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The Ultimate Red Sea Travel Guide: Everything You Need for Your Trip

Your complete Red Sea travel guide is here. Whether you're dreaming of diving in Sharm El Sheikh, relaxing on the beaches of Hurghada, or discovering the serene nature of Marsa Alam, this guide has it all. We cover the top activities, best places to stay, what to eat, and crucial tips for an unforgettable Egyptian holiday.
  • Updated: October 10, 2025

Welcome to the only Red Sea travel guide you will need for your Egyptian adventure! Planning for the year ahead has never been more exciting. This is a land of stunning contrasts. On one side, you have the silent, golden expanse of the Eastern Desert, a landscape carved by millennia of sun and wind. On the other, the brilliant turquoise ribbon of the Red Sea, hiding a world of explosive color and life beneath its surface. This guide is your bridge between these worlds.

Red Sea At-a-Glance: Quick Facts for 2025

For the traveler who needs key information fast, here are the essentials at a glance.

Feature Details
Official Language Arabic (English is widely spoken in all tourist areas)
Currency Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone Eastern European Standard Time (UTC+2) / Current: EEST (UTC+3)
Power Plugs Type C & F (Standard European 2-pin). Voltage is 220V / 50Hz.
Visa Requirement Visa on arrival ($25 USD cash) or e-Visa online for most nationalities.
Best Time to Visit Spring (Mar-May) & Autumn (Sep-Nov) for ideal weather.
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Why Trust This Red Sea Travel Guide for Your Holiday Plans?

Why Trust This Red Sea Travel Guide for Your Holiday Plans

The Red Sea is more than just a beach destination. It is an experience that engages all your senses. Its global reputation is built on a few core pillars that make it a uniquely compelling choice. This section of our Red Sea travel guide breaks down exactly what makes it so special.

Unforgettable Marine Life: The Core of Our Red Sea Travel Guide

The main allure of the Red Sea lies just beneath its sparkling surface. As a semi-enclosed sea with high salinity and consistently warm temperatures, it has fostered one of the most vibrant and resilient coral reef ecosystems on the planet. This is a world-renowned biodiversity hotspot. The underwater paradise is home to over 1,200 species of fish—nearly 20% of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

Imagine swimming alongside graceful sea turtles, spotting a shy Clownfish peeking from its anemone home, or watching schools of brilliant orange Anthias dance above brain corals. You’ll see majestic Angelfish, oddly beautiful Parrotfish nibbling on coral, and perhaps even a camouflaged Lionfish. For divers and snorkelers, the visibility is often a breathtaking 30-40 meters, making it feel like you are flying through a different world. This exceptional marine life is the heart and soul of the region.

Guaranteed Sunshine: A Key Feature of This Red Sea Travel Guide

The Red Sea coast is blessed with a hot desert climate. This means one glorious thing: year-round sunshine. With an average of 10-13 hours of sun per day, you can plan your trip with certainty of perfect beach weather. Winter daytime temperatures hover around a pleasant 21-25°C (70-77°F), making it an ideal escape from colder climates. In summer, temperatures can soar past 40°C (104°F), but the low humidity makes the heat feel less oppressive than in tropical destinations. This reliability underpins the entire Red Sea holiday experience.

Key Destinations Featured in Our Red Sea Travel Guide

Key destinations - Red Sea Travel Guide

Choosing your home base is a crucial decision. The Egyptian Red Sea coast has unique towns, each with its own character. This part of our Red Sea travel guide will help you find the perfect spot.

 Hurghada: A Red Sea Travel Guide to Fun and Nightlife

Hurghada is the original and largest resort city on the Red Sea. It is energetic, bustling, and offers something for every budget, making it a fantastic choice for families and first-time visitors. The city is broadly split into three areas: El Dahar, the old town, where you can explore a traditional souk and get a feel for local life; Sakkala, the busy, modern center packed with shops and restaurants; and the elegant Hurghada Marina, a beautiful spot for an evening stroll, a quality meal, or a relaxing drink while admiring the yachts. Hurghada is the primary hub for boat trips to the stunning Giftun Islands National Park, where famous beaches like Paradise Island and Mahmya offer a taste of Caribbean-style white sand and turquoise water.

Sharm El Sheikh: Your Guide to Red Sea Luxury and Diving

Located on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, “Sharm” is famous for its upscale resorts, international entertainment, and world-class diving. The vibrant heart of Sharm is Na’ama Bay, a long promenade packed with restaurants, shisha cafes, and famous nightclubs like Pacha. For a more modern, family-friendly entertainment complex, Soho Square offers fountains, restaurants, and bowling. However, Sharm’s true jewels are underwater. It is the gateway to the legendary Ras Muhammad National Park, a protected area featuring dramatic coral walls, mangrove forests, and the salt-rich “Magic Lake.” It also provides access to the Straits of Tiran, a must-do for experienced divers.

Marsa Alam: An Eco-Traveler’s Guide to the Southern Red Sea

If you seek tranquility and a deeper connection with nature, head south to Marsa Alam. This region is less developed, more serene, and offers unparalleled access to some of the most pristine marine parks. It’s a true eco-tourism destination. The world-famous bay of Abu Dabbab is a protected seagrass area where you have an excellent chance of snorkeling alongside giant green sea turtles and, if you are very lucky, the rare and gentle Dugong (sea cow). Further south, Samadai Reef, also known as “Dolphin House,” is a protected, horseshoe-shaped reef that serves as a resting place for pods of wild spinner dolphins. Trips here are regulated to ensure the encounters are respectful and sustainable.

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Where to Stay: A Guide to Red Sea Accommodation

Where to Stay - Red Sea Travel Guide

Finding the right place to stay is key to a perfect holiday. The Red Sea offers options for every budget and travel style.

All-Inclusive Resorts: The Popular Choice

This is the most popular accommodation style, offering incredible value and convenience. An “all-inclusive” package typically includes your room, all meals, local drinks, and snacks. The pros are excellent cost control and total relaxation. The potential cons can be crowds and repetitive buffet food in lower-end resorts. Tip: Check reviews and see what “local drinks” includes, as premium brands often cost extra.

Luxury Hotels & 5-Star Stays

For those seeking pampering and exceptional service, the Red Sea boasts world-class luxury hotels. The experience here is centered on personalized service, gourmet à la carte dining, serene private beaches with cabanas, and opulent spas. These properties offer an exclusive and tranquil atmosphere, a world away from the hustle of larger resorts.

Dive Lodges & Eco-Camps

Found mainly in Marsa Alam and Dahab, these accommodations are for serious divers and nature lovers. The atmosphere is rustic, communal, and entirely focused on the underwater world. A typical day involves an early breakfast, a full day out on the dive boats exploring remote reefs, and a communal dinner sharing stories and photos from the day’s adventures.

Budget-Friendly Hotels & Guesthouses

For backpackers or those who prefer to be independent, smaller hotels exist in the downtown areas of Hurghada and Dahab. This option is perfect for travelers who want to eat at a different local restaurant every night and immerse themselves in the authentic culture of the town, away from the isolated resort bubble.

Unforgettable Activities: Your Red Sea Adventure Guide

Unforgettable Activities Your Red Sea Adventure Guide

The Red Sea is a giant natural playground, offering a perfect blend of high-adrenaline adventure and blissful relaxation. While relaxing by the pool is a must, your trip wouldn’t be complete without experiencing some of the incredible activities on offer. This is the definitive “things to do” section of our Red Sea travel guide, broken down into adventures in the water and beyond the beach.

In the Water: Marine Life and Watersports

The Red Sea itself is the main attraction. Its warm, clear waters are teeming with life and offer endless opportunities for fun and exploration.

1. Scuba Dive a World-Class Site: This is the #1 activity. For advanced divers, exploring the WWII wreck of the SS Thistlegorm near Sharm is a bucket-list dive. For all levels, the vibrant walls of Ras Muhammad are unmissable.

2. Snorkel the House Reef: You don’t need to be a diver! Simply step off your hotel’s beach to enter a vibrant world of fish and coral. Tip: Bring your own well-fitting mask for maximum comfort.

3. Take a Boat Trip to a Paradise Island: A day trip to the Giftun Islands (Hurghada) or Tiran Island (Sharm) is essential for that perfect “white sand, turquoise water” photo.

4. Swim with Wild Dolphins or Turtles: Head to protected areas in Marsa Alam for a respectful and magical encounter with these gentle marine creatures in their natural habitat.

5. Explore Underwater Without Getting Wet: Perfect for families. Board a glass-bottom boat or a semi-submarine to get a fantastic view of the coral reefs and marine life from the comfort of a dry seat.

6. Kitesurf or Windsurf: The Red Sea is a premier destination for wind sports due to its reliable winds and large, shallow lagoons perfect for learning. El Gouna and Safaga are world-renowned hubs.

Beyond the Beach: Desert, History, and Relaxation

The adventure doesn’t stop at the shoreline. The surrounding landscape offers a stunning contrast and a chance to experience Egypt’s other iconic treasures.

7. Experience a Sunset Desert Safari: Trade the sea for the sand. Experience the thrill of a quad bike ride, then feel the profound silence of the desert as you watch the sun dip below the mountains, followed by a taste of Bedouin tea brewed over an open fire.

8. Journey Back in Time to Luxor: It is a long day (often a 4 am start), but seeing the temples of ancient Thebes is a profound experience. You’ll stand in awe before the giant columns of Karnak Temple, walk through the tombs of the pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings, and admire the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut.

9. Relax with a Traditional Spa Day: Indulge in a Turkish Hammam. This traditional experience involves a steam room, a vigorous exfoliating scrub, and a foam massage that will leave your skin feeling brand new.

10. Stroll Along a Modern Marina: In the evening, head to the chic marinas in Hurghada or El Gouna. Enjoy a delicious meal at an upscale restaurant, browse the stylish boutiques, and admire the beautiful yachts.

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A Taste of the Red Sea: What to Eat and Where to Dine

A Taste of the Red Sea - What to Eat and Where to Dine

No travel experience is complete without exploring the local cuisine. This part of our Red Sea travel guide will tantalize your taste buds.

Must-Try Egyptian Dishes for Every Traveler

Egyptian food is hearty and flavorful. Be sure to try some of these staples:

  • Koshary: Egypt’s national dish, a filling mix of rice, lentils, and macaroni with a spicy tomato sauce.
  • Ful Medames & Ta’ameya: The classic Egyptian breakfast of slow-cooked fava beans and fava-bean falafel.
  • Kofta & Kebab: Grilled skewers of spiced minced meat (kofta) or chunks of lamb/chicken (kebab) are delicious and widely available.
  • Hawawshi: A savory delight of spiced minced meat baked inside a traditional flatbread until crispy.
  • Fresh Seafood: Enjoy the catch of the day, grilled to perfection with lemon and garlic.
  • Umm Ali: A wonderfully rich and creamy dessert, often described as an Egyptian version of bread pudding, made with pastry, milk, nuts, and raisins.

A Guide to Dining Options on the Red Sea

You have many choices for dining. You can enjoy the huge variety of the all-inclusive buffets. For a change, you can book a table at a specialty restaurant. Or, for an authentic taste, visit a local eatery in town. When eating locally, a good rule is to choose busy places with a high turnover of customers, as this ensures the food is fresh.

Shopping in the Red Sea: From Souvenirs to Spices

Shopping in the Red Sea From Souvenirs to Spices

Shopping is a vibrant part of the Egyptian experience. This shopping guide has you covered.

What to Buy: The Best Souvenirs

  • Spices and Teas: Bring the taste of Egypt home. Look for fragrant cumin, coriander, and hibiscus tea (Karkadeh).
  • Cartouches: A perfect personalized gift. A cartouche is an oval frame used for pharaohs’ names, symbolizing eternity. You can get one made from silver with your name written in hieroglyphics.
  • Egyptian Cotton: Look for genuine Egyptian cotton goods like towels or a traditional galabeya. Check for the official seal of authenticity.
  • Alabaster Ornaments: Small statues of cats, pyramids, or scarab beetles are classic souvenirs.

Where to Shop: A Guide to Markets and Malls

For an authentic experience, head to the traditional markets (souks). This is where your bargaining skills come into play. It should be a friendly, polite process; start by offering around half the initial price and be prepared to meet in the middle. A key tip is to be prepared to walk away—often, this will bring the price down. For fixed prices, you can visit modern shops in the marinas or malls like Senzo Mall in Hurghada. For a perfect shopping experience, check our guide for wise shopping.

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Health, Safety, and Etiquette: A Responsible Traveler’s Guide

Health, Safety, and Etiquette - A Responsible Traveler's Guide

A fantastic trip is a safe and respectful one. Understanding local norms will ensure your holiday is memorable for all the right reasons.

Staying Healthy on Your Trip

  • Water & Food: Never drink the tap water. Use sealed bottled water for everything. Be cautious with street food; stick to busy stalls. Pack an anti-diarrheal medication just in case.
  • Sun Protection: The Egyptian sun is incredibly powerful. Apply high-SPF sunscreen liberally, wear a hat, and consider a rash guard for snorkeling.
  • Insects: In the evenings, especially near lagoons, mosquitoes can be present. Pack an insect repellent to be comfortable.
  • Travel Insurance: This is non-negotiable. Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies and any specific activities you plan, like scuba diving.

Safety and Security in the Red Sea

The Red Sea resort areas are generally very safe. However, like anywhere, it’s wise to be aware.

  • For Solo Female Travelers: You will be safe, but you may receive more attention than you are used to. Dressing more conservatively in local towns can help. A firm, polite “La, shukran” (No, thank you) and walking away confidently is the best response to any unwanted advances. Sitting in the back of taxis is also advisable.
  • Common Scams: Be aware of taxi drivers who insist on taking you to a specific shop where they get a commission. Be firm about your destination.
  • Valuables: Use the safe in your hotel room for your passport and extra cash.

Understanding Local Culture and Etiquette

  • Dress Code: Within your resort, swimwear is fine. When visiting a town or market, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees.
  • Photography: Always ask for permission before taking a photo of a person. It is illegal to photograph military installations.
  • Right Hand Rule: In traditional Islamic culture, the left hand is considered unclean. Always use your right hand to eat, shake hands, and give or receive items.
  • Ramadan: If traveling during the holy month of Ramadan, be respectful by not eating or drinking in public outside of your resort during fasting hours.

Specialty Travel: A Guide for Every Niche

Speciality Travel

The Red Sea is not a one-size-fits-all destination. This section of our Red Sea travel guide provides tailored advice.

Family Travel: Tips for a Red Sea Holiday with Kids

The Red Sea is fantastic for families. The calm, shallow waters at many hotel beaches are perfect for toddlers. Look for resorts with water parks and kids’ clubs. Pack essential children’s medications from home. Activities like glass-bottom boats and the calm sea make it an easy and fun destination for all ages.

A Guide to Red Sea Nightlife

The scene varies by town. Sharm El Sheikh is the party capital, with big, international DJ clubs in Na’ama Bay. Hurghada offers a mix, from the stylish bars at the Marina to more local bars and clubs in Sakkala. El Gouna has a chic, upscale lounge and bar scene around its marinas.

Responsible Tourism: Protecting Paradise for the Future

  • Environmental: Help by reducing plastic with a reusable water bottle. Never touch the coral. Choose eco-certified dive operators.
  • Economic: Make an effort to spend some of your money outside your all-inclusive resort. Eat at a local restaurant or buy souvenirs from a small shop in the souk. This ensures that the local community directly benefits from your visit.
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Practical Planning: Your Step-by-Step Red Sea Travel Guide

Money, Tipping, and Bargaining - A Financial Guide

This final section of our Red Sea travel guide covers the practical details for a smooth trip.

Getting to the Red Sea: Flights and Airports

The coast is served by three main airports: Hurghada (HRG), Sharm El Sheikh (SSH), and Marsa Alam (RMF). Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival for $25 USD cash.

Getting Around the Red Sea Coast: Transport Options

Pre-booking an airport transfer is easiest. In Hurghada, ride-sharing apps like Uber work well. For taxis, always agree on the price first.

Money, Tipping, and Bargaining: A Financial Guide

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Cash is essential for tips and small purchases. Tipping (“baksheesh”) is part of the culture. Tip Guidelines: 5-10 EGP for a luggage porter; 10% in a restaurant; 50-100 EGP for a private driver or tour guide for a day trip. Bargaining in markets is expected and should be a friendly process. For even more detailed tipping advice that applies to the entire country, be sure to read our guide for wise tipping in Egypt.

Your Red Sea Adventure Begins With This Guide!

In summary, the Egyptian Red Sea coast offers a travel experience of incredible depth and diversity. It is a place where adventure and tranquility coexist perfectly, where the vibrant life of the sea is matched only by the timeless grandeur of the desert that borders it. By using this Red Sea travel guide, you are now fully prepared to plan a seamless, memorable, and utterly magical trip for 2026 and beyond. You have the insights to choose the perfect destination, a list of must-do activities, and the practical knowledge to travel safely and respectfully. Your unforgettable Red Sea adventure is just a flight away!

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