Quick answer
The Egyptian Red Sea is a good place for beginners: the water is warm and clear, many resorts have a house reef you can snorkel from, and diving centres offer introductory dives with qualified instructors. Choose a resort with reef access and a dive centre, and respect the coral.
You do not need to be an expert to enjoy the Red Sea's reefs. Here is how to get started safely.
Start with snorkelling
Snorkelling needs only a mask, snorkel and fins, and many resorts lend or rent them. If your resort has a house reef or a private coral beach, you can snorkel from the shore, often with a pontoon or jetty that makes entering the water easier.
Try an introductory dive
If you have never dived, most dive centres offer introductory dives with a qualified instructor in a small group. You do not need a certification for these, but you will normally complete a health questionnaire and a short briefing.
Protect the reef
- Do not touch, stand on or collect coral or marine life.
- Keep fins well clear of the reef.
- Use reef-friendly sun protection, such as a rash vest.
- Follow your guide's instructions about depth and distance.
Choosing a resort for reef access
If snorkelling or diving is a priority, look for a house reef, a private coral beach and an on-site diving centre. For example, Pickalbatros Palace Sharm lists a private coral beach and a diving centre, and Pickalbatros Citadel Sahl Hasheesh lists a house reef. See also our guides to Sharm El Sheikh and Marsa Alam.
Tell us your experience level in the trip form and we will check reef access for each hotel on your shortlist.