As one of the Seven Wonders of the Underwater World, the Red Sea is a bucket list destination for divers. It encompasses a wide variety of incredible dive sites, from the world-renowned wreck of the SS Thistlegorm to the southern islands of Big Brother and Daedalus, which play host to thrilling encounters with manta rays and a variety of shark species.
As a northern offshoot of the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea has evolved over time to foster a unique ecosystem with many endemic species. Due to its relative isolation, high salinity levels and limited freshwater inflow, it enjoys exceptionally clear visibility and ideal diving conditions year-round. This makes it an incredibly accessible and attractive destination, especially for European travellers.
The northern resort towns of Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab tend to see the most visitors and this is where you’ll find the majority of the Red Sea’s eco-friendly dive resorts. The further south you go, the more remote and tranquil the experience is, with a scattering of sustainably-run stays. Ranging from atmospheric glamping properties to luxurious five-star hotels, there’s something for divers of all budgets and travel styles.
In this article, we’ll introduce 7 of the best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resorts to help you plan a sustainable scuba vacation in Egypt.
This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase through that link, we earn a small commission. Affiliate links come at no cost to you and ensure our content remains free!
Best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resort for yogis
Established 30 years ago as a diving camp, this eco-friendly resort in Marsa Alam boasts one of the most beautiful house reefs in the region. It features luxurious tents with stunning views of the Red Sea, as well as deluxe chalets with air-conditioning and ensuite bathrooms. In addition to daily dive trips to Elphinstone and Abu Dabab, this eco-friendly Red Sea dive resort offers yoga classes at its shala, held at sunrise and sunset.
The enthusiastic team at Marsa Shagra was instrumental in establishing the local Shaa'b Samadai Marine Park, where they work tirelessly to protect shark populations. One-third of this dive resort’s energy is generated from solar power and it is committed to promoting sustainable diving practices. Bordering the resort is a lush mangrove forest that plays a vital role in supporting the thriving reef.
"Great holiday, amazing diving experience.” - Felix (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly dive resorts Red Sea
A Red Sea reefs meets the chalets and tents of Marsa Shagra Village in Marsa Alam (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resort in El Gouna
This eco-friendly luxury getaway is nestled within Egypt's most appealing resort community - El Gouna - the first area in Africa to receive a UN-sponsored Green Town Award for its efforts toward creating a greener, more sustainable future. This dazzling beachfront hideaway offers guests 82 elegant rooms and suites, all set within a timeless architectural landmark that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Once inside, you will discover a curated collection of gourmet eateries that showcase the finest local and international cuisine, as well as tropical-style pools and private beaches where you can soak up the sun.
A highlight of staying at this eco-friendly Red Sea resort is its setting within El Gouna, a community that prioritises concern for the environment. Through initiatives like renewable energy, waste management and eco-friendly urban planning, it is an incredible example of what sustainable living can look like. With its luxurious accommodations, world-class amenities and deep commitment to environmental stewardship, The Chedi El Gouna represents the pinnacle of responsible dive travel.
"We wanted a place to completely unwind and this was perfect.” - Charlotte (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resorts
An elevated view of the luxurious accommodations at The Chedi El Gouna (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resort for an unplugged stay
For eco-conscious travellers seeking a sustainable getaway in Egypt's Red Sea region, the remote and rustic Marsa Nakari Village offers a fantastic escape. Part of the renowned Red Sea Diving Safari network, this eco-friendly Red Sea resort places a strong emphasis on environmental protection and supporting local communities. Guests can look forward to a serene, unplugged experience, with the option to stay in glamping tents, charming huts or comfortable chalets nestled right on the powdery sand.
From this secluded home base, you’ll enjoy easy access to world-class diving and snorkelling, with the resort's sprawling house reef teeming with marine life. Avid underwater enthusiasts can venture out to the nearby Dolphin House, one of Egypt's most celebrated dive sites, renowned for its playful pods of spinner dolphins. Sustainable practices at this eco-friendly dive resort in Egypt include everything from renewable energy sources to waste reduction initiatives, ensuring your getaway has a minimal impact on the delicate local ecosystem.
"Peaceful and quiet and away from the crowds.” - Lei (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resorts in Egypt
A bird's eye view of the eco-friendly accommodations at Marsa Nakari Village (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resort for a luxury stay
Set along a one-kilometre stretch of private beachfront, the Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt is an oasis of luxury and tranquility overlooking the Red Sea. With sleek, contemporary accommodations that range from spacious guest rooms to opulent, multi-bedroom suites, everything at this eco-friendly Red Sea resort is high-end. Beyond the accommodations, the resort's impeccable amenities include five outdoor pools, a highly acclaimed spa and 10 alfresco dining experiences that showcase a diverse array of global cuisines.
For the adventurous, the resort's expertly run PADI dive centre enjoys access to one of the best house reefs in the region while the "Kids For All Seasons" club means you can dive with peace of mind your young ones are being well looked after. When it comes to sustainability, the Four Seasons was the first resort in Egypt to achieve the EarthCheck Platinum certification, prioritising everything from energy and water-saving initiatives to coral reef restoration projects and the sourcing of sustainable food products.
"One of the most beautiful hotels anywhere.” - Khaled (read more reviews here)
Luxurious eco-friendly dive resort in Sharm El Sheikh
A luxurious room at the Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resort for glamping
Located in the village of Abū Ghuşūn, this sustainably run glamping resort offers travellers unparalleled access to some of the region's most fantastic diving destinations. Part of the renowned Red Sea Diving Safari family, this eco-chic retreat provides an off-the-grid experience that immerses guests in the natural splendour of the Egyptian coastline. Whether you stay in one of their glamping tents or rustic huts, you’ll enjoy easy access to this eco-friendly Red Sea resort’s expansive house reef.
For the ultimate underwater adventure, guests can venture out to the world-famous Fury Shoals, a collection of remote reefs and atolls teeming with marine life. Back on land, the resort caters to a variety of interests, from recreational and technical diving to freediving, kiteboarding and birdwatching in the nearby mangrove forests. With its rustic yet sustainable accommodations, exceptional amenities and unbeatable access to Egypt's natural wonders, Wadi Lahami offers divers an unforgettable getaway.
"The daily activities are reduced to the essentials, namely diving and kiting, which is also the reason for traveling to this place.” - Stefan (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Egypt
An aerial view of the eco-friendly accommodations at Wadi Lahami in Marsa Alam (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resort for families
Situated along the northern shores of Egypt's Red Sea coast, the Reef Oasis Blue Bay Resort is a sprawling all-inclusive haven that caters to every type of traveller. This five-star dive resort boasts a wide array of facilities and activities, making it a popular choice for divers travelling with non-diving family members. Anchoring the experience is the resort's world-class dive centre, which offers both recreational and technical scuba diving across the region's breathtaking underwater landscapes.
Beyond the aquatic realm, this eco-friendly Red Sea resort's offerings are nothing short of impressive, with more than a dozen on-site restaurants, cafes and bars serving up a diverse selection of local and international cuisine. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the full-service spa, stay active at the fitness centre and tennis court, or splash and slide to their heart's content at the multiple indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The Reef Oasis Blue Bay Resort’s commitment to sustainable practices has earned it Green Star Hotel certification.
"Our second visit to Reef Oasis Blue Bay…reaffirmed that this place is a true paradise. The hotel continues to impress with its magnificent reef, friendly staff, and high level of service.” - Aleksei (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly Red Sea dive resorts
An aerial view of the Reef Oasis Blue Bay Resort and Spa in Sharm El Sheikh (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best eco-friendly Red Sea dive resort for a villa stay
Overlooking Makadi Bay, this impressive resort complex comprises three distinct properties - the Beach Resort, the Villas and the West Bay - each with its own unique character. All grant you access to a wealth of recreational and dining facilities, including The Pavilion Restaurant and the Red Rocks Bar. The private beach area at this eco-friendly Red Sea resort offers a plethora of water activities, from snorkelling and scuba diving to horse rides and windsurfing.
What truly sets Fort Arabesque apart, however, is its unwavering commitment to sustainability, having earned the prestigious Green Star Hotel rating through its efforts to manage energy consumption, conserve water and eliminate plastic products in favour of eco-friendly alternatives. From installing energy-efficient lighting and ballasts to replacing disposable bathroom amenities with refillable dispensers, the resort has demonstrated its dedication to minimising its environmental impact and championing sustainable practices.
"The best thing is an amazing dive centre…run by an amazing team.” - Ammar (read more reviews)
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Egypt
Palm trees tower above the beach at Fort Arabesque in Makadi Bay (photo courtesy of Expedia)
When is the best time to dive the Red Sea?
The Red Sea offers world-class diving opportunities that can be experienced year-round. That being said, the ideal time to visit can vary considerably depending on your personal preferences and tolerance for different environmental conditions.
From June through August, the air temperatures in this region can soar to a sweltering 40°C (or higher), making for uncomfortably hot days spent on the water. Conversely, the winter months of December through February see water temperatures plummet to around 22°C, requiring thicker wetsuits, hoods and gloves to maintain comfort underwater.
For the best all-around diving experience, the sweet spots tend to be the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months strike an ideal balance, with air and water temperatures hovering in the mid 20s Celsius, creating perfect conditions for extended dives. What's more, many of the region's most iconic species like sea turtles, schools of barracuda and kaleidoscopic reef fish are most active during these transitional periods.
When planning your Red Sea diving adventure, be sure to avoid school and religious holidays, as these peak travel times can lead to congestion at the most popular dive spots.
About the authors
We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we've created this resource highlighting sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.
Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.
Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans.