The horseshoe-shaped Sha'ab El Erg reef, about 15 km north of Hurghada, is the most reliable spot in the central Red Sea to swim with wild spinner dolphins. A resident pod of around 100 animals uses the protected inner lagoon to rest during the day, and snorkelling tours from Hurghada and El Gouna time their arrival for the late morning, when the dolphins are usually present and tolerant of swimmers who keep their distance. There is also good diving on the outer wall — soft coral gardens at 10–18 metres with reasonable visibility — though the boat traffic in high season can be heavy.
The site is regulated: a maximum number of boats is allowed inside the lagoon at any one time, swimmers must not chase the dolphins, and operators that follow the code wear approved badges. Choose carefully.