Aqaba

Things to see and do in Aqaba

Aqaba – Where the Desert Drops Straight into the Red Sea

Aqaba is Jordan’s only 27 km of coastline, and it makes every metre count. Coral reefs explode in colour just metres from the beach, four countries (Jordan, Israel, Egypt, Saudi Arabia) are visible at once, and the mountains of Sinai glow pink across the water every sunset. By day you snorkel over shipwrecks and sea turtles; by night you eat the freshest fish on planet Earth while the call to prayer drifts over neon-lit corniche cafés. This is the place where Lawrence of Arabia blew up trains and where you can still drink Bedouin coffee under the same stars. Relaxed, delicious, and ridiculously beautiful — Aqaba is the Red Sea’s best-kept secret.

Top Activities and Experiences in Aqaba

These are the moments that taste like salt and pure freedom.

Snorkelling the Japanese Garden Reef

Jump off Berenice Beach into water so clear it hurts, then float above brain coral, lionfish, and clownfish in a reef that looks painted.

Sunset Shawarma at Al-Shatt Street

Sit on plastic chairs while the grill master slices chicken straight onto fresh bread, four countries glow across the water, and the sky catches fire.

Diving the Cedar Pride Shipwreck

Descend to a 1980s Lebanese freighter now covered in soft coral — swim through the wheelhouse while barracuda circle overhead.

Glass-Bottom Boat to Pharaoh’s Island

Cruise over coral gardens without getting wet, then stare at Egypt, Israel, and Saudi Arabia all at once from the same boat.

Bedouin Star-Gazing at Ayla Oasis

Walk the ancient Islamic city ruins at night, drink tea brewed on open fire, and see the Milky Way so bright it feels close enough to touch.

South Beach Sunrise with Coffee

Wake early, walk the empty sand, watch the first light hit Saudi mountains across the gulf, and realise you’re the only person on Earth right now.

Ready for Coral Reefs, Four-Country Sunsets, and Fresh Fish?

Aqaba doesn’t just give you the Red Sea — it gives you the entire desert and ocean in one perfect bite. Ahlan wa sahlan — welcome to Jordan’s slice of paradise!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Aqaba

What are the absolute must-do experiences in Aqaba?

The must-do experiences are snorkelling or diving the Japanese Garden and Cedar Pride wreck, eating sunset shawarma on Al-Shatt Street, taking a glass-bottom boat ride, and watching sunrise from South Beach with only the sound of waves.

How many days should I spend in Aqaba?

You should spend at least three full days: one for snorkelling/diving, one for relaxing on beaches and eating your weight in seafood, and one for Wadi Rum or a boat trip.

When is the best time to visit Aqaba?

The best time is October–April when the water is warm and air temperatures are perfect (25–32 °C). Summer is hot but great for diving.

Is the snorkelling really that good right from the beach?

Yes, it is world-class. Public beaches like Berenice and South Beach have house reefs metres from shore with more fish than many famous dive sites.

What are the best day trips from Aqaba?

The best day trips are Wadi Rum (1 hour), Petra (2 hours), and a boat cruise to Pharaoh’s Island with views of four countries.

Where is the best place to stay in Aqaba?

For luxury, Mövenpick Resort or Kempinski is beachfront perfection. Mid-range travellers love Lacosta or Nairoukh. Budget options include Alena Hotel or Bedouin Garden Village.

Is Aqaba safe?

Aqaba is extremely safe and laid-back. It is a favourite weekend getaway for Jordanians and has a permanent tourist-friendly vibe.

Do I need to book dive or snorkel trips in advance?

You don’t need to book public beach snorkelling, but you should reserve dive boats and Wadi Rum transfers a day ahead during high season.

What is the best food in Aqaba?

The best food is fresh Red Sea fish at Rakwet Arabia or Ali Baba, sunset shawarma on Al-Shatt Street, and sayadieh (spiced fish rice) at any local restaurant.

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Places to Visit

Berenice Beach & Japanese Garden Reef

The most accessible snorkelling beach — just walk in and float over one of the prettiest reefs in the Red Sea.

Aqaba Marine Park & South Beach

14 km of protected coastline with marked snorkel trails, shipwrecks, and almost no crowds.

Aqaba Fort & Museum

Mamluk castle rebuilt by Lawrence of Arabia’s forces — small but perfectly located beside the giant Jordanian flag.

Ayla Old Islamic City

Ruins of the original 7th-century port city — walk the ancient walls at sunset when the stones glow gold.

Sharif Hussein Bin Ali Mosque

Stunning white mosque right on the corniche — the minaret lights up turquoise at night.

Al-Shatt Street & Corniche

The beating heart of evening life — shawarma stalls, fresh juice carts, and four-country views.

Suggested itineraries featuring Aqaba

Wonders of Jordan Adventure

8 Days | From $1199

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Amman | Petra | Aqaba

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Jordan Discovery

7 Days | From $1299

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Amman | Aqaba | Wadi Rum | Dead Sea

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Gems of Jordan

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Amman | Petra | Aqaba

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Accommodation choices for Aqaba

Intercontinental Aqaba

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PRIVATE PARADISE ON JORDAN'S RED SEA InterContinental Aqaba combines relaxing atmospheres and welcoming accommodations. This Red Sea beach resort has exceptional views of the Gulf of Aqaba, which is well known for its coral reef scuba diving and water sports. The hotel is within walking distance of the city centre, where a variety of historical ruins, the aquarium and a taste of Middle Eastern culture can always be found.

Aqaba Gulf

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Local Rating:

The Aqaba Gulf Hotel, an auspiciously stinging-white edifice represents all that is exciting in this beach-front city, rejuvenating your body and soul through the freshness of the deep blue sea. The stylish hospitality of Aqaba Gulf Hotel is truly original, mellowing local flavors and high international service, with its extremely-conscious staff creating comfort, happiness and belonging for our guests to reflect on their Aqaba holiday long after they've gone home.

Kempinski Aqaba

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Local Rating:

Jordan is well-known for two things - Diverse landscapes, and friendly hospitable people! At Kempinski Hotel Aqaba we embrace this local hospitality and nurture it with precise European style of luxurious standards. Coupled of course with the finest facilities