Egypt, famous for its ancient history and iconic landmarks like the pyramids and Sphinx, also boasts some of the most stunning beach destinations along the Red Sea. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and a year-round warm climate, the Red Sea coast is a paradise for beach enthusiasts and water sports lovers. After some serious downtime in the Med? Add one of these spots to your list next!
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1. Sharm El Sheikh
When thinking of an Egyptian beach holiday, perhaps this spot springs to mind… and here’s why! Sharm El Sheikh is located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula and is renowned for its world-class diving sites in addition to being Egypt’s best beach for families. The coral reefs in the Ras Mohammed National Park offer an incredible underwater world to explore. Naama Bay and Shark's Bay are popular beach areas here with plenty of resorts, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife in addition to plenty of entertainment options for adults and kids alike.
Must do: Snorkelling or scuba diving in the Blue Hole (As seen on Netflix’s The Deepest Breath), a renowned underwater sinkhole.
2. Hurghada
Hurghada, once a small fishing village, has transformed into a major beach resort destination. It's perfect for those seeking adventure in the water. You can enjoy snorkelling, windsurfing, kite surfing, and frequent visits from the dolphins inhabiting the surrounding waters.
3. Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam is a quieter and more remote destination, ideal for travellers looking to escape the crowds without having to miss out on natural beauty. It's pristine beaches and coral reefs offer excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling, and the region is also known for its resident-spinner dolphins. Don’t forget to visit Al Nayzak, a picturesque natural pool which sits a mere 13 km (8 miles) south of Marsa Alam. It's thought to have been shaped by a meteorite impact, creating a heavenly, eye-shaped oasis.
4. El Gouna
El Gouna, situated just 27 kilometres north of Hurghada, is a purpose-built beach town designed for relaxed and family-friendly sun-and-sand getaways. This resort destination offers a variety of activities beyond sunbathing, including stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, horseback riding, and desert ATV tours. It even features an 18-hole golf course. With four main beach areas, such as Mangroovy Beach, a hub for kitesurfing enthusiasts, and Zeytouna Beach, known for its soft white sand and 400-meter-long jetty, which makes snorkelling easier by bringing you closer to the coral reefs, El Gouna caters to a wide range of beachgoers and adventure seekers.
5. Nuweiba-Taba Coastline
If you're seeking a tranquil escape far removed from the bustling resort areas, the narrow stretches of shoreline between Nuweiba and Taba in South Sinai may be your ideal destination.
Here, you'll find a beach experience reminiscent of the days before the Sinai Peninsula's tourism boom. The amenities are minimal, but for those who seek the simple things in life, this is the spot for you! This coastline houses resorts with simple huts crafted from date palm fronds, nestled directly on the sand, just a stone's throw from the gentle waves lapping at the shore. It's a serene and back-to-basic beach life.
Starting from Skratch? Here are some links to help you get started:
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-beaches-in-egypt
https://www.planetware.com/egypt/top-rated-beaches-in-egypt-egy-1-2.htm