Marsa Samadai (Dolphin House)

Better known as Dolphin House, Sha'ab Samadai is a horseshoe-shaped reef and protected marine sanctuary that shelters a resident pod of spinner dolphins. Access to the zone is regulated, so encounters are respectful and reliable, and the sheltered inner lagoon — shallow, light-filled and dotted with coral gardens and pinnacles — is superb for snorkelers and beginner divers. Depths of about 5 to 20 metres, calm water and rich reef life round out one of the region's signature experiences.