Hurghada is a vibrant Red Sea resort city offering a mix of lively urban spots and tranquil seaside enclaves. Below, we profile the top areas to stay in Hurghada for a memorable trip. Each area’s unique appeal is highlighted, along with who it’s best suited for, the best spots within it, places to avoid nearby, pros and cons, and typical hotel price ranges.

Hurghada City Center (Sakkala)

Located around Sheraton Road and the New Marina, Sakkala is the bustling heart of Hurghada. This downtown area is lively and packed with shops, restaurants, and nightlife, giving visitors a chance to experience the city’s energetic vibe. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the marina promenade and local bazaars, blending resort conveniences with a dose of Egyptian city life. While it’s busy and full of activity, it offers a more authentic urban atmosphere than the secluded resort zones.

• Best Suited For: Travelers who want to be in the middle of the action, enjoy nightlife and dining out, first-time visitors seeking convenience, budget travelers who want local flavor, and divers looking to be near many dive shops.
• Best Areas to Stay In: Around Sheraton Road (the main street) for shopping and eateries, near Hurghada Marina for sea views and upscale cafes, and Sakkala Square for easy access to transport and tour meeting points. Staying along Sheraton Road places you amid western and traditional restaurants and hotels, where the city has the most “buzz”.
• Areas to Avoid Staying In: The far northern Ad-Dahar (Old Town) area for those expecting tourist amenities – it has limited facilities and is 4 km away from the main strip. Also avoid hotels deep in backstreets away from the main roads (they can be noisy or less maintained). If you prefer quiet nights, avoid rooms facing Sheraton Rd due to traffic and nightlife noise.
• Pros: Central location with lively atmosphere, lots of restaurants, bars, and shops at your doorstep, authentic local markets nearby (in adjacent Dahar) for a cultural experience, walking distance to the New Marina’s waterfront dining, and generally cheaper accommodations than the resort zones. Tour operators and taxis are plentiful here.
• Cons: Can be noisy and busy (traffic, music, and crowds into the night), beaches in the city center are smaller or hotel-owned (no wide natural beach strips), touts and vendors can be persistent in tourist areas, and the infrastructure is older (some hotels are dated). It’s less clean and not as “polished” as the gated resorts. Lack of sprawling resort grounds – most properties are city hotels or smaller resorts.
• Average Prices: Budget hotels around ~EGP 1,000 (≈ $20) per night for a basic room. Mid-range hotels average ~EGP 2,500 (≈ $50). Luxury options in Sakkala are limited (around ~EGP 5,000 or ≈ $100 for top-end sea-view resorts) as the area mostly offers mid-tier hotels.

Village Road (El Mamsha Promenade)

Often called El Mamsha (the Promenade) or Village Road, this is a modern tourist area known for its long pedestrian walkway lined with palm trees, hotels, and cafes. Just a 10-minute drive from Hurghada Airport, El Mamsha is one of the most comfortable and well-developed parts of the city. It offers a more spacious resort feel while still being in Hurghada proper. Visitors can stroll the wide esplanade that runs along the hotel strip, with access to souvenir shops, boutiques, restaurants, and even a shopping mall for convenience. The vibe is more relaxed than Sakkala, yet still lively in the evenings with streetlights and occasional events.

• Best Suited For: Families and couples looking for a safe, clean area to walk around; travelers who prefer a modern resort atmosphere with easy airport access; those who enjoy evening strolls (the palm-lined promenade is perfect for walking). Also suitable for people seeking some nightlife without the chaos of downtown – Mamsha hosts a few popular bars/clubs like Little Buddha for a night out.
• Best Areas to Stay In: The central Mamsha near Esplanada Mall and the Duty Free shop (handy for shopping). The stretch around Little Buddha club is active at night. Further south on Village Road near Senzo Mall offers high-end resorts with large grounds – great if you want resort facilities and a big water park nearby. Staying along the promenade itself is ideal so you can step out of your hotel onto the walkway.
• Areas to Avoid Staying In: Hotels that are far off the main promenade (some may advertise “Village Road” but sit a bit inland or behind other resorts – you’d lose the easy walkability). Also, the very far southern end of Village Road can feel isolated (few restaurants around) unless you plan to stay within a resort. In general, avoid properties that are still under construction or in undeveloped pockets, as parts of this zone are newer and some lots are empty.
• Pros: Beautiful pedestrian environment – no traffic on the promenade, making it quiet and family-friendly at night. Close to the airport (quick transfers). Plenty of newer 4★–5★ resorts with large pools and private beaches. Access to malls (Senzo Mall, Esplanada Mall) and known eateries. Cleaner and more orderly than downtown; you can comfortably walk around without as much hassle. Good mix of beach relaxation and some city conveniences.
• Cons: Lacks the traditional Egyptian feel – it’s a tourist enclave (could be “any resort town” in atmosphere). Limited local dining outside hotels – most restaurants are inside resorts or a few chains on the strip. Nightlife is present but modest (one or two clubs/bars); for diverse entertainment you’d need to taxi to Sakkala. Also, because it’s spread out, walking the entire 4+ km Mamsha can be tiring in the heat (but you can easily catch a taxi or minibuses along the parallel road).
• Average Prices: Budget accommodation is scarcer here, but some smaller hotels or apartments ~EGP 1,500 (≈ $30). Mid-range resorts average around EGP 3,000–4,000 (≈ $60–$80) nightly. Luxury resorts (5-star beachfront) average ~EGP 6,000 (≈ $120), and can go higher in peak season given the area’s popularity. Overall, expect slightly higher prices here than in downtown due to the newer resorts.

El Gouna

El Gouna is a self-contained upscale resort town about 25 km north of Hurghada. Often called the “Venice of the Red Sea,” it’s famed for its man-made lagoons, marinas, and high-end atmosphere. This private town was master-planned with luxury in mind – lavish hotels, golf courses, and even its own small airport and hospital make it feel like a separate world. El Gouna has a picturesque Abu Tig Marina filled with yachts, plus a vibrant dining and nightlife scene in its Downtown and Marina areas. Visitors appreciate the polished look, security, and variety of activities (water sports, festivals, an annual film festival, etc.) that El Gouna offers.

• Best Suited For: Travelers seeking a luxurious and active beach town vibe. Perfect for those who want everything at their fingertips – families, groups of friends, and expats love it here for the variety of restaurants and entertainment. Also ideal for party-goers and socialites (there’s a lively social scene and nightlife), kitesurfers and divers (El Gouna has top-notch kitesurfing spots and dive centers), and anyone who values a well-maintained, secure environment.
• Best Areas to Stay In: Abu Tig Marina – for upscale hotels and immediate access to the best restaurants, bars, and views of yachts. Downtown El Gouna – for a walkable area with shops, cafes, and a more local feel (still very tidy). Mangroovy Beach area – popular with kitesurfers (constant wind and a kite center). Anywhere within El Gouna is relatively close via tuk-tuk or shuttle, but those three areas offer distinct advantages (marina nightlife vs. downtown convenience vs. beach sports).
• Areas to Avoid Staying In: There aren’t bad neighborhoods inside El Gouna, as the whole town is planned and well-kept. However, staying outside El Gouna’s gates (in nearby villages or the desert between Gouna and Hurghada) is not recommended for tourists – you’d lose access to Gouna’s internal shuttles and safety. Within El Gouna, some outlying villas or apartments can be far from the action, so if you want to be social, avoid lodgings that are very remote in the residential parts (you can end up needing a long tuk-tuk ride to downtown).
• Pros: Exclusive resort feel – gated community with 24/7 security, very clean streets, and no public harassment. Huge variety of activities and amenities: golf, spas, water sports, an array of international restaurants and bars. Beautiful scenery with lagoons and architecture that blends traditional and modern. Great nightlife for a resort town (clubs, beach parties, live music). Everything is reachable by shuttle or bike, and it’s compact. Known as one of the most prestigious and well-reviewed destinations in Egypt.
• Cons: More expensive than Hurghada city – prices for food, drinks, and accommodation are higher (it caters to upscale clientele). It’s a bit far from Hurghada city (about 30 minutes drive) which matters if you plan excursions departing from Hurghada or want to visit the city’s sights. Because it’s self-contained, you won’t experience much traditional Egyptian life here – it can feel like a “bubble.” Limited local culture or historical sights (it’s all modern development). Also, no public transport connects it late at night to Hurghada, so you’re mostly “on-site.”
• Average Prices: Budget options (few guesthouses) around ~EGP 2,000 (≈ $40). Mid-range hotels ~EGP 4,000–5,000 (≈ $80–$100). Luxury resorts commonly EGP 7,000+ per night (≈ $140+), with some ultra-luxury reaching EGP 10,000 (≈ $200) in high season. El Gouna is pricier, reflecting its upscale status.

Sahl Hasheesh

Sahl Hasheesh is a tranquil luxury resort enclave located about 18–25 km south of Hurghada. Renowned for its opulent 5-star resorts, private beaches, and elegant gated community, Sahl Hasheesh offers a peaceful retreat with a beautiful long bay. The area features a scenic Old Town waterfront promenade and even an underwater “sunken city” ruins site for snorkelers. Everything here exudes exclusivity and a romantic atmosphere – think grand entrances, palm-lined streets, and golf carts whizzing around. It’s very much a “get away from it all” destination, with nightlife being mostly on-resort and low-key. If you seek privacy, luxury, and gorgeous surroundings, Sahl Hasheesh is a top pick.

• Best Suited For: Honeymooners and couples looking for a romantic, upscale beach escape. Luxury travelers who want high-end amenities (spas, fine dining, golf) in a quiet setting. Also great for wellness and relaxation trips – some resorts focus on spa/health retreats. Divers and snorkelers who appreciate pristine house reefs will enjoy it too (there are beautiful coral areas just offshore, plus the sunken city attraction). In short, those who prefer a serene atmosphere over crowds.
• Best Areas to Stay In: Almost all accommodations are in the purpose-built resort zone. Old Town Sahl Hasheesh area is nice for being near the central piazza and boardwalk (some upscale apartments here cater to longer stays). Otherwise, choose any of the beachfront resorts along the bay – the central and northern part of the bay has the most developed, picturesque surroundings. Being near the Pier/Sunken City can be a plus if you like snorkeling. Anywhere inside the gates will have a similar safe, manicured environment.
• Areas to Avoid Staying In: Outside the Sahl Hasheesh gates – the moment you exit, it’s just desert. You’d be far from any shops or eateries if you stayed in an isolated villa outside the resort community. Also, within Sahl Hasheesh, there are some unfinished development zones at the extreme edges; avoid booking a stay in a building that isn’t fully occupied or an area with construction, as it will feel empty. Essentially, stick to the main resort cluster.
• Pros: Ultra-luxurious and peaceful – you get uncrowded beaches and a very exclusive ambiance. Gorgeous architecture and landscaping (the arrival gate and plazas are grand showcases). Excellent service and amenities at resorts (many are among Hurghada’s top-ranked hotels). Good security and privacy – it’s a gated haven. Beautiful promenade for walks or cycling, with no outside traffic. Also, Sahl Hasheesh’s sea water is exceptionally clear and calm, perfect for swimming. It’s close enough to Hurghada for day trips (about a 20–30 min taxi) but feels a world apart.
• Cons: Isolated location – aside from your resort and a small handful of shops in “Old Town,” there’s little independent dining or entertainment; you are mostly bound to your resort for activities. Nightlife is minimal (no town center with bars/clubs; any nightlife is resort-hosted). Can be expensive, as there are mostly 5★ properties. Not ideal if you crave off-site exploration every day – you’d need to taxi to Hurghada for any local markets or variety. Also, because it’s newer, the vegetation is still growing; some parts can feel a bit open or underdeveloped (in contrast to mature gardens in older resorts).
• Average Prices: Budget stays are rare (virtually all hotels are luxury). The lower end for a resort here might be ~EGP 2,500 (≈ $50) per night in off-season at a 5★ with a deal. Mid-range (which here means a solid 5★ resort with fewer perks) around EGP 4,000–5,000 (≈ $80–$100). Top luxury resorts average ~EGP 7,000 (≈ $140) and upwards to EGP 9,000+ (≈ $180+) in peak times. Essentially, expect to pay premium rates for the tranquility and quality.

Makadi Bay

Makadi Bay is a family-friendly resort area about 30–35 km south of Hurghada, known for its beautiful azure waters and coral reefs. The bay is lined with all-inclusive resorts that are popular with families and snorkelers. The sea here has a gentle, sandy entry – great for kids or less confident swimmers – and you can still find lively corals a short distance from shore for snorkeling. Makadi’s resorts are largely self-contained with extensive pools, water parks (the region’s largest water park, Makadi Water World, is here), and evening entertainment on-site. The atmosphere is calm and relaxing, more low-key than Hurghada city, which makes it perfect for a pure beach holiday.

• Best Suited For: Families with children (lots of kid-friendly activities and shallow beaches), couples seeking a quieter big-resort experience, and snorkeling enthusiasts – many hotels have house reefs where you can snorkel straight from the beach. Also ideal for travelers who want all-inclusive convenience; if your plan is to stay within a resort and enjoy sun and sea, Makadi Bay is an excellent choice.
• Best Areas to Stay In: The central Makadi Bay beachfront – where several high-end resorts sit side by side on the prime beach. This is where the sand entry is easiest and coral spots are nearby. If water parks are a draw, consider resorts adjacent to Makadi Water World (in Makadi’s hinterland, a short shuttle from the beach). Generally, any resort directly on Makadi’s main bay will offer the quintessential experience.
• Areas to Avoid Staying In: Makadi Heights (a residential development inland on a hill) if you’re looking for a beach vacation – it’s away from the shore and lacks direct beach access. Also, be cautious of booking in the outskirts of Makadi labeled as “Hurghada South” – a hotel too far from Makadi’s center might leave you isolated with nothing nearby. Within Makadi Bay, there isn’t a town, so there’s no “bad neighborhood,” but staying at the extreme southern or northern ends means you might be farther from any shared facilities like the water park or shopping arcade.
• Pros: Quiet, safe, and relaxing environment with a single entry road (feels like a private zone). Excellent for snorkeling and swimming – the water is typically calm, and you can see fish right off the beach. Resorts here often have large gardens, many pools, and are fully all-inclusive, so it’s a worry-free stay. Night entertainment (shows, music) is usually provided in resorts, so there’s always something to do on-site. The lack of outside disturbance means very little hassle – you won’t find persistent vendors on the beaches. Great vantage for Red Sea sunrises.
• Cons: Far from Hurghada city (about a 40-minute drive); if you want to do city excursions or visit restaurants outside the hotel, it’s a bit of a trip. No local culture or variety – everything is resort-oriented, and outside your hotel there’s basically just other hotels. Limited shopping (aside from hotel bazaars or a small souk area). If you crave nightlife or a change of scenery, you’ll need to taxi into Hurghada or down to Sahl Hasheesh (which is still quiet). Also, coral in some spots has been damaged by heavy tourist use, so you might need to take a boat trip for the best reef snorkeling.
• Average Prices: Budget: ~EGP 2,000 (≈ $40) might get you an off-peak night at a smaller 4★ resort or a deal at a larger one. Mid-range: around EGP 3,500–4,500 (≈ $70–$90) for a popular 5★ all-inclusive per night for two. Luxury: ~EGP 6,000 (≈ $120) and up for the top-tier 5★ resorts or family suites. Makadi Bay’s pricing is generally a bit lower than Sahl Hasheesh or El Gouna for similar resort quality, making it high value for all-inclusive lovers.

Soma Bay

Soma Bay is a secluded resort peninsula roughly 45–50 km south of Hurghada, famed for its pristine beaches and wellness focus. This exclusive area hosts only a handful of resorts (fewer than 10), including some of Egypt’s best spa and thalassotherapy centers. The vibe is extremely peaceful – wide open spaces, a golf course, and uncrowded beachfront define Soma Bay. It’s popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing too, thanks to steady winds and flat lagoons on one side of the peninsula. Visitors come to Soma Bay to disconnect and indulge in luxury wellness, enjoying the natural beauty and upscale facilities without any city around (the nearest town, Safaga, is a modest port not aimed at tourists).

• Best Suited For: Couples and adults seeking a quiet, restorative getaway – Soma Bay’s resorts often cater to wellness travelers (with yoga, spas, thalassotherapy). Great for water sports enthusiasts, especially kitesurfers, windsurfers, and snorkelers, since the area is known for these activities and even hosts a kite center. Also ideal for travelers who want a high-end retreat and don’t plan to leave the resort much – if your goal is to read by the pool, get massages, and occasionally kite or golf, this is perfect.
• Best Areas to Stay In: The peninsula isn’t large, so any of the beach resorts in Soma Bay will have access to the same general beaches and views. Soma Bay Marina (if your resort is near the marina) offers a couple of shops and restaurants, which is a nice plus in an area with few off-resort options. Otherwise, choose resorts adjacent to the Cascades Golf Club if you’re a golf lover, or those near the KiteHouse center if kitesurfing is your focus. Essentially, all Soma Bay resorts are along one stretch, so you can’t go wrong with location inside Soma Bay.
• Areas to Avoid Staying In: There’s no specific “bad” part of Soma Bay – it’s all exclusive. However, avoid staying outside Soma Bay in places like Safaga or along the remote highway just to save money; you’d end up far from the beaches and amenities that define Soma Bay. Also, if considering Safaga City (a few kilometers south), note that it has virtually no tourist infrastructure and would not be a comparable experience to Soma Bay’s resorts. In Soma Bay, all properties share the same general standard, so the main consideration is staying within the Soma Bay compound for the full experience.
• Pros: Ultimate tranquility – very low crowd density, you might feel like the beach is yours. High-end resorts with a strong emphasis on wellness (one resort even features Egypt’s only thalassotherapy center, offering therapeutic seawater treatments). Excellent conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing (some of the best in the Red Sea). Beautiful scenery and nature, with desert mountains in the background and no cityscape in sight. The few resorts coordinate security and services, so it feels safe and exclusive. Perfect if you truly want to “switch off.”
• Cons: Very remote – about 50 minutes drive to Hurghada, which makes excursions more time-consuming. No nightlife or local town – your resort is your world; evening entertainment is limited to hotel offerings. Limited number of hotels means choices for dining out are few (though resorts often have multiple restaurants). Typically, no budget accommodations here at all. The seclusion can be a downside if you get restless – there’s no marketplace to wander or big sights to see nearby (apart from sea activities). Also, wind can be strong (good for surf, might be less pleasant for pure sunbathers at times).
• Average Prices: Budget: Hardly available – expect even the “cheapest” 5★ here to be around EGP 3,000 (≈ $60) per night off-season. Mid-range: ~EGP 5,000 (≈ $100) per night at a very good resort. Luxury: EGP 7,000–8,000 (≈ $140–$160) for the top resorts, and prices can rise further if you include spa packages or peak season rates. Soma Bay is generally at the higher end of the price spectrum, reflecting its exclusive nature.

Comparison Table of Top Hurghada Areas:

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Each of these areas in Hurghada offers something special. Whether you prefer to be in the thick of town or on a secluded beach, this guide helps you choose the best spot for an unforgettable stay on the Red Sea coast. Enjoy your trip!