Plizio Visual Lab
Aqaba Marine Park
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
wildlife-area
The Aqaba Marine Park stretches over 7 kilometers along the southern coast of Aqaba in the Gulf of Aqaba and was established in 1997 to protect its unique coral reefs. Managed by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), the reserve aims to preserve marine biodiversity while promoting environmentally responsible tourism. Its waters are home to over 150 species of hard and soft corals and hundreds of fish species, including the lionfish and rare sea turtles. Geographically, the park is characterized by crystal-clear waters and consistent temperatures, making it a year-round destination for divers and snorkelers. In addition to natural reefs, the park features several underwater attractions, such as a scuttled tank and a plane, which serve as artificial reefs. The facility includes visitor centers that provide education on marine conservation and enforce strict regulations against pollution. It plays a pivotal role in Aqaba's economy as a major center for international diving tourism.
- Location: Jordan
- Top sights: Underwater military museum · Plane wreck · Rainbow reef
- Nearby: Aqaba (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 9 | 11 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 6 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The pristine waters offer relatively stable year-round diving and snorkeling, but the late spring and autumn months are generally considered the most comfortable due to handy water temperatures. The summer heat can be intensely oppressive on land, though underwater conditions remain spectacular.
Best time of day
Morning excursions are usually preferred for the calmest sea surface conditions and exceptional underwater visibility before afternoon winds potentially increase wave action. Night diving, typically arranged through certified local operators, reveals a completely different spectrum of active nocturnal marine creatures.
Etiquette
Divers and snorkelers are strictly mandated to practice impeccable buoyancy control to prevent accidental and devastating strikes against the fragile coral formations. Touching, standing on, or collecting any marine life or coral, whether dead or alive, is universally prohibited to ensure reef conservation.
What to bring
While numerous local dive shops supply comprehensive equipment rentals, bringing a personal, correctly fitting mask and snorkel often guarantees a much superior and fog-free experience. Using solely reef-safe sunscreen is increasingly required to prevent harsh chemicals from fatally bleaching the delicate corals.
Getting there
The marine park encompasses a significant stretch of the coastline south of the main city and is easily reached via coastal roads using taxis or dedicated shuttle services. The designated entry points and popular beach zones are well-marked, providing safe and direct access into the water for both beginners and experts.
What to expect
The underwater world operates at its own rhythmic pace, so the best approach is to drift slowly and calmly observe the intricate details of the reef ecosystems. Patiently lingering near a single coral head often reveals a mesmerizing array of tiny, fascinating macro life that hurried swimmers consistently overlook.
Geography
Facts
- Established in 1997
- Covers 7 km of the Red Sea coastline
- Home to more than 150 species of coral
- Features artificial reefs including a tank and a C-130 aircraft
- Managed by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority
- Jordan's primary marine biology conservation area
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Aqaba Marine Park (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Aqaba Marine Park?
A protected reef area with great opportunities for snorkeling.
Do you need to know how to dive?
No, snorkeling is often enough to see the reefs.
What is the best travel time?
All year round, but spring and autumn are the most pleasant.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, there are areas that are safe for children too.
Do I need equipment?
It can be easily rented on-site.
Aqaba Marine Park: where is it located?
Aqaba Marine Park is located in Jordan.
Aqaba Marine Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Underwater military museum, Plane wreck, Rainbow reef.
Aqaba Marine Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Aqaba Marine Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Aqaba Marine Park stretches over 7 kilometers along the southern coast of Aqaba in the Gulf of Aqaba and was established in 1997 to protect its unique coral reefs.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Jordan →
Nearby cities
Aqaba
Aqaba is Jordan's only seaport on the Red Sea.
Eilat
Eilat is Israel's southernmost city, a busy port and popular resort at the northern tip of the Red Sea.
Haql
A charming coastal city on the Gulf of Aqaba with views of the Sinai Mountains.
Fjord Bay
Fjord Bay is a spectacular diving and sightseeing spot south of Taba, famous for its deep blue hole and dramatic mountain backdrop.
Taba Heights
A master-planned luxury resort community near Taba offering upscale hotels, golfing, and a relaxing ambiance nestled between mountains an…
Nueiba
Nueiba is a tranquil beach town on the Gulf of Aqaba, offering a serene escape with majestic mountains meeting the Red Sea.
Nuweiba
A quiet coastal town connecting Egypt to Jordan via ferries.
Nature
More places
Aqaba New Port
A state-of-the-art port facility built to expand Jordan's maritime capacities.
Aqaba Container Terminal
One of the most important ports on the Red Sea, connecting Jordan to global trade.
Aqaba Fort
A Mamluk-era coastal fortress that was the site of a major victory during the Arab Revolt of 1917.
Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZA)
A duty-free zone that attracts investors with low taxes and simplified regulations on the Red Sea.
Aqaba Bird Observatory
A vital stopover for migratory birds on their journey between Europe and Africa.
King Hussein International Airport
The airport in Aqaba, serving as an important center for tourism and air cargo in the south.
Jabal Ram
A massive sandstone mountain in Wadi Rum that was long mistakenly believed to be the country's highest peak.
Wadi Rum
This spectacular desert valley is famous for its monolithic rock formations and red sand dunes.