Near Garden

Overview

Near Garden is the most accessible of Sharm El Sheikh's "Gardens," a chain of reefs running north from Naama Bay, and sits on the boundary between Middle Garden and the bay itself. Just a 15-minute boat hop from the Naama Bay jetty, it is the classic choice for an easy afternoon dive — a pinnacle-studded coral slope that channels the current, and the big animals that ride it, right past you. Forgiving enough for newer divers, lively enough to stay interesting.

The Dive

Most dives begin where a cluster of pinnacles forms a ridge down the steepening coral slope. Many of these pinnacles carry huge gorgonian sea fans angled out toward the drop-off, making the most of the steady northward current. The reef wall runs down to 8-10m before sloping more gently to the drop-off at 18-20m, with pinnacles dotted across the whole site and a beautiful coral garden spreading out below. It works as a mooring dive but is more rewarding as a semi-drift, letting the current carry you along the slope while you keep the reef on a shoulder. The 15-25m range holds the best of the scenery, so there is no need to push deep.

Marine Life

The sloping coral garden is home to moray eels, blue-spotted stingrays and hawksbill turtles, with the occasional white-tip reef shark patrolling the drop-off. This stretch of coast acts as a corridor for larger animals too — white-tips, manta rays and even whale sharks have all been logged here, most likely in the warmer months when the current is running.

Good to Know

An all-levels site and a staple of Sharm's daily boat schedule, particularly popular as a relaxed afternoon dive. Visibility is typically good, commonly 10-20m. Access is a short boat ride north from Naama Bay, making it one of the easiest sites in the area to slot into a day's diving.