With pristine coral reefs and calm Red Sea water near Jeddah, snorkeling in Jeddah has become one of the most exciting adventure activities in the commercial capital. The coastline’s bays, coral walls, and off-shore reefs are among some of the city’s most beautiful underwater environments. Snorkelers can spot green turtles, reef sharks, and dolphins almost anywhere along the shore. The Red sea waters are clear, warm, and shielded from ocean currents, allowing for the growth of spectacular undersea life that is unrivaled anywhere else on the planet. Most of the diving sites in Jeddah are suited for snorkelers.
Best sites for snorkeling in Jeddah
1. Coastline of Dhabhan
Situated on the coast of the Red Sea, the city of Dhabhan is an excellent destination to enjoy snorkeling in Jeddah. The water near the coast remains relatively calm, creating ideal conditions to take a plunge with snorkeling gear and equipment. Tourists also get the assistance of professional snorkelers to explore the Red Sea and various marine animals in a safe and better way. In addition, the coral reefs provide a perfect environment for marine creatures to thrive and multiply, creating the experience more worthwhile.
Marine creatures you can spot: Occasional spotting of clownfish, green turtles, tasseled scorpion fish, and many more.
Distance from Jeddah: Dhabhan is 54 km from the city center of Jeddah. Snorkelers can easily hire a car to reach the coastline of Dhabhan.
2. Beaches in Jeddah
The beautiful beaches of Saudi Arabia offer excellent opportunities to indulge in snorkeling activities. The beaches, alongside providing an environment to relax on the beautiful sand, also offer perfect conditions for tourists to snorkel and unravel the mysteries of the ocean. Tourists can spot creatures such as green turtles, clownfish, and barracudas amidst the stunning coral reefs. Later, tourists can watch the sunset and eat delicious food on the beach. The top beaches to snorkel in Jeddah are Al Saif beach, Khaleej Salman Beach, and South Obhur Beach, among others. Tourists can take boats to reach the right snorkel spots for a better experience.
Things to do: Snorkel in the pristine water, indulge in swimming, and watch the sunset while relaxing on the beach.
Suggested Read: 8 Most Beautiful Beaches In Saudi Arabia For An Unwinding Retreat
Things to remember while snorkeling in Jeddah
- Snorkeling can get difficult sometimes; hence doing it under guidance is highly recommended
- Purchase the right equipment for snorkeling and ensure it is above the standard quality
- Learn how to use the equipment and some of the emergency techniques
- Sometimes the water may get into the mask; one should know how to get the water out of the mask safely
- The water may dehydrate the body; therefore, it is recommended to wear enough skin protection cream
- One should practice before swimming in the Red Sea as the current may overwhelm the amateurs.
- One should save the energy and don’t try to swim fast and travel deep into the sea
Cost of snorkeling in Jeddah
Snorkeling expenses range from 150 to 400 Riyals for basic snorkel gear, 200 to 450 Riyals for weekly snorkel gear rental, and 350 to 500 Riyals per participant for a whole-day snorkeling trip, depending on the quality of the gear and the location of the excursion.
Best time for snorkeling in Jeddah
Jeddah’s climate makes for ideal snorkeling conditions all year. The temperature of the Red Sea’s water remains constant between 78 and 96 degrees Fahrenheit (25 and 35 degrees Celsius). However, snorkeling in the Red Sea between August and November is the best time as the temperature remains optimum for swimming. Expert snorkelers who have explored the underwater region advocate venturing out in the mid-evening when the sun reveals the Red Sea’s magnificent red coral and rich biodiversity.
Snorkeling in Jeddah packages
Snorkelers from around the world can indulge in some of the best Red Sea snorkeling at the beaches of Jeddah. To help the tourists, numerous tours and travel companies offer customizable packages and all-inclusive snorkeling trips in Jeddah. The things included in these packages are:
- Entry fees of different beaches in Jeddah
- Boat rides to each spot
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkels, and boots)
- Certified guides taking care of the safety of the snorkelers
- A certification for a snorkel from Scuba Schools International
In Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is among the best cities to indulge in a snorkeling adventure. There are a number of diving and snorkeling shops in the seaside city, all of which are suitable for both novice and expert divers. Snorkelers who wish to see a more local aspect of Saudi Arabia should go to Yanbu, which is about 250 miles to the north of Jeddah, or Farasan Island, which is on the southern coast. Visit Jeddah today for the best snorkeling and diving experience of a lifetime.
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Jeddah: Explore Majestic Marine Life Of Red Sea
Snorkeling In Jedda FAQs
What is the cost of snorkeling in Jeddah?
Snorkeling costs range from 150 to 400 Riyals for basic equipment, 200 to 450 Riyals for weekly equipment rental, and 350 to 500 Riyals per participant for a full-day excursion, depending on the quality of the equipment and the location of the expedition.
What is the best time for snorkeling in Jeddah?
The best time for snorkeling in Jeddah is during the months of August and November when the temperature is between 25 to 35 degrees Celsius.
What are a few things to remember while snorkeling?
While snorkeling from the beach, only enter the water from an authorized location such as a bay (Marsa) or lagoons (halk). In addition, it is advisable to wear ample skin protection creams and clothing (from the sun and abrasions) and rubber-soled boots when navigating the back reef to get into the sea.
Which are the top beaches in Jeddah to enjoy snorkeling?
Khaleej Salman Beach and Al-Saif beach are the best beaches to enjoy snorkeling in Jeddah.
