Pharaoh's Island

Island Red Sea island with a Crusader-era fortress

Pharaoh’s Island (Jazirat Fir’aun) in the Gulf of Aqaba hosts Crusader‑era fortress ruins and coral reefs; travelers reach it by boat from Taba or Nuweiba for snorkeling, exploring the fortress and seaside views.

Egypt-pharaoh-s-island-jezirat-faraun-jebel-el-nur.-red-sea-print-1874-142292-p.jpg

Graia, On the Red Sea, Near Ezion-Geber, Port of King Solomon MET DP71226.jpg

Jezîrat Far'on, the Isle of Pharaoh. At the head of the Gulf of 'Akabah, as seen from the western shore. The castle which crowns it was built by the Crusaders; the mosque and other Saracenic (NYPL b10607452-80708).jpg

Pharaoh’s Island (Jazīrat Fir’awn) is a small island in the Gulf of Aqaba, off the Egyptian Sinai coast near the town of Taba. It is known for ruins of a medieval fortress on the island and surrounding coral reefs.

Visitors typically combine a short boat transfer with time ashore to explore the fort ruins and to snorkel the reef in clear, shallow waters. The island’s scale is small - visits are usually measured in hours rather than a full-day excursion.

Remains of fortifications and masonry on the island reflect medieval military use; the structure is now a ruin and is approached on foot from simple landing points. The island lies just off the Egyptian coast close to Taba and is visible from the shore.

Access and activities: The island is reached by short boat trips from Taba and nearby coastal resorts and is a popular local spot for short visits and snorkeling.

How to Get to Pharaoh's Island #

Pharaoh’s Island (Jazīrat Fārūn) lies off the Egyptian side of the Gulf of Aqaba near Taba. The usual approach is to reach Taba (by road from southern Sinai or via the Taba border crossing) and then take a short boat transfer from Taba harbor or nearby hotels to the island (boat trips are typically arranged by local hotels, dive operators or tour operators and take only a few minutes to tens of minutes depending on departure point).

Visitors can also arrange crossings from Aqaba (Jordan) subject to border formalities; plan transfers in advance with local operators.

Tips for Visiting Pharaoh's Island #

Plan your visit early in the morning to avoid midday heat and to have the island's viewpoints and fortress quieter for photography and short walks.
Access is by boat from Taba (Egypt) or nearby Eilat (Israel) depending on operators-confirm landing permissions and border/security procedures in advance and carry your passport, as the island sits close to international borders.
Don't miss snorkeling around the island's reefs; many visitors only see the fortress but the surrounding shoreline has clear water and coral life best explored by local boat operators who can time visits for calmer sea conditions.

Best Time to Visit Pharaoh's Island #

Best visited between October and April for milder temperatures and more comfortable sea conditions for snorkeling and boat trips.

Mild season (best time)

October-April · 20-28°C (68-82°F)

Pleasant temperatures and calmer sea conditions make this the most comfortable time for sightseeing and snorkeling/diving.

Hot season

May-September · 28-38°C (82-100°F)

Very hot daytime temperatures are common and outdoor activity can be strenuous; diving and boat trips still operate but mornings are more comfortable.

Winter months (peak pleasant weather)

December-February · 20-26°C (68-79°F)

Often considered the most comfortable period for visitors seeking warm but not extreme temperatures and good sea conditions.