Which reef is better in Hurghada — Zahabia or Palm Royal area?
Based on 2 discussions with 3 participants · Last activity: 5 days ago
TL;DR
Both reefs have declined noticeably by 2025. Palm Royal had excellent marine life in 2024 but deteriorated significantly in 2025. Zahabia is similar. The best spot is to swim right past the half-broken pier near Rob's area.
What the community said
Swimming right past the half-broken pier near the Rob area reveals a decent reef. The area directly in front is dull and grey — you need to explore to find the good spots.
1 day ago Pier near Rob's area, Hurghada
Zahabia used to be slightly better but has also declined. There are hopes it may improve with a new 5-star hotel opening, but the reef alone doesn't compensate for the overall downsides.
3 days ago Zahabia area, Hurghada
Palm Royal's reef was spectacular in 2024 — vibrant, colourful, full of life. Daily moray eel sightings, spotted eagle rays in groups several times, and even a sea turtle encounter. By 2025 the reef had deteriorated sharply: only a couple of brief moray sightings, one distant eagle ray, and no turtles at all.
3 days ago Palm Royal area, Hurghada