Egypt is renowned for its stunning dive sites, offering a rich tapestry of marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and historical wrecks. While boat diving is popular, shore diving presents an equally thrilling opportunity to explore these underwater treasures directly from the coastline. This guide will take you through the best shore diving locations in Egypt, highlighting their unique features, diving entry points, and what you can expect to see.
1. Dahab: The Blue Hole and Beyond
The Blue Hole
One of the most famous dive sites in the world, the Blue Hole in Dahab, is a must-visit. This sinkhole, located a few meters from the shore, descends to over 100 meters, attracting divers of all levels. Entry Point: The entry is from the beach directly into the hole, where a shallow lagoon leads you to the site.
Lighthouse Reef
Close to the town center, Lighthouse Reef is ideal for night dives and beginners. Entry Point: Accessible from the shore near the lighthouse, you can enter via a sandy beach that slopes gently into deeper waters. Divers can encounter a variety of marine species, such as lionfish, scorpionfish, and octopuses.
2. Sharm El Sheikh: Ras Um Sid and Ras Katy
Ras Um Sid
Ras Um Sid is famous for its stunning coral gardens and is accessible directly from the shore. Entry Point: Enter the water from the jetty or the beach near the Faraana Reef Resort. The reef starts at a depth of about 5 meters, making it perfect for snorkelers and novice divers.
Ras Katy
Located near the Ras Mohamed National Park, Ras Katy is another excellent shore diving spot. Entry Point: The entry is from the beach at Ras Katy Bay. The dive begins in shallow water, gradually descending to deeper areas rich with marine life.
3. Marsa Alam: Abu Dabbab and Marsa Mubarak
Abu Dabbab
Abu Dabbab is renowned for its seagrass beds, home to the endangered dugong. Entry Point: Accessible from the beach at Abu Dabbab Bay. Apart from dugongs, divers can see green sea turtles, guitar sharks, and various fish species amidst the healthy coral reefs.
Marsa Mubarak
Marsa Mubarak is another gem in Marsa Alam, offering easy shore access and a diverse underwater landscape. Entry Point: Enter from the sandy beach at Marsa Mubarak Bay. The site is known for its large population of green sea turtles and occasional dugong sightings.
4. Hurghada: El Mina Wreck and Gota Abu Ramada
El Mina Wreck
For wreck diving enthusiasts, the El Mina Wreck in Hurghada is a thrilling shore dive. Entry Point: Access the site from the shore near the Hurghada Marina. This sunken Egyptian minesweeper lies at a depth of around 30 meters and is covered in corals.
Gota Abu Ramada
Known as the “Aquarium,” Gota Abu Ramada is a popular dive site accessible from the shore. Entry Point: Enter the water from the beach at Abu Ramada Island. The site is shallow, making it perfect for beginners and snorkelers.
5. Nuweiba: Ras Shaitan and the Canyon
Ras Shaitan
Ras Shaitan, also known as “Devil’s Head,” is a captivating shore diving location in Nuweiba. Entry Point: Accessible from the beach near Ras Shaitan camp. The site features a series of coral pinnacles and sandy patches.
The Canyon
The Canyon is another must-visit dive site in Nuweiba, accessible from the shore. Entry Point: Enter from the beach at the Canyon camp. This underwater canyon is lined with stunning corals and teeming with marine life.
Tips for Shore Diving in Egypt
- Dive with a buddy: Always dive with a partner for safety.
- Check weather conditions: Ensure favorable weather conditions before diving.
- Respect marine life: Avoid touching corals and marine creatures to preserve the ecosystem.
- Stay within your limits: Choose dive sites that match your experience level.
- Bring appropriate gear: Ensure you have the right equipment for shore diving, including a dive flag if required.
Egypt’s shore diving locations offer an incredible opportunity to explore the country’s underwater wonders without the need for a boat. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver, sites like the Blue Hole, Abu Dabbab, and Ras Um Sid provide unforgettable experiences. Pack your gear, respect the marine environment, and dive into the enchanting waters of Egypt’s coastline.
