Top 5 Tourist Places in Red Sea, Egypt

Stretching along Egypt’s eastern coastline, where golden desert mountains meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, lies one of the country’s most spectacular destinations — the Red Sea Governorate.

Famous for world-class diving, vibrant coral reefs, luxury beach resorts, and thrilling desert safaris, the Red Sea region is Egypt’s ultimate escape for sun, sea, and adventure.

Unlike the historic monuments of the Nile Valley, the Red Sea offers a different side of Egypt — one defined by marine biodiversity, coastal relaxation, and dramatic desert backdrops.

Here, you can:

• Dive among colorful coral gardens
• Relax in five-star beachfront resorts
• Swim with dolphins in pristine waters
• Ride quad bikes across golden dunes
• Sail to secluded islands
• Watch sunsets over rugged desert mountains

The Red Sea is not just a vacation destination — it’s a sensory experience of color, warmth, and natural beauty.

Let’s explore the highlights of Egypt’s Red Sea paradise.

1. Hurghada – Beach Resorts and Diving Capital

Once a small fishing village, Hurghada has transformed into one of Egypt’s most popular resort cities.

A Modern Coastal Escape

Located about 450 kilometers southeast of Cairo, Hurghada stretches along miles of sandy coastline lined with:

• All-inclusive beach resorts
• Private marina developments
• Seaside promenades
• International restaurants

It is accessible, vibrant, and ideal for travelers seeking both relaxation and activity.

World-Class Diving and Snorkeling

Hurghada’s greatest treasure lies beneath the surface.

The Red Sea is one of the world’s top diving destinations, known for:

• Exceptional water clarity
• Warm temperatures year-round
• Extensive coral reef systems
• Hundreds of fish species

Popular dive sites near Hurghada include:

• Abu Ramada Reef
• Giftun Islands reefs
• Careless Reef

Divers can encounter:

• Colorful parrotfish
• Angelfish
• Lionfish
• Moray eels
• Sea turtles
• Reef sharks

For beginners, snorkeling excursions offer equally stunning views just meters from shore.

Hurghada Marina

The Hurghada Marina Boulevard is a lively waterfront area filled with cafés, restaurants, and yachts.

At night, the marina becomes vibrant, with lights reflecting across calm waters.

Hurghada balances relaxation and entertainment perfectly.

2. Sharm El Sheikh – Coral Reefs and Luxury Hotels

Located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh is synonymous with luxury and marine excellence.

A Global Resort Destination

Sharm is home to:

• Five-star hotels
• Private beaches
• International diving centers
• Conference venues

Its upscale atmosphere attracts visitors from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

Ras Mohammed National Park

Just south of Sharm lies Ras Mohammed, one of the most famous marine parks in the world.

The reefs here are legendary, featuring:

• Massive coral walls
• Drop-offs into deep blue waters
• Vibrant reef ecosystems

The biodiversity is extraordinary, making it a dream destination for divers.

Naama Bay and Soho Square

For nightlife and shopping, visitors head to:

• Naama Bay – lively restaurants and beachfront cafés
• Soho Square – upscale entertainment complex

Sharm combines underwater adventure with modern luxury.

3. Marsa Alam – Pristine Marine Life and Secluded Beauty

Further south along the Red Sea coast lies Marsa Alam, a quieter and more untouched destination.

A Paradise for Nature Lovers

Unlike Hurghada and Sharm, Marsa Alam retains a more natural and tranquil atmosphere.

The coastline is dotted with eco-resorts and protected marine areas.

Diving with Dugongs and Dolphins

Marsa Alam is famous for encounters with:

• Dugongs (sea cows)
• Spinner dolphins
• Sea turtles

The reefs here are less crowded, making underwater experiences feel intimate and pristine.

Wadi El Gemal National Park

This protected area combines marine and desert ecosystems, offering:

• Mangrove forests
• Coral reefs
• Desert mountains

Marsa Alam is ideal for travelers seeking serenity and raw natural beauty.

4. Giftun Island – A Snorkeling Paradise

Just off the coast of Hurghada lies Giftun Island, part of a protected marine reserve.

White Sand and Turquoise Water

Giftun Island features:

• Soft white beaches
• Shallow, crystal-clear lagoons
• Vibrant coral reefs

Boat trips to the island are among Hurghada’s most popular excursions.

Snorkeling Heaven

The reefs around Giftun are accessible to snorkelers of all levels.

Colorful fish swim just beneath the surface, and coral formations create natural underwater gardens.

The clarity of the Red Sea makes visibility exceptional.

A Perfect Day Trip

Most tours include:

• Boat transfer
• Snorkeling stops
• Lunch onboard
• Time to relax on the beach

Giftun Island offers a postcard-perfect Red Sea experience.

5. Desert Safaris – Quad Biking and Bedouin Adventures

While the sea dominates the region, the Red Sea Governorate also offers thrilling desert landscapes.

Eastern Desert Mountains

Behind the coastline rise rugged mountains of the Eastern Desert.

These landscapes provide the perfect setting for:

• Quad biking tours
• Jeep safaris
• Camel rides
• Sunset excursions

Bedouin Cultural Experiences

Many desert tours include visits to Bedouin camps, where visitors can:

• Drink traditional tea
• Learn about desert survival
• Enjoy stargazing
• Watch cultural performances

The contrast between blue sea and golden desert is one of the Red Sea’s most striking features.

The Marine Ecosystem of the Red Sea

The Red Sea is considered one of the most biologically diverse marine environments on Earth.

Coral Reef Diversity

The reefs are home to over:

• 1,200 species of fish
• 200 types of coral

Many species are found nowhere else in the world.

Warm, Clear Waters

Water temperatures remain warm year-round, and visibility often exceeds 20–30 meters.

These conditions make the Red Sea ideal for both professional divers and casual snorkelers.

Best Time to Visit the Red Sea

The Red Sea is a year-round destination.

• October to April – Pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor exploration
• May to September – Hot but perfect for beach and water activities

The sea remains inviting in all seasons.

Why Visit the Red Sea?

The Red Sea Governorate offers:

Luxury beach resorts
World-famous coral reefs
Island snorkeling adventures
Secluded eco-destinations
Thrilling desert safaris
Marine biodiversity unmatched in the region

It is Egypt’s ultimate sun-and-sea destination.

Final Thoughts

The Red Sea is a land of color.

Turquoise water.
Golden sand.
Orange desert sunsets.
Rainbow coral reefs.

Whether diving in Ras Mohammed, relaxing on Giftun Island, exploring Marsa Alam’s untouched reefs, or racing across desert dunes on a quad bike, the Red Sea delivers unforgettable moments.

It is Egypt beyond history — a natural paradise where sea and desert exist in perfect harmony.

For travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, luxury, and underwater magic, the Red Sea Governorate stands as one of the world’s most captivating coastal destinations.