The Top 10 Dive Sites in Marsa Alam You Can’t Miss: Part 1

Marsa Alam has rapidly cemented its reputation as the Red Sea’s premier diving destination. Known for its pristine, untouched reefs, vibrant marine life, and a more serene atmosphere than its northern counterparts, it’s a paradise for divers of all skill levels. With so many incredible locations to choose from, planning your trip can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created The Top 10 Dive Sites in Marsa Alam You Can’t Miss, a curated list to help you discover the very best of this underwater wonderland. Here are the first five must-dive locations, handpicked by the experts at Sambo Divers.

1. Elphinstone Reef: The Legend of the Red Sea

No list of Marsa Alam dive sites is complete without the legendary Elphinstone Reef. This long, cigar-shaped reef is a mecca for experienced divers seeking adrenaline and big marine life encounters. The reef’s walls plunge hundreds of meters into the blue, covered in stunning soft corals and gorgonian fans. Its fame, however, comes from the open water. Here, divers can encounter majestic oceanic whitetip sharks and graceful hammerhead sharks, especially during the summer months. Due to the presence of strong currents, this site is recommended for advanced divers only, but the reward is a truly unforgettable experience.

2. Dolphin House (Sha’ab Samadai): A Magical Encounter

For an encounter that feels straight out of a fairy tale, head to Dolphin House. This unique, horseshoe-shaped reef is a protected marine reserve and a permanent home to a large pod of spinner dolphins. Here, divers and snorkelers have the magical opportunity to see and interact with these playful creatures in their natural habitat. The reef itself is an absolute wonder, with stunning coral gardens teeming with Anthias, Fusiliers, and a vibrant collection of reef fish. The calm, clear waters make it an ideal site for all levels, and an essential addition to your diving itinerary.

3. Abu Dabbab: Home of the Dugong and Turtles

Abu Dabbab is perhaps the most famous and beloved dive site in Marsa Alam. This large, shallow bay is a sandy-bottomed paradise covered in lush seagrass beds. It is renowned for its resident dugong (or sea cow), a magnificent, gentle marine mammal that grazes peacefully on the seabed. You are also almost guaranteed to encounter several gigantic green sea turtles, who are equally at home in these calm waters. The site is a macro photographer’s dream, with the chance to spot seahorses, pipefish, and a variety of unique invertebrates. Abu Dabbab is perfect for divers of all levels, and it’s a non-negotiable stop for any trip.

4. Fury Shoals: A Kingdom of Coral

A day trip or liveaboard adventure to Fury Shoals is a must for any diver who appreciates pristine coral gardens and spectacular topography. This large network of reefs boasts some of the healthiest, most beautiful hard coral formations in the entire Red Sea. Sites like “Sha’ab Maksour” and “Sha’ab Claudio” are famous for their awe-inspiring swim-throughs and tunnels that lead to breathtaking caverns filled with sunlight and schools of Glassfish. The variety of marine life, from patrolling Broomtail Wrasse to hovering Trumpetfish, is simply astounding. Fury Shoals offers something for every diver and is a testament to the Red Sea’s unspoiled beauty.

5. St. John’s Reef: The Remote Jewel

Located in the remote southern part of Marsa Alam, St. John’s Reef is a collection of dive sites only accessible by liveaboard. This isolation has preserved its natural beauty, making it one of the most magnificent diving destinations on Earth. The reefs are characterized by massive, complex systems of pinnacles, caves, and dramatic overhangs. The sheer density of reef fish, including immense schools of Anthias and Sergeant Majors, creates an almost overwhelming visual spectacle. Encounters with larger marine life, from reef sharks to jacks, are common here. St. John’s is a true jewel of the Red Sea, a site that experienced divers dream of.

This is just the beginning. Our next article in The Ultimate Guide to the Top 10 Dive Sites in Marsa Alam You Can’t Miss will reveal five more incredible locations to add to your bucket list. Start your adventure now by booking with Sambo Divers, and let us guide you to these unforgettable Red Sea wonders.