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With a beautiful coastline stretching along the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia has a plethora of adrenaline-pumping nautical activities for adventure enthusiasts. Be it exploring undiscovered diving sites, watching the topaz waters teeming with dazzling coral reefs, battling the waves with your jet ski or baiting a hook on a deep-sea fishing trip, there are many destinations across the country where you can enjoy great water-based activities. Here’s a round-up of our favourite spots:
Jeddah
The ultimate destination for diving enthusiasts, Jeddah is a great base to discover the mesmerising world underneath the Red Sea. Explore the ancient shipwreck Staphonos at Air Tabur or the Ann Ann at Abu Farmish, which is ideal for expert divers. Those who are amateurs, diving at Sharm Obhur and marvelling at clownfish, lionfish and a host of eels would guarantee an amazing experience.
Yanbu
A port city situated on the coast of the Red Sea, Yanbu is famous for its gorgeous white sandy shores and amazing diving sites. Head to the Barracuda Beach in Yanbu and get up close and personal with magnificent sea creatures such as sharks, tuna, and barracuda. But if you are more in favour of swimming or snorkelling, then Sharm Yanbu is your best bet.
If getting drenched is not your idea of fun, then Oyster Island is a great fishing spot with BBQ facilities where you can cook your catch of the day. Al Nawras Island is also a fabulous place for those who want to spend a relaxing day while fishing.
Umluj
A 2-hour drive away from Yanbu lies Umluj, a gorgeous destination dubbed as the ‘Maldives of Saudi Arabia’. With virgin islands and turquoise waters, this is where you can experience some sea-side serenity. For those seeking some relaxation, Umluj is a great place to dig your toes in the sand & enjoy some barefoot therapy. Lie back on the beach, soak up the sun and let the waves gently lap at your feet. The palm-fringed beaches are perfect for unwinding with a book, enjoying a beach barbecue or gazing at the stars at night. But if you want more action on your getaway, there are umpteen number of water-based activities available here. With over 100 little islands and clear waters, there is no dearth of options for diving and snorkelling. Rest assured, you will be stunned by the breathtaking underwater wonders. From Hawksbill sea turtles and dolphins to an amazing array of exotic coral reefs, this destination has something wonderful to discover all around.
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Jizan and Farasan Island
With its deep blue sea and virgin islands, the coastal city of Jizan is unarguably one of the best spots for nautical adventures. Golden Beach is a nice option for taking a dip, diving or snorkelling. For fishing enthusiasts, Al Shuqaiq Beach is an ideal choice that is blessed with astounding natural beauty.
Situated around 40 kilometres from the city of Jizan, the enticing Farasan Island is a must-visit. With its beautiful beaches, wonderful underwater species and shimmering coral reefs, this archipelago of over 170 islands and islets is perfect for snorkelling. It is also a birdwatcher’s delight and one can marvel at the large gazelle population & birds such as pink-backed pelicans, red-billed tropic birds and flamingoes.
KAEC
KAEC, an ultra modern city around 1.5 hours away from Jeddah, is an epicentre of water sports. Head to the Yam Beach which boasts a line-up of fun and thrilling activities including kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkelling. At KAEC Bay, you can choose to take a 30-minute cruise along the coast or opt for a full-day diving adventure in the Red Sea. But if adventure is not your thing, you can book a fishing trip and enjoy the beautiful views while fishing.
If luxury is on your mind, set off on the Red Sea Spirit Cruise and enjoy an extravagant escape. Redefining luxury on the sea, this cruise provides a world-class experience with its private butler services, majestic suites, state-of-the-art gym, pool & spa facilities, onboard entertainment, dining options across eight restaurants and so much more.
Al Lith
Al Lith is a dream destination that offers plenty of fun activities on the water. A 2.5-hour drive away from Jeddah, it is an ideal spot for adventure seekers. Al Lith mountain, situated off the coast of Al Lith, is a famous island known for its exotic wildlife and golden beaches. Go scuba diving in the azure waters and watch the spectacular coral reefs and the teeming aquatic life. And if you are lucky enough, you can enjoy an encounter with the sharks! Al Lith beach is also an appealing spot for a day out with various activities ranging from diving to snorkelling. If diving is not your forte and you’re looking for a less adventurous activity, you can go fishing or swimming.
f you are tired of mundane activities, then a rush of adrenaline is exactly what the doctors prescribe. And what better place to give you that much-needed excitement than the blue waters and its thriving marine species. Pick a spot that matches your threshold for adventure and have a whale of a time!
