At a glance
- Best for
- Snorkelling, diving, beaches and winter sun
- Airport
- King Hussein International Airport (AQJ)
- Time needed
- Two to three days
- Best season
- October to May
- From Wadi Rum
- About one hour by road
- Dress
- Swimwear at beaches and pools, modest in town
Why visit Aqaba
Aqaba is Jordan's only port and its seaside escape. It was an Islamic trading town, a Mamluk fort and a key prize of the Arab Revolt in 1917. Today it is a special economic zone with relaxed rules and a growing range of hotels, yet the reefs remain the real treasure.
Reefs and diving
The best reefs lie along the South Beach strip toward the Saudi border, inside the Aqaba Marine Park. The Japanese Garden is a colourful reef for snorkellers and beginners, the Cedar Pride is a sunken cargo ship covered in soft coral, and a retired military aircraft and tank were sunk to form artificial reefs. Many dive centres run courses from beginner level. Glass bottom boats show the reef to those who would rather stay dry.
Beaches
North Beach in the city has hotel beaches and a busy public stretch. South Beach has calmer beach clubs, such as Berenice, with house reefs and pools. Tala Bay, further south, is a resort area with calm water. On public beaches, local custom is modest, so many visitors prefer hotel and club beaches for swimwear.
The old centre
Aqaba Fort, built under the Mamluks, stands by the sea near the flagpole and the archaeology museum. The Ayla site on the Corniche shows the walls and gates of an early Islamic town. The souq streets behind are good for spices, dates and souvenirs, and Hani Ali has served sweets and ice cream for generations.
Food
Aqaba is the place for seafood. Choose a fish at a restaurant counter and have it grilled or cooked in sayadieh style with spiced rice. Ali Baba and Captain's are long running favourites in the centre, and the waterfront has plenty of casual cafés.
Where to stay
The city centre and North Beach have international hotels such as the InterContinental, Kempinski and Mövenpick, plus budget hotels near the souq. South Beach and Tala Bay suit those who want to dive or relax by the water.
Getting there and around
King Hussein International Airport has some international and seasonal flights, and domestic flights to Amman. JETT buses link Aqaba and Amman several times a day, and the drive from Wadi Rum takes about an hour. Taxis are easy around town. Ferries cross to Egypt's Sinai from the port; check the current schedule. Plan with our free trip planner and see dive spots on our places to visit list.
Practical tips
The sun is strong all year, so use reef safe sun cream and a hat. Do not touch or stand on coral. Summer is very hot, while winter days are warm and pleasant for the beach.
Day trips from Aqaba
Wadi Rum is the obvious day trip, about an hour away, though a night in a desert camp is far more memorable. Petra is around two hours north, so it is possible as a long day, but staying in Wadi Musa is better. Boat trips run along the coast for swimming stops, and some visitors cross by ferry or land to Egypt's Sinai; check visa rules for both countries on official sites before planning that crossing.
Questions about Aqaba
Is Aqaba good for snorkelling?
Yes. Reefs start a few metres from the shore along South Beach, and the Japanese Garden is a favourite for beginners. Many beach clubs rent masks and fins.
How many days should I spend in Aqaba?
Two or three days gives time for snorkelling or a dive, a beach day and the old centre. It pairs well with a night in Wadi Rum.
Can I wear a swimsuit in Aqaba?
Yes at hotel pools, beach clubs and resort beaches. Cover up when walking in town and on busy public beaches used by local families.
Can I fly into Aqaba?
Yes. King Hussein International Airport has domestic flights to Amman and some international and seasonal routes. Check current airlines before booking.
Facts checked . Fees, schedules and entry rules change, so always confirm the latest with the official source.
