Saudi Arabia Trip for Water LoversDive into Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast, from Jeddah's snorkeling boats, parasailing, and floating mosque to Umluj's "Maldives of Saudi Arabia" island-hopping and coral reefs. This water-focused itinerary blends adventure and relaxation across two of the Kingdom's standout coastal destinations.AuthorsVisitSaudi
DestinationsSaudi ArabiaItinerary

Jeddah

Sheraton Jeddah Hotel
Located on the Jeddah Corniche, Sheraton Jeddah Hotel is a great base for travelers who want as much time in the water as possible. Many rooms come with ocean views, and there's an on-site pool. Even the hotel restaurant, Tropical Garden, offers poolside dining with Red Sea views.
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Discover the Secrets of the Sea on a Boat Trip to Bayada Island
A short ride out from Jeddah lands you at Bayada Island, where the draw is calm, clear water and coral reefs just below the surface. The typical trip runs about six hours, with plenty of time for snorkeling, swimming, and water activities.
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17SIXTY - Red Sea Adventures in Jeddah
Based at the Jeddah Yacht Club & Marina on the north Corniche, 17SIXTY runs one of the widest lineups of water activities in the city, parasailing, scuba diving, jet skiing, a shark cage experience, and its own Bayada Island boat trip. It's a solid one-stop option for anyone who wants to combine a few different water adventures in a single outing rather than booking separately with multiple operators.
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Jeddah Corniche
The Jeddah Corniche stretches along the Red Sea, offering ocean views, shopping, restaurants, and the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, the F1 track that hosts the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix each year. As dusk falls, the King Fahd Fountain comes to life, shooting seawater over 1,000 feet in the air as the world's tallest fountain lights up.
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Fakieh Aquarium
For more sea life, Fakieh Aquarium offers an up-close look at ocean creatures. It's Saudi Arabia's only public aquarium, so this is the one chance to visit one on this trip. Check the schedule for dolphin and seal shows throughout the day, and grab lunch at the on-site restaurant serving fresh seafood.
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Al Rahmah Mosque
Best visited at high tide, Al Rahmah Floating Mosque was built over the Red Sea itself, creating the illusion that it's floating on the waves. Seen from afar, it appears to sit right on the horizon line, with traditional architecture that draws the eye. This is a functioning mosque, so modesty and shoe removal are expected for anyone visiting inside.
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Old Jeddah, Al Balad
While not strictly water-focused, Al Balad is worth the detour: this UNESCO-listed historic district was once one of Saudi Arabia's most important port cities. The buildings span hundreds of years, including a mansion with stairs wide enough for camels, traditional coral stone construction, and the oldest continuously running souk in Saudi Arabia. It's a great spot for souvenirs or gifts.
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Kuuru Jeddah
For a bite to eat, Kuuru Jeddah is a fusion restaurant blending traditional Japanese flavors with a Peruvian spin. Diners rave about the nigiri and ceviche, two signature dishes worth trying. The ambiance is relaxed but upscale, suited to a range of groups looking for fresh ocean flavor.
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Umluj and the Red Sea

Waves Hotel
Right on the Red Sea, Waves Hotel Umluj suits anyone who can't get enough of the ocean. Many rooms have ocean views, and sandy shores and beach loungers sit right outside. Rooms come with private beach access and activities like beach yoga. Call ahead to the hotel, since they can help book tours and excursions with trusted local operators.
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Red Sea Project
Shura Island is the beating heart of Saudi Arabia's Red Sea Project, reached by crossing the country's longest bridge onto a growing lineup of resorts like the InterContinental, The Red Sea EDITION, and SLS. No room booked? Some resorts sell day passes for pool access, and nearby ADRENA welcomes day visitors for surfing, wakeboarding, and cliff diving. Stay the night or just drop in, either way the real draw is underwater, world-class diving and snorkeling, plus a round at Saudi Arabia's first island golf course and stargazing after dark.
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Umluj Corniche
Along the Red Sea, Umluj Corniche is a good spot for a morning or evening walk, with the sound of waves lapping the shore. The promenade is lined with family-friendly parks, restaurants, stores, and coffee shops, offering something for every kind of traveler. It's a good place to linger and soak in the trip so far.
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جبل الحساني
For snorkeling or swimming, look for a larger island-hopping tour that stops at the lagoons on Jabal Hassan, or charter a boat from Umluj Marina directly. The island has shallow lagoons bursting with coral reefs and marine life like turtles, dolphins, and dugongs. The waist-deep water suits anyone who'd rather wade than swim.
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Umluj Beach
Umluj has earned its nickname, "the Maldives of Saudi Arabia," thanks to turquoise water, white sand, and more than 100 small islands scattered just offshore. Island-hopping boat tours leave from the marina throughout the day, with stops for snorkeling among coral reefs, sea turtles, and the occasional dolphin sighting. Jet skiing, kayaking, and parasailing round out the water sports scene.
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AL Hesi Beach
One of the best free beaches in Umluj, Al Alhasi Beach is a good stop for a day in the sand. Facilities are minimal, so pack snacks and chairs, but the beach delivers easy waves, clear water, soft sand, and good snorkeling and swimming.
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سيخ وشيش | Seekh & Sheesh Restaurant
For dinner, Seekh & Sheesh Restaurant serves up Lebanese food, with the shawarma and accompanying sauces as the star of this casual, locally favored spot. Eating family-style is a good call for groups, since there are plenty of meat and sauce combinations worth sampling. After a long day on the water, this filling meal hits the spot.
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