Hawksbill Turtles in Elphinstone Reef, near Marsa Alam. Elphinston Reef is a spectacular reef and one of the most beautiful sites in the region. Crystal clear waters and unique coral reefs have made the Red Sea one of the world's prime diving destinations. Yet these reefs are threatened by problems such as overfishing, pollution and uncontrolled coastal development. Egypt's Red Sea coast has become a sprawling mass of concrete hotels and apartment blocks. In a matter of twenty years, the area has undergone large-scale development driven by the tourist dollar.