Red Sea Water Temperature & Diving Visibility Calendar (2026)
The Egyptian Red Sea is one of the premier marine habitats on earth, offering warm water and exceptional visibility across all four seasons. However, water conditions change throughout the year—from refreshing 21°C winter seas to tropical 29°C summer waters.
Whether you are planning a PADI scuba diving course, snorkeling at Giftun Island, or chartering a private yacht, use our verified field data below to prepare the correct thermal gear and choose the ideal month for your trip.
Month-by-Month Red Sea Conditions Table
| Month | Water Temp | Air Temp (Avg) | Visibility | Recommended Wetsuit | Key Marine Sightings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22°C (72°F) | 23°C (73°F) | 25–30m | 5mm Full Suit + Hood | Eagle rays, Moray eels, Reef sharks |
| February | 21°C (70°F) | 24°C (75°F) | 25–30m | 5mm Full Suit | Dolphins at Shaab El Erg, Octopus |
| March | 22°C (72°F) | 26°C (79°F) | 30m+ | 5mm Full Suit | Manta rays, Sea turtles |
| April | 23°C (73°F) | 29°C (84°F) | 30m+ | 3mm to 5mm Full | Coral spawning, Blue-spotted rays |
| May | 25°C (77°F) | 33°C (91°F) | 30m+ | 3mm Full Suit | Whale shark season begins, Barracudas |
| June | 26°C (79°F) | 36°C (97°F) | 25–30m | 3mm Shorty or Rashguard | Spinner dolphins, Hawksbill turtles |
| July | 28°C (82°F) | 38°C (100°F) | 25–30m | 3mm Shorty or Rashguard | Whale sharks, Giant trevallies |
| August | 29°C (84°F) | 38°C (100°F) | 25m | Swimwear / Rashguard | Whale sharks, Clownfish colonies |
| September | 28°C (82°F) | 35°C (95°F) | 30m+ | 3mm Shorty | Peak visibility, Dolphin pods |
| October | 26°C (79°F) | 31°C (88°F) | 30m+ | 3mm Full Suit | Reef sharks, Manta rays, Turtles |
| November | 25°C (77°F) | 27°C (81°F) | 30m+ | 3mm to 5mm Full | Eagle rays, Moray eels, Cuttlefish |
| December | 23°C (73°F) | 24°C (75°F) | 25–30m | 5mm Full Suit | Dolphins, Leopard sharks |
Ready to Dive into the Red Sea?
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Key Insights by Season
Spring (March – May): The Optimal Balance
Spring brings rising water temperatures, exceptional visibility exceeding 30 meters, and comfortable air temperatures before the peak summer heat. Plankton levels are minimal, creating crystal-clear conditions ideal for underwater photography.
Summer (June – August): Tropical Warmth & Pelagics
Water temperatures reach bath-like highs of 29°C (84°F). Scuba divers can easily dive multiple times a day in shorties or rashguards. This is also the peak window for occasional whale shark encounters in open water.
Autumn (September – November): Best Diving Period Overall
Widely regarded by local divemasters as the prime diving season in Egypt. The water retains the heat of summer (26°C – 28°C), prevailing winds subside, and pelagic marine life congregates along offshore drop-offs.
Winter (December – February): Crisp Waters & Desert Sun
While sea temperatures drop to 21°C – 23°C, the Red Sea remains far warmer than Mediterranean or Atlantic waters. With a standard 5mm wetsuit, winter diving is peaceful, free of summer crowds, and blessed with crystal visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the coldest month for swimming and diving in Hurghada?
February is the coldest month, with water temperatures averaging 21°C to 22°C (70°F to 72°F). A 5mm full wetsuit is recommended for scuba diving during this period.
When is underwater visibility best in Hurghada?
Underwater visibility is highest from September through November and March through May, regularly exceeding 30 meters (100 feet) due to minimal plankton blooms and calm sea states.