Water Sports on the Red Sea: Where to Start
The Red Sea is famous for its warm, clear water, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than getting out on it. Whether you’ve never held a paddle or you’re looking for a more active way to spend the weekend, Jeddah’s beach clubs make it easy to start. Here’s where to go, and how to stay safe while you’re out there.
Kona Marine Sport Club: the natural first stop
If water sports are the main event, begin at Kona Marine Sport Club. Its dedicated marine sports centre offers activities such as kayaking and paddle boarding, along with structured marine sports and guided sessions for all skill levels, so complete beginners and experienced paddlers can each find their pace.
Just as importantly, Kona takes safety seriously. There are professional lifeguards on duty, safe swimming zones and a first-aid station, and the day pass includes supervised access to the beach and swimming areas. Afterwards, rinse off in the showers, store your things in a secure locker and refuel at the restaurant and café.
140 SAR / Day Pass
A marine sports venue offering beach access, swimming, kayaking, paddle sports and other water activities, supported by parking, showers, a restauran…
- Family days
- Ladies Only · Sundays
Activities and your day pass
Your Beach Pass covers entry to the venue and everything listed under “What’s included” on each beach page. Some activities and facilities may require advance booking, so tell us what you’d like to try in your booking notes and we’ll help you arrange it.
Which activity should you try first?
If you’re brand new to water sports, kayaking is a gentle introduction: you’re seated, stable and in control of your own pace, and a double kayak is a lovely way to share the experience with a friend or an older child. Paddle boarding asks a little more of your balance, but on calm water it soon becomes a peaceful way to explore the coastline. Whichever you choose, start with a guided session and build up from there.
Mangrove Beach Resort: sport on the sand
Not every active day has to be on the water. At Mangrove Beach Resort in North Obhur you’ll find padel courts and beach volleyball right by the sea, plus sea-swimming areas for cooling off between games. It’s a sociable spot, with a live DJ and social events on select days, and the on-site spa is perfect for washing away the sea salt afterwards.
Shades Beach Club: padel with a view
Shades Beach Club at Durrat Al Arous pairs padel courts with direct beach access and clear water for a swim. Once the match is over, there’s waterfront seating, a refreshment bar and restaurant, and regular live entertainment to round off the day.
Staying safe on the water
The Red Sea is usually calm and inviting, but conditions can change during the day. A few simple habits will keep your time on the water relaxed and fun:
- Stay where lifeguards can see you. Swim and paddle within the marked safe swimming zones.
- Wear a life jacket for kayaking, paddle boarding and any guided activity, even if you’re a strong swimmer.
- Listen to the briefing. Instructors know the local wind and currents, so let them know if it’s your first time.
- Protect your feet. Water shoes help on rocky or coral areas, and on sand that’s been baking in the sun.
- Drink more than you think you need. Time on the water is thirsty work in Jeddah’s heat.
- Respect the reef. Don’t stand on coral or touch marine life, and choose a reef-friendly sunscreen.
- Keep children within arm’s reach, even in shallow water.
When to go
Mornings usually bring the calmest water and the most comfortable temperatures, which makes them ideal for first-timers. Weekends are naturally busier, so a weekday visit often means more space to yourself and a more relaxed pace.
It’s worth checking the type of day, too. Kona and Mangrove both host ladies-only days, shown in pink with a hibiscus icon on our calendar, which many women find a comfortable way to try something new.
Whichever venue you choose, book ahead for weekends and holidays, arrive with time to settle in before your session, and leave room in the day for a long, lazy lunch by the sea. Explore water sports venues or book your beach pass and get out on the water.
