10 Best Egypt Beaches You Need to Visit (That Aren't Just in Hurghada)

When someone says "Egypt," your mind probably flashes straight to pyramids, pharaohs, and possibly a camel or two plodding along the horizon. But there's a stretch of coastline here that deserves just as much hype as those ancient marvels. Egypt's beaches, yes, actual sandy beaches, not mirages, are some of the most dazzling in the world, and they go far beyond the well-trodden shores of Hurghada.

This guide is your golden ticket to discovering Egyptian beaches that blend white sand, calm waters, and an occasional turtle or two with Instagram-level views and dive sites so rich in coral reef they'd make Jacques Cousteau weep.

Whether you're after beach resorts, kite-surfing, or just a decent sunbed that doesn't collapse when you sneeze, we've rounded up the best beaches in Egypt that are not in Hurghada, because there's a whole sun-kissed side to Egypt just waiting to blow your beach towel off.

What Makes Egyptian Beaches So Unique?

Let's get one thing straight, Egypt's not here to copy the Caribbean. It's playing in its own league. Along both the Red Sea coast and the Mediterranean Sea, Egyptian beaches have a sort of "ancient history meets waterpark-level marine life" thing going on. Imagine swimming next to a 3,000-year-old temple ruin and a reef teeming with fish that look like they've escaped from a Pixar casting call.

• The waters of the Red Sea are some of the saltiest and clearest on the planet, ideal for snorkellers, divers, and anyone who enjoys floating like a crouton in soup.
• Many spots, like Ras Um Sid or Abu Dabbab Beach, offer direct access to thriving coral reefs and vivid marine life, including sea turtles, dugongs, and more species of fish than you can shake a flipper at.
• The North Coast, especially Marsa Matrouh, is kissed by the Mediterranean coast, bringing in calm waters and a fresh seaside breeze from Alexandria down.
• There's a mixture of public and privately-run beaches, so whether you're into luxury resorts with beach butlers or wild coves where the only sunbed is a rock, you're sorted.
• Year-round sunshine makes it ideal for a winter break; yes, you can build sandcastles while your mates in Cairo are stuck in traffic.

Where else can you dive past a jetty, windsurf across a lagoon, and then have lunch next to a mangrove tree all in the same afternoon?

What Are the 10 Best Egyptian Beaches (Not Just in Hurghada)?

Right, it's time to ditch the clichés. Hurghada beaches may be the poster child for Egyptian holidays, but there's a whole coastline of gems to explore. These are the ones that pack the reef, the sand, and the "Why didn't I come here sooner?" punch:

1. Abu Dabbab Beach – Marsa Alam

If David Attenborough were to narrate a Red Sea beach, this would be it. Abu Dabbab Beach, located south of Hurghada, is a tranquil bay famous for its gentle access to coral-filled waters and a recurring cast of sea turtles and the elusive dugong.

• Why go: You're basically snorkelling in a National Geographic special.
• Vibe: Eco-chill with just enough creature comforts.
• Fun fact: Some resorts nearby run sunrise dive trips with turtles on the guest list.

2. Mahmya Beach – Giftun Island

Technically, it's a day trip from Hurghada, but stick with us; it's so far removed from the mainland bustle that it might as well be its own planet. Mahmya Beach sits on the Giftun Islands, an eco-friendly patch of paradise with white sand, rustic loungers, and azure waters so clear they should come with a "no filter needed" warning.

• Why go: If you want one of the best beaches for that barefoot, cocktail-in-hand kind of day.
• Vibe: Boho-beach club meets nature reserve.
• Activities: Snorkel with ease straight from shore, or try your hand at beach volleyball with a stunning sea view.

3. Ras Um Sid – Sharm El Sheikh

Tired of public beaches with more elbows than elbow room? Head to Ras um Sid, perched on a cliffside at the edge of Sharm El Sheikh. This spot is a popular beach destination for good reason: it's got amazing coral, gentle reef drops, and a quiet elegance that laughs in the face of chaos.

• Why go: You get to snorkel without the crowd-surfing.
• Vibe: Understated, romantic, and just the right side of posh.
• Bonus: Close to Na'ama Bay, so sundowners and seafood are just a short stroll away.

4. El Gouna Lagoon Beaches

Welcome to Egypt's answer to Venice, if Venice had kite-surfing, beachside brunches, and a slightly more reliable sun forecast. El Gouna, north of Hurghada, is a resort town full of stylish lagoon beaches and well-planned luxury.

• Why go: Think cocktails, canals, and more sunbed options than you can wave a beach towel at.
• Vibe: Glossy mag lifestyle meets casual cool.
• Top tip: Head to Zeytouna or Mangroovy Beach for water sports or to work on that "I live here now" tan.

5. Sahl Hasheesh – Red Sea Riviera

Just a few kilometres south of Hurghada, Sahl Hasheesh is the under-the-radar Red Sea beauty that skips the fanfare and goes straight to luxury. With a submerged ancient city perfect for snorkelling and a sweeping bay lined with resorts, this is the polished jewel of the Red Sea coast.

• Why go: It's got white sand, a sense of quiet exclusivity, and surprisingly few crowds.
• Vibe: Discreet opulence.
• Extra: The Sahl Hasheesh Bay is known for crystal-clear waters and a long jetty that's ideal for romantic strolls or fashionably late arrivals.

6. Soma Bay

Equal parts kite-surfing mecca and spa hideaway, Soma Bay is where thrill-seekers and relaxation lovers shake hands. The coral reef here is prime for diving, and the five-star resorts give new meaning to "beach holiday."

• Why go: It's where you can go from a full-throttle windsurfing session to a hot stone massage in under 10 minutes.
• Vibe: Sleek, stylish, and salt-sprayed in all the right places.
• Insider tip: The water's shallow for ages, perfect for beginners and snorkellers who prefer to paddle more than plunge.

7. Marsa Matrouh – North Coast

Now swinging over to the north coast, Marsa Matrouh is a summer staple among locals, sort of Egypt's answer to Brighton, if Brighton had Caribbean water and didn't rain sideways. Hugging the Mediterranean coast, this city brings soft sand, turquoise sea views, and a laid-back charm straight out of a vintage postcard.

• Why go: Easy access from Alexandria, with calm waters ideal for family swims.
• Vibe: Retro Beach Town with a strong ice cream game.
• Don't miss: The seaside corniche walk at sunset, best enjoyed with roasted corn in hand.

8. Blue Lagoon

This one's for the barefoot wanderers. Blue Lagoon, a remote stretch near Dahab, offers simple huts, wind-blown shores, and zero Wi-Fi stress. If you're looking for watersports, freediving, or just peace from your inbox, this is where you go.

• Why go: Feels like a secret you're not sure you're allowed to know about.
• Vibe: Minimalist. Peaceful. Just you, the wind, and the azure lagoon.
• Activities: Perfect for kite-surfing, meditation, or writing your great desert novel.

9. Wadi El Gemal National Park

Part wildlife reserve, part beach paradise, Wadi El Gemal National Park is a place where mangrove trees, coral reefs, and the odd camel coexist in stunning, sun-drenched harmony. This is one of Egypt's beaches that proudly ditches the loud music and jetskis in favour of raw, untouched beauty.

• Why go: You want nature with your tan, minus the cocktails with umbrellas.
• Vibe: Remote, rugged, and refreshingly real.
• What's here: Rare birdlife, wild marine life, and epic snorkelling; just don't expect a lifeguard or pool bar.

10. Agiba Beach – Marsa Matrouh

Tucked away like a hidden pearl along the Mediterranean Sea, Agiba Beach (meaning "miracle") is a sandy beach framed by limestone cliffs and reachable via a dramatic staircase. Smaller than its neighbours but every inch more photogenic.

• Why go: It's one of the best beaches in Egypt for that "wow" factor.
• Vibe: Intimate, quiet, and cliff-hugged.
• Tip: Arrive early to beat the sunbathers and claim a top-spot umbrella.

Can You Visit These Beaches from Cairo Easily?

Ah, "easily", that wonderfully vague word that depends entirely on your relationship with Egyptian traffic and your tolerance for long-haul playlists. The good news? You can reach nearly all of Egypt's best beaches from Cairo without needing to charter a private yacht (although no one's stopping you).

• Marsa Matrouh and Agiba Beach: About 6–7 hours by car. Bring snacks. And a playlist that goes from Beyoncé to Bedouin.
• El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, Soma Bay: Fly to Hurghada in about an hour, then take a short, scenic drive. Bonus points if you can spot a camel along the way.
• Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab: Short domestic flights or an overnight bus from Cairo. Just don't expect Wi-Fi to be strong enough to stream Netflix on the way.

Pro tip: Domestic airlines in Egypt are surprisingly budget-friendly. Book early, wear stretchy trousers, and you'll be on the Red Sea coast before your morning coffee wears off.

Are These Beaches Safe for Swimming and Snorkelling?

In short? Yes. You're unlikely to find yourself in an Egyptian Jaws remake. Most of Egypt's beaches, especially along the Red Sea, are calm, shallow, and ideal for anyone from first-time snorkellers to "I travel with my own fins" enthusiasts.

• Sharm El Sheikh, Soma Bay, and El Gouna have well-monitored resort zones, usually with lifeguards, warning flags, and plenty of fellow humans around to scream if something odd swims past.
• Places like Wadi El Gemal National Park and Blue Lagoon are more of the BYO common sense variety: no lifeguards, no queues, and no one to blame but yourself if you swim too far out chasing a fish that looks like a highlighter.
• The reef is lovely but fragile. Don't touch it, stand on it, or attempt to selfie with it unless you fancy an angry lecture from a dive guide (and rightfully so).
• Jellyfish and the odd spiny thing may show up in certain seasons, but coral-friendly resorts usually display up-to-date warnings, and staff are more than happy to point out which creatures not to cuddle.

Swimming? Yes. Snorkelling? Absolutely. Just maybe skip the midnight solo dips unless you enjoy mystery splashes.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Gear for Beach Activities?

Unless your suitcase doubles as a dive centre, probably not.

• At almost every resort worth its saltwater, from Sahl Hasheesh to Sharm, you'll find plenty of on-site snorkelling and diving gear rentals.
• Heading to kite-surfing hubs like Soma Bay? You'll find shops offering everything from harnesses to overly confident instructors named Mo.
• Prefer your own kit because you once emotionally bonded with your snorkel in Thailand? Fair enough. Bring it. Just make sure you don't mistake it for a selfie stick.
• For beach volleyball, paddle boards, or floaties shaped like flamingos, most public and privately-run beaches have rentals, especially those linked to beach resorts.

Basically, gear up on-site unless you're the sort who can't imagine snorkelling without their "lucky fins."

What's the Best Time to Hit the Beach in Egypt?

Timing is everything, especially when your holiday mood swings between "sun goddess" and "human rotisserie."

• October to April: Absolute bliss. Warm days, mild nights, and sunshine that doesn't try to sear your skin off. Perfect for exploring both the Red Sea and the Mediterranean coast without melting.
• June to August: Bold of you. These months are blazing, especially south of Hurghada, where your flip-flops may fuse to the sand. Early swims, shady umbrella naps, and gallons of water are your best friends.
• North Coast gems like Marsa Matrouh? They shine in Egyptian summer. Locals flock there to escape Cairo's heat, and the calm waters make it a winner for families and ice-cream-fuelled beach games.
• Dahab, El Gouna, and Sharm? They're year-round winners thanks to breezy coastlines and a constant stream of sun-seekers.

And yes, you can dive, snorkel, or simply perfect your beachside nap at any time of year. Just check wind conditions to see if you're planning windsurfing or attempting to launch a lilo into the Gulf of Suez.

Are There Eco-Friendly Beach Options in Egypt?

Eco-warriors, rejoice! Egypt's not just about ancient tombs and beach loungers; it's also stepping up its green game.

• Wadi El Gemal National Park: With tight regulations, this protected area is serious about its coral reef conservation. Think low-impact visits, not flip-flop stampedes.
• Mahmya Beach on the Giftun Islands: An eco-tourism darling that manages to serve up tropical chic without trashing the environment. Even their mojitos feel guilt-free.
• Blue Lagoon, Dahab: There's no electricity, no running water, and no Wi-Fi. But there is peace, white sand, and zero plastic cocktail stirrers.
• El Gouna and Sahl Hasheesh: Both have sustainability initiatives, from reef-safe suncream campaigns to resorts working toward full eco-certification.

Leave only footprints, take only pictures, and maybe one well-timed selfie if the lighting's good.

FAQs About Egypt Beaches

• Do I need a visa to enjoy these beaches? Yes, unless your passport lets you skip queues. Always check before you pack your swimsuit and sunglasses.
• Are bikinis okay? At tourist-friendly spots like Sharm el-Sheikh and Sahl Hasheesh, absolutely. In public beaches or in Alexandria? Go modest, and you'll blend in better.
• Are there sharks? Yes. But they're mostly busy doing their own thing. Shark attacks are rare, and resort areas monitor things closely.
• Can I drink alcohol on the beach? Only in licensed resorts or private areas. On public beaches? Keep it dry unless you want to meet the local police (spoiler: not fun).
• Which beach has the best sand? Agiba Beach and Sahl Hasheesh serve that soft, fine sand dreams are made of. Your feet will thank you.

So there you have it, a coastal treasure map that skips the clichés and dives (literally) into the best beaches in Egypt that deserve more than a passing mention. From windsurfing in Dahab to coral-chasing in Marsa Alam and eco-glam moments in Mahmya, there's a beach here for everyone: sun-seekers, thrill-chasers, and even those just looking for a decent umbrella and a cold drink.

Swap the pyramid postcards for a bit of reef-side reality. Who knew Cleopatra's country had this many ways to make your tan jealous?