Everyone in Dahab will tell you to visit Three Pools but almost nobody will tell you what to expect when you get there or how bad it is. That’s where my guide comes in!
After skipping Three Pools, a unique diving and snorkelling spot renowned for its three natural coral garden pools, on my first two trips to Dahab because of its distance from town, I was excited to finally visit on my third trip to the seaside town.
However, even though I really wanted to love it, my experience at Three Pools wasn’t great at best and a complete disaster at worst.
The surrounding scenery might have been glorious, but the once pristine diving spot has become one of the saddest victims of mass tourism that I’ve ever witnessed and a place that makes me so sad that I’ll now never see it in its prime.
So, rather than trying to find an angle of how to tell you that Three Pools is still worth it, my honest guide tells you all you need to know about Three Pools, including why I don’t recommend it, what I did actually like, and what you can realistically expect when you’re there.
My aim is for you to be fully informed so you can decide for yourself if you think it’s worth it.
What Actually Is Three Pools?
Three Pools is exactly what it sounds like!
At the foot of the steep mountain range, just south of Dahab, there are three naturally distinct turquoise coral reef pools with sandy floors that sit side by side. The pools are also interlinked, which adds to the fun of exploring them.
They’re about 1-3 metres deep and easily accessible from shore, which I think is the main reason this natural wonder has become a popular tourist destination.
The shoreline surrounding the pools is, unfortunately, completely privatised. It’s lined with restaurants that have been set up to look like Bedouin-style tents with communal floor seating, which serve fresh juices and simple meals to the divers and daytrippers.
I’m not against having cafes and restaurants here, but I believe there should be a reserved public area too at natural attractions like this.
Where Is Three Pools And How Far Is It From Dahab?
You’ll find this diving spot around a 25 minute drive south of Dahab along the old Dahab to Sharm el-Sheikh highway, just before another dive site known as The Caves.
Alternatively, it’s a hilly but manageable 45 minute cycle along the elevated and paved road, which is how I got there.
On the way, I passed the Dahab Heights neighbourhood, a couple of luxury resorts and Wadi Gnai canyon, and Happy Life Hotel before finally reaching the coral pools, which are located in a sheltered bay at the foot of towering mountains.
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My Experience + Why I Don’t Recommend Visiting Three Pools
Honestly, not only was Three Pools just a disappointment for me, but I believe you can find better alternatives to the main attractions of Three Pools elsewhere in Dahab that are not descended upon by busloads of tourists and don’t have the chugging of quad bikes.
The main attraction is the unique, easily accessible snorkelling experience as you explore the coral gardens, but surprisingly, the coral is in worse condition than at the busy central beaches in Dahab.
I would recommend renting some snorkel gear in Dahab and exploring the underwater coral islands near Laguna or the Eel Garden coral canyon for an even better experience! Or head to the Blue Hole which, although busy, also has better snorkelling.
As for the waterfront restaurants, which could have been the saviour, there are much better options with better food, coffee, prices, and overall experience in Dahab, even on the outskirts of both ends of town if you want to escape the bustling Lighthouse area.
And finally, as much as I’ll admit the surrounding landscapes are stunning, I thought the similar scenery, camp-style, and snorkelling combination at Abu Galum was a much better day trip.
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The Reality Of Snorkelling
I hate to be so critical and negative but after hearing so many people in Dahab rave about this place, I was really let down and nobody warned me that the coral had been tragically damaged beyond repair.
During my visit, I could only find bleached, broken and dead coral. I’ve never seen anything like it. And without any coral, this meant I didn’t see much sea life either. Water visibility was also really poor due to sand being kicked up by hordes of water shoes and inexperienced swimmers.
Ironically, the ease of access to the pools is also what is slowly destroying them. I watched tourist after tourist wading in and standing on the reef, with little awareness and simply because the water is shallow enough that it feels like the natural thing to do.
However, miraculously, I did manage to find a small living section on the north-eastern wall outside of the pools, where most swimmers can’t stand on the reef. Divers will also be happy to hear that the deep and sloped coral garden further from shore is still thriving.
So if you’re like me, an experienced snorkeller hoping for thriving coral and rich marine life, then you will unfortunately be left disappointed.
Lucy’s Recommendation: Enter the sea on the left side and swim around the outer wall in a clockwise direction for the best snorkelling route.
My Waterfront Cafe Experience
Before my trip, I tried to do some research online and there weren’t many restaurants tagged on Google Maps, and even fewer had 5 star reviews. After arriving though, I discovered that the shore is actually completely lined with different options, so there are plenty to choose from.
But Three Pools really pushes the limits of what can be considered rustic and boho, and just completely run down. As I cycled alongside the dilapidated and torn canvas tents lining the shore, I wasn’t sure if this was it or if I’d stumbled across somewhere else.
From what I could see, all of the restaurants have similar breakfast and lunch menus as they are all off the grid without any running water or electricity, meaning the kitchens are limited with what they can make.
The prices are also notably higher than in the other waterfront restaurants in Dahab but when you consider the remote location, I think it’s fair value, even if I was served watery Nescafé when ordering an iced latte.
Note: Don’t expect the same speciality coffee that we’re spoiled with at the cafes in Dahab!
I went with Makani Cafe & Restaurant as they had the best reviews and the bathroom and shower weren’t an extra charge.
They have shaded and rustic communal floor seating divided into sections, and I was l lucky to visit on a quiet day so didn’t have to share my table with other visitors. The front couple of seafront tables were already taken by the time I arrived at 11am so I had to settle for the area just behind.
One of the best parts of being right on the edge of the shore is that I could step down from the seating area straight onto the narrow strip of sand lining the water’s edge. This was really convenient when I went snorkelling, as I didn’t have to walk too far in my swimwear and my belongings were safe nearby.
Other Things I Didn’t Like
As well as the coral being mostly dead and the waterfront cafes not blowing me away, these are the other things that spoiled Three Pools for me.
Mass Tourism
I think it’s important to be aware that this is a popular tourist day trip destination to swim in the Red Sea, drive an ATV and ride a camel. Especially from Sharm El Sheikh, where busloads of tourists arrive from! Honestly, the dust, fumes and noise from the ATVs driving past the restaurants sometimes detracted from the natural beauty of the surrounding mountain landscape.
Lack of Respect Towards Nature
Unfortunately, I’ve noticed that the excessive use of single-use plastic is a huge problem all over Egypt, not only here in Dahab. It was hard not to notice all the pieces of plastic floating along the shoreline and litter blowing along the street. From plastic bags and crisp packets to cigarette butts, you’ll find it all thrown on the floor here.
Also, many people aren’t aware that coral is actually living, even though it looks like a rock. Three Pools is definitely missing educational signs pointing out that standing and sitting on the reef causes irreparable damage.
Treatment Of Animals
I also think a lot of tourists get caught up in the excitement of animal attractions without realising the reality behind the rides. So, before booking anything animal-related, I’d really encourage you to look into the reality behind these attractions.
It really made me so uncomfortable to witness so many camels with obvious skin conditions, tied up in the hot sun, sitting in their own poop, waiting for tourists to ride them. Seeing the camels like that really stayed with me and made me think twice about the role we play as tourists. Is it really worth it for an Instagram post?
Weather Can Really Affect Your Experience
Nine days out of ten in Dahab are bright and sunny with blue skies, which are the best conditions for seeing Three Pools in its best light.
However, of course the day I chose to visit ended up being grey and cloudy! And this definitely affected my overall experience. Even though there was no wind, it meant that the sea wasn’t the usual inviting bright blue colour but dark and dull instead.
Thankfully, the sheltered bay protects the pools from waves and the strong currents on most days but the wind can definitely impact your experience here too. It’s also good to know that the tide doesn’t change too much in the Red Sea but high tide is ideal as it means you can swim easily between the pools.
Things I Did Like About Three Pools
As much as I didn’t have a great experience at Three Pools, there are still some positives about my visit that I want to highlight.
The Rugged Wilderness And Unbeatable Location
Tucked into the foot of a mountain, Three Pools feels remote and far from the modern bustle that has been infiltrating its way into Dahab in the form of crowds, cars, and speakers.
Combining this with wide open coastal views, dramatic steep dusty mountains directly behind the restaurants, and Saudi Arabia looming on the horizon, it makes the setting unbeatable!
Since the very first day that I arrived in Dahab, I’ve described it as a place where the mountains meet the water, but this is most evident at Three Pools, where, in some places, just a single track road separates the shore and the foot of the mountain!
This unique landscape also protects the area from the northern trade winds, meaning there are rarely any waves.
Even after being in Dahab for so long already, the surrounding landscape still amazes me!
It’s An Inexpensive Day Trip
Unlike the Blue Hole which keeps increasing its entrance fee every few months, there is no cost to enter Three Pools.
But be aware that all of the restaurants have a fair minimum spend starting from 200 EGP per person. But don’t worry, if you buy one or two drinks then you will cover this easily.
I’ve heard that recently people are posing as policemen and trying to charge a $10 USD entrance fee but this is not officially enforced – yet!
Chilling Out By The Water
Despite the negatives,I could have comfortably lounged here all day in the shade and enjoyed the sea view. I loved that there was no pressure to get in the water and swim. But when I did fancy a dip, the gradual sandy slope into the water made for an easy entrance.
Some waterfront cafes are livelier than others, with notorious party music and catering to large tour groups. One even resembled a beach club, so choose carefully if you want to relax!
How To Get To Three Pools From Dahab
For those looking for an easy day trip and a change of scenery, the best ways to get from Dahab to Three Pools are by taxi or by cycling.
By Taxi
This is by far the easiest way to get around Dahab.
Taxis are normally white pickup trucks and are identified by a three-digit number on the front doors. They can be flagged down on the street or normally park around the bridge, the Seaweed Sushi restaurant in Lighthouse or around Assala Square.
I always recommend agreeing on a price before entering, as there aren’t any meters and you’ll get a better rate if you agree on a return time!
By Cycling
Cycling is my favourite option!
If you’re up for a challenge, then cycling along the elevated and paved coastal road is a highlight in itself.
The most beautiful section is after climbing the steep hill at the end of Laguna, which I was thankful to have my low gears for!
After catching my breath at the top, the next section was just stunning with the rugged Sinai mountains on my right and the open coastline down to my left. Even with a few rolling hills to contend with, I think this is the best way to explore!
Lucy’s Recommendation: I always hired a bicycle from Izzy Bikes in Mashraba. Hani and his brothers always welcomed me with a smile and gave me a serviced bike in great condition (which is important when travelling so far out of town!).
Is There An Entrance Fee?
Entry to Three Pools in Dahab is completely free.
However, all of the restaurants have a minimum spend starting from 200 EGP per person.
FAQs
How Long Do You Need At Three Pools?
I could have spent all day there, but I’d recommend at least 3-4 hours to enjoy snorkelling, resting in the waterfront tents and ordering a light lunch.
What Is The Best Time Of Day To Visit Three Pools?
I recommend visiting Three Pools from 10am until mid-afternoon, before the sun goes behind the steep mountains around 3.30pm.
Is There Public Transport To Three Pools?
There is no public transportation to Three Pools. The only three options to get to Three Pools are to take a taxi, cycle or book a tour through a hotel.
Can Beginners Snorkel At Three Pools?
Three Pools is a good place for beginners to snorkel thanks to the sheltered bay, shallow pools and accessible entrance. Life jackets are also available to rent in the waterfront restaurants.
To Finish
Overall, I was left really disappointed after visiting Three Pools, which was mainly due to the neglected and damaged coral reef.
So honestly, I’d skip Three Pools if snorkelling is a priority, but if a relaxing day trip by the water with stunning scenery is all you’re after, then maybe you’ll have a better time than me!