Abu Dabbab Egypt: Snorkeling with Turtles

Abu Dabbab , one of Egypt's most spectacular coastal treasures where crystal-clear waters meet pristine sandy beaches. Located approximately 30 kilometers north of Marsa Alam, this protected marine sanctuary has become a world-renowned destination for snorkeling, diving, and encountering extraordinary marine life.

Why Abu Dabbab is Egypt's Premier Snorkeling Destination

Abu Dabbab Bay stands out as one of the most celebrated snorkeling spots in the entire Red Sea region. What makes this location truly special is the rare opportunity to swim alongside endangered green sea turtles and the elusive dugong (sea cow) in their natural habitat.

The bay features extensive seagrass meadows in its central area, bordered by vibrant coral reefs on both the northern and southern ends. This unique ecosystem creates perfect conditions for incredible marine encounters that you won't find at many other locations worldwide.

Marine Life at Abu Dabbab

When you snorkel or dive in Abu Dabbab, you're virtually guaranteed to encounter:

Sea Turtles: The bay is home to over 100 resident turtles, including both Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles. These gentle creatures have become accustomed to snorkelers and divers, allowing for peaceful close-up observations as they graze on seagrass.

Dugongs: Abu Dabbab is one of the few places in Egypt where you can spot dugongs. The bay hosts several resident dugongs, affectionately named Dennis and Dougal by local dive guides, who come to feed on the abundant seagrass meadows.

Colorful Reef Fish: The coral reefs teem with hundreds of species including butterflyfish, parrotfish, angelfish, surgeonfish, sohal surgeonfish, masked pufferfish, and the endemic Red Sea bannerfish and bluecheek butterflyfish.

Rays and More: Blue-spotted ribbontail rays, eagle rays, leopard rays, and cowtail rays regularly rest and feed on the sandy seafloor, alongside countless other fascinating marine creatures.

Abu Dabbab Hotels: Where to Stay in Paradise

Malikia Resort Abu Dabbab - The Premium Choice

Malikia Resort Abu Dabbab is the crown jewel of accommodations at Abu Dabbab Bay. This 5-star all-inclusive resort offers the best location for snorkeling enthusiasts, with direct beach access and a private jetty leading straight into the bay.

Resort Highlights:

  • 358 air-conditioned rooms and bungalows with sea, pool, or garden views
  • Direct access to Abu Dabbab Beach without walkways
  • 5 outdoor swimming pools including a children's pool
  • Free water park with exciting waterslides
  • 3 restaurants serving international and local cuisine
  • 3 bars and lounges
  • Full-service spa with sauna, steam room, and Jacuzzi
  • PADI dive center and water sports facilities
  • Beautiful tropical gardens
  • Multilingual staff and 24-hour front desk

Guests consistently praise Malikia Resort for its friendly staff, cleanliness, spacious rooms, and the unbeatable privilege of having one of the Red Sea's best house reefs literally steps from their accommodation. The resort provides an ideal base for families, divers, and anyone seeking a perfect beach vacation.

What Guests Love:

  • Immediate access to turtle and dugong viewing
  • Comfortable rooms with modern amenities
  • Variety of dining options
  • Children's activities and entertainment
  • Professional dive center on-site
  • Stunning sunrise and sunset views

Abu Dabbab Lodge - The Eco-Friendly Alternative

For travelers seeking a more intimate, budget-friendly experience, Abu Dabbab Lodge offers approximately 60 wooden bungalows surrounded by lush tropical gardens. This eco-minded hideaway emphasizes sustainability while maintaining comfort.

The lodge features the PADI 5-star "Blue Ocean" Dive Center, providing access to over 35 dive sites. The facility works closely with HEPCA (Environmental Protection and Conservation Association) to protect local marine life and monitor the Red Sea's turtle population.

Abu Dabbab Lodge is perfect for divers, nature enthusiasts, and visitors who prefer a relaxed, environmentally conscious atmosphere over large resort amenities.

Best Time to Visit Abu Dabbab

Optimal Months: October through April

Abu Dabbab enjoys Egypt's desert climate with over 320 days of sunshine annually, making it a year-round destination. However, the best conditions occur during the cooler months:

Winter (December-February):

  • Temperatures: 20-25°C (68-77°F)
  • Sea temperature: 22-24°C
  • Most comfortable for exploring and beach activities
  • Ideal for families and sun-seekers from colder climates

Spring (March-May):

  • Temperatures: 25-30°C (77-86°F)
  • Excellent diving and snorkeling conditions
  • Clear waters with superb visibility
  • Pleasant evenings

Summer (June-August):

  • Temperatures: 33-42°C (91-108°F)
  • Warmest sea temperatures (28-29°C)
  • Fewer crowds
  • Best for experienced divers and water sports enthusiasts

Autumn (September-October):

  • Temperatures: 24-30°C (75-86°F)
  • Perfect balance of warm weather and manageable crowds
  • Excellent visibility underwater
  • Ideal for all activities

Activities and Experiences at Abu Dabbab

Snorkeling Adventures

Abu Dabbab offers some of the easiest and most rewarding snorkeling in Egypt. You can enter the water directly from the sandy beach at multiple points:

  • Central Bay: Perfect for turtle spotting in the seagrass meadows
  • House Reef North & South: Vibrant coral formations with abundant fish life
  • Lagoon Access (at Malikia Resort): Sheltered area ideal for beginners

The shallow, clear waters make Abu Dabbab particularly suitable for families with children and novice snorkelers.

Scuba Diving

Both experienced and beginner divers find Abu Dabbab ideal for underwater exploration. The bay's gentle slopes, excellent visibility, and rich biodiversity create perfect conditions for:

  • Discovery dives for beginners
  • PADI certification courses
  • House reef diving
  • Speedboat trips to nearby sites like Elphinstone Reef

Beach Relaxation

Beyond the water, Abu Dabbab's pristine sandy beach offers:

  • Soft sand perfect for sunbathing
  • Beach volleyball
  • Shaded areas with sun loungers and umbrellas
  • Beachside restaurants and bars
  • Stunning views of the Red Sea

How to Get to Abu Dabbab

Marsa Alam International Airport is the closest airport, located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Abu Dabbab. Many European cities offer direct flights to Marsa Alam.

Alternative Airports:

  • Hurghada International Airport: 4 hours' drive north
  • Luxor Airport: 5 hours' drive inland

Most hotels, including Malikia Resort and Abu Dabbab Lodge, offer airport transfer services. Day tours from Hurghada, Port Ghalib, and other Red Sea resorts are also available.

Abu Dabbab Day Trip Options

If you're staying elsewhere along the Red Sea coast, several tour operators offer full-day excursions to Abu Dabbab:

Typical Day Trip Includes:

  • Hotel pickup and return (air-conditioned transport)
  • Beach entrance fee (approximately $10 when booking independently)
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Professional guide
  • Lunch
  • Two snorkeling sessions

Prices generally range around $40 per person, though costs vary depending on departure location and inclusions.

Practical Tips for Visiting Abu Dabbab

Respecting Marine Life:

  • Observe turtles and dugongs from a safe distance
  • Never touch or chase marine animals
  • Avoid standing on or touching coral reefs
  • Follow your guide's instructions

What to Bring:

  • High SPF sunscreen (reef-safe if possible)
  • Underwater camera or GoPro
  • Rashguard or wetsuit for sun protection
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Light clothing and a hat
  • Snorkeling equipment (or rent on-site)

Beach Facilities:

  • Restaurants and snack bars
  • Changing rooms and showers
  • Equipment rental
  • Lifeguards on duty
  • First aid facilities

Why Choose Abu Dabbab Over Other Red Sea Destinations?

While Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada are more developed resort towns, Abu Dabbab offers something increasingly rare: pristine nature, uncrowded reefs, and authentic marine encounters. The protected status of the bay ensures these conditions remain preserved for future generations.

Unlike busier dive sites, you can often snorkel in Abu Dabbab without constantly encountering large groups, allowing for more intimate wildlife experiences. The combination of excellent facilities, accessible marine life, and relatively undiscovered status makes Abu Dabbab a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Egypt's Red Sea coast.

Your Abu Dabbab Adventure Awaits

Whether you're dreaming of swimming alongside ancient sea turtles, glimpsing the rare dugong, exploring colorful coral gardens, or simply relaxing on a beautiful beach, Abu Dabbab delivers an unforgettable Red Sea experience. With excellent accommodation options like Malikia Resort Abu Dabbab and Abu Dabbab Lodge, year-round pleasant weather, and some of Egypt's most accessible marine life, this hidden gem deserves a prominent place on your travel bucket list.

Book your Abu Dabbab adventure today and discover why this special bay has captured the hearts of travelers, divers, and marine enthusiasts from around the world. Paradise is waiting just 30 kilometers north of Marsa Alam.