How about jostling into adventure in the offbeat destinations of the world? Red Sea Islands of Saudi Arabia are known for its picturesque white sand beaches and exotic marine life which will let you admire its ethereal beauty. While planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, prepare a list of things to do in Red Sea for delving into its natural splendors and cultural history. Saudi Arabia’s initiative of promoting tourism in the deserted islands of Red Sea will offer you a myriad of activities to carry out including the water sport activities. With the boost of tourism in the region, you can find plentiful of resorts to relax and surrender yourself in the lap of luxury.

Top Things to Do in Red Sea: Let’s Hone Your Scuba Diving Skills at This Heavenly Paradise

Red Sea

If you are seeking peace and solitude, high on adrenaline and want to excel in water activities, the Red Sea Islands are the best escape to your sensual delight. Find yourself in a heavenly paradise where you can plan a list of things to do in Red Sea for a memorable Saudi trip. Starting from snorkeling and scuba diving to explore the colorful coral reefs and striking aquatic life to visiting the local villages in Farasan Island for an enriching cultural experience, you can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Red Sea’s culture. Never forget to miss out on a chance to visit the Red Sea Islands to explore the unexplored and discover the unseen beauty.

Let’s have a glance at the best 8 things to do in Red Sea for an invigorating travel experience in Saudi Arabia.

  1. Island Hopping
  2. Cultural Expedition
  3. Scuba Diving
  4. Dolphin Watching
  5. Snorkeling
  6. Deep Sea Fishing
  7. Boat Tour to Mangroves
  8. Food Exploration

1. Island Hopping: Discover the Untouched Beauty of the Islands

Island Hopping

Island hopping is one of the major activities you can carry out in Red Sea Islands Saudi Arabia for an enthralling experience. Start your day by taking a scenic boat ride to Tiran Island from Sharm El Sheikh Port and admire the vibrant corals along with the rich marine life for a seamless experience. Sanafir & Jinna Islands should also be included in your island-hopping activity as you will be thrilled to undertake the water activities there. Moreover, Farasan Island tour is mandatory if you want to experience the other side of the islandic destination which will enrich you with cultural insights.

Major Islands in Red Sea: Tiran Island, Sanafir Island, Farasan Island, Jinna Island

How to Reach:

  • Tiran & Sanafir Islands: Book a boat ride from Sharm El Sheikh port
  • Farasan Island: Take a ferry ride from Jazan port
  • Jinna Island: Take a boat ride from Jubail port

2. Cultural Expedition: Embrace the Exquisite Islandic Culture

Cultural Expedition

Begin your quest to dig in Saudi Arabia’s coastal culture by visiting the enchanting Farasan Islands, one of the famous Red Sea attractions which should be added to the list of things to do in Red Sea. Best known for the exquisite ecosystem residing under the water, you can also go on a cultural tour by visiting some of the significant landmarks like the Ottoman Fort, sandstone village of Al Qassar dating to Roman period, Beit Al Refai, and Najdi Mosque. You will fall in love with its Farasani architecture that glorifies their historic past. If you are a true history enthusiast, explore this majestic Farasan Island for unveiling its chronicles.

Major Attractions: Ottoman Fort, Al Qassar, Beit Al Refai, and Najdi Mosque

Famous For: Farasani Architecture

Suggested Read: Hira Cultural District Makkah: A Cultural Odyssey in Makkah

3. Scuba Diving: Master Your Diving Skills Under the Water

Scuba Diving

One of the most common deep-sea activities to explore the underwater world and Farasan Island is considered the mecca for scuba diving. If you want to hone your scuba diving skills and Red Sea is your dream destination, Tiran, Farasan, and Jinna Islands are the most popular places to visit in Saudi Arabia for indulging in adventure. Moreover, if you are a first timer, you can look for tailormade scuba diving packages where you can adjust your diving and activity level based on your abilities and interest. Admire the exotic and colorful corals that will lure you with their intricate formations.

Best Spots: Tiran Island, Farasan Island, Jinna Island

Major Attractions: Coral Reefs and Marine Life Species

4. Dolphin Watching: Admire Their Playfulness

Dolphin Watching

While taking a boat ride from Sharm El Sheikh to Tiran Island, you can spot a myriad of playful dolphins, which is one of the top Red Sea things to do. If you are on a full-fledged boat ride accompanied by a guide, you can easily rely on him as you will come across various viewpoints on the way to spot dolphins and sharks. If you feel like feeding your aquatic friends, you can feed them too. Watch their playful behavior and their swimming skills which will motivate you to plunge into the vast blues for a jaw-dropping experience. Also, don’t forget to take a snapshot of these friendly creatures for a treasured memory.

Best Spots: Tiran Island

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year except the cold winters

Suggested Read: Best Beaches in Saudi Arabia for a Tranquil holiday with Brood

5. Snorkeling: Marvel at the Vibrant Coral Reefs

Snorkeling

If you want to master your snorkeling skills, Red Sea is the ideal destination in Saudi Arabia to carry out this activity. Since the Red Sea Islands are best known for their crystalline turquoise blue water, it is impressive to spot colorful coral reefs, understand their rigid formations and characteristics for an insightful, yet soul-stirring experience. One of the best things to do in Saudi Arabia, snorkeling in Saudi’s Red Sea Islands will never disappoint you. While undertaking a guided boat ride, you will be stopped by some major snorkeling spots, and you will get proper instruction if you are newbie.

Best Spots: Tiran Island, Sanafir & Farasan Island, Jinna Island

Major Attractions: Corals, Aquatic Species like Clown fish, Green Turtle, Scorpionfish

6. Deep Sea Fishing: Explore the Aquatic Eccentricities

Deep Sea Fishing

One of the famous Red Sea tourist attractions, Farasan Island will offer you an opportunity to go deep sea fishing to have some fresh catches of the day. Tourists who are into fishing can try their hands on angling this time to target giant trevally, trevally, golden trevally, moustache and yellow margin triggerfish, bonefish, and bump head parrotfish. Even if you are a first timer, you need not worry since your guide will be instructing you about the activity and the equipment used in it. Therefore, it is always advisable to go for guided boat trips to the Red Sea Islands since you can get access to most of the water activities and a delicious meal onboard.

Best Spots: Farasan Island

Best Time for the Activity: Summer (May-June)

Suggested Read: Red Sea Mall, Jeddah: Shop Until You Drop Amidst the Jaw-Dropping Architecture

7. Boat Tour to Mangroves: Soak Yourself in the Solitude

Mangroves

While planning a day trip to Saudi Arabia’s Farasan Islands, allow yourself to splash into thrills by taking a scenic boat ride to the fascinating mangroves. Best known for its incredible biodiversity and being the home to exotic avian species such as Scooty Falcon, Osprey, Pink-Backed Pelican, Flamingos, Saunders Little Tern, White-Eyed Gull, and Crab Plover, you will find yourself in a paradise to relax in solitude and tranquility. You can also spot a plethora of marine species like Parrot fish, manta rays and sea turtles during your ride. If you are planning for islandic adventure in Saudi Arabia, Farasan Island is the best escape.

How to Reach: While taking a boat ride from Jazan port to Farasan Island, you can visit the mangroves too.

Best Time to Visit: November to February

8. Food Exploration: Relish the Culinary Voyage Undertaken

Food Exploration

Red Sea Islands of Saudi Arabia will let you explore its rich culinary culture by devouring the fresh catch of the day to savor for a lifetime. Since the Red Sea Islands are famous for the exotic aquatic species ranging from fish to lobsters, you can have a wholesome meal by witnessing the breathtaking views of the Red Sea sharks. As the Saudi’s government is launching tourism campaigns to develop luxurious resorts and restaurants in their islandic destinations, you can undertake a fulfilling gastronomic journey over there. Moreover, if you are on a full-fledged boat ride to the Red Sea Islands, you can devour a scrumptious meal with seafood delights served onboard.

Famous food: Sea food

Best Restaurants: Alshareef’s Taste, Farasan Archipelago Restaurant, Rawaqan Cafe

Also Read: Discover Best Islands in Saudi Arabia for an Ideal Getaway

St. Regis Red Sea Resort: The Best Stay Option Near/Around Red Sea

St. Regis Red Sea Resort

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort has set a benchmark in the hospitality industry for catering to the needs and preferences of every tourist visiting Red Sea Islands all throughout the year. Perched on a private island of Ummahat, this luxury resort will promise you top-notch hospitality amid the perennial charm of nature’s splendors. With exquisitely designed villas adorned with elegant interiors and influenced by modern sophistication, you can enjoy the panoramic views from your comfort space, leaving your mind in awe. Embark on an incredible culinary journey to relish diverse and flavorful regional delicacies at Nesma restaurant along with grabbing some savory delights and refreshing drinks at the Beach Club. Moreover, pamper yourself by delighting your senses with the world-class spa therapies at the Spa.

Types of Villas: Dune Villa, Sunset Dune Villa, Coral Villa, Sunset Coral Villa, The Astor Villas, Presidential Dune Villas

Dining Options: Nesma, Tilina, Gishiki 45, Private Dining, The Beach Club, St. Regis Bar

Thrilling Experiences: Water Sports, AlUla, Sustainable Guest Transportation, St. Regis Butler Service, The Bloody Mary Ritual, St. Regis Afternoon Tea

Facilities: 2 Outdoor Pools, Fitness Center, St. Regis Spa, Kid’s Club

Your Red Sea Islandic adventure will be incomplete without fulfilling your wishes, the list of things to do in Red Sea for a cherished memory to be framed for a lifetime. Immerse yourself in its unparallel beauty and indulge yourself in varied activities to unveil its history and culture which can promise you insights on Saudi Arabia’s islandic culture and tourism which is a major booster and contributor to Saudi’s economic growth. Start booking your Saudi Arabia tour packages with us to avail best offers and make your coastal expedition a remarkable experience for an alluring effect.

Things to Do in Red Sea FAQ’s

Q1. Is it worth visiting the Red Sea Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Red Sea of Saudi Arabia is worth visiting since it is enriched with a myriad of deserted islands and pristine beaches which are not even explored yet. If you are seeking peace and solitude, you can visit some of the best Red Sea Islands in Saudi Arabia.

  • Tiran Island
  • Sanafir Island
  • Farasan Island
  • Jinna Island
Q2. What is special in Red Sea, Saudi Arabia?

Red Sea of Saudi Arabia is mostly famous for its islands and beaches. The Red Sea Islands shelter incredible and delicate ecosystems like coral reefs and aquatic species which will give you insights on the underwater world.

Q3. What are the top 5 things to do in Red Sea, Saudi Arabia?

If you want to discover the history and culture of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Islands, you can take up cultural tours to Farasan Island since it has significant cultural landmarks along with water activities and scenic boat rides. The top 5 things to do in Red Sea, Saudi Arabia are:

  • Scuba Diving
  • Snorkeling
  • Dolphin Watching
  • Heritage tours
  • Boat ride to Mangroves
Q4. What is the best time to visit Red Sea, Saudi Arabia?

It is ideal and advisable to visit Red Sea of Saudi Arabia during the winter season. Starting from the months of November to March, you can enjoy pleasant weather there which is good for island hopping, water sport activities, and spotting marine species, etc.

Q5. How much time should I spend in Red Sea, Saudi Arabia?

While planning your Saudi Arabia tour, include Red Sea Islands tour in your itinerary for an immersive coastal adventure. You can spend 7 to 8 hours in the Red Sea Islands including your boat ride duration.

Q6. What activities can I do on Farasan Island?

Since Farasan Island is the most popular island of the vast archipelago, it is the home to incredible mangroves, cultural landmarks, and rich wildlife and marine life. Some of the must-to-do activities on Farasan Island are:

  • Cultural Tour
  • Bird Watching
  • Snorkeling
  • Beach Hopping
  • Boat Ride to Mangroves
Q7. Can you swim in Red Sea, Saudi Arabia?

Yes, you can swim in the Red Sea by undertaking various underwater activities like scuba diving and snorkeling for an enriching experience. It will let you explore its colorful and exotic corals along with marine species.

Q8. Are there dolphins in the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia?

Yes, you can spot dolphins in the Red Sea while undertaking a boat ride to Tiran Island from Sharm El Sherikh port. Moreover, your guide will suggest to you some specific points to spot dolphins.