MARSA ALAM & THE SOUTHERN COAST
This Egyptian coast is the Red Sea’s true sanctuary, offering pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and unique marine encounters. It is less crowded than northern resorts, promising tranquility and untouched natural beauty.
This region is a world-class destination for diving and snorkeling. Beyond the sea, the rugged Eastern Desert offers ancient history, Bedouin culture, and opportunities for unforgettable safaris and stargazing.
Most Popular Attractions
World-Class Diving & Snorkeling Sites:
Elphinstone Reef: A legendary deep-water reef famous for its sheer walls, stunning coral, and potential sightings of oceanic white-tip and hammerhead sharks.
Shaab Samadai (Dolphin House): A horseshoe-shaped reef that is home to a large pod of spinner dolphins, offering a protected area for respectful snorkeling and diving with the wild animals.
Marsa Mubarak: A large, sheltered bay renowned for its seagrass meadows, making it one of the most reliable places to spot Green Sea Turtles and the rare Dugong (sea cow).
Abu Dabbab Bay: Another well-known bay with shallow waters and seagrass, famous for its resident sea turtles and, occasionally, the dugong.
Daedalus Reef: A remote, oval-shaped reef in the open sea, featuring a lighthouse and spectacular walls with huge coral formations, attracting pelagic fish and various shark species.
Sataya Reef (Dolphin Reef): A southern site starting from Hamata, known for its extensive pod of spinner dolphins and beautiful coral gardens.
Wreck of the Hamada (Abu Ghusun): A relatively accessible cargo ship wreck near shore, offering an exciting dive for exploring marine life in a sunken vessel.
Shaab Marsa Alam: A kidney-shaped coral reef offering a diverse marine environment suitable for different skill levels.
Marsa Egla: A protected bay with a house reef ideal for easy snorkeling and diving, often seeing sea turtles.
Marsa Assalaya (Sharm Assalaya): A shallow, protected bay south of Marsa Alam with nice coral formations.
Pristine Beaches & Coastal Natural Wonders:
Sharm El Luli (Ras Hankorab): Often dubbed the “Maldives of Egypt” for its stunning white sand, shallow turquoise lagoon, and pristine near-shore coral reef, perfect for snorkeling from the beach.
Wadi El Gemal National Park: A vast protected area encompassing both desert and pristine coastline, featuring mangroves, islands, and rich biodiversity, excellent for eco-tourism.
El Qulaan Mangrove Forest: Part of Wadi El Gemal, known for its iconic mangrove trees growing in the shallow tidal lagoon and its untouched, picturesque scenery.
Al Nayzak Lake: A unique, natural, eye-shaped rock pool filled with clear seawater, rumored to have been formed by a meteorite strike.
Hamata Islands (Qulaan Islands): An archipelago of virgin islands with sparkling white sand and clear water, excellent for boat trips, swimming, and bird watching.
Port Ghalib Marina: A modern, upscale resort town and marina offering luxury yachts, shops, restaurants, and a hub for boat excursions.
Desert & Ancient History Attractions:
Desert Safari & Stargazing Tours: Excursions by quad bike, jeep, or camel into the Eastern Desert to experience the arid landscape and traditional Bedouin life.
Mons Smaragdus (Emerald Mountains): The ancient site of emerald mines, dating back to the Pharaonic and Roman periods, located inland in the Wadi El Gemal area.
Bedouin Villages: Cultural visits to local Ababda tribes to learn about their traditions, taste Bedouin tea, and see local handicrafts.
Ancient Quseir: The historic town of El Quseir, located north of Marsa Alam, featuring an Ottoman Fort and remnants of the ancient port of Myos Hormos.
Temple of Seti I (Khanais): An ancient Egyptian temple site located inland, offering a glimpse into the region’s long history.
Day Trip to Luxor: A longer excursion inland to the famous city of Luxor to visit the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and other monumental Pharaonic sites.
Activities & Experiences
Dive or Snorkel at Elphinstone Reef: Experience one of the world’s top diving sites, famous for its deep walls, strong currents, and frequent sightings of oceanic whitetip and hammerhead sharks.
Swim with Dugongs (Sea Cows) in Abu Dabbab Bay: This sheltered bay is one of the few places globally where you have a good chance of encountering the elusive and gentle dugongs, alongside giant green sea turtles.
Explore the Mangrove Forests of Wadi El Gemal National Park: Take a boat trip or a guided walk through this pristine coastal national park, home to unique flora, migrating birds, and Bedouin communities.
Go Stargazing in the Desert: Head out into the remote Eastern Desert away from all city lights for an unparalleled view of the Milky Way. Many tours include a traditional Bedouin dinner.
Take a Quad Bike or Jeep Safari in the Eastern Desert: Race across the dunes and rocky terrain to a traditional Bedouin camp, learning about their culture and lifestyle.
Snorkel the Shore Entry Reefs: Unlike many Red Sea resorts, Marsa Alam offers incredible access to house reefs directly from the beach or a jetty, such as the famous Sharm El Luli.
Visit the Dolphin House (Samadai Reef): Take a boat trip to this U-shaped reef, a protected natural habitat and nursery for spinner dolphins, where you can often swim alongside them in a controlled environment.
Experience a Night Dive or Snorkel: Discover the Red Sea’s nocturnal creatures, such as Spanish Dancer sea slugs, hunting sharks, and feeding moray eels, which only come out after sunset.
Take a Day Trip to the Temple of Seti I in Abydos: Though a long drive, you can venture inland to see one of the most complete and artistically preserved temples in Upper Egypt.
Relax on the Uncrowded Beaches: Enjoy the tranquility of beaches like Qulaan Lagoon (part of Wadi El Gemal) with its unique mangrove-lined bay and stunning blue waters, offering a peaceful alternative to busier resort towns.
Try Kitesurfing or Windsurfing: The consistent offshore winds and wide, shallow lagoons make the area, particularly near El Quseir, an excellent spot for learning and practicing these water sports.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is King for Exploration: While cities like Alicante and Valencia are well-served by public transport, a rental car is the best way to explore the Costa Blanca. It gives you the flexibility to visit the picturesque coastal towns, hidden coves, and the scenic inland areas at your own pace. The A-7 highway connects the major coastal towns.
Efficient Tram System: The Alicante Tram (TRAM d’Alacant) is a fantastic way to get around the coast without a car. It connects Alicante city to major towns like Benidorm, Altea, and Denia. It’s a scenic, affordable, and stress-free way to travel between these destinations.
Buses are a Good Alternative: The bus network is extensive and connects many of the smaller towns and villages not on the tram line. The main bus station in Alicante is a hub for both local and long-distance travel.
Airport Transfer: Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC) is well-connected to the city center and other major towns. The C-6 airport bus is a direct and affordable option to get to Alicante’s central bus station and other key stops.
Tipping Culture (Baksheesh): Tipping is expected and part of the culture. A small tip (baksheesh) is appreciated for everything from carrying bags to good service at a restaurant. Carry small Egyptian pound denominations for this.
- Hotels/Dining: Tip your housekeeping staff daily, and leave 10-15% for restaurant service (even if a service charge is included, as it rarely goes to the staff).
Respecting Marine Life: The Red Sea is a national treasure. Do not touch, feed, or stand on the coral or marine animals. Use reef-safe sunscreen. The local guides and dive centers are very strict about conservation—follow their instructions to protect this fragile ecosystem.
Diving/Snorkeling Safety: Always use a reputable dive center (many are German or European-managed) and never snorkel or dive alone. Strong currents can be a factor, especially around jetties and deep reefs.
Dress Code: While resort areas are very relaxed, and Western swimwear is standard on the beach, be respectful if you visit local towns (like El Quseir or Marsa Alam village). For women, covering shoulders and knees is advisable outside the resort.
Language: The official language is Arabic. Most staff in hotels, dive centers, and high-end tourist shops speak excellent English, German, and Italian. Learning a few words of Arabic like Shukran (Thank you) is appreciated.
Hidden Gems:
- El Quseir Old Town: Explore the Ottoman-era fort and the quiet, historic port town that once served as a major gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mecca. It offers a glimpse of authentic Red Sea life.
- Sharm El Luli: Often called the “Egyptian Maldives,” this pristine, shallow bay with dazzling white sand is perfect for snorkeling directly from the shore. It is a strictly protected area, and access is via guided trips.
- The Emerald Mines: The mountains inland contain the ancient site of Cleopatra’s emerald mines, though reaching them requires a guided, experienced desert tour.
Top Restaurants
El Bet El Balady Restaurant [$10-$20] – A genuinely local spot in Marsa Alam town known for authentic Egyptian cuisine, including excellent home-style dishes and fresh, simple flavors.
Marsa Fish [$15-$30] – Located in the town, this restaurant is highly regarded for its ultra-fresh seafood, allowing you to choose your fish by weight and have it cooked to your preference (grilled or fried).
El-Aomda Restaurant مطعم العمده للمأكولات الشعبيه [$5-$15] – A great choice for popular Egyptian street food and traditional meals, famous for delightful falafel (taameya) and a true local atmosphere.
Tondoba Seafood Restaurant and Cafe [$15-$30] – Situated along the coastline, this restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced seafood, prepared simply to highlight the Red Sea’s bounty.
Abu Al-Rais Fish Restaurant (ابو الريس للأسماك) [$15-$30] – A favorite among locals for its exquisite seafood dining experience, emphasizing fresh catches and authentic Red Sea flavors.
House Fish [$15-$30] – Offers fresh seafood delights in the Marsa Alam area, providing local flavors with a view, perfect for a straightforward, quality seafood meal.
South Fish’s – أسماك جنوب [$15-$30] – Known for culinary excellence, offering fresh seafood and authentic regional flavors in a non-resort setting.
Al Huda Fish Restaurant مطعم أسماك الهدى [$10-$25] – A traditional spot for authentic seafood delights, praised for its fresh flavors and straightforward preparation.
مطعم استاكوزا للماكولات البحريه [$20-$40] – A dedicated seafood restaurant focusing on fresh catches and a genuine ocean-side dining feel.
كشرى الملوك مرسي علم (Koshary El Molook) [$5-$10] – The place to go for excellent, authentic Egyptian Koshary (a mix of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions).
Alambratwr Koshary and Sweets (كشري الأمبراطور) [$5-$10] – Discover the authentic taste of Egypt’s national dish, Koshary, and traditional desserts in a local Marsa Alam setting.
Badawia restaurant [$10-$20] – A highly recommended local spot in Marsa Alam town, famous for its mouth-watering barbecue, including grilled chicken and kofta.
Tamara Restorant [$10-$25] – Offers authentic Egyptian flavors and a simple, traditional dining experience, popular for its local dishes and casual vibe.
جولدن ان Golden inn [$10-$25] – Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine in a comfortable setting along the Red Sea coast, known for its local menu staples.
مطعم المشربيه 1 [$10-$20] – A restaurant focused on authentic Egyptian flavors, offering traditional dishes that celebrate local taste and culinary heritage.
Cañabota (Jaz Lamaya Resort) [$30-$60] – A high-quality Mediterranean restaurant often praised for its fresh seafood and grilled specialties in an elegant, a la carte setting.
Seagull’s Fine Dining (Mövenpick Resort El Quseir) [$40-$80] – Located in nearby El Quseir, this restaurant offers world-class cuisine with a focus on local or Swiss signature dishes in a noble fine-dining setting overlooking the ancient bay.
Chez Pascal (The Three Corners Fayrouz Plaza Beach Resort) [$30-$60] – An excellent a la carte restaurant specializing in authentic Belgian cuisine, featuring perfectly cooked steaks, seafood, and lobster dishes.
Basilico Italian Restaurant (Steigenberger Resort Alaya) [$30-$50] – A modern a la carte restaurant offering a tantalizing journey to the heart of Italy with authentic pasta, fresh salads, and delicious homemade pizza.
Al Fresco Italian Restaurant (Mövenpick Resort El Quseir) [$25-$50] – Located by the pool, this restaurant provides a delightful Italian experience with fresh pizzas and pasta in a casual atmosphere with magnificent Red Sea views.
Mashawi Seafood & Grill (Steigenberger Resort Alaya) [$30-$50] – A lively bistro on the beach offering the freshest seafood and grilled specialties in the evening, perfect for a chic dinner with a sea breeze.
Valentina Restaurant (Fantazia Resort Marsa Alam) [$30-$50] – An a la carte restaurant focusing on international cuisine with a view of the pool and sea, offering a refined dining experience often with special romantic moonlight dinners available.
El Khan Oriental Restaurant (Pickalbatros Resort) [$25-$45] – A themed restaurant found in several resorts that allows guests to immerse themselves in the rich flavors of the Orient with traditional Middle Eastern cuisine.
Zaytoun Middle Eastern Restaurant (Steigenberger Resort Alaya) [$25-$45] – An authentic a la carte restaurant offering a selection of traditional oriental specialties: mezze, shish tawook, kabab, and kofta.
Rocca Asian Cuisine (Steigenberger Resort Alaya) [$30-$50] – An a la carte option for Asian delicacies, ranging from fresh sushi to teppanyaki and tempura, in a classic and sophisticated setting.
La Plaj Beach Bar (Brayka Resorts Marsa Alam) [$15-$30] – A beachside spot that, while a bar, often serves a high-quality selection of lighter fare, grilled snacks, and fresh dishes perfect for a day by the sea.
Mosaic (Radisson Blu Resort, El Quseir) [$30-$50] – Offers an intimate and sophisticated dining experience with a focus on local and international dishes in an elegant setting.
Dolce Vita Restaurant (The Three Corners Fayrouz Plaza Beach Resort) [$25-$45] – Offers a traditional Italian and gourmet menu selection, including fresh pasta, pizzas, and delicious desserts.
Marhaba Lebanese Restaurant (The Three Corners Fayrouz Plaza Beach Resort) [$25-$45] – An Oriental restaurant with a great selection of cold and hot Mazza, grilled meats like Shish Tawook and Kofta, and Arabic desserts.
Sand, Sea and Stars Dining (Brayka Resorts Marsa Alam) [$50-$80] – A unique, romantic dining experience offered directly on the sandy beach under the stars, with a choice of pre-set menus (seafood, beef fillet, or Arabic).
Cacio e Pepe [$20-$40] – A delightful, non-resort Italian restaurant in the heart of Marsa Alam town known for its Western cuisine, especially its signature classic Cacio e Pepe pasta.
Mazzar Restaurant [$10-$20] – A well-known spot in the town center for delicious and convenient fast food, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Pizza Marsa [$10-$20] – Offers delectable pizzas, bringing authentic Italian flavors to the Red Sea coast in a popular local non-resort location.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Red Sky Bar: Located atop the Pickalbatros Vita Resort in Marsa Alam, this chic rooftop oasis offers a relaxed, refined setting. It is known for its premium drink selection, skillfully made cocktails, and shisha corner, perfect for watching the sunset over the desert.
The Blue (Concorde Moreen Beach Resort): Situated by the pool at the Concorde Moreen Beach Resort in Marsa Alam, this swim-up bar is ideal for cooling down with a refreshing juice, cold beer, or your favorite cocktail after an afternoon in the sun.
Sama Bar (True Beach Resort): An ideal rooftop bar in Marsa Alam for stargazing, this spot offers cozy, Bedouin-style settings. Guests enjoy a variety of beverages, including cocktails, beer, and wine, with clear views of the night sky.
Boteco Bar (Concorde Moreen Beach Resort): Found in the relaxed atmosphere of the Concorde Moreen Beach Resort in Marsa Alam, this lobby bar is the perfect place to unwind with a coffee or a cocktail shortly after checking in.
Bar La Caverna: A charming and popular local bar in the central area of Marsa Alam town. Open late, it features captivating decor, a lively ambiance, and a menu of refreshing local and international cocktails, often enhanced by live music or local performances.
Lobby Bar (Pickalbatros Vita Resort): Open 24/7 in the lobby of the Pickalbatros Vita Resort in Marsa Alam, this smoke-free environment offers everything from cool mocktails to timeless cocktails and hot drinks throughout the day and evening.
Columbus Bar (Pickalbatros Vita Resort): One of the various well-stocked bars within the Pickalbatros Vita Resort complex in Marsa Alam, serving a selection of cocktails and drinks in a comfortable, air-conditioned setting.
El Sultan Restaurant & Lounge Bar (Port Ghalib): A great spot in the Port Ghalib Marina area, offering a blend of restaurant and lounge experiences. It’s known for excellent dining and also serves a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
Ilios Bar (True Beach Resort): Located by the sea at the True Beach Resort in Marsa Alam, this Greek-themed restaurant and bar allows guests to enjoy drinks by the beach. It offers a selection of cocktails and alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks right near the shore.
Salt Bar (True Beach Resort): Situated directly by the shore at the True Beach Resort in Marsa Alam, this bar provides a tranquil, sea-view ambiance perfect for unwinding with a refreshing cocktail or a cold beer while enjoying the sunset.
Cave Bar (Fantazia Resort): Right on the beach at Fantazia Resort near Marsa Alam, this bar is a lively hub during the day. It offers a selection of special cocktails and hosts daytime animation, foam parties, and beach parties in the summer.
Relax Beach Bar (Fantazia Resort): A special, tranquil spot at Fantazia Resort near Marsa Alam where you can unwind without music or animation. It offers a dedicated space for relaxation with special cocktails and local spirits.
Gazebo Bar (Fantazia Resort): With a view of the garden, swimming pool, and the sea at Fantazia Resort near Marsa Alam, this bar serves special cocktails and is often host to a live singer in the afternoons.
Lobby Bar (Fantazia Resort): Found close to the reception at Fantazia Resort near Marsa Alam, this bar offers a 24-hour service with a selection of cocktails and spirits. In the evenings, a live singer often provides musical entertainment.
Eilly Bar & Restaurant (Port Ghalib): Located along the harbor promenade in Port Ghalib Marina, this spot is a popular choice for drinks and food, offering a pleasant view of the yachts and the marina activity.
Red Club Port Ghalib: The most prominent dedicated nightclub in the region, located in Port Ghalib. This dynamic hotspot features an eclectic mix of music, state-of-the-art lighting, and themed nights, providing a high-energy, immersive experience for dancing the night away.
Le Mirage Discotheque (Fantazia Resort): This dedicated disco within Fantazia Resort near Marsa Alam is typically open in the evenings after the resort’s main animation shows (often during the winter season), offering a late-night venue for dancing and cocktails.
Disco & Party (Jaz Samaya): The Jaz Samaya hotel, part of the Madinat Coraya area near Marsa Alam, is known to feature an in-house disco or dedicated party nights as part of its evening entertainment program. Check with the resort for the current schedule.
Club (Jaz Lamaya): Located in the Madinat Coraya complex near Marsa Alam, Jaz Lamaya often includes a small disco or late-night entertainment venue, typical of the all-inclusive resort nightlife model.
Club (Jaz Solaya): Also part of the Madinat Coraya complex, Jaz Solaya near Marsa Alam provides evening animation and usually transforms one of its venues into a late-night club or disco for guests.
Posh Club (Sunrise Resorts): While the specific location varies and the main brand may be in other Red Sea areas, Sunrise resorts (like the former Sunrise Marina Resort in Port Ghalib) often feature a ‘Posh Club’ or similar branded, trendy nightclub experience for guests.
The Amphitheater Parties (Various Resorts): Many large resorts, such as Three Corners Fayrouz Plaza and Hilton Marsa Alam Nubian Resort near Abu Dabbab, transform their evening animation amphitheaters into open-air discos or themed party venues after the main shows finish, catering to a lively, mixed crowd.
Beach Party Venues (Fantazia Resort): The Cave Bar at Fantazia Resort near Marsa Alam frequently hosts lively beach and foam parties, particularly in the summer, which function as an open-air club with DJ music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Late-Night Lounge (Sunrise Marina Resort): The resort in Port Ghalib often has a dedicated late-night lounge or bar that stays open much later than the others, transitioning into a club-like atmosphere with music for dancing.
Lobby Bar Late Service (e.g., Pickalbatros Vita): While technically a bar, the Lobby Bar at resorts like Pickalbatros Vita in Marsa Alam often serves hard drinks until midnight and provides a final gathering point for guests with a more intimate, social club feel after the main evening shows conclude.