Sahl Hasheesh

Sahl Hasheesh is a resort bay on the Red Sea about 20 km south of Hurghada, known for sandy beaches, clear water, snorkelling and a long seafront promenade. It is a calmer alternative to central Hurghada. Allow a beach day or a week-long stay, and go in spring or autumn.

Sahl Hasheesh is a planned resort area on a wide bay with sandy beaches, coral reefs close to shore, large hotels and an Old Town-style centre with shops and restaurants along a waterfront promenade.

At a glance

Sahl Hasheesh or Hurghada?

Sahl Hasheesh is calmer, newer and more spread out, with fewer shops and local restaurants. Hurghada has more nightlife, cheaper places to eat and the main harbour for boat trips. Many visitors stay in Sahl Hasheesh and take a taxi into Hurghada for boat trips and evenings out.

The resort is spread along a long stretch of coast, and a seafront promenade with arches, fountains and cafes connects the Old Town area to the pier. There are no cheap local streets here; everything is planned and clean, which feels calm but less Egyptian than Hurghada.

The bay was developed in the 2000s as a resort destination on the Red Sea coast south of Hurghada, with hotels, villas and a marina built around the natural bay. Check current hotel and beach access details before you plan.

• Swim and snorkel from the beach, where reefs are close to shore.
• Walk along the seafront promenade and visit the shops and cafes.
• Dive with local centres or join boat trips from Hurghada.
• Take a desert buggy or quad safari from the area.

The best-known sight is the Sunken City off the end of the Old Town pier: a man-made “ruin” of columns and arches placed underwater, now growing coral and visited by fish and, sometimes, turtles. It lies in shallow water, so snorkellers can see it well on a calm morning. Bring reef shoes, since parts of the shore are rocky.

Tips for Sahl Hasheesh

• Mornings are usually the calmest time for snorkelling.
• Use the hotel shuttle or a golf cart along the promenade; distances are long.
• Most boat trips leave from Hurghada marina, about 30 minutes away, with hotel pickup.
• For more restaurants and shopping, take a taxi to El Mamsha promenade in Hurghada.
• Compare with nearby Makadi Bay, which is quieter and even more family-focused.

Sahl Hasheesh suits a quiet beach and snorkelling stay with a pleasant promenade. Choose a hotel with direct reef access and book excursions in advance.

Sahl Hasheesh | El Gouna | Makadi Bay | Giftun Island | Hurghada Grand Aquarium