8 Best Beaches of the Red Sea Coast, Egypt
The Egyptian Red Sea Coast is one of the most famous beach destinations worldwide, characterized by perfectly clean waters with vibrant coral reefs and sunny weather during all seasons. From Suez in the north to the southern destination of Sharm El-Sheikh, this area of the Red Sea has the best beaches where you can relax, participate in water activities, and study the marine environment. Whether it is to enjoy powdery golden sands or perhaps discover the lively underwater world, beaches along the Red Sea Coast promise to amaze.
In this blog, we will take a closer look at the 8 best beaches along Egypt's Red Sea Coast and the diversity in landscapes, experiences, and activities in each of the beaches.
1. Hurghada Beach
Location: Hurghada
A coastal town in Egypt, Hurghada is one of the most popular beach destinations in the country and the entry point to the Red Sea. Miles of sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters are abundant, along with a host of resorts, restaurants, and shops. It's easy to get to the main beach from the city center, and visitors can take in the beautiful coastline views while staying in all the amenities Hurghada has to offer.
Why visit Hurghada Beach?
Clear Waters: Great for swimming, surfing, and diving.
Water Sports: Windsurfing, kite surfing, and jet skiing are provided for the more adventurous.
Family-Friendly: The shallow waters and numerous resorts offer a great spot for families.
What to Do:
- Take a boat tour of the neighboring Giftun Island, which provides an opportunity to snorkel or dive into some of the most beautiful coral reefs of the Red Sea.
- Relax at Mahmya Beach, a private island beach offering a secluded relaxing environment.
2. El Gouna Beach
Location: El Gouna, 20 km north of Hurghada
The resort town is known for its elaborate beaches, lagoons, and luxurious hotels. Often comparable to the "Venice of the Red Sea," El Gouna will surely create a perfect blend between the setting of nature and modern things. The beaches are quieter and less crowded than in Hurghada, making it the perfect place for those looking for a more peaceful, easy experience.
Why go to El Gouna Beach?
Scenic Views: The lagoons with white sandy shores are some of the best views anywhere in the Red Sea.
Exclusive Resorts: Many luxury resorts cater to private beaches for your stay in seclusion and luxury.
Water Activities: Enjoy windsurfing, kite surfing, and surfing, diving in these waters.
What to Do:
- Visit the peaceful Abu Tig Marina—shop and enjoy waterfront dining.
- Try kite surfing in the quiet, shallow waters around the town, making it a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts.
3. Marsa Alam Beach
Location: Marsa Alam, south of Hurghada
Marsa Alam is one of the less-known jewels along the Red Sea coast, where those in search of quiet and natural beauty can escape the crowds. It is a beach with long stretches of sandy shores and rugged outcrops for that perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
Why visit Marsa Alam Beach?
Diving Paradise: The underwater world here is breathtakingly beautiful with vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and plenty of marine life.
Turtle Watching: The place features green sea turtles that frequent the coastal waters.
Private Beach: The beaches are more secluded with minimal commercialization, providing a peaceful haven.
What's To Do:
- Sataya Reef must be visited for diving and surfing; it is considered one of the best Red Sea diving places.
- Go to Abu Dabbab Bay, where one can swim with friendly turtles and other quiet underwater sites.
4. Sharm El-Sheikh Beach
Location: Sharm El-Sheikh, South Sinai
Sharm El-Sheikh is one of the well-known beach resorts that share a beautiful landscape and signature lifestyles in the Red Sea region. Among its many attractions are vibrant nightlife, luxurious resorts, and world-class diving sites. The beaches are mostly with soft sand and rocky areas; the waters are perfect for swimming, surfing, and diving.
Why visit Sharm El-Sheikh Beach?
Naama Bay Vibrant Nightlife: There's no dearth of nightlife after engaging in various beach activities here.
Diving and Surfing: Sharm is famous for its coral reefs and crystal clear water, thereby giving some of the world's best diving experiences.
Family-Oriented: Several resorts around are family-friendly and feature a host of children's activities.
What to Do:
- Visit the prominent Ras Mohammed National Park, a protected place that's famous for its wonderful underwater ecosystems.
- Take a day tour to Tiran Island and enjoy the excellent coral reefs along with the marine life.
5. Ras Um Sid Beach
Location: Sharm El-Sheikh
Ras Um Sid Beach is one of the beaches in Sharm El-Sheikh that will take you out from the crowds but is still near the city facilities. The beach will give you peaceful waters, varied species of marine life, and highly fitting conditions for diving as well as surfing.
Why Visit Ras Um Sid Beach?
Peaceful Environment: Much less crowded than any of the Sharm beaches
Coral Reefs: Some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the region.
Scuba Diving: The place for those who like scuba diving and want to see the colorful underwater landscape.
What to do:
- Surf or dive in the waters around Ras Um Sid Reef, with crystal-clear waters and a colorful coral garden.
- Just relax at one of the quiet resorts situated along the beach.
6. Dahab Beach
Location: Dahab, South Sinai
Dahab is a laid-back town with a relaxed atmosphere and excellent diving spots. Beaches are sandy with crystal-clear waters ideal for surfing and diving. Unlike other big resorts, Dahab remains relatively bohemian and low-key as compared to other destinations. It is perfect for people needing peace.
Why visit Dahab Beach?
Beautiful Calm Scenery: Not nearly as vibrant as those found in the resorts of Sharm El-Sheikh
Scuba Diving and Surfing: Renowned for diving sites, one of which is the most popular Blue Hole
Relaxing Ambiance: Great for those who want to move their lives a little backward.
Things to do:
- Scuba dive or snorkel into the world's most famous Blue Hole.
- You can have a camel ride along the coast; and see the great views of the Red Sea.
7. Nuweiba Beach
Location: Nuweiba, South Sinai
Nuweiba is also a secluded beach destination wherein one can relax by the seaside in a nearly pristine environment. The beaches are more natural: crystal clear waters, not many people around, and much space for relaxation. The mountain ranges surrounding the area provide a beautiful landscape, making the place look very peaceful.
Why Visit Nuweiba Beach?
Seclusion: The beaches are quieter, with fewer tourists, and perfect for people looking for solitude.
Beautiful Mountain Views: The mountains offer dramatic scenery, providing a setting perfect to de-stress.
Camping: The locales are also camping areas and beach huts, so it is a more rustic experience.
What to do
- Visit the Nuweiba Coral Reefs. Their corals are steep and brimming with life.
- Go for hiking up the Mount Sinai. It is one of Egypt's most famous mountains.
8. Sharm El-Maya Beach
Location: Sharm El-Sheikh
Sharm El-Maya is not so crowded. The old town is not far away. There, you can enjoy the beauty of the sea and, at the same time, admire the rich history of Sharm El-Sheikh.
Why visit Sharm El-Maya Beach?
- Sharm El-Maya Beach allows you to enjoy the local culture and historical sites as it stands along the old town.
- Calm Waters: Great for swimming and not usually overcrowded like it might be on other beaches in Sharm El-Sheikh.
What to Do
- Walk the market stalls of Old Market to shop for local souvenirs and authentic Egyptian food.
- Take a swim and snorkel in the bay's smooth, shallow waters.
Conclusion
The Red Sea Coast of Egypt has some of the most beautiful beaches anywhere in the world, each unique and draw. From adventure water sports to vibrant coral reefs, and from just simply relaxing by the sea, the Red Sea has something for everyone. From the luxury resorts of Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh to the quieter, more secluded beaches of Dahab and Nuweiba, the Red Sea has everything. So pack your bags, slap on your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the best beaches Egypt has to offer!
