Beaches and Coral Reefs in Aqaba

A calm coastline where the desert meets the Red Sea.

Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city, stretches along a short section of the Red Sea. While the shoreline isn’t expansive, it offers a mix of public beaches, hotel-front sands, and some of the most accessible coral reefs in the region. Calm conditions, relatively warm water year-round, and a straightforward layout make Aqaba a practical base for beachgoers and reef divers alike—without the crowds found elsewhere along the Red Sea.

Most Popular Beaches in Aqaba

Al-Ghandour Beach

Located near the city center, Al-Ghandour is one of the main public beaches in Aqaba. It’s easily accessible and popular with locals, especially in the evenings. The beach has shaded areas, palm trees, and a view of the port and Israeli coastline across the bay. Swimming is possible, though the seabed is rocky in places.

South Beach

Stretching several kilometers south of central Aqaba, South Beach is quieter and known for its reef access. The shoreline here is more natural and less developed, but the water is clear and many dive centers use this area for entry. It’s also one of the best places to snorkel directly from the shore.

Tala Bay

A private resort development south of South Beach. It offers manicured sands, shaded loungers, and easy swimming access. While entry is restricted to hotel guests or paying day visitors, Tala Bay is known for being clean, quiet, and well-maintained.

Berenice Beach Club

A beach facility south of Aqaba with day passes available. It includes a private beach, pools, changing areas, and shuttle access from the city. Berenice is also close to several snorkeling and diving spots and offers guided water activities, though many visitors come simply to relax.

Coral Reefs and Marine Life

Aqaba’s coral reefs run parallel to the coastline, often starting just a few meters from shore. This makes the area especially suited for shore snorkeling and diving, without needing a boat. The reefs are generally shallow, colorful, and home to a range of marine life including:

Butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish
Moray eels and lionfish
Occasional sea turtles and rays
Hard and soft corals, including fan corals and table corals

The marine protected areas are monitored but still accessible for independent visitors. Some of the reef zones are clearly marked with buoys and basic signage.

Notable Snorkeling and Diving Spots

Japanese Garden

One of the most well-known reef areas, popular for both beginner and experienced divers. It’s known for its gentle slope, variety of coral types, and visibility. Can be accessed by boat or from shore at South Beach.

Cedar Pride Wreck

A deliberately sunken Lebanese freighter located just off the coast. Covered in coral and surrounded by schools of fish, it’s now a popular dive site and visible from above on clear days.

First Bay North and South

These two nearby reef zones are accessible from shore and frequently used for snorkeling or training dives. They offer easy entry and abundant marine life.

Things to Know Before Visiting

Swimwear: Bikinis are accepted at resort beaches but more conservative attire is recommended at public beaches.
Sun exposure: The sun is strong year-round; shade is limited on many beaches.
Footwear: Reef shoes are helpful when entering the water, especially where corals come close to shore.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer warm water and mild air temperatures; summer can be very hot on land, while winter waters are slightly cooler but still swimmable.

Are you ready to start discovering Jordan?

I decided to book a tour when I went to Jordan and they simplified my planning and enhanced my travel experience ! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!

Are you ready to start discovering Jordan?

I decided to book a tour when I went to Jordan and they simplified my planning and enhanced my travel experience ! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!