent visitors.

• Suitable For: Best for intermediate and advanced divers due to strong currents and depth. Beginners are not recommended here.

– Marsa Abu Galawa

Marsa Abu Galawa is a sheltered lagoon site north of Hurghada; it is a tranquil and enjoyable dive site. The site is defined by sandy shallow flats that gradually shift into eel gardens and then a coral garden at the edge of the drop-off. With its easy conditions and varied scenery, it’s one of the best places to go diving if you want to explore marine life without the challenge of strong currents. This site is best suited for beginners and intermediate divers who want a gentle introduction to the Abu Galawa reef system, while still enjoying the beauty of corals and sandy gardens.

– Turtle Bay

• Location: Turtle Bay consists of two adjacent lagoons connected by a shallow passage just 1–2 meters deep, requiring careful crossing above the reef.

• Features: The outer wall is lined with hard corals, leading into the second lagoon where a large coral garden spreads out, rich with soft corals. As the name suggests, turtles often graze here, alongside other fascinating visitors like eagle rays or even dolphins coming from nearby El Fanous.

• Suitable For: A calm and sheltered site, Turtle Bay is best for beginners and intermediate divers. Its shallow depths and gentle conditions make it accessible, while the chance to encounter turtles adds excitement for divers of all levels.

– Banana Reef

Banana Reef is situated between  Big and Small Giftun Islands. The name refers to its shape; it’s curved like a banana. The northern side opens into deeper waters, where the seabed drops steeply between the reef and Big Giftun. Divers usually follow the main reef, but a short swim away lies a larger erg covered with soft corals, teeming with life. Schools of small fish gather here, often chased by hunting predators. It’s also common to encounter flocks of clippers, and with some luck, even graceful eagle rays gliding by.

Best times to dive in Hurghada 

Hurghada is a true year-round diving destination, with warm temperatures and sunny weather making the Red Sea inviting in every season. Still, each part of the year offers its own special conditions:

• Spring (March–May): Water warms to 23–26 °C, visibility is excellent, and marine life is especially active.

• Summer (June–August): The hottest season, with water at 27–30 °C and opportunities to spot dolphins or even sharks.

• Autumn (September–November): Often considered the peak season, with comfortable air, water at 25–28 °C, and vibrant biodiversity.

• Winter (December–February): Quieter sites and calmer seas, with cooler waters (22–25 °C) and consistently clear visibility.

Overall, autumn stands out as the best balance of conditions, but every season brings its own rewards.

Tips to select the best diving site 

• Match the Site to Your Experience: Beginners should look for sheltered reefs and lagoons like Shaab El Erg or Turtle Bay, while advanced divers can explore drift dives or wrecks such as Careless Reef or Small Giftun.

• Check Weather and Currents: Some sites, especially Careless Reef, are only safe in calm weather. Always confirm conditions before heading out.

• Think About Marine Life: Want to see dolphins? Head to El Fanous or Shaab El Erg. If you prefer wrecks or dramatic walls, choose Shaab Abu Nuhas and Umm Gamar.

• Plan for Photography: Coral gardens, pinnacles, and shallow lagoons (like Abu Nugar or El Fanous East) are ideal for underwater photographers.

• Balance Time and Distance: Some sites are closer to Hurghada, perfect for day trips, while others require longer boat rides or safari boats.

Discover Hurghada’s underwater paradise with Piano Diving Club

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea with Piano Diving Club, where every trip is crafted to combine safety, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Led by experienced instructors and supported by top-quality equipment, the club offers access to Hurghada’s most iconic dive sites, from dolphin encounters at El Fanous to thrilling drifts at Small Giftun. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced diver seeking new challenges, Piano Diving Club ensures a personal and professional experience at every level.

Book your next Red Sea adventure today!