Is Aqaba Worth Visiting? 10 Pros and Cons for Travelers

When planning a trip to Jordan, you’re likely envisioning the majestic Petra, the vastness of Wadi Rum, and, perhaps, the allure of floating in the Dead Sea. 

But is Aqaba worth visiting?

At the southern tip of Jordan, bordering Israel and Saudi Arabia, Jordan’s only coastal city is often glanced over by travelers tight on time and hungry for adventure. 

My month-long Jordan road trip began in Aqaba.

I arranged a few days for scuba diving in the famous Red Sea. While I liked my dives, particularly due to the affordable cost, they didn’t match the awe I’ve heard about diving in Egypt’s Red Sea.

I quickly realized that if my time in Jordan had been shorter, Aqaba might not have made the cut. 

Don’t get me wrong—Aqaba was nice, but other places in Jordan are so spectacular that Aqaba pales in comparison. 

Let’s dive deeper into what Aqaba has to offer and whether it should find a spot on your Jordan itinerary.

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1. Pro: The Red Sea in Aqaba

One of the undeniable highlights of visiting Aqaba is its stunning access to the Red Sea, home to the protected Aqaba Marine Reserve, which ensures the preservation of its rich marine life.

The Red Sea is crystal clear, providing good snorkeling and diving opportunities. Boat rides are popular, too.

In Aqaba, divers are spoiled for choice with sites like the vibrant Japanese Gardens, the intriguing Cedar Pride Wreck, and the easily accessible Tank, each offering a unique glimpse into the Red Sea’s underwater marvels.

You’re likely to see a variety of fish and maybe even a turtle if you’re lucky, all without having to dive too deep, thanks to the shallow reefs. Snorkelers love it, too!

The water temperatures, ranging from warm in the summer to pleasantly cool in the off-season, mean comfortable diving conditions year-round. 

Additionally, the lack of strong currents, thanks to Aqaba’s protective geography, makes for easy and safe dives, ideal for beginners and seasoned divers.

Diving in Aqaba’s part of the Red Sea is hard to beat for the price and convenience. While Aqaba as a city didn’t top my list of places in Jordan, the days I spent in the water were definitely a highlight.

2. Con: Mediocre Diving & Rocky Beaches

While Aqaba offers the allure of the Red Sea, it’s fair to say that the diving experiences here might not hold up against the more renowned spots in Egypt’s Red Sea in terms of abundance and diversity. 

While still beautiful, the coral reefs and marine life face challenges from over-tourism and pollution, a point of consideration for travelers mindful of their environmental impact. 

On the upside, I found value in the easy access to several dive sites from the shore, including an intriguing shipwreck. I was pleasantly surprised by how affordable diving can be in Aqaba.

Another aspect to note is Aqaba’s beaches – they’re more on the rocky side due to their sheltered nature, lacking the fine sand in more turbulent waters. 

Walking barefoot wasn’t the most comfortable experience for me—be prepared to walk on gravel and stones. Packing a pair of water shoes can make your beach time more enjoyable. 

Remember, Aqaba’s local community is predominantly Muslim, so women on the beach tend to be fully covered. You may want to bring a sun shirt to wear over your bathing suit. 

3. Pro: Beach Clubs and Other Things to Do in Aqaba

Aqaba isn’t just about diving and snorkeling – it’s a hub for relaxation and leisure, too. 

The city’s beach clubs and relaxation spots cater to every taste, whether looking to lounge by the sea, enjoy a private boat ride, or explore historical sites like the Aqaba Castle (Mamluk Fort). 

The souks offer a vibrant shopping experience, while the Saraya Waterpark is a family-friendly destination with slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river that promises fun for all ages.

For beach lovers, options range from the upscale Berenice Beach Club and B12 Beach Club at Ayla Oasis to the more laid-back vibes of Saraya Aqaba Beach Club and Tala Bay Beach Club. Each offers a unique atmosphere, ranging from luxurious amenities to casual seaside charm.

Unfortunately, only families and couples are permitted on the beach at Berenice Beach Club – they usually turn away solo travelers – but women can wear bikinis here without locals staring.

I recommend a beach club for the best beach access – they’re nicer than South Beach (public beach).

Culturally curious visitors will appreciate the Sharif Hussein Bin Ali Mosque, a welcoming place for tourists where women are provided with proper covering at the entrance, offering a glimpse into local religious practices in a respectful manner.

Aqaba’s designation as part of Jordan’s ‘Golden Triangle’ of tourism—thanks to its proximity to Petra and Wadi Rum—only adds to its appeal as a versatile holiday spot. 

4. Con: Small Town Feel

Aqaba’s charm is intertwined with its laid-back atmosphere, but this small-town feel might not be for everyone, especially if you’re after a bustling nightlife or a shopping spree akin to what you might find in larger cities. 

Aqaba is more conservative than Amman, which shows in the local culture and activities.

The city is great for water activities, but if you’re not into the sea or fancy beach resorts, the things to do on land might be a bit limited. I admit I would have been a tad bored if it weren’t for the scuba diving.

The town’s size means that options can feel somewhat constrained beyond the beach clubs, historical sites, and a handful of leisure facilities like Saraya Waterpark.

Yet, Aqaba has its own charm. Its small size encourages a leisurely travel pace, allowing visitors to experience the local culture, wander through markets, and savor the peace of a less crowded tourist spot.

Where to Stay in Aqaba

Whether you’re seeking the lap of luxury or cozy dive accommodations, Aqaba has something for every traveler.

Luxury Hotels in Aqaba:

• Kempinski Hotel Aqaba: This beach resort marries modern design with serene quietude, offering direct Red Sea views, five dining options, an outdoor pool by the white sand beaches, and a variety of water activities. Its spacious rooms, with private balconies and sea views, ensure a luxurious stay. The Kempinski is also just a stone’s throw from Aqaba’s shopping and entertainment venues, making it an ideal location for those who want the best of both worlds. Rated 9.0 out of 10 – Read Reviews.

• Al Manara Aqaba: On the beachfront, Al Manara shines with its private beach area, outdoor pool, and seafood-centric restaurant. The rooms are a haven of comfort with modern amenities, some featuring terraces to soak in the vista. Guests can start their day with a continental or buffet breakfast and unwind in the sauna, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and luxury. Rated 9.2 out of 10 – Read Reviews.

Aqaba Dive Resorts:

• Arab Divers Dive Center and Bed & Breakfast: Tailored for diving enthusiasts, this family-run B&B sits next to the Red Sea, surrounded by mountains. Offering diving courses, equipment rentals, and excursions to nearby attractions, it’s a diver’s dream. The simple yet comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool provide a serene base for your underwater adventures. Rated 8.7 out of 10 – Read Reviews.

• Red Sea Dive Center: Perched on a hill with sweeping views of the Gulf of Aqaba, this hotel features an outdoor pool and rooms with sea or landscape views. It caters to water sports enthusiasts, offering diving and snorkeling activities, and serves regional and international cuisine in its restaurant. Its proximity to the beach and the airport adds to its appeal for divers looking for convenience and scenic beauty. Rated 8.4 out of 10 – Read Reviews.

Budget Accommodations in Aqaba:

• Al Amer – My Home Hostel: Just a short walk from Al-Ghandour Beach, this hostel offers a range of accommodations, from allergy-free rooms to those with a kitchenette. With facilities like a shared kitchen, a terrace, and a barbecue area, it’s ideal for travelers looking for a comfortable, budget-friendly stay with the freedom to explore Aqaba’s culinary scene. Rated 8.9 out of 10 – Read More Reviews.

• Hakaia Community: Close to Al-Ghandour Beach and featuring free WiFi and a terrace, Hakaia Community is perfect for travelers on a budget. Offering bicycle rentals for city exploration and rooms with shared bathrooms, it provides a communal atmosphere that’s great for meeting fellow travelers. Rated 9.7 out of 10 – Read Reviews.

Final Thoughts: Is Aqaba, Jordan Worth Visiting?

In planning your trip to Jordan, you might be weighing whether Aqaba deserves a slice of your itinerary. 

Given the country’s wealth of breathtaking sites, it’s a valid concern that time spent in Aqaba could mean missing out on other experiences. 

I started my 1-month Jordan road trip in Aqaba. While Aqaba offered memorable shore dives in the Red Sea at a bargain, it didn’t capture my heart the way other destinations have. 

The rocky beaches weren’t as pristine as those in Thailand, and the town lacked the enchanting vibe of other Middle Eastern locales. 

However, Aqaba may be worth a visit for those intrigued by duty-free shopping and the prospect of relaxing in beach clubs.

So, is Aqaba worth visiting or not? If you’re pressed for time, Aqaba might not top the list of must-visit destinations in Jordan, especially considering the rich historical and natural wonders elsewhere.

For those mapping out their Jordan journey, my 1-week itinerary of Jordan’s must-visit highlights was crafted to help you maximize your time. 

My 2-week itinerary expands on the first, offering more off-the-beaten-path options, including Aqaba.

Additionally, renting a car in Jordan is worth considering – it offers the freedom to explore at your own pace and opens up more opportunities for off-the-beaten-path adventures.