Red Sea Travel Guide 2026 — Top Attractions & Tips

About Red Sea

The Red Sea Governorate offers some of the world's most spectacular underwater ecosystems, with crystal-clear waters teeming with coral reefs and marine life. The region stretches from just south of Suez to the Sudanese border, encompassing major resort cities like Hurghada, El Gouna, and Marsa Alam. Beyond the beach, visitors can explore ancient Coptic monasteries, dramatic desert landscapes, and traditional fishing villages. The region enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually and warm water temperatures year-round, making it one of the world's most accessible diving and snorkeling destinations.

Capital: Hurghada
Largest city: Hurghada
Population: 0.38 million
Languages: Arabic, English
Currency: Egyptian Pound
Time zone: Africa/Cairo (UTC+2)

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Best places to visit in Red Sea

The 25 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.

Giftun Island National Park

Giftun Island National Park is the crown jewel of the Red Sea's marine protected areas, located just 8km offshore from Hurghada. The park encompasses two islands — Big Giftun and Small Giftun — surrounded by some of Egypt's most spectacular coral reefs. The crystal-clear turquoise waters host hundreds of fish species, sea turtles, dolphins, and vibrant coral gardens. The islands' white sand beaches are among the most beautiful in Egypt, and the snorkeling directly off the beach is world-class.

Mahmya Island (Giftun)

Mahmya is the most famous beach on Giftun Island, managed as a premium day-trip destination with pristine white sand, turquoise shallows, and excellent snorkeling infrastructure. The island has sun loungers, beach restaurants, water sports, and a glass-bottom boat for non-swimmers to observe the reef. It is one of the most photogenic beaches in Egypt and often features in travel magazines.

Elphinstone Reef

Elphinstone Reef is one of the Red Sea's most legendary dive sites, a long tabletop reef 10km offshore from Marsa Alam rising from depths of 50m-plus to just below the surface. Famous for regular sightings of oceanic whitetip sharks, grey reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, and huge schools of barracuda, it is considered one of the top ten dive sites in the world. The sheer walls adorned with pristine soft corals and gorgonian fans are breathtaking.

St. Anthony's Monastery (Deir Anba Antounius)

The Monastery of St. Anthony is the oldest functioning Christian monastery in the world, established in the 4th century AD on the site where St. Anthony the Great (251-356 AD) — father of all monks — lived as a hermit. Nestled dramatically against the Red Sea Mountains 155km south of Suez, the fortress-like monastery is home to around 120 Coptic monks. Its ancient churches are decorated with extraordinary Byzantine and medieval frescoes, and the spring of St. Anthony provides fresh water from the mountain.

St. Paul's Monastery (Deir Anba Bola)

The Monastery of St. Paul the Anchorite lies in a hidden valley in the Red Sea Mountains, built over the cave where St. Paul of Thebes (227-341 AD) lived as a hermit for 91 years. The monastery predates St. Anthony's and is even more dramatically situated, with its buildings seemingly growing from the rock face. The cave church of St. Paul contains extraordinary 13th-century frescoes including a remarkable ceiling covered in stars. The monastery is home to around 130 Coptic monks.

Dolphin House (Shaab el Erg)

Shaab el Erg — known as Dolphin House — is a magical coral reef 25km north of Hurghada where a resident pod of 50-100 spinner dolphins makes their home year-round. Visitors can snorkel alongside these wild dolphins in their natural habitat, an experience that consistently ranks among travelers' most memorable encounters. The dolphins rest in the shallow lagoon in the morning before heading out to sea, so early morning visits offer the best and most relaxed encounters.

Recommended itineraries

Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.

5-Day Red Sea Explorer

Day 1Arrive in Red Sea, explore city center
Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
Day 5Final sightseeing, departure

7-Day Classic Red Sea

Days 1-2Red Sea city highlights
Days 3-4Regional exploration
Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
Day 7Return and departure

14-Day Ultimate Red Sea

Days 1-3Red Sea comprehensive city tour
Days 4-6Northern region exploration
Days 7-9Eastern highlights
Days 10-12Southern attractions
Days 13-14Return to Red Sea, departure

Where to stay in Red Sea

Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.

Budget $30

Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.

Mid-range $100

Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.

Luxury $350+

World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.

Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh

Sahl Hasheesh, 20km south of Hurghada · $$$$

The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh is one of the Middle East's finest resort hotels, set on a private crescent bay 20km south of Hurghada. The resort's 102 villas and suites are designed in a graceful Moorish-Egyptian style with private pools or plunge pools, and many have direct beach access. The Oberoi's commitment to sustainability — including coral reef restoration programs, solar energy, and reef-safe amenities — makes it a model for responsible luxury. The house reef is exceptional for snorkeling directly from the beach.

Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel

Al Dau, Hurghada · $$$$

The Steigenberger Al Dau Beach is Hurghada's benchmark luxury resort, set on a long private beach in the upscale Al Dau area. The resort features 12 pools, six restaurants and bars, a world-class spa, and a highly regarded dive center. The rooms and suites are elegantly appointed in a contemporary style and many have direct sea or pool views. The hotel's location is convenient for both the marina and the city, making it ideal as a luxury base for exploring the wider region.

Mövenpick Resort El Gouna

El Gouna, 25km north of Hurghada · $$$$

The Mövenpick Resort El Gouna is an elegant five-star hotel set amid the lagoons and canals of El Gouna, the exclusive resort town 25km north of Hurghada. The resort occupies a private island reached by a bridge, with beautifully landscaped grounds, multiple lagoon pools, a pristine private beach, and superb dining. It offers easy access to El Gouna's marina, golf course, and vibrant restaurant scene.

Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay

Soma Bay, 45km south of Hurghada · $$$$

The Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay is a grand five-star resort on the exclusive Soma Bay peninsula 45km south of Hurghada. The hotel offers 300 luxurious rooms and suites with Red Sea views, access to the award-winning Cascades Golf Course, and the renowned Soma Bay Thalasso & Spa — a 7,000 sqm thalassotherapy center using Red Sea water. The resort's location at the tip of the peninsula provides outstanding kitesurfing conditions and a private sandy beach.

Where to eat in Red Sea

Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.

Moby Dick Restaurant

Seafood · $$

Moby Dick is a Hurghada institution, one of the oldest and most beloved restaurants in the city, serving fresh Red Sea fish and seafood in a relaxed setting near the marina. The daily catch includes grouper, red snapper, calamari, and prawns — all grilled to order over charcoal. The open-air terrace overlooking the Hurghada marina is a wonderful spot for a leisurely dinner watching the boats return from the sea.

La Plage

Mediterranean · $$$

La Plage is El Gouna's most romantic restaurant, set on a wooden deck above the water at Abu Tig Marina with panoramic views of the lagoon and the marina. The menu focuses on fresh Mediterranean cuisine — grilled fish, pasta, risotto, and wood-fired pizza — using high-quality imported and local ingredients. The cocktail menu is excellent and the wine list features bottles from Italy, France, and Lebanon.

Abu Khadeiga

Egyptian · $

Abu Khadeiga is the local legend of Hurghada's Ad-Dahar neighborhood, a no-frills Egyptian restaurant serving authentic local food to workers, fishermen, and budget travelers since the 1980s. The menu includes koshary (Egypt's national dish of rice, lentils, and pasta), foul medames, grilled chicken, and fresh bread from the wood-fired oven. The prices are absurdly low, the portions generous, and the food genuinely delicious.

Jokers Restaurant El Gouna

International/Mediterranean · $$

Jokers is one of El Gouna's most popular and lively restaurants, set in the heart of the downtown area near the central square. The restaurant serves a broad menu of burgers, pasta, seafood, Egyptian dishes, and salads in a convivial atmosphere popular with expats, visitors, and local El Gouna residents. The terrace is particularly pleasant in the evening and the cocktail menu is extensive.

Kiki's Restaurant

French/European · $$$$

Kiki's is El Gouna's most intimate fine dining experience, a small French-influenced restaurant tucked in the lagoon-side development with tables overlooking the water. The menu changes seasonally and focuses on classical French techniques with Red Sea fish and locally sourced produce. The duck confit, rack of lamb, and fish meuniere are outstanding. Reservations are essential — the restaurant has only 30 covers.

Papillon Restaurant

International/Seafood · $$

Papillon is a popular open-air restaurant at the Abu Tig Marina in El Gouna, known for its reliably good food, fair prices, and excellent waterfront location. The menu covers all bases from pasta and pizza to fresh fish and Egyptian mezze. It is particularly popular for lunch, when the marina terrace is buzzing with returning kite surfers, divers, and day-trippers.

Getting around Red Sea

Hurghada International Airport (HRG) serves the region with direct flights from Europe and the Middle East. Minibuses and taxis connect major resort areas. Private transfers are common between resorts.

Taxi

Metered taxis and private hire available throughout resort areas. Negotiate price before journey.

Cost: $3-15

Minibus

Shared minibuses (microbuses) connect Hurghada districts, Safaga, and Quseir

Cost: $0.50-3

Hotel Transfer

Most hotels offer airport transfers — book in advance

Cost: $10-25

Boat

Speed boats and ferries connect Hurghada to Sharm el-Sheikh and offshore islands

Cost: $25-60

Budget breakdown

Daily spend by tier in EGP, broken out by category.

Category	Budget	Mid-range	Luxury
Accommodation	$12	$50	$200
Food (per day)	$8	$25	$80
Transportation	$5	$10	$30
Activities	$5	$15	$40
Daily total	$30	$100	$350+

Best time to visit Red Sea

Essential travel tips

Book diving excursions in advance during peak season (December-February)
Carry Egyptian Pounds (EGP) as many smaller restaurants and markets are cash-only
All-inclusive packages are often better value than paying separately in resort areas
Early morning dives have the best visibility and marine life activity

Hidden gems

Off-the-beaten-path corners most travellers miss.

Wadi El Gemal Mangroves

Vast mangrove forests in a protected national park, accessible by kayak — one of the most serene experiences in Egypt

100km south of Marsa Alam

Quseir Old Town

A remarkably preserved Ottoman-era port town with coral-brick buildings and an ancient fort, largely unvisited by mass tourism

Quseir, 140km south of Hurghada

Safety information

INFO

Use only PADI or SSI-certified dive centers with valid certification plaques — unqualified operators do exist and present real safety risks

INFO

Never dive alone — always dive with a buddy and stay within sight of your dive guide

INFO

Respect marine life — do not touch, feed, or disturb coral, fish, or any sea creature; sea urchin spines and stonefish are venomous hazards near the reef

INFO

Negotiate taxi fares before entering any vehicle — agree on the price in EGP and confirm it covers the complete journey

INFO

Stay hydrated in the desert heat — the Red Sea region experiences temperatures above 40°C in summer and dehydration occurs rapidly

INFO

Use reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen only — traditional chemical sunscreens are prohibited or strongly discouraged in marine parks and are harmful to coral

INFO

Purchase travel insurance that specifically covers scuba diving activities — standard travel insurance policies often exclude diving

INFO

Drink only sealed bottled water throughout your stay — tap water is not safe for visitors

INFO

Do not enter the sea within 30 minutes of eating — strong currents and cramps are real risks in the Red Sea

INFO

Follow your dive computer and never ignore decompression stop requirements — the nearest hyperbaric (recompression) chamber is in Hurghada

INFO

Keep passport, credit cards, and bulk cash in your hotel safe — carry only what you need daily

INFO

Be aware of strong currents when snorkeling from boats — always stay within the designated snorkeling area and near the boat

INFO

Dress modestly outside resort areas — in Hurghada's old town and in smaller towns like Quseir and Safaga, women should cover shoulders and knees

INFO

Book monastery day trips through reputable operators — the desert road to St. Anthony's and St. Paul's monasteries is remote and requires a reliable vehicle

INFO

Photography of military installations, checkpoints, bridges, and government buildings is strictly prohibited in Egypt

Frequently asked questions

Is Red Sea safe to visit in 2026?

The Red Sea Governorate is generally safe for tourists and is visited by millions of European and Middle Eastern visitors annually without serious incident. The most common risks are diving-related injuries (from equipment failure or operator incompetence), heat-related illness, and petty scams near tourist areas. The tourist police maintain a strong presence throughout resort areas. Emergency services: police at 122, medical at 123.

What is the best time to visit Red Sea?

The best time to visit Red Sea is October to May. The Red Sea Governorate has a hot desert climate (Köppen BWh) with over 300 days of sunshine annually, virtually no rainfall, and extremely low humidity. The Red Sea moderates temperatures somewhat co

Do I need a visa to visit Red Sea?

Entry requirements follow Egypt rules. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival for $25 USD or apply online via the Egypt e-Visa portal. Citizens of certain Arab countries may enter visa-free. Check Egyptian embassy requirements before travel. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.

What currency is used in Red Sea?

The currency in Red Sea is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.

What language is spoken in Red Sea?

The main language(s) spoken in Red Sea: Arabic, English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.

What are the top attractions in Red Sea?

The top attractions in Red Sea include Giftun Island National Park, Mahmya Island (Giftun), Elphinstone Reef, St. Anthony's Monastery (Deir Anba Antounius), and St. Paul's Monastery (Deir Anba Bola). Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.

How do I get around Red Sea?

Taxis are the most flexible way to get around Hurghada and between resort areas. They do not all use meters — negotiate the fare before getting in or use a ride-hailing app.