Egypt is not all desert and history; if you ask me, your trip to the ancient land should include some adventure and beach destinations. One of the coolest, most beautiful beach towns in Egypt is Dahab, situated in South Sinai. There are lots of super fun things to do in Dahab from adrenaline-fueled activities to various ways in which you can enjoy mother nature.

As a frequent Dahab-goer, I can safely provide you with a complete guide to one of my favorite destinations in Egypt. However, bear in mind that for an unconventional traveler like myself, I won’t be recommending any of the touristy, cliché stuff. I’ll list them for you just in case it’s your first time and you’re curious, but generally, I wouldn’t recommend them.

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Now, are you ready for a non-cliché Dahab guide? Here are all the cool things to do in Dahab:

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The Promenade

The main attraction in Dahab is its famous promenade where cafés, restaurants, and shops are lined by the beautiful Red Sea. The most fun part is that each of the cafés/restaurants gives you beach access! Here’s a breakdown of the areas along the promenade:

• Mashraba: More crowds and cheaper.
• The Lighthouse: More diving centers and a generally cooler crowd than Mashraba’s.
• Eel Garden: Pricier but much quieter. A rocky beach but cool for snorkeling.
• Assala: No restaurants on the beach; they’re on the inside, but there are lots of beautiful guesthouses and Airbnbs on the beach. Very chill and has lovely reefs for snorkeling.

Diving and Snorkeling

If you do simple research, not a single list of top diving spots would miss mentioning the Egyptian Red Sea. The reefs and the marine life in Egypt are just impeccable! Dahab, in particular, is one of the best places in the country to go diving and snorkeling. And if you want to get PADI certified, taking the needed courses in Dahab is a smart move.

Book your Blue Hole snorkeling tour here.

Kitesurfing

Known for being a windy town, Dahab is one of the best places where you can go (or learn) kitesurfing in Egypt. The best place is hands down Blue Lagoon in the Ras Abou Galloum natural protectorate, where the shallow waters of the lagoon make it the perfect spot for practicing tricks.

Camping

Camping in Dahab is quite different from whatever you’re used to. Not just that you’ll be most likely staying in huts, but you’ll also be camping on the BEACH! Yes, a mountainous backdrop and a front-row sea view – what more could you ask for? You can find many campsites in Blue Lagoon and Ras Abou Galloum (the most popular camping spots).

The Blue Hole + Ras Abou Galloum + Blue Lagoon Trip

Even though it’s (unfortunately) become a cliché/touristy thing to do, but this is one of the things to do in Dahab that you just can’t skip – whether you decide to stay overnight or go on a day trip. From the city center, you’ll take a car to your first stop, the Blue Hole, one of the most popular diving sites out there. Despite how deadly the 100-meter submarine sinkhole is, divers from all around the world still flock to the diving site.

Ras Abou Galloum natural protectorate would be up next. You can either go on a bumpy, yet fun, boat ride from the Blue Hole to the reserve – you can also go hiking or via camel ride. There, you can enjoy a swim and go snorkeling. You can also stay the night there as there are multiple campsites.

Afterwards, you can head to Blue Lagoon (my personal favorite). You can also continue the hike or hop on a pick-up truck to reach the dreamy destination where you can camp, swim, or learn to kitesurf.

Lagoona Beach

Yes, there are various options if you want to go swimming in Dahab, but the famed Lagoona has a special vibe you just can’t miss. Aside from the pristine waters of the Red Sea, there’s a spot, as known as the Magic Lake, that makes the ultimate natural spa. There, the mud is not just good for your skin, but the tiny fish will eat away the dead skin off your feet – unless you’re ticklish.

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Rock Climbing

Up for some monkey business? Challenge yourself and go rock climbing in Wadi Gnai. There are several routes suitable for both beginners and advanced levels, and it’s definitely a cooler experience than the indoor climbing walls.

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Hiking

Nothing beats Sinai’s mountains when it comes to hiking. In Dahab, you can also go hiking in Wadi Gnai, which is an easy hike. Also, you can hike from Blue Hole to Blue Lagoon instead of taking the boat. Not to mention that you’re not limited to hiking in Dahab, but you can also go on a day trip to hike in Saint Catherine or Nuweiba.

Kayaking

Kayaking is a super fun activity and it’s a great arm workout – so it’s a win-win either way. And the unbeatable views in Dahab make it even more worthwhile!

Boat Trips

Yacht/boat trips to Gabr El Bint are very popular in Dahab – if you love free diving and snorkeling, this is a must-do! And if you’d just appreciate a fun boat party, this would also be a great addition to your itinerary.

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The Clichés:

These places are some of the popular (or should I say typical) things to do in Dahab, but honestly, I just wouldn’t bother.

• 3 Pools
• Caves
• Towailat Mountain
• Snapping a shot in front of Why Not bazaar for the Gram
• Everyday Café and its famed swing – they offer good live music though

How to Book Activities?

Through Your Hotel:

The easiest way to book any activity is through your accommodation. Whether a camp or a 5-star hotel, the staff will definitely be able to help with planning your itinerary.

Tour Operators:

That’s the cheapest option, but the most touristy and most cliché. You’ll find plenty of those at the promenade, but if you’re not up for lame trips that wouldn’t meet your high standards, I’d definitely advise you to pass.

Adventure Travel Providers

There are lots of small service providers that offer adventure travel services to travelers. Each provides different services, depending on what you’re looking for.

• Homadventures
• Insights Seekers
• Dahab Rockclimbing
• Red Sea Rockclimbing

Day Trips From Dahab

• Nuweiba (1 hr away)
• Sharm El Sheikh (1 hr away)
• Nabq Natural Protectorate (inside Sharm El Sheikh)
• Saint Catherine (1.5 hr away)

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Relevant Reads:

• Unusual Egypt Itinerary: A South Sinai Road Trip
• Mount Sinai, Egypt: A Complete Guide to an Epic Hike

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Restaurants in Dahab

The culinary experience in Dahab is something that you definitely shouldn’t miss. Aside from the mouthwatering Bedouin cuisine, the diversity within the Dahabian community results in a brilliant fusion of international cuisines.

Here are my favorite restaurants in Dahab:

• El Masry (Egyptian food)
• El Sharkawy (Egyptian food)
• El Sultan (For Mandi lovers)
• Beirut (Lebanese street food/hidden gem)
• Friends (Whether your choice would be mouthwatering beef fillet or seafood, this is your go-to)
• Eel Garden View (Delicious food in big portions)
• Red Cat (Russian restaurant that serves international cuisine and amazing pizza)
• Ralph’s German Bakery (The most popular breakfast place in Dahab)
• Xat Delights (Quality breakfast and lunch for those looking for a quiet spot) [update: it shut down]
• Tim’s Munch (Pretty affordable and delicious breakfast and brunch options)
• Breakfast Café (Breakfast for the early birds)
• The Vegan Lab (A haven for healthy eaters/smoothie bowl lovers)
• Coffee & Cotton (Best coffee in town)
• The Coffee Wheel (Another great coffee place)
• Dai Pescatori (One of Egypt’s top and most authentic Italian restaurants)
• Box Meal (This place will make you fall in love even more with Asian food)
• Nirvana (The best when it comes to Indian cuisine)
• Zanooba Slow Cooking (Delicious slow cooked meals – needs prior reservation)
• Isfahan (Best slow-cooked tajines served in only 2 mins)
• Seaduction (Lebanese food, pretty aesthetics, and the best maqlouba there is)
• Tota (A variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Mahalawy (Best fresh juices in town)

Other popular options:

• King Chicken (this used to be the best Egyptian restaurant but fell behind in quality lately)
• Jackie’s
• Athanor
• Eldorado
• Shark
• Ali Baba
• Laziz Burgers

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Where to Stay in Dahab?

Now that you know all the cool things to do in Dahab and all its finest eateries, you need a place to stay. Lucky for you that no matter what your budget is, there’s a place for you. There are plenty of super cheap camps scattered around town, and there are also many upscale hotels/resorts. However, I personally prefer to stay in 3-star hotels in the center, or close. I’ve compiled a list of Dahab’s nicest accommodations suitable for different medium budgets.

Medium Budget Hotels in Dahab

• Planet Oasis
• Dahab Divers
• Coral Coast Hotel
• El Salam Hotel
• Alf Leila Hotel
• Diamond Dahab Hotel
• Gargabeta Boutique Hotel
• Mirage Village
• Nour Boutique Hotel

Special Accommodations

• Dar Dahab
• Beit Theresa
• Villa Can Kiko
• Villa Boheme & Atelier Boheme
• Cancun Dahab

Staying on a budget?

• Rafiki Hostel

Booking.com

How to Go to Dahab?

Fly to Sharm El Sheikh

If comfort or timeliness is your criteria, then you can fly to Sharm El Sheikh and from there, hire a driver to take you to Dahab. It’s only a one-hour drive away and your hotel or tour operator could easily book this for you.

Take a Bus

The most common, and cheapest way to go to Dahab is by bus. However, it’s a long drive and the duration is not guaranteed due to the multiple checkpoints. Ideally, it’s an 8-hour drive from Cairo, but if the Ahmed Hamdi tunnel is jammed and you get stuck in checkpoints, it might take longer.

The following transportation companies have a Dahab line:

• GoBus (Buses and minivans available)
• Blue Bus
• SWVL (Minivans only)
• WE Bus (Minivans only, and it’s pet-friendly)
• East Delta

By Car

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Either drive, if you have a car, or rent a car or mini-van if you’re a group. This is much faster than the bus as officers usually look for IDs only and if your luggage gets checked, it won’t take time as the bus. I’d highly recommend a Sinai road trip, especially because the Sharm El Sheikh – Dahab road is one of the most scenic ones I’ve ever driven. And if you’re going solo, you need to check out my solo road tripping guide.

How to Get Around in Dahab?

Taxi/Hire a Driver

Need someone to drive you to a far destination? You’ll find plenty of taxi drivers at hot spots like the Lighthouse or Assala Square. Just bear in mind that taxis in Dahab are usually pick-up trucks.

On Foot

Dahab is a very small town and most hot spots are just a walking distance from one another. Walking around could be a great way for you to explore Dahab and stay physically active.

Rent a Bike

The most convenient way for commuting in Dahab is hands down riding a bike. Bicycles are very popular there and you’ll find lots of places where you could rent one, especially in the Lighthouse area.

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Things to Know in Advance

• PRO TIP: Don’t go during national public holidays. Trust me, you don’t want to go when it’s crowded – you won’t have the proper Dahab experience if you do. The town might be under your radar, but in the past few years, it has become widely known to locals, and unfortunately, commercialized.
• Cash is KING in Dahab and credit/debit cards are rarely accepted. A few restaurants started offering e-wallet options like Vodafone Cash or Instapay, but it’s best to have enough cash on you.
• Dahab is an eco-friendly town, so PLEASE RESPECT THAT. It goes without saying that preserving nature is crucial anywhere, but the community in Dahab, in particular, is one of the most environmentally-conscious communities in the country. From avoiding single use-plastic to actually using the trash cans scattered around the town, it’s a serious matter there. It’s really upsetting that tourists litter and when local divers have to do cleanups in the sea – nature, and the reefs, in particular, is Dahab’s most valuable gem.
• It’s also a town with a slow-paced lifestyle. Don’t rush life in Dahab – just lay back and enjoy the view.
• Dahab’s an animal-friendly town. Stray cats and dogs there are living their best lives and they’re everywhere, so you’d better be an animal lover because that’s THEIR home. Also, your own furballs are most welcome – Dahab’s probably the most pet-friendly town in Egypt. Just be careful as some of the stray dogs could be very territorial.
• Everyone’s favorite Friday market’s been canceled but it’s been replaced by Amanda Hotel’s local artisan market which takes place every Sunday and Thursday. In summer, it takes place from 3 PM to 8 PM, and in winter, it takes place from 2 PM to 7 PM.
• Open Mic Night is also something that you shouldn’t miss when in Dahab on a Tuesday! This event started a few years ago by two expats in the kitchen/living room of one of them. And ever since, the event’s audience got bigger and bigger and they had to move it to an outdoor venue. The venue has changed over time but currently, it takes place at Moods Arthouse.
• Since restaurants tend to get so busy on weekends, some restaurants tend to take their days off mid-week. So, if you find a restaurant closed on a Monday or Tuesday, don’t be confused.

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• Hotels in Dahab With the Best Sea Views
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