Things to Do in Dahab: 1-Day Itinerary

Nestled in a quiet part of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, the small bohemian beach town of Dahab is known for its free spirit culture, water-based activities like windsurfing and scuba diving, and beautiful beachfront bars with a laid-back vibe. Totally different from the nearby resort-focused Sharm El Sheikh, this picturesque coastal town attracts expats, yogis, and adventurous travelers in search of an under-the-radar beach destination in Egypt.

You can easily spend a month here just chilling on the beach, hiking the nearby Mount Sinai, scuba diving at the world-famous Blue Hole, and enjoying Dahab’s diverse culinary and nightlife scene. If you only have one day in Dahab, check out our travel itinerary which includes a list of the best things to do, as well as a few tips on where to eat and where to stay.

Day 1

Morning: Downtown Dahab

Dahab’s main strip is your first stop in the morning. Take a stroll along the boardwalk lined with dive shops, quirky boutiques selling artsy Egyptian souvenirs, and co-working beachfront cafes where you can meet fellow travelers ranging from expats and backpackers to yogis and windsurfers. You will also come across a few restaurants, jewelry stores, and soap stalls on the north end of the concrete promenade. If you are visiting on a Friday, make sure to stop by the vibrant Dahab Community Market where local vendors are selling everything from cotton clothes, bags, and magnets to fresh food. The downtown area and the promenade in Dahab can be explored in about 60 minutes.

Nour Wellbeing

No coastal hippie paradise would be complete without having a spiritual wellness center. Pay a visit to Nour Wellbeing to enjoy a variety of massages, drop-in workshops, detox programs, and yoga classes. Overlooking the sea and majestic mountainous landscapes from its rooftop studio, the wellness center provides an ideal setting for aerobic classes and meditation sessions which are held early in the morning. They also do aqua fitness sessions in the pool and tarot readings. Depending on the activities, a visit to Nour Wellbeing takes about 1 to 2 hours.

The Lighthouse Diving Center

The next stop on your morning walk in Dahab is a very nice dive center that offers scuba diving tours and PADI courses. The Lighthouse has different packages for both beginner and experienced divers. Their instructors are extremely knowledgeable and will explain everything in detail. What makes the Lighthouse different from other dive centers in this coastal town is that they use their own dive center and can even organize corporate dive events for large groups. The diving center has an on-site restaurant that serves the most delicious mango juice.

Everyday Café

End your morning walk in Dahab with coffee and a quick bite at the iconic Everyday café. With its beautiful Bedouin-style interiors and majestic views of the sea, this café is one of the best places to just chill on the beach. They offer homemade desserts, as well as an extensive list of refreshing drinks. On the weekends, the café organizes parties with live music performances. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to try their mouthwatering cheesecake.

Day 1, morning - dahab Tour Map

Afternoon: Laguna Beach Dahab

Since most places included on our afternoon itinerary are far from one another, we recommend renting a car or taking a taxi. The first stop is the secluded Laguna Beach. Located just a 10-minute drive from the center of Dahab, this is one of the nicest public beaches in the area. It’s a great place to chill and enjoy activities like kite surfing and snorkeling. You won’t find any bars and restaurants here, only a few local vendors selling drinks and snacks. If you are searching for a less-crowded spot on the shore, Laguna should definitely be included on your list of places to visit in Dahab.

Magic Lake

Located just behind the Laguna, the Magic Lake (Mud Lake) is known for its healing mud and breathtaking views. It is believed that this dark grey clay has healing powers and helps with rheumatic problems, skin diseases, acne, and wrinkles. You can also enjoy a variety of recreational activities at the Magic Lake, from swimming to snorkeling and windsurfing.

Why Not Gift Shop

Your next stop is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Dahab. Stop by this iconic gift shop with wonderful décor made from old junk. The Why Not Gift Shop is definitely one of the most photographed shops in the center of Dahab. Inside, you will find many antiques, handicrafts, and souvenirs such as old tea cups, handmade necklaces, textile pieces, unique lamps, and much more.

The Blue Hole

Easily reachable from the center of Dahab by car, the Blue Hole is one of the top dive sites in this part of the world. Even experienced divers should be careful when visiting this place, as it is nicknamed “the diver’s cemetery”. You can choose between snorkeling and scuba diving or just enjoy views of the sea from one of the beachfront cafes and restaurants. The entrance to the Blue Hole will set you back around 8 euros.

Day 1, afternoon - dahab Tour Map

Other Things to See and Do in Dahab

• Beach Cafes: Out of all the tourist towns in Egypt, Dahab definitely has the most amazing beach cafes. From artistic cafes with rooftop terraces and indoor swings that serve Bedouin tea to cozy beach bars where reggae is blasting from the speakers and the beer is always cold, there are so many waterfront spots to choose from.

• Abu Galoum: A natural reserve located outside the city gates, this rugged coastal area is a bit hard to reach. You can only get there on foot or by boat. There is also the option of riding a camel through the desert landscape to reach Abu Galoum. The area itself looks spectacular with unique flora and fauna, rare species of birds, and incredible coral reefs. Outdoor enthusiasts should not miss the nearby Blue Lagoon, a place packed with many underwater caves and reefs where scuba divers and snorkelers can discover a diverse range of marine life. You can also kite surf, camp on the beach, and enjoy majestic sunset views.

• Three Pools Dive Site: If you are into snorkeling and wish to explore coral reefs full of colorful fish, visit the Three Pools Dive Site in Dahab. It is best to hire a local guide who can easily get you from one pool to another. Here, you can also enjoy other activities such as kite surfing and riding camels and horses. If you get hungry, there are a few cafes nearby.

• Enjoy Sunset Views from Dahab Cliffs: For the best sunset views, climb the Dahab Cliffs. Travelers will find this spot on Google Maps under the name “Footpath to Viewpoint”. It takes about half an hour to get to this point from the center of Dahab. The hiking trail is relatively easy with only a few steep sections. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy sunset views of the city and the sea. You can walk along the beach for a more beautiful journey to get to the Dahab Cliffs.

• Kite Surfing: The coastal town of Dahab is known for being a windy destination with shallow and warm waters. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that it is a popular destination for kite surfing. The town attracts windsurfers and kitesurfers from all around the world who come here to take advantage of the wind which often blows 25 knots or even more. The main season for kitesurfing in Dahab is from March to November.

• Dahab Lagoon: A stunning stretch of golden sand and turquoise waters, Dahab Lagoon is a must-visit for beach lovers and watersports enthusiasts. Famous for its strong winds, the lagoon is a prime spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, attracting thrill-seekers from around the world. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the shallow waters are ideal for swimming and sunbathing while enjoying the picturesque mountain backdrop.

Day Trips from Dahab

• Colored Canyons: If you are interested in exploring purplish-orange color canyons, go on a day trip from Dahab to this stunning wonder of the Sinai Peninsula. We should point out that you can’t do any of the canyons in the region without a professional guide. Getting lost in the canyons is easy and probably not something that tourists wish to experience. It takes about 2 hours to get from Dahab to the Colored Canyons. The ballet floor here is filled with soft sand which makes it easy to walk. The canyon walls are steep and there are many twists and turns along the way. It will take you between 2 and 4 hours to trek the circuit depending on your fitness level.

• White Canyon: For an unforgettable desert hike, explore the stunning White Canyon. Carved from soft limestone, this narrow canyon is known for its smooth, bright cliffs that create a striking contrast against the surrounding desert. The trek takes you through winding passages and steep rock walls, with some sections requiring a bit of scrambling. A professional guide is essential, as it’s easy to lose your way in the canyon’s maze-like paths. The hike usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace. Be sure to bring plenty of water and comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be tricky in some spots.

• Mount Sinai: For a memorable day trip from Dahab, go on a sunrise hike to Mount Sinai. Also known as the Saint Catherine hike, the journey begins late at night so that travelers can reach the top at sunrise. The trek is not easy and requires a few hours of steep hiking in the dark. Once you reach the top, enjoy breathtaking sunrise views. The good news is there are a few shops along the way selling drinks and snacks. You can also rent a blanket from one of the vendors, as it gets cold and windy at the top.

• Saint Catherine’s Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest Christian monasteries, built in 565 AD by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I at the foot of Mount Sinai, where Moses is believed to have received the Ten Commandments. It also houses the legendary Burning Bush, said to be where God spoke to Moses.Its basilica, with ornate lanterns and mosaics, stands out, while the library holds one of the oldest Christian manuscript collections after the Vatican. The museum showcases rare Byzantine icons and ancient artefacts.

• Sharm El Sheikh: If you are searching for a quick day trip from Dahab, look no further than Sharm El Sheikh. A world-renowned tourist destination, Sharm is known for its spectacular beaches, vibrant underwater marine life, and elegant 5-star resorts. If you opt for a day trip to Sharm, visit the town's souq to purchase souvenirs and admire the beauty of the Heavenly Cathedral, a Coptic church with magnificent architecture. To see human and animal mummies, go to the Sharm El-Sheikh Museum. For beach activities, go to Naama Bay Beach.

• Wadi Gnai: A serene oasis just a short drive from Dahab, Wadi Gnai is a paradise for rock climbers, hikers, and nature lovers. Tucked between rugged mountains, this peaceful valley offers shaded palm groves, natural pools, and a glimpse into traditional Bedouin life. Adventurers can enjoy rock climbing on its sandstone cliffs, while others can relax in one of the Bedouin tea houses, soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Shutterstock-2409880851

• Eel Garden: One of Dahab’s most fascinating dive and snorkel sites, Eel Garden is named after the thousands of garden eels that sway with the current in its sandy seabed. Just a short swim from the shoreline, visitors can marvel at an array of vibrant coral formations and spot lionfish, butterflyfish, and even rays gliding through the clear waters. The site’s easy access makes it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced divers looking for a unique underwater experience. 

• Abu Galoum: A remote and unspoiled nature reserve just north of Dahab, Abu Galoum is a hidden gem that can be reached by camel or boat. The reserve boasts dramatic desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life. Snorkeling in Abu Galoum is an unforgettable experience, with crystal-clear waters revealing an explosion of colourful fish and coral formations. Visitors can also spend time in the local Bedouin village, experiencing the simplicity and hospitality of desert life. 

• Nawamis Tombs: Scattered across the Sinai desert, the Nawamis Tombs are a mysterious collection of ancient stone structures dating back over 5,000 years. These circular tombs, believed to be some of the oldest man-made structures in Egypt, have intrigued historians and archaeologists for centuries. Their unique design, with small doorways all facing west, adds to their mystique. A visit to these prehistoric relics offers a glimpse into the region’s early civilizations and their burial customs.

• Pharaoh’s Island & Salah El-Din Fortress: A tiny island off the coast of Taba, Pharaoh’s Island is home to the impressive Salah El-Din Fortress, a medieval stronghold built in the 12th century to protect vital trade routes. Perched atop rocky cliffs, the fortress offers stunning views of four countries—Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. Visitors can explore the ancient walls and towers before diving into the surrounding waters, where vibrant coral reefs provide some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in the Red Sea.

Things to Do with Kids in Dahab

• Ramses Family Mall: A typical Egyptian shopping center where tourists are taken on excursions, Ramses Family Mall is a great place to visit with your kids. This store offers a range of local products including natural Arabic oils, handicrafts, perfumes, jewelry, and teas. Kids love the pharaonic papyrus on which you can print different symbols and images.

• Horseback Riding: If you wish to enjoy horseback riding on the beach in Dahab together with your kids, visit the Dahab Horse Riding Club. You will find the club right in the center of the town. Mohamed and the team of professional guides offer different horseback riding tours suitable for both adults and children. The horses here are well cared for and everyone is super friendly and they make you feel at home. The most popular tour is the 2-hour horse riding trip to the lagoon where you can actually go into the water together with the horse. The staff also takes time to take beautiful photos of you and your kids on the horses.

• Glass Bottom Boat Tour (Royal Sea scope - Dahab Sunmarine): For a memorable experience with your kids in Dahab, join a tour in a semi-submarine with a glass cabin. You will have your own chair in front of a glass panel from which you can see the coral reefs filled with colorful fish and other marine life. If you are visiting Dahab in the summer season, make sure to book this popular tour a day or two before.

Where to Eat in Dahab

• ZANOOBA Slow Cooking: This fabulous dining establishment in Dahab specializes in slow-cooked stews of the highest quality. Guests need to pre-order their stew one day in advance. Cooked in a ceramic bowl for many hours, the stews are served with rice stuffing and roasted veggies. The slow-cooked duck is a popular dish, as well as beef stew which is flavorful and tender. You can also other delicious dishes such as squid with creamy white garlic sauce, chicken fillet spinach, and honey garlic chicken. Their rice pudding has a wonderful creamy texture and is definitely worth ordering. The restaurant welcomes you with their signature free pink lemonade.

• Dai Pescatori: For tasty Italian cuisine, book a table at this beachfront restaurant in Dahab. You will be dining right on the beach and just a few steps from the Red Sea. For starters, go for the mini burrata or get the veggie soup with fresh pesto. Dai Pescatori is known for its tasty pizza, pasta, and ravioli dishes. The pizza is nicely baked with a crispy crust and high-quality toppings. If you prefer pasta, shrimp pasta, and mushroom pasta are popular options. There is also the signature pumpkin ravioli topped with a generous amount of fresh parmesan cheese.

• The Vegan Lab: This is hands down the best place in Dahab to get vegan, organic food with zero sugar. The Vegan Lab offers everything from soups and poke bowls to vegan burgers and desserts. Try the tofu burger and the bean burger. If you are a fan of smoothie bowls, get the cherry berry acai bowl. For dessert, we recommend the chocolate chip pancakes.

• King Chicken: If you are craving fried chicken and traditional Egyptian food while visiting Dahab, go to King Chicken. The restaurant does traditional Arabic roast chicken and Kentucky bread-crumbed deep-fried chicken which comes with rice. As for authentic Egyptian dishes, they offer kebab, kofta, and molohheya. It is one of the most popular eateries in Dahab and there is always a queue.

• Namaste: Located on Al-Fanar Street in Dahab, Namaste is the go-to restaurant for authentic Indian cuisine. Start with an appetizer such as naan bread and samosa vegetables. For mains, we recommend butter chicken, chicken tikka masala, and dal makhani if you like lentils. To try a bit of everything, there is the mix grill which is served with rice and veggies. Finish your meal with some tasty masala tea.

• Ali Baba Restaurant: This seafood and fish restaurant has one of the best beachfront terraces in Dahab. Overlooking the sea, the Ali Baba Restaurant is known for its small salad platters and fresh fish and seafood delicacies. The soothing sound of the waves creates an ideal setting for enjoying dishes like fried calamari, seafood pasta, kebab, grilled lamb chops, and seafood soup. They also have a lovely salad bar and you can bring your own drinks.

• Athanor: If you are in the mood for pizza and other tasty Italian dishes, make a reservation at Athanor. The restaurant has a beautiful terrace in the back and attracts both tourists and locals. On the menu, you will find all the usual suspects such as pizza, homemade burgers, pasta dishes, and Italian desserts. Their spaghetti carbonara with a creamy sauce, cheese, and pancetta is crafted to perfection. The Italian-style pizza is thin and crispy and the shrimp Mediterranean pasta is a big crowd-pleaser.

• Yum Yum: This is the most popular spot for Oriental Egyptian breakfast in Dahab. Located on the main strip in the center of the city, Yum Yum offers reasonably priced dishes like falafel, hummus, koshary, shakshuka, tahini, and baba ganoush. Their signature Monster falafel sandwich is delicious! You can visit the restaurant early in the day to avoid crowds in season days.

• Ralph’s German Bakery: An amazing bakery with excellent breakfast and sandwich offerings, Ralph’s German Bakery is simply a must-visit spot in Dahab. Their croissants, fruit tarts, and other German-style pastries are the star of the show. If you wish to have breakfast, go for the full English breakfast. The apple strudel is also great, as well as the fresh club sandwiches.

Where to Stay in Dahab

• Jaz Dahabeya: Located just a short drive from the center of Dahab, this luxurious beachfront 4-star hotel has everything you need for a memorable vacation. The hotel has a heated swimming pool, a lovely private beach, and a well-equipped gym in case you wish to work out. Jaz Dahabeya also offers an on-site spa center with massages and other treatments, as well as 2 restaurants that specialize in regional, Mediterranean, and international cuisine. Adults can relax in a picturesque garden with palm trees while their kids can enjoy the children’s playground. If you wish to go to downtown Dahab, the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle bus twice a day. The all-inclusive rates at the hotel include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and non-alcoholic drinks.

• Swiss Inn Resort Dahab: If you wish to stay in a resort, book a room at this prestigious 4-star resort with a private beach in Dahab. The Swiss Inn Resort Dahab is located a short drive from the center, but they do offer shuttle services to the main strip. Within the resort, you will find outdoor swimming pools for adults and kids, a private beach with a diving center, a fitness center, and spa facilities where guests can enjoy massages. Once you get hungry, go to one of the two main restaurants: El Khaima Restaurant and Terrace and Locanda Sports. There is also a beach bar where guests can unwind with a cocktail/mocktail or two. If you are visiting with kids, you will be delighted to hear that this Swiss Inn resort offers a kids’ club with a playground with professional supervision.

• Safir Dahab Resort: With 159 cozy and tastefully decorated rooms, a few swimming pools, and a fabulous private beach complete with a diving center, Safir Dahab Resort is one of the best resorts in Dahab. If you wish to stay in shape, there is a large fitness center. For entertainment, Safir Dahab Resort offers a tennis court and opportunities for scuba diving and windsurfing. There is a nice children’s center where your kids can play under the supervision of the professional staff. In addition to a pool bar and a beach bar, the hotel is home to a few magnificent restaurants such as Catch Sea Food ’s (seafood and fish) and Portofino Italian Restaurant (Italia/Mediterranean cuisine).

• Beit Theresa: If you prefer guesthouses, look no further than Beit Theresa. Falling in love with this thoughtfully furnished and decorated accommodation is easy. The guesthouse is located just minutes from the beach, in the neighborhood of Assalah, which is a 10-minute walk from Dahab’s main strip. Bait Theresa looks amazing with enormous plants, fairy lights, and unique accommodations including an elevated treehouse-style cabin, a lodge with a double bedroom, and a cozy small standalone cottage. The property offers sun loungers for guests, bikes to get around the city, and free snorkeling equipment. At the front desk, you can arrange trips to the nearby mountains and book scuba diving excursions. Each morning, breakfast is served in the communal kitchen. What we like about this place is they do different breakfasts throughout the week (Lebanese, Turkish, Egyptian, and English breakfast).

• Elite Residence Dahab: With its modern rooms, a rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the city, and easy access to the downtown area and the beach, this guesthouse is a perfect place to stay in Dahab. The Elite Residence offers a shared kitchen, a small whirlpool, and a fast Internet connection in case you need to get some work done while on vacation in Dahab. You will be staying close to everything but at the same time away from the noisy streets of the city. The guesthouse also offers yoga and fitness classes, as well as delicious a la carte and continental breakfast options.

• Rafiki Hostel: If you are traveling on a budget, book your stay at this wonderful hostel in the center of Dahab. Rafiki Hostel truly has it all, from beautifully decorated rooms and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views to a swimming pool and a bunch of cool activities (nightly events and daily excursions) organized for guests. The hostel’s common area is a great place to meet fellow travelers, especially if you are visiting Dahab solo. The staff is incredibly friendly and always ready to help with anything you can think of.

The Best Time to Visit Dahab

The summer months (June to August) in Dahab can be very hot with temperatures exceeding 37°C. In this weather, it can be quite uncomfortable to enjoy outdoor activities. The summer season is also the most popular time to visit Dahab, making this coastal city too crowded. If you are visiting Dahab for snorkeling and scuba diving, the best time to arrive here is in spring/autumn.

To escape the cold European winter and enjoy pleasant temperatures ranging from 20-25°C, visit Dahab in December and January. Can I swim in Dahab in the winter? The average sea temperature in December in Dahab is around 24. °C and therefore suitable for swimming.

Dahab Festivals

• CHILL O'POSITE Festival: Founded by Yazeed and Osama from Jordan back in 2017, the Chill O'posite Festival is definitely the most famous annual event in Dahab. This music festival lasts for three days at the Dahab Lagoon Club & Resort, 3 kilometers from the downtown area. From awesome DJ sets to laid-back chill music, the festival offers something for everyone.