Weather Guide

Red Sea Weather & Climate Guide 2025

Plan your trip with detailed weather information and seasonal tips for Red Sea.

The Red Sea Governorate is Egypt's premier coastal destination, stretching over 1,200km along the Red Sea coast and offering world-class diving, pristine coral reefs, and luxury beach resorts. From the bustling resort hub of Hurghada to the unspoiled shores of Marsa Alam, this governorate combines natural wonders with modern amenities. The region attracts millions of visitors annually seeking underwater adventures, desert safaris, and sun-soaked relaxation.

Best Time to Visit

Months to Avoid

July and August

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F) at midday, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. However, water sports and beach activities remain popular with heat-tolerant travelers, and hotel prices are at their lowest.

Climate Overview

The Red Sea Governorate has a hot desert climate (Köppen BWh) with over 300 days of sunshine annually, virtually no rainfall, and extremely low humidity. The Red Sea moderates temperatures somewhat compared to the interior Sahara, and sea breezes provide relief at the coast. Water temperatures range from 22°C (72°F) in winter to 28°C (82°F) in summer — warm enough for year-round swimming and diving without a thick wetsuit.

Month-by-Month Guide

What to expect each month of the year.

Jan

Cool and sunny — ideal for all beach and outdoor activities. Peak season crowds and prices. Bring a jacket for evenings.

Feb

Similar to January — near-perfect conditions. Still peak season. Occasional winds can affect sea conditions.

Mar

Warming up beautifully. Possible khamsin sandstorm days but mostly excellent. Pre-Easter rush building.

Apr

Warm and sunny — good for all activities. Whale shark season at southern sites. Some plankton blooms can reduce visibility.

May

Getting hot. Morning and evening activities are comfortable. Good value shoulder period before summer.

Jun

Hot but popular with budget travelers. Water sports from dawn are excellent. Pool and beach afternoons.

Jul

Peak summer heat. Best for water sports enthusiasts. Lowest hotel prices of the year.

Aug

Hottest month. Excellent water sports conditions. Extreme heat outside the water.

Sep

Still hot but cooling. Good visibility starting to return. Excellent value period.

Oct

Excellent — warm, clear, comfortable for all activities. One of the best months overall. El Gouna Film Festival.

Nov

Very pleasant, pre-peak season prices, smaller crowds. Excellent diving visibility. Perfect beach weather.

Dec

Ideal beach and diving conditions. Peak season begins — Christmas and New Year are very busy. Book ahead.
🌤️

Seasonal Planning Guide

Complete weather data, packing lists by season, and event calendars.

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Seasonal Breakdown

Detailed information for each season.

🌸 Spring

March-May

Spring brings warming temperatures and occasional khamsin sandstorms from the Western Desert in March-April. By May it is getting very hot but mornings and evenings are still pleasant. Diving visibility can be reduced by plankton blooms in April-May but this brings whale sharks to the southern Red Sea.

Tips: Great time for kitesurfing as winds pick up. Whale shark season at Brothers Islands and Daedalus peaks in April-May. Book hotel rooms before prices rise as shoulder season ends.

☀️ Summer

June-August

Very hot and dry with temperatures regularly hitting 38-42°C. Early morning and evening are tolerable. Water sports and beach activities remain popular. Hotel rates are at their lowest.

Tips: Water activities from dawn to 10am and after 4pm are comfortable. Afternoons in the pool or hotel are recommended. Excellent value for beach resort holidays. Visibility in the water is good.

🍂 Fall

September-November

Temperatures ease from summer extremes. October and November are excellent months with comfortable temperatures (25-30°C), clear blue skies, and fewer tourists than the December-February peak. Diving conditions are excellent.

Tips: October is one of the best months overall — comfortable, uncrowded, and competitively priced. The El Gouna Film Festival takes place in October.

❄️ Winter

December-February

The Red Sea's 'winter' is mild compared to northern Europe — daytime temperatures of 22-26°C are perfect for beach and outdoor activities. Evenings can be surprisingly cool (15-18°C). This is peak tourist season, particularly popular with European sun-seekers.

Tips: Bring a light jacket or sweater for evenings. Book accommodation 2-3 months ahead for December-January. Perfect for diving — clear visibility and comfortable water temperature with a 5mm wetsuit.

What to Pack

Seasonal packing recommendations.

Year-Round Essentials

  • Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees)
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
  • Light scarf or shawl (for religious sites)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Power adapter
  • Basic first aid kit

Hot Weather Additions

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics
  • Extra sun protection
  • Cooling towel
  • Light colors to reflect heat
  • Sandals with back straps

Cool Weather Additions

  • Warm layers (fleece, sweater)
  • Light jacket or coat
  • Rain gear (umbrella, waterproof jacket)
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Warm accessories (if winter)

Events & Crowd Levels

Plan around busy periods and special events.

🔴 High Season

December to February (European winter sun peak); July-August (Egyptian and Gulf state summer vacations)

Higher prices, advance booking essential, crowded attractions.

🟡 Shoulder Season

March-May and October-November

Good balance of weather and crowds. Reasonable prices.

🟢 Low Season

June-September (extreme heat deters most European tourists)

Best deals, fewer tourists. Some services may be limited.

Major Events & Holidays

October (annually)
El Gouna Film Festival

International film festival bringing celebrities and film industry professionals to El Gouna

Variable
Ramadan

Islamic holy month — special atmosphere especially after sunset iftar meals

April-May
Whale Shark Season

Whale sharks aggregate at Brothers Islands and Daedalus Reef in spring

March-May
Kitesurfing High Season

Best kitesurfing winds at Safaga, Soma Bay, and El Gouna

Plan Your Perfect Red Sea Trip

Get our complete seasonal guide with detailed packing lists, event calendars, and month-by-month planning tips.

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