Log This Dive

Sand Island

Sand Island is one of our picks for a relaxed dive in Jeddah, a proper antidote to some of the more current-swept sites further north. It’s got this mellow vibe that just lets you settle in. We’ve found the reef slopes gently, not too deep, making it perfect for longer bottom times and really soaking up the details. You’ll find yourself drifting past fields of staghorn coral, just glowing with their delicate branches. We always keep an eye out for the schooling yellowtail surgeonfish here, they’re usually swirling in huge, shimmering clouds that sometimes just engulf you for a moment. It’s a cool feeling, like being part of the ocean. Our favourite residents are the lyretail angelfish, their colours practically fluorescent against the corals. And listen, if you take it slow, you might spot a Pacific short-bodied pipefish tucked away, they’re masters of camouflage. We’d suggest hitting this one mid-morning; the light catches the reef just right, bringing out all the subtle hues of the corrugated coral. It’s a lovely, easy dive, great for knocking off the rust or just enjoying the beauty of the Red Sea without a huge challenge.