Plizio Visual Lab

Gulf of Suez

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Sea

Weather…

The Gulf of Suez forms the western arm of the northern Red Sea and is located entirely within Egyptian territory. It extends for approximately 300 kilometers in length and is relatively shallow, with an average depth ranging between 40 and 80 meters, making it much shallower than the neighboring Gulf of Aqaba. Geologically, the gulf originated as a tectonic rift about 30 million years ago. Its strategic importance is paramount, as its northern end at the city of Suez connects directly to the Suez Canal, one of the world's most critical waterways for global trade. Beyond its role in shipping, the Gulf of Suez is a major hub for Egypt's petroleum and natural gas industries, featuring numerous offshore drilling platforms. The coastal regions are partly industrialized but also host tourist destinations like Ain Sokhna. Despite heavy economic use, the gulf remains a vital corridor for marine species migrating between the Red Sea and the Mediterranean.

Location: Egypt
Nearby: El Tor (73 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	17	18	20	23	26	28	30	30	29	26	22	19
Rain mm	2	3	2	2	0	0	0	0	0	5	4	3

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The shores of the Gulf of Suez can be easily reached by car or bus via the highways connecting Cairo to the Red Sea coastal towns like Ain Sokhna. Boat excursions and diving trips often launch from marinas in these seaside resort areas.

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Best season

The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the days are pleasantly warm and the sea is comfortable for swimming. The peak summer months can be extremely hot, while winters bring cooler breezes to the coast.

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Terrain & paths

The coastline is primarily characterized by sandy beaches and rocky shorelines backing onto arid desert landscapes. The underwater terrain features steep drop-offs and scattered coral reefs, though less extensive than further south in the Red Sea.

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What to bring

Standard beach attire, plenty of high-SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential for the intense Egyptian sun. Snorkeling or diving gear is highly recommended if you plan to explore the marine life beneath the surface.

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Parking

Ample parking is typically available at the numerous coastal resorts, public beach access points, and marinas dotted along the gulf. Many organized trips from Cairo also provide direct coach transport, eliminating the need for personal parking.

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Safety

Stay well hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure during the middle of the day. When swimming or snorkeling, be mindful of boat traffic and avoid touching the corals, which can be sharp and contain stinging organisms.

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Time needed

A simple day trip from Cairo usually entails spending roughly four to six hours at a beach resort or on a boat. Many visitors opt for weekend getaways, spending two or three days enjoying the warm waters and coastal relaxation.