Temple

Temple is one of Sharm el Sheikh’s most distinctive dive sites — a group of massive coral pinnacles rising from a sandy bottom that inspired the site’s name through their resemblance to ancient temple columns.

Overview

The site features a large central coral tower that rises from a sandy bottom at approximately 20 m up to within about 5 m of the surface, surrounded by smaller coral columns. The formation’s pillars and their arrangement evoke an ancient underwater temple. Sheer walls on each pinnacle are densely covered with soft corals, sponges, gorgonian fans, and hard coral growth.

Temple is one of Sharm el Sheikh’s most popular night diving sites due to its sheltered position close to Na’ama Bay and the concentration of nocturnal species sheltering in the coral structure.

Dive Profile

Typical depth range is 5–20 m. The dive begins on the sandy bottom around the main pinnacle and works upward through progressively shallower coral formations. Suitable for Open Water divers. No significant current is normally encountered. Multiple entry points allow divers to approach from different angles.

Marine Life

Giant moray eels reside in the crevices throughout the year. Groups of lionfish and individual scorpionfish are common on the pinnacle faces. Blue-spotted ribbontail rays rest on the sandy areas between the pinnacles. Gorgonian fans frame many of the swimthroughs and crevices. The site hosts a high density and variety of coral species.

Tips

• An excellent night dive due to proximity to Naama Bay and the richness of nocturnal species
• Macro photographers will find the crevices rewarding throughout the day
• Multiple pinnacles allow a complete circuit in a single dive

Photography

The coral columns photographed against blue water make attractive wide-angle compositions. The gorgonian fans and moray eel dens reward closer macro work.

Sources: Camel Dive Club — Temple Dive Site, PADI — Temple Dive Site. Last updated 2026-05-17.