Nuweiba and Tarabin

Discover Nuweiba: Sinai’s Serene Coastal Escape

Nestled on the Red Sea coast between the better-known Taba and Dahab, Nuweiba offers a uniquely tranquil and authentic Sinai experience. Spread across a vast area, it’s a place of stunning contrasts: dramatic mountain backdrops, pristine beaches, and a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere that has earned it the nickname “old Dahab.”

Here’s what you can see and do in and around Nuweiba:

Exploring the Coast & Beaches

Relax on Secluded Beaches: Drive north from the port to discover kilometre after kilometre of beautiful, often empty, beaches. The area is dotted with rustic Bedouin camps, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path feel.

Visit Ras Shatan: A favourite for adventurous travellers, the beaches at Ras Shatan in the north are known for their stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a quiet swim or snorkel.

Admire the Panoramic Views: From anywhere along the Nuweiba coastline, you are treated to breathtaking views across the Red Sea to the red mountains of Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

Key Landmarks & Viewpoints

Explore Castle Zamman: Perched high on a mountain overlooking the sea, this medieval-style castle is a fantastic tourist spot. It features a pool, a bar, and serves speciality slow-cooked food. The primary draw is the incredible panoramic view from above, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon.

Discover the Fjord (on the road to Taba): About 80km north of Nuweiba on the coastal road to Taba, you’ll find one of the area’s most stunning natural wonders. Here, the mountains plunge directly into the sea, forming a beautiful, sheltered bay with strikingly turquoise water. You can snorkel in the bay or enjoy the view from a café at the top.

See the Castle Beach Area: While the remains of an old fortress are barely visible, this area is known for its lovely beaches.

Diving & Snorkelling

Accessible House Reefs: Many of the basic Bedouin camps have excellent “house reefs” right on their doorsteps, with easy shore access to vibrant coral gardens—perfect for snorkelers and casual divers.

Dive at Stone House Reef: This is one of Nuweiba’s best dive sites, known for its easy shore access and healthy marine life.

Spot Dolphins: For a chance to see dolphins, head to the beach at the Dolphin Camp. The camp owner is known for his stories about the local dolphin population.

Unique Natural Attractions

Walk the Sand Dunes: Located just north of the ferry port, an area of soft white sand dunes offers an alternative ecosystem to explore, a striking contrast to the blue sea and rugged mountains.

Visit the Coloured Canyon: While a short drive away, this is a classic Sinai day trip not to be missed. The canyon features breathtaking, multi-hued rock walls, ideal for hiking and photography.

Local Culture & Cuisine

Experience Bedouin Hospitality: Stay in a traditional palm-leaf hut at one of the many Bedouin camps to experience the area’s authentic, rustic charm.

Dine at Dr Kebab: In the quiet town centre, this kebab shop is a local highlight, serving excellent, well-priced meals and is often the most lively spot in town.

Visit Habiba Organic Farms: Support a local initiative and see how organic farming thrives in the desert environment.

Travel Planning & Atmosphere

Nuweiba’s town centre is very quiet, a result of a significant drop in tourism, so don’t expect a bustling hub. Instead, embrace the peace and quiet. Accommodation ranges from basic, rustic camps to 4 and 5-star luxury resorts near the port.

For a seamless trip, Bedouina Tours and Travel can organise everything from hotels and camps to tours and day trips in the Nuweiba region.

Here are the places not to miss:

The Fjord

Castle Zamman

Ras Shatan

The Sand Dunes

Stone House Reef (for diving/snorkelling)

The Coloured Canyon

Habiba Organic Farms