Dolphin House (Sha'ab Samadai)

Marsa Alam · Red Sea · Egypt

Dolphin House (Shaab El Erg) is a horseshoe-shaped reef system near Hurghada, renowned as one of the Red Sea's most reliable locations for swimming with wild spinner dolphins. A large pod of spinner dolphins uses the sheltered inner lagoon as a resting and socialising area, particularly in the morning hours. The experience of floating in crystal-clear water as dozens of dolphins glide, spin, and play around you is truly unforgettable. The shallow lagoon ranges from 3 to 8 meters with a sandy bottom and scattered coral heads, making it accessible for snorkellers and beginner divers alike. The outer reef walls offer more traditional diving with good coral coverage and typical Red Sea reef life — moray eels peek from crevices, lionfish hover under overhangs, and clouds of anthias dance above the corals. Green sea turtles graze on algae and are frequently encountered on the reef top. Parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish animate the coral gardens. The outer wall drops to 15–20 meters with soft corals and small gorgonians. Dolphin House is reached by boat from Hurghada in approximately 45 minutes, making it one of the most popular day-trip destinations. The site requires responsible interaction — maintaining distance, avoiding loud noises, and letting dolphins initiate contact leads to the most rewarding encounters. On good days, dolphins may spend extended periods circling and investigating calm, patient visitors. The combination of guaranteed dolphin encounters and pleasant reef diving makes it a highlight for divers of all experience levels.