Lake Manzala is a large shallow lagoon that forms the western boundary of Port Said's narrow strip of land. Separated from the Mediterranean by a thin barrier beach, it covers roughly 1,400 square kilometres and is one of the most important waterbird habitats in the eastern Mediterranean. Flamingos, pelicans, herons, and dozens of species of migrating waders use the lake's reed beds and mudflats on their passage between Europe and Africa.
The lake is visible from the road into Port Said and can be reached by local taxi. Small boats can be hired to explore the reed beds and channels at the western edge closest to the city. The fishing communities on the lake's islands maintain a way of life that has changed little in centuries — simple reed-built houses, wooden fishing boats, and a diet based almost entirely on what comes out of the water.