The 7 Best Beaches in Hurghada for 2027

Hurghada sits on more than 40 kilometres of Red Sea coastline, and the water here is the kind of clear turquoise you usually only see on postcards. After a lifetime of swimming, snorkelling, and showing guests around, I have narrowed it down to the seven beaches that I send people to again and again. Whether you want a lively promenade or an empty stretch of sand with a reef right offshore, there is a perfect beach in Hurghada for you.

1. Mamsha Beach

The Mamsha is the heart of Hurghada beach life. This long promenade is lined with cafes, restaurants, ice cream shops, and watersports operators, and the public beach access points are easy to reach on foot. It is the best choice if you want to combine swimming with people watching, shopping, and a sunset stroll. Come in the late afternoon when the heat softens and the promenade fills with families and couples.

Insider tip: the section near the Marina has the calmest water and the cleanest entry points, perfect if you are travelling with children.

2. Sahl Hasheesh Beach

About 18 kilometres south of the city, Sahl Hasheesh is a stunning crescent-shaped bay with soft white sand and an upscale, peaceful atmosphere. The water stays shallow and calm for a long way out, which makes it ideal for families and anyone who prefers gentle swimming over big waves. There is a boardwalk with restaurants if you want a long lunch by the sea. Bring water shoes, as a few spots have rocky patches near the reef.

3. El Gouna Beach

El Gouna is a purpose-built resort town 30 minutes north of Hurghada, and its lagoon beaches are some of the calmest in the region. The shallow, sheltered water is excellent for children and beginner swimmers, and the steady afternoon breeze makes El Gouna the kitesurfing capital of the area. Spend a full day here: swim in the morning, explore the canals and boutiques in the afternoon, and stay for dinner.

4. Makadi Bay

If you want pristine reefs just metres from the shore, Makadi Bay is the place. About 30 minutes south of the centre, it is quieter and more exclusive than central Hurghada, and the house reefs here are genuinely world class. You can snorkel straight off the beach and see clownfish, parrotfish, and sometimes turtles. Pack your own mask and fins to make the most of it.

5. Old Vic Beach

A favourite with returning visitors, Old Vic combines a relaxed sandy beach with a small protected reef. It rarely gets crowded, the loungers are comfortable, and there is a friendly beach bar for cold drinks and snacks. This is my pick for a slow, lazy day when you just want to read a book and dip in the water every now and then.

6. Giftun Island Beaches

Technically a short boat ride offshore, the beaches on Giftun Island deserve a place on any list. The sand is powder white, the water is an unreal shade of blue, and the snorkelling is superb. Half-day and full-day boat trips leave from the Marina every morning. Book the early departure to beat the crowds and bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral.

7. Soma Bay

The southernmost spot on this list, Soma Bay is a peninsula with a wide, clean beach and a long jetty that takes you out to a vibrant reef. It is calm, spacious, and never feels busy. The drive takes about 45 minutes from Hurghada, so it works best as a planned day out rather than a quick morning swim.

What to Bring and When to Go

For any Hurghada beach day, pack reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, and water shoes for the reef sections. The best months for the beach are October through May, when daytime temperatures are warm but comfortable and the sea is perfect for swimming. In high summer, go early in the morning or after 4pm to avoid the strongest sun.

• Reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral
• Water shoes for rocky reef entries
• Your own mask and snorkel for the best experience
• Cash for loungers, drinks, and boat trips
• A light cover-up for walking to and from the beach

Whichever beach you choose, you are never far from great snorkelling and a cold drink in Hurghada. If you are staying with us, just ask and we will tell you exactly which beach matches your plans for the day and how to get there cheaply.