Marine Life & Conservation
Sea turtles of the Red Sea: species, nesting and how to behave
Green and hawksbill turtles both nest and feed along Egypt's Red Sea coast, while leatherback, olive ridley and loggerhead turtles are seen only rarely. The hawksbill is listed as Critically Endangered; the green turtle moved from Endangered to Least Concern on the IUCN Red List in October 2025, though some local populations are still at risk. Green turtles graze seagrass; hawksbills feed on sponges and corals. Give them space and never touch or chase them.
By 71 Guardians · Published 19 Oct 2026
Which turtles live in the Red Sea?
HEPCA and TurtleWatch Egypt both describe green and hawksbill turtles nesting and feeding on the Egyptian coast, with other species seen only occasionally. The two sources list the rarer species slightly differently.
What do turtles do for the reef?
HEPCA explains that green turtles maintain seagrass beds that support spawning fish and invertebrates, and hawksbills feed on corals and sponges, helping balance those populations.
What threatens them?
- Coastal development and artificial lighting on nesting beaches, which disorients turtles and hatchlings.
- Plastic debris they may swallow.
- Anchoring damage to seagrass and coral.
- Fast boats and jet-skis, and accidental catch in fishing gear.
How should divers behave around turtles?
Stay calm, keep your distance, don't block their way to the surface to breathe, and never touch, chase or ride them.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I see turtles near Hurghada?
Turtles are seen on many local reefs, but they're wild — no sighting is guaranteed.
Are Red Sea turtles endangered?
Hawksbills are listed as Critically Endangered. Green turtles were moved from Endangered to Least Concern in October 2025 as numbers recovered worldwide, but that is a global listing and some local populations still face threats.
Questions before you dive with us?
Message our team on WhatsApp — we're divers in Hurghada and happy to help.
Chat with us on WhatsApp